A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any bushwalker, no matter the trail difficulty or duration. Being prepared can make a huge difference in handling minor injuries or even more serious emergencies on the trail.
Here are 20 items and tips important items every hiker should consider carrying in their first aid kit:
- Adhesive Bandages (various sizes) – For covering small cuts, blisters, and scrapes.
- Sterile Gauze Pads – Used for larger wounds to stop bleeding and protect the area.
- Adhesive Tape – To secure gauze or bandages in place.
- Antiseptic Wipes – For cleaning wounds and preventing infection.
- Antibiotic Ointment – Helps prevent infection and speeds up healing.
- Hydrocortisone Cream – Useful for insect bites, rashes, or allergic skin reactions.
- Tweezers – Handy for removing splinters, thorns, or ticks.
- Small Scissors – For cutting tape, gauze, or clothing if needed.
- Blister Treatment (like moleskin or blister pads) – A must-have for hikers to prevent or treat hot spots.
- Pain Relievers (ibuprofen, panadol) – For managing pain, inflammation, or headaches.
- Allergy Medication (like antihistamines) – Useful in case of allergic reactions.
- Safety Pins – Can be used to secure bandages or even fix gear in a pinch.
- Elastic Bandage – Helpful for sprains, strains, or securing an ice pack.
- Instant Cold Pack – For reducing swelling or treating heat-related symptoms.
- Medical Gloves – Keep hands clean and reduce infection risk when treating wounds.
- Emergency Blanket – Prevents hypothermia and can also be used as shelter.
- Burn Cream or Gel – Treats minor burns from campfires or cooking gear.
- Eye Drops or Eyewash – To flush out debris or soothe irritation.
- Instruction Manual or First Aid Guide – Even experienced hikers benefit from a quick refresher under pressure.
- When assembling your kit, consider the specific environment and duration of your hike. For solo hikes, you might scale down, while group or remote-area hikes may require additional supplies like a SAM splint. (Survival aluminum splint roll for fracture)
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