When venturing into the wilderness, having the right gear can make all the difference between an enjoyable outdoor experience and a dangerous ordeal.
This guide will provide beginners with a comprehensive survival list of the 20 most essential items to pack for basic wilderness preparedness and safety.
You'll learn the fundamentals of survival kit building, from prioritizing critical supplies like water filters and first aid to specialized tools for navigation and emergency signaling. With the ultimate gear checklists tailored specifically for novice preppers and backpackers, you'll gain the knowledge to adventure confidently off-grid.
Introduction to Survival Essentials
Being prepared for emergencies and disasters is critical for every household. Having the right survival supplies on hand can make all the difference when faced with unexpected events or dangerous situations. This introductory guide covers the basics that beginners should know when starting their survival preparedness journey.
Understanding the Basics of Survival Preparedness
The key principles behind assembling an effective survival kit include:
- Prioritization - Focus first on securing the essentials like food, water, shelter, first aid, etc. before moving to secondary tools and comfort items. Know what you absolutely need to survive.
- Customization - Tailor your kit to your specific needs and scenarios, whether it's for home, car, outdoors, or other situations. Consider factors like climate, duration, weight restrictions.
- Redundancy - Have multiple ways to address critical needs like water filters, fire starters, light sources. If one method fails, have backups ready.
- Organization - Group related items together and store systematically to allow for quick access and taking inventory. An orderly kit saves precious time in an emergency.
Setting Goals for Your Survival Kit
When compiling your first survival kit, set SMART goals based on your intended uses:
- Specific - Is it for wilderness, urban settings, sheltering at home? These environments have different requirements.
- Measurable - Set quantity goals for essentials like 1 gallon water per person per day, 2 weeks food supply, etc.
- Achievable - Start small if needed, building up over time. Don't overwhelm yourself trying to prepare for every scenario from the start.
- Relevant - Ensure all gear is applicable and useful for the situations you are prepping for. Leave out nonspecific or "nice to have" items.
- Time-Bound - Set a timeline for acquiring gear and building skills, reevaluating every 6-12 months as needs change.
Prioritizing Survival Kit for Camping and Wilderness
For outdoor survival preparedness, focus first on:
- Shelter - Lightweight tent, tarp/poncho, emergency blanket, bivvy sack
- Water - Filter, purification tablets, collapsible containers
- Fire - Matches, lighter, fire starter, tinder
- Food - High calorie dense rations and foraging tools
- Light - Headlamp, flashlight, glow sticks
- First Aid - Trauma supplies, medications, tools
- Navigation - Map, compass, GPS device
Scale down to only the critical items for short duration trips to keep weight manageable.
Minimalist Survival Gear List: The Essentials
For a compact kit, prioritize:
- Cutting tool - Knife, multi-tool
- Fire starter - Waterproof matches, lighter
- Water purification - Filter straw, tablets
- Shelter - Emergency blanket
- First aid - Bandages, gauze, tape
- Signaling - Mirror, whistle, flare
Focus only on the lifesaving essentials when limited by space or weight restrictions. Resist the urge to overload your pack with non-critical tools.
Following the core principles of survival preparedness allows you to build an effective, customized kit for your specific needs, environments, and situations. Start small, prioritize the essentials, and expand from there.
What are 10 things you need to survive?
Here is a basic survival gear checklist of essential items to have in your backpack or bug out bag when venturing into the wilderness:
- Water - Carry at least 1-2 liters per person per day. A water filter or purification tablets are critical for finding and filtering water in the wild.
- Food - Pack high-calorie, non-perishable foods like protein bars, dried fruits and nuts. Have enough for 72+ hours.
- Knife - A fixed blade knife with serrated edge works well for preparing food, making tools, and protection.
- Fire starters - Waterproof matches, lighter, flint, and tinder to start a fire for warmth, signaling, purifying water.
- Shelter - Pack a lightweight tarp, tent, or bivvy sack to protect from wind, rain, snow. Insulation like a sleeping bag is key.
- First aid - At minimum, bring bandages, gauze, antibiotic cream to treat cuts, burns, sprains.
- Navigation - Map of the area, compass, GPS device to avoid getting lost.
- Lighting - Headlamp, flashlight for night travel, reading maps, setting up camp.
- Signaling - Whistle, signal mirror, flare to alert rescuers if lost or injured.
- Tools - Pocket knife, paracord, duct tape, zip ties for gear repairs, building shelter.
The exact items depend on factors like climate, terrain, group size. But having these 10 basics covered will help you survive in an emergency situation until you can safely return to civilization.
What is the #1 survival must have?
Having the ability to start a fire is the single most important survival skill. A good fire starter kit is essential to have in your backpack or survival tin. With fire, you can stay warm, cook food, purify water, and keep predators at bay.
For beginners assembling their first survival kit, a stormproof match kit is the easiest and most reliable option. These special matches come in a waterproof container and will light even in wind or rain. We recommend the Ultimate Survival Technologies Storm Proof Match Kit which has 25 matches good for 15,000 strikes.
You'll also want to pack a backup like a magnesium fire starter. We like the Bayite Fire Starter which creates sparks up to 5500°F by scraping a ferrocerium rod. With some dry tinder, you can quickly get a fire going even in damp conditions. Round out your starter kit with some cotton balls soaked in petroleum jelly for an easy fire starter.
With a stormproof match kit, magnesium striker, and some prepped tinder in your pack, you'll have reliable fire starting ability to handle any survival situation. Stay tuned for more tips on assembling your perfect bug out bag!
What are the 5 C's of survival?
The 5 C's of survival refer to the five critical elements that experts recommend having in your survival kit. These can help provide basic necessities when facing an emergency situation in the wilderness.
Cutting Tool
Having a reliable cutting tool is essential for survival purposes. A good knife or multi-tool can help you construct shelters, make fire, harvest wood, prepare food, and more. Some top options are fixed-blade knives, folding pocket knives, hatchets, and multi-tools.
Combustion Device
A combustion device allows you to start and maintain a fire, which is crucial for cooking, purifying water, signaling, and retaining body heat. Useful items include waterproof matches, lighters, fire steel, tinder, and fire starters like petroleum jelly-soaked cotton balls.
Cover
Cover refers to equipment that protects you from the elements, like tents, tarps, blankets, and warm layers of clothing. Having cover shields you from rain, wind, snow, cold, heat, and insects. Lightweight and packable options are best for portability.
Container
A container allows you to collect, transport, and purify water. You'll need items like canteens, water bottles, water filters/purifiers, folding buckets, and water bladders. Ensure your container choices are durable, leak-proof, and have ample capacity.
Cordage
Cordage includes rope, paracord, twine, zip ties, and similar products used to construct shelters, make repairs, secure items, and more. Look for cordage that is weather/abrasion resistant and test different diameters for strength/flexibility needs.
What survival items do I need?
Having the right survival gear can make all the difference when facing an emergency situation in the wilderness. Here are 10 essential items to include in your survival kit:
Map & Compass
Relying solely on your phone's GPS is risky since you may lose signal or the battery could die. A map and compass will ensure you can still navigate if technology fails. Choose a detailed topographic map of the area you'll be in and learn proper map reading and orienteering skills.
First-Aid Kit
Injuries and illnesses can become life-threatening without proper first-aid. Stock a lightweight kit with bandages, gauze, antibiotic ointment, medical tape, trauma shears, pain meds, safety pins, and any personal medications.
Signal Mirror
A signal mirror allows you to reflect sunlight to signal planes, boats, or search and rescue teams up to 20 miles away. They're lightweight and don't rely on batteries. Practice using proper aiming techniques to effectively signal for help.
Fire Starter
Fire provides warmth, light, cooking ability, and boosted morale. Pack waterproof matches, a lighter, fire starter cubes, and tinder to ignite fires even in damp conditions. Prioritize fire starting skills like using a bow drill.
Water Purification
Lack of potable water can lead to deadly dehydration or waterborne illnesses. Carry purification tablets, a SteriPEN, or pump water filter to eliminate bacteria and viruses from found water sources. Know methods like boiling too.
Knife
A fixed-blade knife with a 4 to 6-inch stainless steel blade lets you construct shelters, make tools, harvest tinder/firewood, prepare food, and defend yourself. Learn techniques to safely and effectively use your survival knife.
Cordage
Durable all-purpose nylon cordage has endless uses - securing shelters, repairing gear, making snares, and more. Carry at least 50 feet. Paracord's inner strands also provide tinder for fires.
Fishing Line and Hooks
In long-term scenarios, fishing allows for replenishing food and nutrients. Pack several hooks and spools of strong test line. Practice primitive fishing methods like using natural materials.
Following this essential survival gear list will help ensure you have versatile tools for navigation, first aid, signaling, fire, water, food prep, and shelter construction. Train beforehand in using these lifesaving items. Pair them with bushcraft skills and the will to survive against all odds.
Water and Hydration
Water is the most essential element for survival. Without it, the human body quickly deteriorates, making water procurement and purification a top priority. This section provides key information on choosing the best water filters, storage solutions, natural water sources, and purification methods to include in your survival kit.
Best Water Filter Options for Clean Drinking Water
When building your survival kit, investing in a high-quality portable water filter is crucial. The Sawyer Squeeze Filter is a top choice, using hollow fiber membranes to remove 99.99999% of bacteria and protozoa. Weighing only 3 ounces, its combination of portability, speed, and purification power makes it perfect for survival situations. Other top filters are the Katadyn BeFree bottle system with a 0.1 micron filter, and the LifeStraw Flex with both a straw and gravity bag.
When selecting a water filter, key factors are weight, ease of use, flow rate, and effectiveness at removing bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. Focus on models purpose-built for survival and tested to high standards rather than cheaper alternatives.
Water Storage Solutions
In survival scenarios, you can’t rely on water infrastructure, making portable, durable water storage essential. The best containers are BPA-free and designed specifically for harsh conditions. Top picks are the HydroBlu Versa Flow water bottle, made of ultra-durable copolymer plastic, and the Survivor Filter Pro system with a foldable 10-liter bag. For larger volume, the Reliance RhinoPack holds up to 14 gallons with a durable vinyl shell. Use water storage strategically - carry a small bottle for portability plus a larger container for base camp.
Hydration Strategies in the Wild
Finding natural water sources is a key wilderness survival skill. Focus efforts on lower elevations where water flows downstream. Scan for game trails, green vegetation, and damp soil which can indicate water. Safe bets are flowing creeks, rivers, rain catchments, and natural springs. Boiling is always advisable before drinking untreated water.
If no water source is found, emergency options include collecting morning dew, digging seepage pits, transpiration bags over leaves, or makeshift funnels over greenery to condense steam. Understanding terrain can reveal where seasonal runoff may collect after rainfall.
Water Purification Tablets and Boiling
When a water filter isn't available, purification tablets and boiling are vital backups. Tablets like Potable Aqua use chlorine dioxide to kill bacteria and viruses. Directions must be followed precisely. Boiling vigorously for 1 full minute will kill most pathogens - prolong for higher elevations. Boiling produces clean water in absence of other methods but consumes precious fuel, so use selectively. Combining these methods with portable filters provides fully redundant purification.
Investing in water solutions tops the survival preparedness list. With the gear above, you’ll be equipped to safely procure the water vital for survival, even in harsh disaster scenarios.
Food and Nutrition
The essentials of maintaining energy and health through proper nutrition in survival situations.
Best Survival Foods for Longevity and Health
When selecting foods for your survival kit, prioritize non-perishable, calorie-dense options that provide long-term nutritional value. Some top choices include:
- Canned goods like beans, vegetables, fruits packed in juice, and fish like tuna, salmon, and sardines. Canned goods are shelf-stable and nutrient-rich. Choose low-sodium options whenever possible.
- Whole grains like brown rice, oats, quinoa, and whole-wheat pasta. These pack carbohydrates for energy and fiber for digestive health. They store well long-term if kept dry and sealed.
- Nuts and dried fruits which deliver healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. Stick to unsalted nuts to control sodium intake.
- Nut butter like peanut butter or almond butter provides protein and nutrients for sustained energy.
- Protein bars or shakes for a convenient nutrient boost. Check labels and avoid options high in sugar.
Focus on variety to meet all your nutritional needs. Also pack a multivitamin to fill any gaps in your diet.
Cooking Supplies and Utensils
You'll need a few key cooking supplies for preparing meals in survival scenarios:
- Stainless steel pot for boiling water and cooking grains, beans, canned goods
- Metal cups and utensils like spoons and a can opener
- Portable stove and fuel such as propane cylinders
- Fire starters like stormproof matches, lighter, or flint and steel
- Foil pouches for cooking over a campfire
Look for lightweight, packable items. Avoid anything glass or ceramic that can shatter. Carry biodegradable soap for washing.
Hunting and Foraging Skills
While stored survival food is crucial, you may need to supplement with wild sources. Useful skills include:
- Hunting: Pack a hunting knife, snares, fishing line/hooks to capture wild game. Consider a compact bow or slingshot. Familiarize yourself with local game prior to an emergency.
- Foraging: Study local edible plants. Bring foraging field guides and collection tools like bags and digging sticks. Only harvest what you can reliably identify and ensure there is ample supply.
Consider packing nutrient-rich pemmican bars, made of dried meat and fat, for an extra protein boost if game is scarce.
Food Preservation Techniques
Without refrigeration, food prep and storage is critical. Useful tips include:
- Store items in airtight, waterproof containers and replace food within expiration dates
- Smoke, dry, or salt meats to prevent spoilage
- Dig root cellars for underground food storage
- Can and pickle vegetables and fruits in sterilized jars
- Use curing salts on meats and fish
Monitor food closely for signs of spoilage. Discard anything questionable to prevent illness.
Shelter and Comfort
The ability to find shelter and stay warm is critical for survival. Having the right gear and knowing techniques for natural shelter building can help you withstand the elements.
Best 4-Season Tents for Year-Round Protection
When choosing a 4-season tent, prioritize durability, weather resistance, and livable space. Look for robust tent poles, waterproof fabric rated for heavy snow loads and high winds, and vestibules for gear storage. The NEMO Kunai is a top pick with its freestanding dome design, extended vestibules, and 70D nylon ripstop canopy and floor.
Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads for Insulation
Insulated sleeping pads provide a vital thermal barrier between your body and the cold ground. The Therm-A-Rest NeoAir XTherm is arguably the gold standard, with an R-value of 5.7 and patented triangular core matrix for warmth and support. For budget buyers, the ALPS Mountaineering Lightweight Series offers great value.
Best Emergency Blankets for Heat Retention
Emergency blankets reflect up to 90% of radiated body heat. The Survive Outdoors Longer Emergency Blanket is wind and waterproof, while the budget-friendly Swiss Safe Emergency Mylar Thermal Blankets pack small at 2.4oz each. Know proper usage techniques like creating a cocoon shape and avoiding direct skin contact.
Natural Shelter Building Techniques
Look for thick brush, rock outcroppings, or snowbanks to construct basic shelters. Insulate the ground, build up walls to block wind, and create an angled roof for precipitation runoff. Leaves, ferns, bark, and other debris make decent improvised insulation. Stay dry and retain warmth by all means in a survival situation.
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Fire Creation and Management
As one of the most critical elements of survival, having the skills and tools to start and maintain a fire is essential. For those new to wilderness survival and prepping, understanding best practices around fire can mean the difference between life and death. This section covers key areas related to fire creation and management.
Best Fire Starters for Reliable Ignition
When choosing a fire starter, opt for versatile tools that will ignite quickly and reliably in diverse conditions. Top recommendations include:
- Magnesium fire starter: Scrapes to create magnesium shavings that will ignite at high temperatures. Waterproof storage helps maintain performance.
- Waterproof matches: Long matches with wax coating ensure ignition even in wet conditions. Store in a water-tight case.
- Cotton balls coated in petroleum jelly: The wax and cotton generate a slow-burning ember to ignite kindling. Inexpensive and lightweight option.
No matter the ignition source, always prepare your kindling first to capture the flame quickly. Stock up on fire starters - they're compact, so carrying multiples is easy.
Maintaining a Fire in Adverse Conditions
Wind and rain can quickly extinguish an existing flame. Follow these tips to sustain fire:
- Construct a wind barrier using logs, rocks or debris to block gusts. Dig a slight fire pit to keep embers contained.
- Keep extra dry kindling protected in a bag or box. Quickly add kindling at first sign of flames weakening to bolster the fire.
- Carry a water-resistant tarp to erect a makeshift shelter around the fire pit during precipitation.
Continuously monitoring the flame and having backup kindling/fuel prepared allows you to react quickly to threats.
Safe Fire Practices to Prevent Wildfires
When building fires in wooded or grassy landscapes, fire safety is paramount to avoid catastrophic wildfires.
- Carefully survey the surroundings before igniting a flame. Stay away from dry brush/leaves.
- Clear a 10-15 foot perimeter around a fire pit, removing dry wood debris.
- Maintain control of the fire size to prevent spreading. Extinguish completely before leaving.
- Have a bucket of water or dirt ready to douse the flames if they spread dangerously.
One careless fire can devastate forests and endanger property/lives. Exercise extreme diligence.
Using Fire for Signaling and Protection
Beyond providing warmth and enabling cooking, fires also serve key functions:
Signaling: The flame's light and smoke stands out distinctly to aid search/rescue.
Deterring wildlife: Large fires discourage predatory animals from approaching at night.
Construct three fires in a triangle shape for highest visibility. Build up brush to generate thicker smoke during daytime. Situate campsite fires strategically to repel wild animals as needed.
First Aid and Health
Preparing for medical emergencies and maintaining good health are critical in survival scenarios. Having the proper first aid supplies and knowledge could mean the difference between life and death.
Best First Aid Kit Components for Common Injuries
A well-stocked first aid kit is essential when venturing into the wilderness. At a minimum, it should contain:
- Sterile gauze pads and rolls for controlling bleeding and covering wounds
- Adhesive bandages in multiple sizes for minor cuts and abrasions
- Antiseptic wipes for cleaning injuries and preventing infection
- Antibiotic ointment to treat open wounds
- Medical tape and butterfly closures to hold dressings in place
- Trauma shears for cutting away clothing to access injuries
- Tweezers for removing splinters and stings
- Pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Antihistamines for allergic reactions
- Hydrocortisone cream to relieve rashes, bites, and stings
- Triangle bandage and elastic wrap for sprains, strains, and splints
Tailor your first aid kit based on likely risks - add snake bite or burn treatments if needed.
Handling Medical Emergencies in the Field
Having first aid training is invaluable when facing medical emergencies in remote areas. Know how to assess a victim's condition and provide proper care. Priorities are:
- Ensuring an open airway and supporting breathing
- Stopping uncontrolled bleeding by applying direct pressure
- Immobilizing fractures with splints to prevent further injury
- Monitoring the victim and giving appropriate care as conditions change
Stay calm, work methodically, and get the victim to advanced medical care as soon as safely possible. Having communication devices and being able to describe conditions accurately will help bring the right assistance.
Health Maintenance and Disease Prevention
Staying healthy is the best way to avoid medical issues. Key steps include:
- Keep inoculations current, especially for tetanus and influenza
- Drink purified water and maintain personal hygiene
- Cook food thoroughly and store it properly to avoid illness
- Use insect repellent, protective clothing, and mesh tents
- Check regularly for ticks - prompt removal reduces Lyme risk
- Have contingency plans for pre-existing conditions like diabetes
Prevention through proactive precautions is more effective than treatment after the fact.
Mental Health and Coping Strategies
The extreme stresses of survival situations can take a psychological toll. Having mental resilience is just as important as physical capability. Useful coping techniques include:
- Performing calming activities like meditation or journaling
- Maintaining positive self-talk and focusing on what you can control
- Celebrating small wins and keeping perspective on the bigger picture
- Trying to maintain normal sleep cycles and rest periods
- Having an emotional support system through group collaboration
Seeking help early for anxiety, depression, or traumatic stress can prevent worse outcomes.
Tools and Equipment
Selecting the right tools that can serve multiple purposes is essential for survival preparedness. Having versatile items that perform various critical tasks will ensure you are ready for any situation.
Best Pocket Knives for Everyday Carry
When choosing a pocket knife for your survival kit, look for one with features like:
- Sharp, durable stainless steel or carbon steel blade that can handle heavy use
- Folding blade for safety and portability
- Integrated tools like a can opener, screwdriver or bottle opener
- Ergonomic grip and easy one-hand operation
- Lightweight and compact to carry daily
A quality pocket knife will enable you to complete tasks like preparing food, making repairs, self-defense, and more while on the go.
Multi-Tools and Their Versatile Uses
Multi-tools like a Leatherman are invaluable to have on hand. Their plier heads, knife blades, screwdrivers, bottle openers and other integrated tools allow you to tackle repairs, gear adjustments, food prep, and other jobs in the wilderness or at home.
Unlike pocket knives, multi-tools give you the combined functionality of full-sized tools in one portable package. They can be lifesavers if you need to temporarily fix a broken item or vehicle while bugging out.
Paracord: The Survivalist's Best Friend
Paracord's super-strong inner strands can be used to build shelter, make traps, secure gear, and much more. Its outer sheath also works well as tinder to start fires.
Every survival bag should have plenty of paracord. Just be sure to get mil-spec cord that won't rot or unravel easily. 100-200 feet is a good amount to keep on hand for setting up camp or improvising gear repairs.
Essential Repair Items: Duct Tape and Beyond
Duct tape has rightfully earned its reputation as an iconic repair tool. It can patch holes, bind items together, protect blisters - you name it. Pick up waterproof gorilla tape for even stronger adhesion.
For more robust fixes, carry JB Weld steel epoxy, radiator hose patches, hose clamps, safety pins, zip ties, wire, and electrical tape. With these few inexpensive items, you'll be prepared to solve all kinds of equipment failures and breaks while out in the wilderness or at your homestead.
Navigation and Communication
Staying oriented and being able to reach out for help when necessary.
Best Personal Locator Beacons and Satellite Messengers
Personal locator beacons (PLBs) and satellite messengers are essential devices for signaling your location and communicating from remote areas outside of cell phone range. PLBs send out distress signals to search and rescue organizations via satellite, while satellite messengers allow 2-way text communication. Popular options like the Garmin inReach and SPOT Gen3 leverage GPS and satellite connectivity to transmit SOS alerts and text messages. When choosing a device, prioritize reliability, battery life, coverage area, and SOS functionality. Practice using any device beforehand to ensure proficiency in an emergency.
Mastering Map and Compass Navigation
Even with today's technology, traditional navigation skills remain critical. Study topographic maps to understand terrain, landmarks, elevation, and distance. Purchase a baseplate compass and learn how to take and follow bearings. Start by navigating short distances on familiar trails using only map and compass. Slowly work up to navigating unfamiliar terrain. Map and compass skills take practice but allow you to navigate areas beyond GPS or cell coverage. Consider pairing old and new by using a GPS device to confirm your manual navigation.
Utilizing GPS Technology in the Wilderness
While skills like map reading remain essential, GPS devices enhance navigation by pinpointing your location via satellite. Handheld GPS units are affordable, compact, and energy efficient. Download digital topographic maps beforehand in case connections are lost in the backcountry. Track waypoints at campsites, trail junctions, etc. While handy, understand GPS limitations like signal loss in dense forest or drainage areas. Have backup navigation plans for when technology fails. Growing GPS proficiency takes time. Start by using GPS to navigate well-marked trails before progressing to more advanced navigation.
Signaling Techniques for Rescue
Should an emergency arise, you may need to signal rescuers to locate you. Brightly colored gear, mirrors, whistles, flares, and signal fires visually show your location. Choose brightly colored jackets, tents, tarps for visibility. Use signal mirrors, flashing lights or flares to reflect sunlight. Three fires in a triangle shape, or smoky fires signal for help. Sound signals like repeated blasts from a whistle or gunshots grab attention. PLBs, satellite messengers and cell phones should be the first choice for contacting emergency services if possible. But mastering low-tech signals provides backup options when technology fails.
Clothing and Personal Protection
Proper clothing is essential for protection against the elements when facing a survival situation. Selecting materials that provide insulation and regulate body temperature can make the difference between life and death.
Best Thermal Underwear for Men and Women
Thermal underwear made from moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool or polyester provides an effective base layer to keep the body warm. For men, look for tops and bottoms that fit snugly without restricting movement. Women tend to feel colder, so opt for thermal pieces with higher warmth ratings. Brands like SmartWool, Icebreaker, and Patagonia offer quality thermals for both genders.
Best Puffer Jackets and Pants for Insulation
Puffer jackets use down or synthetic fills to trap heat and keep your core warm. Water-resistant shell fabrics prevent moisture from compromising insulation. For maximum versatility, choose lightweight, packable puffers that can layer over base layers and under shells. Puffer pants provide additional protection for legs and lock in body heat. Popular brands like The North Face, Patagonia, and Outdoor Research make durable, weather-resistant puffer gear.
Best Wool Socks for Warmth and Comfort
Wool socks insulate feet even when wet, wick moisture, and cushion against blisters. Look for medium thickness with high wool content from brands like Darn Tough or SmartWool. Ensure a snug but comfortable fit and bring extra pairs in case socks get wet. Having warm, dry feet makes a huge difference for morale and stamina when facing the elements.
Layering Strategies for Various Climates
- Cold & dry - thermal base layer, puffer insulation mid-layer, waterproof/breathable shell outer layer
- Cool & wet - waterproof boots, water-resistant pants, breathable rain jacket over insulating layers
- Hot & dry - moisture-wicking base layer with lightweight, breathable mid-layer for sun protection
- Extreme cold - multiple base layers, thick belay jacket insulation mid-layer, windproof shell
Adjust your layers to adapt to changing weather and activity levels. Vent excess heat and moisture to avoid chilling from sweat-soaked garments. Having flexibility with layered clothing is key to maintaining comfort in unpredictable conditions.
Power and Energy Solutions
Keeping devices charged and powered while off-grid requires some thoughtful planning and preparation. Here are some key considerations and recommendations.
Best Solar Chargers for Off-Grid Power
When selecting a solar charger, portability, durability, and charging efficiency should be top priorities. The Anker 21W 2-Port Solar Charger folds down to the size of a tablet, weighs just 1.1 lbs, and can charge two devices at once. With durable PET polymer faced solar panels sewn into rugged canvas, it's built to withstand the elements. For even faster charging, consider a higher wattage model like the BigBlue 28W Solar Charger, which can fully charge an iPhone 8 up to 6 times per charge.
Battery Packs and Power Storage
Once your devices are charged, you need to store that power for later use. A portable power station like the Jackery Explorer 500 packs 518 watt-hours of electricity to charge phones, laptops, small appliances, and more. For smaller essentials, the Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 PD Battery Pack holds 10,000 mAh of power in a compact size. Prioritize battery capacity and number of ports based on your specific device needs.
Energy Conservation Tips
To extend battery life, enable low power mode and adjust screen brightness to the minimum usable level on devices. Limit background app refresh and push notifications. Switch devices to airplane mode when not in use. Consider packing an emergency phone like the Nokia 105 which has up to 15 hours talk time and lasts a month on standby.
Alternative Energy Sources
For non-solar alternatives, hand crank and thermoelectric generators can provide power in a pinch. The BioLite PowerLight and Goal Zero Sherpa 100PD pack 60Wh and 25600mAh respectively. While output is lower, they're eco-friendly options if sun exposure is limited.
Lighting and Visibility
Ensuring you can see and be seen is crucial for safety and navigation when out in the wilderness. Having reliable lighting and visibility gear can make a huge difference in an emergency situation.
Best Headlamps for Hands-Free Illumination
When choosing a headlamp, key features to look for include:
- Brightness in lumens - at least 100+ lumens is best for wilderness use
- Beam distance and width - look for at least 30+ meters of beam distance
- Battery type and life - lithium batteries last the longest
- Waterproof and shockproof housing - important for rugged conditions
- Tiltable light for directing beam
- Different lighting modes like flood, spot, red, green, etc.
Some top-rated headlamp options are the Black Diamond Spot 325, Petzl Actik Core, and Fenix HM61R.
Best Flashlights for Durability and Range
For a reliable flashlight, key features include:
- Durable aluminum construction
- Waterproof and impact resistant
- High lumen output - 300+ lumens minimum
- Zoomable beam for flood and throw
- Uses common battery types like AA or AAA
Top flashlight picks are the Streamlight ProTac 1L-1AA, Fenix PD25, and Olight Warrior Mini 2.
Glow Sticks and Reflective Gear
Glow sticks and reflective gear serve as passive lighting sources for visibility. Key uses:
- Marking campsite or trail
- Emergency signaling
- Increasing visibility of clothing and gear
Good options are Coghlan's glow sticks, Nite Ize reflective gear, and adding reflective tape to clothing/gear.
Maintaining Night Vision and Light Discipline
To preserve natural night vision:
- Use red light which doesn't compromise vision
- Cup light beam to avoid peripheral light
- Take regular breaks from artificial light
Practicing light discipline by minimizing light use helps avoid detection. Only use as much light as needed for the task.
With reliable lighting gear and smart usage, visibility and safety are greatly enhanced when out in the wilderness, especially at night.
Hygiene and Sanitation
Maintaining personal hygiene and proper sanitation is critical for health and wellbeing when preparing for emergencies. This section outlines essential hygiene items, waste management strategies, water conservation techniques, and natural alternatives to utilize when access to traditional supplies is limited.
Personal Hygiene Essentials
Having basic hygiene supplies in your survival kit helps prevent illness and discomfort. Prioritize packing the following:
- Bar soap and small bottles of hand sanitizer for cleaning hands and body
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss for dental hygiene
- Biodegradable wet wipes for quick cleanups
- Small towel and antimicrobial sponge for washing
- Deodorant for comfort
- Comb or brush for hair management
- Tweezers and nail clippers for grooming
- Menstrual products for women
Aim for travel or sample sizes of items to conserve pack space.
Waste Management and Sanitation
Properly disposing of human waste helps maintain sanitation and prevent contamination or disease spread. Methods to manage waste in outdoor settings include:
- Digging cat holes 6-8 inches deep for solid waste, covering afterward
- Using portable toilets with disposable liners and cleaning supplies
- Packing out waste in sealable bags as a last resort
- Locating latrines at least 200 feet from water sources
- Carrying garbage bags for containing non-human waste
When water access is limited, conserve for drinking over waste management. Prioritizing hygiene items with longevity can also minimize waste production.
Water Conservation for Hygiene
In survival scenarios, preserving water for hydration takes priority over hygiene. Useful tips include:
- Taking "marine showers" by wetting skin and lathering up without rinsing
- Using baby wipes, bandanas dampened with drinking water, or sand for "dry baths"
- Reusing wash water for cleaning dishes or clothes if biologically safe
- Boiling water before reuse to eliminate risks
- Limiting full-body cleansing to only when necessary
Get in the habit of two-minute showers now to adjust faster later when water is scarce.
Natural Alternatives for Hygiene
With some creativity, nature can provide alternatives when hygiene supplies are limited:
- Use smooth rocks, sand, snow, or leaves as options for cleaning skin
- Make toothpaste by mixing ash with mint leaves and salt
- Craft soap from animal fat and wood ash lye
- Braid grass to form a toothbrush or dental pick
- Locate natural sources of salt for deodorant crystals
Trial and error with resources on hand can uncover effective substitutes. Focus efforts on innovating with purpose.
Final Thoughts on Building Your Survival Kit
Reviewing the Top 20 Survival Items
When creating your best survival list, it's important to include gear that covers your basic needs like food, water, shelter, first aid, navigation, lighting, and tools. The exact items will vary based on factors like climate, terrain, group size, and likely emergency scenarios. However, some essentials for any kit include a knife, fire starter, water filter/purification tabs, flashlight, compass, emergency blanket, cordage, and portable shelter (survival tent or tarp). Tailor your list to your unique situation.
Customizing Your Survival Kit
The key is to customize your survival items list based on your skill level, climate, terrain, group size, and likely risks. An experienced backpacker would need a different survival kit for camping than a family preparing their home for disasters. Consider building multiple kits like a compact everyday carry, larger bug out bag, and home supply cache. Include items like medications, radio, cash, and copies of important documents that make sense for specific kits.
Continuous Learning and Skill Development
No top 10 survival items list can replace knowledge and skills. Take wilderness first aid and self-defense courses. Practice essential techniques like starting fires, filtering water, using navigation tools, preparing shelter, and administering first aid. Work your way up from car camping to backcountry excursions to test and hone your skills over time. Consider getting survival training from experts.
The Mindset of a Survivor
Along with robust gear and supplies, cultivating a survival mindset is key. Stay vigilant in observing your surroundings and resisting panic in adverse situations. Embrace a positive, adaptive, and resourceful perspective focused on the immediate actions needed to endure. Your will to live and helping others is the most valuable asset in an emergency scenario.
