The world of backpacking is very exciting; it gives you the opportunity to explore new places and contributes to your life experiences. However, it is crucial that your backpacking experience is pleasant and plain sailing, which is why it is vital to plan ahead. This article will discuss what to expect, how to prepare, and plan ahead for potential backpacking emergencies to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable backpacking journey.
Planning Your Backpacking Trip
Image via Flickr by Ingere
Choosing and pinpointing your destination is a good first start. This is important as this can help you to do your research on the area, find out what to expect and include potential things to prepare for, e.g. permits, trail conditions & insects. What is also crucial is planning your journey so that it runs smoothly. You should know how to get to your destination and have the resources to complete your journey.
What You Need and Don’t Need in Your First-Aid Kit
A first-aid kit is a main essential that should be taken on a hike, especially if it is an overnight one. There will be items that will be used frequently and that will need replacing. On the other hand, there will be items that will be rarely used and only in the case of an emergency. Common items that are needed in a first aid kit include bandages, a multi-use tool/knife, thermometer, tweezers, and antiseptic towelettes. However, medication and tablets such as painkillers, antihistamines, and Imodium are vital, but should not be kept in the first aid box.
How to Respond to Minor Injuries
The bare essentials in your first-aid kit discussed should cover minor injuries. For example, gauze can be used to bandage burns, however, the wound must be given some breathing space to heal and recover. Blisters are also very common when hiking or backpacking, and a good dressing pad should help to heal blisters. The best advice when it comes to minor injuries is to not touch, suffocate, or irritate the injured area is it can make it worse.
How to Prepare for Potentially Significant Accidents and Having a Means to Call for Help
Common sense and good decision-making skills are vital for dealing with accidents and emergencies. This is why it’s important to assess the situation before calling emergency or medical services. When calling emergency or medical services, it is important to provide information such as your location and coordinates, injury details, and equipment available.
You can now gain a peace of mind through arranging your medical transportation with additional protection through MedjetAssist memberships. Rest assured, MedjetAssist will arrange medical transport from one hospital to another back in your home country for you. When you’re out backpacking in a strange country or remote area, medical airlifts and transportation can mean the difference between life or death.
Overall, planning your journey, first-aid kits, treating minor injuries, and preparing for potential significant accidents are vital. So, what are you waiting for? Plan ahead, arrange travel medical transport, and gain your peace of mind for your next hiking or backpacking adventure!
