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How to Build a Hiker's First Aid Kit

How to Build a Hiker's First Aid Kit

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Hiking is a great recreational activity that people of all ages can partake in. It's not only great exercise; it's also a good stress reliever. Whenever you plan to go hiking in the wilderness, you should pack a hiker's first-aid kit with you. It doesn't have to be something fancy, and you can put it together yourself. Accidents can happen in the safest conditions, and it's best to be prepared for them. By building your own hiker's first-aid kit, you'll be ready in the event something happens while on the trail.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:
  • Container Bandages Gauze Cold packs Adhesive tape Antibiotic salve Moleskin
  • Container
  • Bandages
  • Gauze
  • Cold packs
  • Adhesive tape
  • Antibiotic salve
  • Moleskin
Step 1
Consider where you will be hiking when thinking about what's needed in your first-aid kit. You should be prepared for the weather and terrain you'll be walking in. If you're dealing with rocky ground, there is a better chance of someone falling or spraining an ankle. Your kit should reflect what could be needed in case an injury happens while hiking in a particular terrain.
Step 2
Gather the supplies you'll need in your first-aid kit. A basic hiking first-aid kit should contain bandages, gauze, moleskin, adhesive tape, an Ace bandage, a cold pack and antibiotic salve. Depending on the hike, you might also pack tweezers, hydrocortisone cream, pain relievers, Benadryl, electrolytes and a topical analgesic.
Step 3
Consider any special needs people hiking with you might have. For example, if someone is especially allergic to bee stings or other things found in the wild, have medicine to handle the situation. Your basic items will handle most emergencies, but be prepared if something special will be required.
Step 4
Pack a few first-aid items for the dog if you're hiking with one. You can use your gauze and antibiotic salve on the dog, but don't use any type of human medications on the dog that are ingested. Other than aspirin, pain relievers such as ibuprofen can kill your friend.
Step 5
Choose a bag or container to put your first-aid items in. This doesn't have to be something fancy; a plastic bag will do. Remember that you'll be carrying it, so don't pick something big and bulky. It's also advisable to place your items in something that's waterproof.
Step 6
Prepare for the worst and hope for the best. It's better to be overprepared than under. You'll have a much better time hiking knowing you're prepared for whatever may happen. Above all, have a safe, fun hike.

Article Written By Joyce Starr

Joyce Starr is a professional writer from Florida and owns a landscaping company and garden center. She has published articles about camping in Florida, lawn care and gardening and writes for a local gardening newsletter. She shares her love and knowledge of the outdoors and nature through her writing.

Write for Trails.com

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