A million and one things can go wrong on a hike, even if you’re just going out for the day. If you’re not prepared with a good first aid kit, the most minor injuries can become life-threatening. Even a blister can turn into cellulitis in no time. 

But even if it’s not a life or death situation, any illness or injury on the trails will impact the enjoyment factor. When you pick up a parasite that makes you explode from both ends, clambering up boulders is way down on the list of fun things to do. Not that I’m speaking from experience at all… 

Injuries can happen anytime in the wild. Call me a pessimist, but the best way to stop a mishap from becoming a catastrophe is to make sure you’re prepared for the worst. That means you should never go on a hike without a well-stocked first aid kit. 

So, what should you pack? Based on my experience as a wilderness junkie, this is what you need to bring with you on any trek. 

THE ESSENTIALS

No matter where or for how long you’re hiking, you won’t regret packing these must-haves: 

• Adhesive bandages (or blister kit and hiker’s wool)
• Compression bandage
• 3 x butterfly bandages 
• Irrigation syringe 
• Gauze, non-stick pads and tape (to secure them)
• Antibacterial ointment 
• Antiseptic wipes 
• Ibuprofen and paracetamol
• Antidiarrheal pills 
• Eye drops 
• Tweezers 
• Latex gloves 
• Hand sanitiser 
• Water treatment tablets 
• SPF 50+ UVA/UVB broad-spectrum sunscreen 
• Lip balm 
• Bug repellent