Image Alt

Blog

First aid kit

Prepare your backpack: the first aid kit

Among the essentials that the pilgrim must carry to make the Way of Saint James is the first aid kit. Although it does not have to be needed, some products should always carry on the route to Santiago de Compostela.

The main enemy of the pilgrim is the blisters and, when they appear, they must be cared for properly. In each stage, more than twenty kilometres of distance are covered, and not wearing appropriate footwear can produce blisters that, if not cured, can ruin your pilgrimage.

Also, when pilgrim prepares the first aid kit, it should be borne in mind that the pilgrim should carry all their belongings in a backpack that they will carry on their back. Therefore, you should avoid products that generate unnecessary weight.

Essential items in the first aid kit

Products that should not be missing in the first aid kit of the pilgrim:

  • An antiseptic such as Betadine. This product is a disinfectant used to treat minor cuts or skin wounds. It comes in a 50-millilitre format that is ideal for taking on the Way of Saint James.
  • Gauze. When healing a wound, gauze is essential. They allow Betadine to be applied without touching it directly with the hands and thus avoid possible infections. Cotton wool is not recommended.
  • Needle. In the case of painful blisters, it is recommended to prick them minimally with a sterile needle.
  • Sticking tape. Along the route, you will descend some steep slopes, sometimes with loose stones. Wandering over this terrain can create ankle sprains, and adhesive tape is useful for a temporary bandage.
  • Band-aid or dressings. Again, these are necessary to deal with chafing and blisters. One way to prevent them is by applying a layer of Vaseline to the foot, so they are also a must.
  • Small scissors.
  • Hydroalcoholic gel. If you do not have soap and water, the hydroalcoholic gel is the best way to disinfect your hands.
  • If you suffer from any medical condition, don’t forget to include the medicines or things you need to deal with it during the pilgrimage.
  • Allergic people to stings should always carry antihistamine tablets and a syringe already filled with adrenaline. That blocks anaphylactic or allergic reactions.

Post a Comment

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit sed.

Follow us on