Know The Basics Of Wilderness First Aid For Safe Backpacking

« « How To Think Like An Ultralight Backpacker | Backpacking Without Foot Blisters » »

Subscribe To Our Feed

Most major injuries can be avoided, but sometimes no matter how careful you are an injury will occur. Even if it is minor it still needs attention. Every backpacker should understand the basics of wilderness first aid. If there is a major accident then help could be miles away, so having basic first aid knowledge can be critical. Even if you do not suffer a major accident, there are still some simple things you can do to prevent problems on the backpacking trail.

The very first thing you need is a good first aid kit. This is an important piece of equipment. You will need to have some basic items in your kit to ensure you are ready for almost anything that can come your way. The following list is what should be in your kit:

Band aids of different shapes and sizes, Antibiotic ointment, Hydrocortisone cream, Moleskin, Alcohol pads, Ace bandages, Hand sanitizer, Gauze pads, First aid tape, and Cold pack. You may also want to include a powered energy drink which is a good item if you were to get stranded to help keep your energy up.

Lastly, You need to let your family and friends know about your backpacking plans. If something were to happen you would be more likely to be found if someone knows you should have been back from your trip. Give them a copy of your route and let them know where you will be along the path at certain times during your trip. Also make sure they know exactly when you should be home.

You can not prevent everything, though, so you should also learn basic first aid. One of the biggest things is to try to keep all supplies sanitary. This includes trying to clean hands as best as possible before treating a wound or injury. Bacteria grows quickly and once it is introduced to an injury things can get worse quickly. You should take a first aid course to brush up on the basics, so if you should veer need them you know them.

Get more ideas on backpacking visit Light Backpack and also Backpacking First Aid

Get Social, Bookmark Us!!: These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.