A good first aid kit is one of the Ten Essentials and should be carried on day hikes and backpacks. If you are participating in a Harvey Broome Group sponsored outing, the leader will likely carry a fairly extensive kit so you may need to carry only a basic kit. Be sure to check with the leader before leaving the extra stuff at home.
Prepackaged first aid kits can be purchased at most outdoor stores. The kits range widely in equipment and price. Many backpackers prefer to put their own kits together. Drug and discount stores carry a variety of individually packaged and travel sized first aid items. Below is a list for developing a Basic First Aid Kit. This is a suggested minimum list, add whatever you think will be useful. Package your kit in a waterproof bag or box.
Note: Some items can lose effectiveness. Individual alcohol swabs or betadine towels can dry out. Rubber gloves disintegrate. Go through your kit before each trip. Check expiration dates and replace items as necessary. Replenish items that may have been used on a prior trip. Be sure your kit is in good working order.
|
Qty. |
Item |
Use |
|
1 |
Elasticized (Ace) Wrap Bandage |
Support distressed limb joints Hold compresses or splints in place |
|
1 |
Roll Gauze |
Hold compresses or bandages in place |
|
1 |
Roll Adhesive Tape |
*Hold compresses or bandages in place *Hold splints in place |
|
8 |
Band-Aids |
Treat small wounds |
|
8 |
4”x4” Sterile Pads |
Dress large wounds |
|
4 |
Band-Aid Blister Skin or Moleskin |
Prevent and treat blisters |
|
2 |
Neosporin Ointment (travel packs) |
Prevent infection to wounds |
|
2 |
Betadine Towelettes (travel packs) |
Cleans wounds |
|
1 |
Tweezers |
Removes splinters and ticks |
|
4 |
Benadryl Tablets |
*Bee stings, antihistamine, colds (persons allergic to bee stings should carry an Epi-pen and be sure the trip leader is aware of this condition) |
|
6 |
Imodium Tablets |
Relieves diarrhea |
|
4 |
Safety Pins |
*Hold compresses and splints *Open blisters *Make arm sling from clothing or bandana |
|
1 |
Sting-eze |
Relieves sting from insect bites |
|
1 |
Roll Antacid |
Relieves nausea |
|
8 |
Aspirin/Ibuprofen |
*Relieves aches and pains *Aspirin for heart attacks |
|
1 |
Sunscreen |
Prevents sunburn |
|
1 |
Chapstick (tube) |
Prevents dry lips |
|
1 |
Insect Repellent |
Keeps insects away |
|
1 |
Pr. Rubber Gloves |
Protects hands from blood and body fluids |
|
1 |
Small Scissors |
Cut tape and gauze |
|
1 |
Liquid Antiseptic Hand Soap |
Cleans hands |