1. Where Are You Going and Who Are You Going With?
First aid kits prepare a backpacker for emergencies they may experience on the trail. The type of backpacking you do and how many people backpack with you determine what items should go in your kit. Someone who goes overnight hiking needs first-aid supplies for more than one day. If you backpack into the backwoods, you need a device to communicate in case of an emergency. Consider the health factors of any hikers when making a first-aid kit. Include any types of medication that the hikers may need.
2. Pack the Basics
Include the basics in every first-aid kit. This includes adhesive bandages, adhesive tape, gauze pads and instant ice packs. You must also pack items to help clean out wounds, such as alcohol pads and cotton-tip applicators, as well as tweezers and scissors. Antibacterial ointment and burn cream are good additions to consider as well. Even if you are a day hiker, you should consider a flashlight and batteries as a first-aid safety device.
3. Go Above and Beyond
There are a few items you may want to consider beyond your basic fist aid needs. A utility knife can come in handy, as well as a type of cording, preferably nylon. Another thing to consider is a glow stick. These can provide limited lighting and signal help if needed. A solar blanket and a wet weather poncho may help to protect someone who is injured, as well as keep hikers dry in a downpour. A GPS device should also be considered. This will help people find you in case of emergency.
4. Pre-Made Kits Are Ready to Go
Many companies have pre-made first-aid kits available for hikers. These include the basics, as well as many of the extras. Hiking companies, like L. L. Bean, offer these pre-made kits. Wal-mart also offers pre-made first aid kits, however, they are not geared for hikers and only include the basics. If you purchase any of these kits, take inventory of what they include. Supplementing these pre-made kits with your specific needs and wants can give you a great alternative to building a kit from scratch.
5. Take Regular Inventory
Go through your first aid supplies periodically. Replace anything that you have used or may have expired. Pack what you need in your first-aid kit, but remember the weight. This first-aid kit must be carried in your backpack, so while you want the basics and some of the extras, remember that you must carry the weight.
