How To Build A First Aid Kit For Hiking

When you’re heading out on a hike, having a well-stocked first-aid kit can make all the difference. It’s not just about patching up cuts and scrapes – your kit should be ready to handle a range of issues from minor blisters to more serious injuries. Knowing how to build a first aid kit for hiking is a must, no hiker should leave home without one.

Here’s a comprehensive list of items that can be included in a hiking first aid kit. This list covers essentials for treating common hiking injuries and managing emergencies. Consider the duration and remoteness of your hike when selecting quantities and items.

As weight is always a consideration you may not want to include everything here but this list help to ensure you haven’t overlooked anything.

Basic First Aid Supplies

These are the basics that you should consider as a minimum to help you treat common hiking injuries.

• Adhesive bandages (assorted sizes) for minor cuts and blisters 
• Gauze pads (various sizes) and roll gauze for larger wounds
• Adhesive tape (medical or surgical) for securing dressings
• Elastic bandage (ACE wrap) for sprains or joint injuries
• Butterfly closures or steri-strips for holding deep cuts together 
• Antiseptic wipes or alcohol pads for cleaning wounds
• Antibiotic ointment to prevent infection
• Hydrogen peroxide (small bottle or wipes) for wound cleaning
• Snake bandage specially designed to ensure the correct pressure is applied to the bitten limb. I carry 2 during the snake season but not in the winter. My guide to treating snake bites is a must read.

Wound Care

• Moleskin or blister pads for blister prevention and treatment
• Tweezers for removing splinters, thorns, or ticks
• Safety pins to secure bandages or make slings
• Cotton swabs for applying ointments or cleaning wounds
• Irrigation syringe to flush out wounds

Medications

• Pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen, acetaminophen) for pain or inflammation
• Antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl) for allergic reactions or insect bites
• Anti-diarrheal medication (e.g., Imodium) in case of gastrointestinal issues
• Antacids for indigestion
• Electrolyte tablets for dehydration or cramping 
• Prescription medications (if applicable), clearly labeled and in waterproof packaging
• Rehydration salts for treating dehydration

Items for Sprains and Strains

• Instant cold packs for swelling and pain relief
•  Splinting material (like a SAM splint or a small, flexible splint) for stabilizing injured limbs
• Triangular bandage for making slings or securing limbs

Emergency Items

• Emergency blanket (mylar) for warmth and shock prevention
• CPR face shield for safe resuscitation if needed
• Whistle to signal for help It’s smarty to attach this to your backpack for easy access.
• Emergency contact card with information about allergies and emergency numbers
• Gloves (nitrile or latex-free) for handling wounds and maintaining hygiene
• Small flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries for emergencies at night This is a must have that I take on every hike.
• Small roll of duct tape for multiple uses, from splinting to repairing gear

Insect and Sun Protection

• Insect bite/sting relief (e.g., Sting-Eze or hydrocortisone cream) for bug bites and stings
• Tick remover (specialized tick removal tool or tweezers)
• Sunscreen (small tube or stick) for sun protection
• Lip balm with SPF for lip protection

Additional Optional Items

• Burn cream for minor burns or sunburns
• Eye drops for dust or debris in the eyes
• Scissors (blunt-tip) for cutting gauze or clothing if necessary
• Thermometer (compact digital) to monitor temperature if someone feels unwell
• Plastic bags or ziplock bags for disposing of used items or storing soiled materials

Hygiene and Sanitation

• Hand sanitizer or alcohol gel for hand cleaning
• Sanitary napkins or tampons (can also be used for wound dressing)

For longer or more challenging hikes, consider taking a wilderness first aid course to feel prepared to use the kit confidently. Remember to check expiration dates and restock items after each hike.

My Cheats First Aid Kit

What I have done is buy a basic first aid kit and have added additional items that I thought necessary to it. Such as snake bandages and wider bandages than the ones included. I also have clean but used older bandages that can be used to apply pressure to a bleeding wound. Once soiled they can be disposed of.

Focus on Prevention and Common Sense Decision-Making

Before you even hit the trail, take a moment to evaluate what’s in your first-aid kit. Ask yourself: do I really need this? What might happen if I leave this behind? Is there something important missing? These questions help to tailor your kit based on your specific needs and the environment you’ll be hiking in.

Imagine the scenarios you could face out there. Could be anything from twisted ankles to unexpected allergies. Think about the terrain and weather conditions. If you’re trekking through a wet area, blister prevention may be more important. For a desert hike, hydration and sun protection will be key. Assessing the risks helps you pack smarter.

Prevention is your best friend. Wrapping hot spots on your feet before they turn into blisters can save you miles of pain. Carrying an extra liter of water prevents dehydration. It’s these small preventive measures that make the biggest difference. A simple act, like applying sunscreen ahead of time, can prevent severe sunburns that might ruin your trip.

Use common sense and do some research. Know the local plants and bugs. Some areas have poisonous plants or aggressive insects; packing the right ointments or repellents can keep you safe. Check for weather updates and trail information. Adjust your gear accordingly.

Prevention isn’t just about first-aid items. It’s about your overall preparedness. Wear proper footwear, dress in layers, and always let someone know your route and expected return time. The more thought you put into these aspects, the less likely you are to face problems that need first-aid intervention.

Education and Training for Effective First-Aid

Having a well-stocked first-aid kit is essential, but knowing how to use it could be what really saves the day. Investing time in a First-Aid Course gives you the skills to handle injuries and emergencies confidently. Hands-on training covers everything from CPR to managing fractures and allergic reactions. It’s an invaluable experience, especially for those venturing into remote areas where professional medical help isn’t nearby. My guide on basic first aid is a starting point.

Books are another fantastic resource for deepening your knowledge. ‘Wilderness Medicine: Beyond First Aid’ by William Forgey and ‘Medicine for the Outdoors’ by Paul Auerbach are highly recommended reads. These books offer practical advice and in-depth information on how to respond to various medical situations you might encounter on the trail. They are excellent supplements to practical training, providing another layer of preparedness.

Take your education seriously because being able to act quickly and correctly in an emergency can make all the difference. Understanding how to use each item in your kit not only boosts your confidence but also ensures you’re providing the best care possible when it counts the most.

Consider the unique challenges of wilderness and developing country hikes. Different environments come with different risks, and knowledge can be your best tool. For instance, understanding the symptoms of altitude sickness, knowing how to purify water, or being aware of local wildlife hazards are crucial pieces of information. Tailoring your first-aid knowledge to the specific type of hiking you plan to do helps you stay prepared for the unexpected.

While your first-aid kit is your safety net, your skills and knowledge are your first line of defense. So, take the time to educate yourself thoroughly, practice regularly, and stay curious about how you can be better prepared for every adventure. Happy hiking,

Have you had to use your first aid kit? Please leave questions or comments below.