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| First Aid Equipment | Desert
Essential are first aid, rehydration, stomach upset treatments and sunburn treatment. Include sachets or plastic pods containing an antiseptic solution when water for wound cleaning is limited. Consider other items like an eyewash solution to soothe dust irritated eyes and a good moisturizer for dry skin and lips. If not you are with a group carrying medical equipment, take a sterile kit containing needles, drip procedure and a small surgical kit if you know you will be a long way from a reliable medical centre. The lack of water may cause personal hygiene problems – ensure you have a large supply of wet wipes to compensate.
Trekking
Special problems are blisters, exhaustion, altitude sickness, stomach upsets, dehydration, sprains and muscle pains so your kit needs to be comprehensive. In case there is no group kit, carry your own sterile equipment. With expeditions, group hygiene is imperative. Focus on to foot hygiene – a day’s walking in thick socks and boots can easily lead to athlete’s foot and infected blisters. In case the environment allows it, wear sandals in the evening to air your feet.
Hygiene Products
- Keep your nails short – trapped dirt can easily make its way into your mouth
- Avoid biting your nails
- Avoid putting objects in your mouth such as pens/sunglasses
- Wash your hands obsessively
- Use plenty of soap – water alone won’t kill bacteria
- Use wet wipes when it is difficult to wash
- Avoid sharing clothing and equipment
- Pay attention to dental care
- Keep your clothes clean – stay in one place for a few days if you need to catch up
- Frequently wash sweaty parts of the body to help avoid fungal infections
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