Frequently Asked Questions
What to put in a hiking first aid kit?
Plasters and blister plasters, sterile dressings, antiseptic, bandage, medical tape, scissors, splinter tweezers and a few painkillers. Add a survival blanket and a compression bandage depending on the outing, keeping your kit sterile and in date.
Is a first aid kit essential?
Yes: miles from anywhere, treating a niggle (blister, cut) stops it ruining your day out or getting worse. It's basic kit for any hiker, light and compact - better to have it and not need it than the other way round.
How to choose your first aid kit?
Choose one that's compact, lightweight and ideally waterproof, with clear organisation so you can find the right kit quickly. Tailor the contents to the duration and remoteness of your trip, and check the expiry dates regularly.
Do you need special blister plasters?
Yes, these are the most useful for hiking: blister plasters (second-skin type) give immediate relief and protect the area. Always carry some with you, as blisters are a walker's number one complaint.