Heading out on an overland trip means venturing into remote and rugged terrains where access to medical help might be limited.
A well-stocked overland first aid kit tailored to the specific needs of your region is one of the often overlooked, and most important pieces on your packing list.
Being prepared for emergencies can transform a potential crisis into a manageable situation.
Here’s a beginner-friendly overland first aid checklist to make sure you’re ready for any medical situation during your journey.
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Medical
The most important aspect of any first aid kit is the medical equipment. You don't want to be caught trying to dress a wound without bandages! Read on below for a list of necessary medical items to include in your overlanding first aid kit.
Adhesive Bandages
Adhesive bandages are an obvious necessity for any overland first aid kit.
They are indispensable for covering cuts and scrapes, preventing infection, and protecting wounds from dirt and debris.
In an overlanding environment, where minor injuries are common, having a variety of sizes and types of bandages can be particularly useful.
Antiseptic Wipes
Antiseptic wipes are another must-have in your overland first aid kit.
They are crucial for cleaning wounds and reducing the risk of infection. Maintaining hygiene can be challenging in the wild, so these wipes help to make sure that wounds can be cleaned properly, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
As a bonus, they are handy for sanitizing hands and surfaces as well!
Pain Relief Medication
Pack a supply of ibuprofen or acetaminophen to alleviate aches, pains, and reduce fevers. These medications are helpful for managing discomfort from minor injuries or ailments.
Overlanding often involves physical activities such as hiking, trekking, kayaking, climbing, etc. In these types of adventure sports, where injury is common, having pain relief on hand in your overland first aid kit can prove crucial to the success of the trip.
Blister Treatment
Planning on hiking or climbing on your next overland trip? Don’t let blisters slow you down. Moleskin or blister pads can provide relief and prevent further irritation.
Keeping your feet in good condition is critical, as blisters can quickly turn a great adventure into a painful experience.
Thermometer
In remote areas, being able to accurately assess a person’s condition can make a significant difference in treatment decisions.
Utilizing a thermometer to monitor body temperature and detect fevers early can be critical in diagnosing illnesses.
Elastic Bandage
Elastic bandages are useful for wrapping sprains, strains or securing splints. They offer support and can reduce swelling.
Traveling through uneven terrain can lead to sprains or falls, having an elastic bandage can stabilize injuries until further help is available.
Prescription Medications
Prescription medications are another consideration.
Always bring along the appropriate amount of prescription drugs that you take regularly, along with a copy of your prescription in case you need a refill.
Access to pharmacies is limited in remote areas, and you may not be able to access one in time if you don’t prepare properly.
Personal Care
We enjoy overlanding because of the physical challenges that surviving in remote areas evokes. However, battling with the elements can introduce a number of antagonists that make personal care and hygiene a real pain.
Ticks, fleas, mosquitos, UV rays, and other environmental factors require a properly stocked first aid kit to combat their harmful effects.
Here's a list of personal care items that you won't want to leave out of your overland first aid kit.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from harmful UV rays, especially when spending long hours outdoors.
Sunscreen is vital to prevent sunburns and skin damage. In an overland first aid kit, a high-SPF sunscreen is recommended to provide maximum protection during extended exposure to the sun.
It’s important to remember that UV rays can harm you in a number of different environments, so when spending a significant amount of time outdoors it's always a good idea to apply sunscreen.
Insect Repellent
Insects can be more than just a nuisance; they can carry diseases.
Having a reliable insect repellent will keep bugs at bay, so you can focus on enjoying your adventure.
For overlanding, consider repellents that are effective against a broad range of insects, including mosquitoes, ticks, and flies. Just remember to consider the ecological impact of your bug-repellent choice before choosing to include it in your overland first aid kit.
MREs (Meals Ready to Eat)
MREs are convenient, non-perishable meals that can sustain you in an emergency. They are lightweight and easy to prepare.
MRE’s were developed by the US military for this very purpose. They provide a portable source of nutrition, even if you're stranded or unable to cook.
Tweezers
If you’ve ever experienced the agony of receiving a splinter injury in the wild, you’ll know how important a pair of tweezers can be.
Besides splinters there are a number of uses for tweezers in your overland first aid kit. Ticks and other foreign objects can become lodged under the skin. Especially when trekking in the backcountry, encountering sharp objects and ticks is common, making tweezers a necessary tool you will want in your kit.
Safety Pins
Safety pins are versatile and can be used to secure bandages, help remove splinters, or even fix gear in a pinch.
Their small size and multiple uses make them an indispensable item in any first aid kit for overlanding.
Cash
Though most of your time will be spent completely off the grid when overlanding, you might want to keep some cash in your overland first aid kit as well.
Often the closest towns in the vicinity of national forests and parks will have limited access to other common methods of payment. Having a bit of cash on hand is always a good idea.
Gadgets
There are a number of gadgets you'll want to have on hand in your overland first aid kit.
The Boy Scout motto, "Be prepared," serves as a reminder that having a gadget for every potential emergency is part of your responsibility as a beginning overlander. Like a sort of backwoods James Bond, you can be prepared for any emergency if you have the proper gadgets!
Read on to discover which gadgets we deem essential to any overlanding first aid kit.
Headlamp
Headlamps, more useful than flashlights because of their hands-free utility, are an indispensable item to keep in your first aid kit for nighttime emergencies.
Store it in an easily accessible area, and check the batteries regularly.
In the wild, where light sources are limited, a reliable headlamp can help you administer first aid and navigate your surroundings safely. Keeping a traditional flashlight in your vehicle is a good backup option to consider.
Whistle
When considering items to pack in your overlanding first aid kit, a whistle might not be the first thing that comes to mind.
In an overlanding context, where you might be far from civilization, this small but mighty tool can help you alert others to your location in case of an emergency.
Emergency Blanket
An emergency blanket can provide warmth and protection against hypothermia. It’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry and store.
In the unpredictable environments and situations in which you find yourself during overlanding, an emergency blanket is a critical item for maintaining body heat.
Water Purifier
Everyone needs access to clean drinking water for survival.
That’s why having a portable water purifier is so important. Dehydration or consuming contaminated water can lead to severe health issues, making a water purifier an essential part of your overland first aid kit.
First Aid Manual
A comprehensive first aid manual can provide guidance on treating various injuries and illnesses, especially in situations where professional medical help isn’t available.
For overlanding, consider a manual that covers wilderness and remote first aid scenarios.
Knife
A sturdy knife is a multi-purpose tool that can be used for cutting bandages, preparing food, or other survival tasks.
In overlanding, where resourcefulness is key, a knife is an indispensable tool in your first aid kit.
Multi-tool
A multi-tool is a compact and versatile item that includes various tools such as pliers, screwdrivers, and scissors. It can be used for a range of tasks.
A multi-tool in your overland first aid kit will help you stay prepared for minor repairs and adjustments.
GPS Device
A GPS device can help you navigate unfamiliar territories and find your way back to camp. You might already have this helpful navigation tool if you're traveling really far off the grid. If not, consider adding one of these to your kit.
Compass
A compass is a simple yet effective tool for navigation, especially if your GPS fails or runs out of battery. Overlanding often involves traveling through areas with limited landmarks. You should always pack a compass in your overlanding kit.
Firestarter Kit
A firestarter kit, including waterproof matches, lighters, and fire starters, is a must for starting a fire for warmth, cooking, or signaling for help.
In the wilderness, the ability to create a fire can mean the difference between a comfortable night and a dangerous situation.
Additional Overlanding-Specific Considerations
Trauma Supplies
Overlanding can lead to more serious injuries due to the rugged environment.
Consider adding trauma supplies such as a tourniquet, hemostatic agents, and trauma shears to your kit. These items can help in stabilizing severe injuries until first responders arrive.
Snake Bite Kit
In certain regions, encounters with venomous snakes are a risk.
A snake bite kit can provide immediate first aid before medical help can be reached. Understanding how to use these kits and recognizing snake bite symptoms is something you should prepare for.
Communication Devices
If you like adventuring in truly remote locations, satellite phones or personal locator beacons (PLBs) are invaluable in remote areas where standard communication devices may fail.
These devices allow you to call for help from anywhere on earth in case of an emergency, providing peace of mind during your overlanding trip.
Tips for Using Your Overland First Aid Kit
- Regular Checks: Periodically check your overland first aid kit to replace expired items and ensure everything is in good condition.
- Customization: Tailor your kit based on the specific needs of your trip and personal health requirements.
- Training: Consider taking a wilderness first aid course to better understand how to use the items in your kit effectively.
- Accessibility: Keep your first aid kit in an easily accessible location in your vehicle. In an emergency, you should be able to reach it quickly.
A well-prepared overland first aid kit is more than just a collection of medical supplies; it’s a crucial part of your adventure planning. By including these essential items, you can handle emergencies effectively and enjoy your journey with peace of mind.
Remember, preparation is key to a safe and successful overlanding experience.
Final Thoughts
Overlanding offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and adventure, but it also comes with its own set of challenges.
As a beginner, packing a comprehensive overland first aid kit can make a significant difference in how you handle emergencies.
Take the time to prepare your kit thoroughly, and you’ll be able to tackle medical issues that arise, allowing you to focus on enjoying the journey and exploring new terrains.
