If your first aid kit is for hiking, camping or backpacking, it probably comes with a waterproof case as well. However, when you are not using it, it is important that you store it in a place that is dark and away from any moisture. It should also be protected from spillages and away from children’s reach. Another important point worth mentioning is that all members of the group should know where the first aid kit is because sometimes, in more serious situations, even minutes matter. If some of your group members are children, it couldn’t hurt that they also know the purpose of the items inside. It is also important that you recheck the shelf life of the items inside the first aid kit. The items inside has a different expiration date and some might require replacing more often than others.
Many hikers prefer to keep their first aid kit at the campsite while they are hiking on a trail nearby. However, this is not recommended because an accident can happen at any time. For this reason, even if you are going on a one day hike, take your first aid kit with you. A circumstance that will make this easier is that there are convertible kits that will be ideal for long backpacking as well as a hiking trip. They come with one bigger box that holds all the medical supplies and a smaller box or sack that only fits medical supplies that you need for one day. This combination is perfect for a backpacking – hiking adventure.