First Aid Kit 101 for the Trail
Let’s face it—accidents happen. Whether you’re flying downhill on your bike, hiking remote trails, or brushing too close to a cactus, being prepared can make all the difference. That’s where your First Aid Kit comes in.
We believe in proactive care, and that includes having the essentials on hand to stabilize, soothe, and support until you can get proper help. Think portable, lightweight, and functional. Here’s what we recommend for your trail pack:
Trail Essentials – For the Pack:
- Tweezers – Because cacti and splinters are part of the adventure.
- Band-Aids – For blisters, small cuts, and when skin meets gravel.
- Sterile 4×4 Gauze – Essential for covering scrapes or controlling bleeding.
- Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen – To help manage pain or inflammation en route to care.
- Duct Tape or Medical Tape – Surprisingly useful for securing bandages, splints—or your gear.
- Benadryl (Diphenhydramine) – For unexpected allergic reactions or mild anaphylaxis (and a reminder: always carry…)
- Epinephrine Auto-Injector – If you have life-threatening allergies, don’t leave home without it.*
- Triple Antibiotic Ointment – To keep wounds clean and infection-free.
- Water Purification Tablets – A must if you’re far from clean water sources.
- Zip Ties – MacGyver-level magic for splinting, gear fixes, and beyond.
- Emergency Contact Info – On your person, not just in your phone.
- Mylar Emergency Blanket – Lightweight warmth if you get stuck in the cold.
- Whistle – Small, loud, and potentially life-saving.
- Mini Multi-tool with Chain Tool – For those inevitable mechanicals.
- Extra Chain Link + Tool – Because a broken chain shouldn’t mean the end of your ride.
- Bandana – Multi-use: sling, compress, cleaner, or sunshade.
- Glucose Gel or Emergency Sugar – Quick support for low blood sugar.
Trail Support – For the Car or Camp:
If you can’t carry it on your back, keep it in the car or basecamp. Think of this as your trail triage kit—tools for more serious injuries or recovery while waiting for help.
- Kerlix Rolls – For major wounds and bleeding control.
- ACE Bandage – Perfect for sprains, compression, or holding ice packs in place.
- Coban Wrap – Self-adhering and perfect for wound wraps or stabilizing injuries.
- 4×4 Bandages – A must for puncture wounds or abrasions.
- Medical Tape – Keeps gauze or splints secure.
- Sling – For shoulder dislocations or clavicle injuries.
- SAM Splint – Lightweight, moldable, and a must-have for fractures.
- Clean Water (BPA-free container) – For drinking, wound cleaning, or cooling down.
- Alcohol Pads – Quick disinfectant for small wounds or removing adhesives.
- Betadine or Chlorhexidine – Excellent antiseptics for wound care post-irrigation.
- Nitrile Gloves – Safety first when helping others or dealing with blood.
- Instant Ice Packs – Just snap and shake for quick relief.
- Trauma Shears – Cut through clothing or tape with ease.
- Matches or Lighter – Just in case you’re out later than planned.
- Compass – For emergencies or giving EMS your location.
- Electrolyte Packets – Hydration is healing.
- Flashlight + Extra Batteries – Darkness falls fast in the backcountry.
- Snacks or Gel Shots – Fuel for the journey or a blood sugar boost.
- Personal Medications – Always keep spares of essential prescriptions.
- Multipurpose Tool – Never hurts to have extra cutting/crimping power.
- Hand Sanitizer – Clean hands = clean wounds.
- Arnica Cream – For topical pain and bruising.
- Maps – Printed maps never run out of battery.
- Spare Car Key (Hidden Outside the Car) – For when the trail eats your keys.
- Extra Clothing Layers – Dry, warm clothes could be life-saving in an emergency.
We don’t expect injuries, but we do prepare for them. With a well-stocked kit, you’re not just treating injuries, you’re supporting your body’s healing process, naturally and intentionally.
Heal well, ride safe, and stay wild.
