First aid & repair kit

This ultralight first aid and repair kit handles the most common backcountry problems: blisters, minor wounds, GI issues, allergic reactions, sprains, and gear failures. It’s designed to be practical without being excessive—carrying what you’ll actually use rather than preparing for every unlikely scenario.

I carry this kit on every hike, from day trips to thru-hikes. The items are carefully chosen based on frequency of use and the reality that most backcountry incidents are minor and manageable with basic supplies.

First aid

Blister & foot care

Leukotape P (2 m) *1
Safety pin (1)
Compeed (4) *2

Wound care

Medication

Electrolyte powder (1)
Antihistamine (10)
Paracetamol (8)
Loperamide (6)
Ibuprofen (8)
Mintec (8)

Support & stabilisation

Coban self-adherent wrap (2.5 cm x 2 m)

Repair

Adhesive repairs

Tenacious Tape nylon patches (3)
Tenacious Tape clear patches (3)
Gorilla super glue (3 g tube)
Gorilla tape (1 m)
DCF tape (1 m)

Structural repairs

Dental floss (1 m) *3
Nylon cord (3 m)
Needle (1)

Water treatment backup

Water purification tablets (10)

Organisation

Keep everything together in a single waterproof pouch. Store the kit in a consistent location in your pack so you can find it quickly, even in poor conditions or at night. Label all medications clearly with the drug name and dosage—don’t rely on memory when you’re exhausted, injured, or helping someone else.

Footnotes

Apply Leukotape to clean, dry skin. Round the corners with scissors to prevent edges from peeling. For prevention, apply before hot spots develop. Works better than moleskin in wet conditions. ^
Don’t wait for a blister to form. At the first sign of friction or discomfort, stop and apply Leukotape or Compeed. Five minutes of prevention saves hours of pain. ^
Dental floss serves double duty as strong thread for gear repairs and emergency sutures. Wrap around a small piece of card or a spare tent stake to save space and bulk. Unwaxed floss works better for repairs. ^