This Saturday I am heading to New Zealand for a 2 month (9 weeks to be exact!) hiking adventure. One of the things on my endless to-do list was a revamp of my own personal first aid kit. As an instructor for Rocky Mountain Adventure Medicine I have discussed at great length the importance of various items in ones first aid kit. With that said I find it is one of the areas that I of all people tend to skimp on. While I do believe that with more knowledge one can improvise better, there are still a number of things I am sure to want in an emergency, and probably more likely on an everyday occasion to ensure a pleasant hiking experience.

The Full Meal Deal: A NOT-so-Ultra-Light  First Aid Kit
This kit is designed to live in the car. We will be traveling by car throughout New Zealand so weight is generally not an issue. My kit contains a vast selection of familiar pharmaceuticals as well as basic medical and survival supplies. Keep in mind that a number of things can be improvised.

Medications

First Aid Kit

  • Acetaminophen
  • Ibuprofen
  • Aspirin (Daily Low Dose and Regular)
  • Robaxacet (muscle relaxant)
  • Imodium
  • Laxative
  • Benadryl
  • Gravol
  • Pepto Bismol
  • Tums
  • Vitamin C
  • Antibiotic: Azithromycin
  • Antibiotic: Ciprofloaxcin
  • SalonPas (Topical analgesic for joint pain)
  • Hydralite (electrolyte replacement packets)
  • Antibiotic Eye/Ear Drops

Medical Supplies

  • Tensor, Koban, Gauze Roll
  • Triangular bandage
  • Large Tagaderms
  • Non-adherent gauze
  • Regular gauze
  • Abdominal pad
  • Selection bandaids
  • Steri-strips
  • Crazy Glue
  • Alcohol pads
  • Triple Antibiotic Ointment
  • Sterile Needles
  • Irrigation Syringe
  • Thermometer
  • Shears
  • Gloves
  • Barrier Device
  • SAM Splint

Survival Supplies

  • Patch Kit (Thermarest, tent, etc)
  • Compass
  • Mirror
  • Fire Starters
  • Flint & Steel
  • Ear Plugs
  • Emergency Rations

Our intention is to complete many day hikes and backpacking trips for which I am a strong believer of the ultra-light philosophy. This kit simply does not stand up in this case! For the average day hiking, climbing or kayaking I would simply pack a small pouch with my favourite items, yours may differ. Remember: the more you know the less you need to carry! Here are my absolute must haves:

1. Knife
2. Duct Tape
3. Selection of Medications: Based on the activity, conditions, and people on the trip.
4. Non-Adherent Gauze
5. Blister Treatments