Backpacking is challenging and exciting. It is meant to be an adventure, but in order to be safe and ensure it is fun you should have a basic knowledge of wilderness first aid. Planning involves some simple preparation before a backpacking trip. Your plan should be well thought out and prepare you for every possible surprise the outdoors can throw your way. By being properly prepared you will be able to focus on the actually joy of backpacking rather than worrying about the technical details once you get on the 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 backpacking tour. 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.
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