Top 10 MedKit Supplies for Outdoor Adventure

Brooks Wolfe, Director of SOLO Southeast, took a moment to talk us through the contents of his personal MedKit and how he packs it for adventures. If you’re taking a shorter hike or paddle, here is a list of our top 10 must-haves to build your own medkit. Take a look at the full video below for an expanded list perfect for big adventures.

If you’d like to purchase a ready-to-go kit, we’ve linked a great option here!

1. Non-Latex Gloves – Keep these in a plastic zip bag and put them on before you begin to assess your patient.
2. Mild Soap – This with water is what you need to clean any wounds.
3. Gauze – This can be applied to wounds or cuts. It can also be used to clean wounds.
4. Roller Bandage – This is great for holding any bandaging in place, or if there is a larger laceration that needs more pressure to help the blood clot.
5. Medical Tape – This is better than other types because some people can be allergic to the adhesive used in other types of tape.
6. Elastic Wrap – Great for keeping swelling down with a sprain or a strain.
7. Triangle Bandages – These bandages do a great job as a sling.
8. Electrolyte Powder – This will assist in keeping you hydrated.
9. Diphenhydramine – Keep dye-free Diphenhydramine available to aid in allergic reactions.
10. A way to keep warm – Always keep a way to make fire, an emergency blanket, or a safe way to stay warm with you.

Make sure to keep all of your items dry by storing them in a plastic zip bag, then putting them into your kit. See the full video below for an expanded list and tips on packing your kit.

If you found this helpful and want to see more, comment below with what you’d like to learn!