Two search and rescue team members hold persons arm with Sams splint in place
Two search and rescue team members hold persons arm with Sams splint in place

A good first aid kit is one of the Ten Essentials of backcountry travel and sometimes it can be difficult to decide what it is that you will need and how you will want to be prepared for outdoor injury.

Most outdoor enthusiasts choose our pre-assembled first-aid kits because they are convenient. It’s also a perfect way to ensure you haven’t forgotten the essential materials for your group and type of trip. Most Sawyer kits also come with a wilderness first aid field guide to walk you through even the most sever of first aid situations. But lets start with the basics.

Here are the Basics

  • Never Leave home without them
  • Bandages: Assorted adhesive bandages, athletic tape and blister treatments (such as Blist-O-Ban).
  • Medication and ointments/lotions: Ibuprofen, antibiotic ointments, antacid tablets, sunscreen and prescription medicines.
  • Basic tools: Tweezers, a small mirror, razor blade or knife.
  • Miscellaneous items: Bee-sting kit, tick remover, antiseptic towelettes, burn dressing.

Media Mentions

It all starts with Sawyer Squeeze + Cnoc VectoX 2L, the best and most reliable filter-bladder combo and the core of my backpacking water storage and filtration system.

Jaeger Shaw
Owner & Managing Editor

Media Mentions

Our top water filter for thru hiking, the Sawyer Squeeze, is 15% off.

Naomi Hudetz
Chief Operating Officer & Online Editor

Media Mentions

People with alpha-gal syndrome show allergic symptoms such as rash, nausea and vomiting after eating such meat.

Stephanie Soucheray
Reporter