Hiking is a great outdoor activity that can give you well-rounded, and balanced benefits. Most people to hike for the pure enjoyment of the sport; to get out in nature and see the sites. Exercise is another motivating factor behind hiking. It is a great way to get a good cardio, as well as muscle toning benefits in one mode of exercise.

As enjoyable as hiking can be, there are a number of risks involved, especially depending on where you choose to hike. Because accidents do and can happen during even the most benign hike, you will want to make sure you carry a first aid kit. In your first aid kit you should have specific items so that you can tend to a variety of issues or injuries because no matter how much you plan, there is always the risk of that unexpected accident.

Putting together a first aid kit properly is important. There are certain items that should be a staple in each kit. Other items may not be necessary; and can just bulk up your kit and make it heavier and harder to carry on a casual hiking excursion.

For a generalized first aid kit, you will want to make sure you have the following:

Ÿ  Insect repellant

Ÿ  Pocket knife

Ÿ  Ace bandages

Ÿ  Sterile bandages

Ÿ  Bandage tape

Ÿ  Antiseptic lotion or ointment

Ÿ  Blister protectors

Ÿ  Pain reliever, such as Tylenol

If you suffer from allergic reactions, you will also want your allergy meds, whether it is an over-the-counter allergy medication such as Benadryl, or you require an Epi-Pen. You never know if you will encounter allergens on a hike or a bee sting, and as any doctor will tell you, it is better to be safe than sorry. It is better to be prepared and not need it, rather than not have what you need, and wish you had it.

Nothing can replace being prepared for an unexpected injury. The better you are prepared to handle injuries on your hike, the more enjoyable it will be. You will be able to hike and know that should an injury occur, you are prepared to deal with it.