Tactical Trail Hiking
Wilderness Survival and Safety
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First Aid
Recommended Equipment
First Aid Kit, Type 1
First Aid Kit
At a minimum, carry an individual first aid kit in a protective container, similar to the one shown to the right. These kits are available at most outdoor and sporting goods stores, and should contain basic first aid items for common minor injuries one might experience on the trail.
Most basic kits require that you add additional items, based on your particular needs and requirements. This may include (but isn’t by any means limited to) medication, sun protection, blister protection, and insect protection.
Medication
Personal medication is specific to you, and must be carried by you, such as prescriptions, diabetic items, anti-sting or allergy kits, and the like.
Sun Protection
Sun protection is critical, especially during the summer, or at higher elevations. Carry sunscreen lotion and ultraviolet-blocking sunglasses.
Blister Protection
Serious stuff on a hike. Carry adhesive foam and moleskin, and a roll of athletic tape. Tape proactively applied on hotspots prevents blisters from forming.
Insect Protection
Avoid the large spray can. A small plastic bottle of high-concentration DEET will do. Also carry an insect headnet that you can see through. Saves the day when they’re so thick you’re breathing them in.
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