What’s in my hiking first-aid kit?
Bear in mind where you are going and what dangers you may encounter along the way, as this is not a fully comprehensive first-aid kit and it will not assist with all emergencies:
I have tweezers on my Swiss army knife, it may be worth looking into for those nasty splinters.
Selection of Bandages. I include a sling, decide if you need one.
Blister Plasters: KT Blister Plasters Compeed, are my preferred options.
Vaseline as it assists with hot spots.
Hikers wool, to reduce friction on the hotspots.
Sterilized needles for blister popping (yes, this is the best option, but be aware to prevent infection at all costs). Only pop a blister on the trail when it is becoming painful to walk on.
Leuko Tape / KT Prevention tape – to assist you with hot spots before you even get a blister (Prevention is better than cure). I like keeping leuko tape tied around my trekking poles.
Selection of Plasters.
Scissors.Nail clipper for cutting toe-nails, and it is also handy to cut off skin after you have popped a blister etc.
Antiseptic wipes.
Antiseptic cream / Wound healing cream.
Voltaren Emulgel.
Space Blanket.
Medication: Headache tablets, Helio care sun exposure tablets, Cramp care, anti-inflammatory, muscle relaxers, gastro medication, Rehydrate, mineral salts to stop dehydration, pain meds for muscle aches etc.
Magnesium spray (helps with muscle cramps); I take oil that you can rub on your sore muscles too.
Liquid wound cover.
Lighter (to sterilise needles).
Energy gel in case your blood sugar drops.
Zambuk salve, to help with small cuts & scrapes.
Duct tape: this works as a small roll on your trekking poles too.
Tourniquet, splints etc.