I always pack a light-weight first-aid kit when hiking–even on short hikes near Denver. I’ve probably used my kit to help others as much as I’ve used it to pull a splinter from my own hand or prevent a blister on my own foot. If you’re wondering what to pack in your first aid kit, I’m going to details the core items. If you’d rather just pick up a prepackaged one, I’d recommend the “>Hart Weekend First Aid Kit

  1. Adhesive Bandages and Sterile Dressings:

    2. Adhesive bandages are versatile and useful for covering small cuts, blisters, or abrasions. Make sure to include a variety of sizes to cater to different wounds. Sterile dressings, such as gauze pads and adhesive tape, are essential for larger wounds that require more extensive care.

  2. Antiseptic Wipes and Ointments:

    3. Keeping wounds clean is essential to prevent infections. Pack antiseptic wipes or solutions like alcohol pads or hydrogen peroxide to clean wounds thoroughly. Additionally, include antibiotic ointments like Bacitracin or Polysporin to apply to minor cuts and scrapes.

  3. Ace Wrap Compression Bandage:

    4. This might be the most-used item in my kit. If you or someone in your party turns an ankle, this is essential for helping support it so that they don’t further injure themselves. It’s also incredibly versitile; you can use it to make a sling or in the case of smomething major, to staunch bleeding.

  4. Pain Relievers:

    5. Hiking can be physically demanding, and muscle soreness or headaches can occur. Include over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Remember to follow the recommended dosage guidelines.

  5. Blister Care Supplies:

    6. Blisters are a common occurrence during long hikes. To prevent discomfort and further damage, pack moleskin, blister cushions, or specialized blister bandages. These items provide cushioning and protection to promote healing and reduce pain. See our full post on blister prevention and care when hiking.

  6. Tweezers and Splinter Removal Tools:

    7. Ticks, splinters, and thorns can find their way into your skin while hiking. Pack a pair of fine-tipped tweezers to safely remove these foreign objects. Additionally, include small sterilized needles or splinter removal tools to help with precise extraction.

  7. Emergency Medications:

    8. If you have known allergies or medical conditions, it’s crucial to carry your emergency medications. This includes epinephrine auto-injectors for severe allergic reactions, asthma inhalers, or any other prescribed medication you may need during an emergency.

  8. Medications and Personal Items:

    9. If you have any prescribed medications, ensure you carry an adequate supply. Additionally, consider including personal items like sunscreen, insect repellent, and lip balm to protect yourself from the elements.

You can pack all of this up in a slider ziploc bag so that you can easily see and retrieve all of the items.