Backpackers First Aid Kit Checklist
Regardless of whether you are backpacking for a week or for 6 months, you will need to take a backpacking first aid kit away with you just in case the unimaginable happens. Obviously it’s possible to purchase a ready-made first aid kit but these can be expensive so many backpackers tend to pick up the most important individual pieces separately. This article is for those backpackers and should be used a check-list to ensure you have everything you need.
Adhesive Strips – Probably the most widely used item in any first aid kit, adhesive strips are great if you suffer a small cut and can also be used to prevent boots or shoes rubbing. Always use water resistant strips as these tend to last much longer.
Medicines – The most common aliments that backpackers experience are diarrhoea and upset stomachs, so always pack medicines that can treat these conditions. If more complex medicines are required such as antibiotics these can be picked up from local pharmacies or Doctors. The cost of medicine in Europe can be expensive so make sure you have sufficient backpacking cover insurance.
Pain killers - Always take pain killers with you as the chances are someone in your party will be suffering at some point (even if it’s only hangover!). Paracetamol are ideally for headaches whilst ibuprofen are better suited to muscular aches and pains.
Antiseptic – Great for cleaning open wounds and removing infection from them. This will avoid future complications and help the wound heal far quicker.
Those are the ‘must-haves’ first aid kit items but other useful pieces include butterfly bandages, motion sickness tablets, insect repellent and thermometer but it is possible to cope without them if budget or space prohibits them. It’s worth while investing in a waterproof carry case for the first aid kit as items such as plasters and bandages are of limited use if they are damp and wet.