Thru-hiking is an incredible adventure, but it’s also a test of endurance, planning, and self-reliance. Whether you’re tackling the Pacific Crest Trail, the Appalachian Trail, or any other long-distance trek, one thing is certain: you’ll need to restock your first aid and repair kit along the way. Blisters, cuts, and gear failures are inevitable, and being prepared can mean the difference between a minor hiccup and a trip-ending disaster.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about restocking your first aid and repair kit on the trail. We’ll cover what to include in your kit, how to plan for restocking, where to obtain supplies in trail towns, and tips for keeping your kit light and efficient. Plus, we’ll spotlight the Igneous Gear First Aid & Repair Refill—a convenient, ultralight solution for hikers who want to stay prepared without the hassle.
Whether you’re a seasoned thru-hiker or planning your first big trek, this post will help you stay ready for anything the trail throws your way.
What to Include in Your First Aid and Repair Kit
Before you can restock, you need to know what to pack in the first place. A good thru-hiking kit should be lightweight, comprehensive, and tailored to the challenges of long-distance hiking. Here’s a breakdown of the essentials:
First Aid Essentials:
- Adhesive Bandages: For cuts, scrapes, and blisters. Pack a variety of sizes.
- Gauze Pads: For larger wounds or burns. Lightweight and compact.
- Antiseptic Wipes: To clean wounds and prevent infection.
- Antibiotic Ointment: Small packets for treating cuts and scrapes.
- Pain Relievers: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen for aches, pains, and fevers.
- Anti-Diarrheal Medication: A must for upset stomachs on the trail.
- Blister Treatment: Leukotape or moleskin to prevent and treat blisters.
- Tweezers: For removing splinters or ticks.
- Medical Tape: To secure dressings or tape up injuries.
Repair Essentials:
- Duct Tape: The ultimate fix-all for gear repairs. Wrap a small amount around a trekking pole to save space.
- Safety Pins: For securing torn fabric or gear.
- Needle and Thread: For sewing up tears in tents, packs, or clothing.
- Super Glue: For quick fixes on gear or even small cuts (in a pinch).
- Paracord: A few yards for lashing, repairs, or emergencies.
- Zip Ties: Great for securing broken parts or gear.
For ultralight hikers, the key is to pack only what you’ll realistically need. Choose compact, multi-use items—like Leukotape, which works for both blisters and gear repairs—and avoid carrying full rolls or bottles. The Igneous Gear First Aid & Repair Kit, for example, includes waterproof bandages, alcohol wipes, and repair patches, all in a 70g package designed for long-distance hikes.
Planning for Restocking: Think Ahead
Restocking on the trail requires a bit of foresight. You don’t want to carry six months’ worth of supplies, but you also don’t want to run out of bandages in the middle of nowhere. Here’s how to plan:
- Know Your Resupply Points: Research trail towns, hostels, and post offices along your route. Trail guides like the PCT Handbook or the AT Guide are invaluable for this. Identify where you can restock and how often.
- Estimate Usage: Think about how much of your kit you’ll use between stops. First aid items like bandages might last weeks, while repair items like duct tape could be used more frequently. Plan to carry enough for the next section—typically 3-7 days—and restock as needed.
- Mail Drops: For items that are hard to find in trail towns (like specific medications or repair patches), schedule mail drops to post offices or hostels. This ensures you’ll have what you need, when you need it.
- Check Shelf Life: Medications and antiseptics have expiration dates. Plan to replace them before they expire, especially if you’re on the trail for months.
Balancing your restocking schedule with your hiking pace is key. Too frequent, and you’ll waste time in town; too infrequent, and you’ll carry extra weight. Find a rhythm that works for you.
Obtaining Supplies on the Trail: Where to Look
Once you’re on the trail, knowing where to find supplies is crucial. Here’s how to get what you need in trail towns and beyond:
- Local Stores: In larger trail towns, you’ll find pharmacies for first aid supplies and hardware stores for repair materials. Smaller towns might have limited options, so check ahead using resources like The Trek’s town guides.
- General Delivery: Use post offices for mail drops. Address packages to yourself with “General Delivery” and pick them up when you arrive. This is great for items you can’t find locally.
- Online Ordering: If you’re tech-savvy, you can order supplies from online retailers like Amazon and have them shipped to trail towns. Just make sure your delivery aligns with your hiking schedule.
- Hostel Services: Some hostels hold packages for hikers, making them a convenient spot for mail drops, especially in remote areas.
- Trading with Other Hikers: Sometimes, you can trade or share supplies with fellow hikers. It’s not always reliable, but it’s a good backup if you’re in a pinch.
Planning ahead is essential—especially in remote sections where options are limited. Always have a backup plan, like carrying a few extra bandages or a small roll of tape, just in case.
Tips for Efficient Restocking: Stay Light, Stay Smart
Restocking doesn’t have to be a hassle. Here are some tips to make it quick, efficient, and ultralight-friendly:
- Make a List: Before you hit town, jot down what you need. It’s easy to forget something when you’re tired and hungry after days on the trail.
- Prioritize Lightweight Items: Choose compact, lightweight alternatives. For example, repackage medications into small ziplock bags instead of carrying full bottles.
- Check Expiration Dates: Replace any expired medications or antiseptics to ensure they’re effective when you need them.
- Go Generic: Opt for store-brand items when possible. They’re often just as good as name brands and cheaper.
- Repack for Space: Downsize your supplies by removing excess packaging. Cut duct tape into smaller strips or carry only a few yards of paracord.
- Coincide with Rest Days: Plan your restocking during zero or nero days (low-mileage days) to maximize efficiency. Combine it with laundry, resupplying food, or just relaxing.
- Improvise if Needed: If you can’t find exactly what you need, get creative. A hardware store might not have Leukotape, but you can grab some medical tape or even duct tape as a substitute.
These strategies will help you restock quickly and keep your pack as light as possible. Remember, every gram counts when you’re hiking 20+ miles a day.
Spotlight: Igneous Gear First Aid & Repair Refill
For hikers who want a hassle-free restocking solution, the Igneous Gear First Aid & Repair Refill is a game-changer. Weighing just 66g, this refill pack includes all the essentials from the original First Aid & Repair Kit, packed loose in a kraft pouch—no need to buy a new pouch each time.
What’s Inside:
- First Aid: Waterproof bandages (4), alcohol wipes (8), gauze (1 pad), Leukotape (1 yard), antibiotic ointment (2 packets), sting relief wipes (3 packets), Advil (3 pouches), Benadryl (2 pouches), diarrheal medication (2 packets).
- Repair & Utility: Threadlock patches (4), Airlock patches (2), UL Repair Spool (Gorilla Tape, nylon cord, needle), super glue (1 bottle).
- Survival: Water purification tablets (10).
At 66g, it’s a convenient way to restock your kit without having to hunt down individual items in trail towns. Simply transfer the contents into your existing DCF pouch, and you’re good to go. It’s perfect for thru-hikers who want to stay ultralight and ensure they have a consistent set of supplies at every resupply point.
While it’s a premium option, the convenience and weight savings make it worth considering. But if you’re on a tight budget, DIY restocking with individual items from local stores or mail drops can work too—it just takes a bit more planning.
Conclusion: Stay Prepared, Stay Light
Restocking your first aid and repair kit is a crucial part of thru-hiking, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. By planning ahead, knowing where to find supplies, and using efficient strategies like repacking and prioritizing lightweight items, you can stay prepared without adding unnecessary weight to your pack.
The Igneous Gear First Aid & Repair Refill offers a convenient, ultralight solution for hikers who want to restock quickly and easily. But whether you choose a pre-made refill or go the DIY route, the key is to be proactive. A well-stocked kit can save your hike—and with the right planning, you’ll never be caught off guard.
Happy trails, and stay safe out there!
