Introduction

Make sure people know where the first aid kit is carried. Also think about a small back up medical kit in case you lose the main one. Most of the items and drugs listed here are usually available without prescription in Kathmandu. It's a good idea to bring out waterproof containers and re- scalable plastic bags for the kit, also plastic dropper bottles for tincture f iodine.
As the common problems are minor trauma, then the usual painkillers are sufficient. Rarely will you require anything stronger – but it is sensible to carry a strong painkiller should serious situation develop. However, the strongest pills also have more side effects, including depression of breathing and confusion. Therefore I recommend codeine or brufen in addition to paracetoamol – effect can be additive. Tramadol is also being used nowadays but is stronger then codeine; therefore you should check it out for yourself, perhaps with advice from your won doctor. An alternative approach is to use a 'strong' anti-inflammatory like voltarol for conditions like bad bruises or painful sprains.

Basic medical kit – checklist

Back up kit (or a really basic one)

What we provide

We provide professional whitewater guides private ground transportation, porters, permits, delicious meals that are hygienically prepared (vegetarian options are available, as well as special dietary needs), first- rate equipment - self- bailing rafts, life jackets, helmets, wetsuits (according to season and on certain rivers), dry bags for gear, tents, and camera barrels.

Not included: Bottled or alcoholic beverages, any type of insurance, visa costs and personal expenses.

For camping and Traveling:
Sleeping bag and pad, lightweight pants, cotton underwear, lightweight long-sleeved shirt or T-shirt, fleece jacket, toiletries (including moisture lotion), spare glasses /contact lenses, torch or headlamp with extra batteries, water bottle. If you are travelling to the Karnali, Marsyangdi or Tamur, it is recommended that you bring walking shoes or lightweight hiking boots for the trek.

River wear:
Secure-fitting river sandals or running shoes are essential in the event of a swim (those who fall off a raft are called swimmers in the trade), shorts or a swimsuit, sarong for women (recommended when visiting village, as it covers the legs and does not offend the locals), baseball cap, sunglasses with retaining device, sunscreen and lip balm.

Optional Items:
Small binoculars, camera and film, fishing equipment, walkman/ Discman and tunes, reading and writing material and a personal first aid kit.

Personal Speeding:
As there is not a lot to purchase on the river in Nepal, we suggest that you do not carry much money. Approximately Rs 5oo-1000 (U$$ 15) will suffice. Chocolate, sweets and cigarettes are seldom available. If you think you might get a craving, bring a few treats with you.

Physical Fitness

You do not have to be an athlete to join our trips. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended though, as it will add to the enjoyment of your adventure. We do suggest some swimming ability, but non-swimmers can be accommodated. We have already taken any non-swimmers on the river. Our high buoyancy life jackets and helmets mean there is little chance of getting into trouble should you fall in.

Safety

Safety is the number one priority at Ultimate Descents Nepal and our outstanding safety record proves just that. To ensure a safe trip, we employ some of the world's most experienced rafting guides. Aside from the formal qualifications in swift water Rescue and wilderness First Aid Training, our guides have devoted much of their lives to learning and running whitewater. Whitewater puts you in situations where there is inherent uncertainty and risk, therefore safety briefings and a detailed white water discussion precede each trip. In other words, you are in good hands.

We hope that the adverse affects of this project will be countered by extra protection for the environment downstream.