Bug Out on Foot

This page is about bugging out using just your own two feet..

Issues:

Foot protection

The last thing you need in a Bug Out situation is a problem with your feet.

Here a a few prepper ideas.

Toenails: Make sure your toenails are trimmed, especially for travels that involves long descents.

It’s best to clip your toenails as short as possible. Put a (toe)nail trimmer in your EDC.

Socks: Stay away from 100% cotton socks which absorb sweat and can bunch and cause blisters.

It’s best to wear socks made from synthetics, or a blend of synthetics and wool.

These will wick moisture away and keep your feet drier and cooler.

Make sure your socks fit properly.

Socks that are too big can bunch together in boots and create friction areas that result in hot spots or blisters.

Always carry extra pair of socks in your BOB.

Boots and foot-wear: Make sure your boots are broken in fit well and are comfortable.

To help prevent blisters from forming on your heels, and toes from hitting the front of your boot, make sure your boots are properly laced.

Blisters: A few suggestions for avoiding blisters:

+ Take the time to toughen up your feet by doing walks or short hikes.

+ Wear your new pair on short hikes, before taking them long distance.

+ Walking barefoot will toughen the skin of your feet.

+ Always stop and remove dirt, sand, or any other debris that gets in your boots.

+ If you can, air your feet out during a break in order to cool and dry them off.

+ If you feel hot spots forming, cover them with moleskin, athletic tape or duct tape.

Blister plasters: Blister plasters are an excellent piece of kit for both prevention and treatment of blisters.

They can be applied to 'hot spots' and areas likely to suffer from blisters such as the heel, instep or toes.

Once properly fixed they become like a second skin and should remain in place for as long as required, even in the wet!

They are also essential for covering existing blisters once drained of fluid to allow you to carry on walking or running with the blister.

The plasters ensure that the blister heals quickly without a scab and with the minimum amount of pain.

These helpful assistants will adhere to your foot like a second skin, protecting and accelerating the healing process at the same time

Blister plasters if fitted correctly will be more effective than just tape alone, particularly lower quality tape.

Quality and effective blister plasters consist of different layers.

The outside elastic material holds in the hydrocolloid, which is itself made up of gel and a water soluble polymer material.

This substance has been used in hospitals for decades as treatment for burns and ulcers. Gentle adhesive allows the plaster to stick to your skin for a time.

When you place the plaster on your blister, it will begin absorbing the moisture into the hydrocolloid right away.

This will make the plaster seem soft or squish able. As long as the plaster continues absorbing and isn’t keeping the moisture on your wound, don’t remove it.

Most blister plasters should be water resistant as well and will stay on even when immersed.

When it is time, don’t fear the removal of blister plasters, as they aren’t stuck to the healing wound and should not cause it to tear.

This is likely because the plaster helps the blister to heal without scabbing over.

Be sure that you are using the blister plaster properly. The adhesive should form a complete seal around the wound.

If you choose one that is too small, the effectiveness and purpose will be negated.

Use your hands to warm the plaster before application and it will likely adhere tighter.

Also different parts of your foot, such as the toe or sharp point in your heel, may not hold the plaster as well.

At those times, a combination of plaster and tape may work better.

Exposing your blister to the air while resting your feet is a good idea.

If you need to continue on your way and a blister appears, the best action is to apply a blister plaster.

If you are able to leave the wound open to the air without discomfort (such as around your home), then by all means do so.

Look for blister plasters in the drug store or pharmaceutical section of the grocery store.

Also some sporting good shops carry blister plasters in their first aid or hiking/mountain climbing sections.

Adding a box or two of these into your EDC or BOB is an excellent idea.

Stock up on a few different sizes, including a large oval shape and a smaller strip or circular plaster.

Plasters can be applied for prevention of blisters as well.

If you have shoes or boots that are prone to giving blisters, attach plasters to vulnerable areas.

These will work to cushion the friction between your skin and shoe, preventing the occurrence of blisters.

This can be especially effective when wearing or breaking in new shoes.

Often you can find a blister plaster that is clear in color, so it is easily concealed.

Some podiatrists also recommend using a blister plaster to treat bunions.

Include this simple and effective product in your first aid kit, purse, EDC or BOB.

When the need strikes, you will not regret having blister plasters at hand.

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