Lacing up your hiking boots and exploring the great outdoors can offer a refreshing escape from daily life, but it's not without its risks. From twisted ankles to sunburn and blisters, common hiking injuries can crop up at any time on the trails, and it can quickly turn your outdoor adventure into a disaster. It’s why packing a first aid kit should be on everyone’s list of hiking essentials.
Knowing what to watch for – and how to manage incidents when they crop up – can help you stay a safe and happy hiker. And, if you’re tackling more challenging routes, it won’t hurt to brush up on some basic first aid skills either. Here are five of the most common hiking injuries, as well as how to prevent and manage them.
