I’m a paramedic and wilderness medicine instructor. These are the actual items and kits I’m comfortable recommending to my own students, friends, and family.

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This is what I’d want a hiker to carry on a typical day hike. We need something small enough to actually bring every time we head out, and big enough to be helpful when we need it.  I like to have a plan for soft tissue injuries, musculoskeletal trauma, and some medical complaints.

Your first aid items can all be kept in a 1-gallon Zip-Lock bag with a few more sandwich-size bags used for organization.  Zip Lock bags work.  Here are some other options you may want to consider.  If you are making a kit on a budget, remember, it is better to spend money on the contents.

Click on the picture for a link to Amazon

Small zip pouch I like → [Amazon link]

4" elastic bandage → [Amazon link]

Rolled gauze (x2) → [Amazon link]

Triangular bandage → [Amazon link]

Nitrile gloves (2–3 pairs) → [Amazon link]

Antiseptic wipes → [Amazon link]

Blister care (moleskin or similar) → [Amazon link]

Small set of meds (ibuprofen / antihistamine, etc.) → [Amazon link]