Building Your First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is only as good as the knowledge of the person using it. Invest in a wilderness first aid course before relying on a kit in the mountains. The golden rule: carry what you're trained to use.
Kit Tiers
- Personal Kit (Level 1): Blister plasters, tape, 2-3 bandages, personal medications. For day hikes with quick evacuation access.
- Group Day Kit (Level 2): Above plus SAM splint, triangular bandage, antiseptic, wound closure strips, emergency blanket. For day climbs in moderate terrain.
- Group Overnight Kit (Level 3): Above plus IV fluids, SAM splint, decompression needle capability, oral glucose, broad-spectrum antibiotics. For remote multi-day trips.
- Expedition Kit (Level 4): Full wilderness medical kit including altitude medications, dental kit, Pulse Ox, Gamow bag, professional-grade supplies. For major expeditions.
π‘ RememberWater purification, sun protection, and insect repellent are technically preventive supplies, not first aid β but they prevent far more injuries than any bandage. Always include them in your kit assessment.