Guide · Updated October 24, 2026

first aid basics for hikers

What to carry and when to call for help. Not a substitute for training.

Carry a small first aid kit, know how to treat blisters, sprains, cuts and cold, and call 911 early if someone is hurt or lost. A wilderness first aid course is the best preparation.

a basic kit

  • Blister care, bandages and gauze
  • Elastic bandage for sprains
  • Tweezers (for slivers and ticks)
  • Personal medications
  • Emergency blanket
  • Gloves

cold and wet

Hypothermia is the most common risk on wet coastal trails. Watch for shivering, clumsiness and confusion. Get the person dry, insulated and fed, and call for help if it worsens.

getting help

Call 911. Search and rescue in BC is free to the person rescued. Do not delay a call because you are worried about cost or embarrassment.

This page is general information, not medical advice. Take a course from a recognised provider such as the Canadian Red Cross.

sources

Cite this page

Hike Vancouver. "First aid basics for hikers." Updated October 24, 2026. https://hikevancouver.ca/guides/first-aid-basics/

Cam Appleton, Vancouver real estate agent, climbing the side of a downtown tower at sunset with the North Shore mountains behind
Sponsor

good to know cam

Hi, I'm Cam Appleton. I love Vancouver and I love getting out on its trails. When I went looking for a simple, easy hiking guide for around here, I couldn't find one I liked. I also really like helping people, so I built this one.

My day job is real estate. I help people buy, sell and lease. I hope you're enjoying the start of Hike Vancouver. I wrote these guides the way I'd explain things to a friend at the trailhead.

Visit Cam Appleton Real Estate at camappleton.comCam on LinkedIn (opens in a new tab)
Cam signature logoCam Appleton
Commercial & Residential Real Estate · Coldwell Banker Prestige Realty