>>532934Medic here.
A well rounded medkit is always useful, but for just day hikes (public or private land?) You main concerns for injury will likely fall into sprains, cuts/scrapes, and possibly exposure to poisonous plants (depending on region).
*Basic*
- 4x4 gauze pads (2)
- kerlix or other compressed/rolled gauze (2)
- alcohol prep pads (2-4)
- 4" ACE wraps (can be used for pressure dressings as well as immobilization in the the event of a sprain)
- band aids (if kids are around)
- splinting material, SAM splints (2)
- 1" tape roll (1)
- 3" tape roll (1)
- bacitracin zinc ointment (or neosporin OTC) (1)
- blizzard blanket
- SOF-T tourniquet (CATs are ok, not the best)
- Basic meds - ibuprofen or naproxin, docusate sodium, acetaminophen, antihistamine of choice, and dont forget at least one Epipen.
This is the most basic I would carry, but for long excursions over several days or longer with little or no outside world contact, I would go with my full kit.
