The following list of suggested first-aid materials should not be taken as the final word. These are merely some basic items to be considered if you are building your own kit or evaluating various commercially available models. However, only you, after serious thought, can truly personalize a first-aid kit to fit your needs.

Also remember, even minor problems can turn into major discomfort in the backcountry.  Don't discount diarrhea, blisters or even heartburn as problems being able to seriously impair the quality of your outdoor experience.

Note:  Inform any members of the team of any serious illness that you might suffer.

First aid's golden rules...

1. "First, do no harm."

2. Read the first aid manual and then re-read the manual.

3. Have your kit with you at all times.

4. Know what's in it, where it is and how to use it.

5. Stop bleeding.

6. Prevent shock.

7. Prevent infection.

8. Seek or Summon medical help immediately.

MEDICAL INFORMATION / INSTRUMENT / MEDICATION

Personal Prescriptions (if taken in a regular basis)*

Motrin® (Ibuprofen 200 mg), Pkg./2

Extra Strength Tylenol® (500 mg), Pkg./2

Antihistamine (Diphenhydramine 25 mg)

Aspirin (325 mg), Pkg./2

AntiacidElectrolites

Suntan lotion

Insect repellant (organic if possible)

EMT Shears, 4"

Splinter Picker/Tick Remover Forceps

Thermometer, Disposable, (96°F to 104.8°F)

Safety Pins Needle and tread (I used when I have blisters)

Pencil Patient Assessment Form

*  If you are allergic to inset stings or have major reactions to allergens, please carry and EPI Pen.

BLEEDING

Trauma Pad, 5" x 9"

Gloves, Nitrile (Pair), One Hand Wipe

WOUND CARE / BURN / BLISTER

Syringe, Irrigation, 20 cc, 18 Gauge Tip

Wound Closure Strips, 1/4" x 4", Pkg./10

Tincture of Benzoin Topical Adhesive, Swab

After Cuts & Scrapes® Wipe

Povidone Iodine, 3/4 oz

Triple Antibiotic Ointment, 1/32 oz

Dressing, Non-Adherent, Sterile, 3" x 4"

Dressing, Gauze, Sterile, 4" x 4", Pkg./2

Dressing, Gauze, Sterile, 2" x 2", Pkg./2

Bandage, Conforming Gauze, Non-Sterile, 3"

Tape, 1" x 10 Yards

Bandage, Adhesive, Fabric, 1" x 3"

Bandage, Adhesive, Fabric, Knuckle

Moleskin, 4" x 7"

Dressing, Spenco 2nd® Skin, 2" x 1 1/2"

Bandage, Non-Woven Adhesive, 4" x 7"

Cotton Tip Applicator, Pkg./2

FRACTURE / SPRAIN

Bandage, Elastic with Velcro® Closure, 3"

Bandage, Triangular

Emergency blanket

There are various kinds, the cheap ones work well, but they have tendency to break.  I like the Survival Thermo-Lite 2.0 (Bivvy Sack) you could find them at REI, Hudson Trail outfitters, etc.