Best Survival Tools for Emergency Readiness

When facing an emergency, having the right survival tools can make all the difference in one's ability to endure difficult conditions.

This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the most useful and reliable survival gear to include in emergency preparedness kits for versatility across scenarios.

We will explore critical selection criteria, must-have basics for medical aid, communication, water, and navigation as well as recommendations for fire, shelter, nutrition, power and other essentials to equip you with knowledge to assemble customized kits for your specific needs.

Introduction

Having the right survival tools is crucial for emergency preparedness. When a crisis strikes, whether it's a natural disaster, accident, or other emergency, having versatile, reliable gear can make all the difference. This article will provide an overview of some of the best survival tools to include in your kit.

The Importance of Preparedness

Emergency situations can happen suddenly and without warning. Being caught unprepared can put you and your loved ones at risk. Having survival tools on hand ensures you have what you need if the power goes out, you get stranded while hiking, or other crisis scenarios. Survival tools like a pocket knife, fire starter, or water filter allow you to meet basic needs for shelter, water, food, and safety. Making emergency preparedness a priority now can give you invaluable peace of mind.

Criteria for Choosing Survival Gear

When selecting the best all-in-one survival tool or other gear, key criteria include versatility, durability, reliability, weight, and cost. The best survival tools serve multiple purposes, from self-defense to shelter building. Durable gear made of quality materials will withstand repeated use in harsh conditions over time. You need equipment you can count on when your life depends on it. Also consider weight, as you may need to carry your tools long distances. Finally, cost plays a role for most. Prioritize investing in the most critical tools for your situation within your budget.

Planning Your Survival Tools List

Creating a comprehensive list of survival gear tailored to your needs is key. Start by taking stock of potential emergency scenarios based on your location and lifestyle. This will shape priorities - someone in a cold climate needs different gear than one in the desert. Also factor in planned activities, such as hiking, as well as skills and training. Then research must-have categories of military survival gear like fire, shelter, water, food, first aid, navigation, and defense. Within each category, choose versatile, durable options that fit your budget. Re-evaluate your list annually and refresh perishable items.

Balancing Cost and Quality

Investing in quality survival tools is worth the upfront cost, as cheaper gear often fails when you need it most. However, there are ways to build your preparedness kit without breaking the bank. Take advantage of sales from outdoor retailers to invest in pricier key items like a fixed blade knife or backpack. For other categories, look for affordable, well-reviewed options from trusted brands. Also consider used gear in good condition. Building your survival kit over time lets you spread out costs while still ensuring you get durable, reliable gear.

What is the most useful survival tool?

A fire starter is an essential survival tool to have in an emergency preparedness kit. Fire serves critical functions like cooking, boiling water, providing warmth, and keeping predators away at night. Having a reliable way to start a fire can be the difference between life and death in a survival situation.

Some of the best survival fire starters include:

Ferrocerium rods (often called "ferro rods") - These rods emit sparks when scraped with a striker. The sparks are extremely hot, over 5,500°F, and can ignite tinder like leaves, grass, and bark. Ferrocerium rods last for thousands of strikes and work even when wet. A great all-around choice.
Waterproof matches - Normal matches won't work if they get wet. Waterproof/stormproof matches have heads that will ignite after being submerged. They burn longer than standard matches too. Get the extended 25 match boxes.
Magnesium fire starter - This is a ferro rod integrated with a magnesium fuel source. Scrape magnesium shavings off the rod, then use the ferro rod to ignite them. Magnesium burns at over 5,000°F, even when damp.
Flint and steel - One of the oldest methods, flint and steel uses friction and muscle to generate sparks. Not as convenient as modern options but completely reliable. No batteries or fuel needed.
Lighter - A basic Bic lighter is handy to have as a backup. The fuel doesn't last forever though. Long-term storage lighters are more durable options.

The best survival fire starter depends on your situation. Having multiple options in your kit is recommended for redundancy. But if you had to pick just one, a quality ferrocerium rod is extremely versatile and will provide years of reliable service.

What are the best things to have in a survival kit?

A well-stocked survival kit is essential for emergency preparedness. Here are some of the most important items to include:

Water and Food

Having enough drinking water and non-perishable food to last several days is vital. Canned goods, energy bars, and meal replacement shakes are good options. Make sure to pack at least one gallon of water per person per day.

Communication Devices

A battery-powered or hand crank AM/FM radio will allow you to stay updated on news and weather alerts. A whistle can be used to signal rescuers if needed. Satellite messengers like the Garmin inReach Mini provide two-way communication via text or email when cell networks are down.

Illumination

Pack multiple light sources like flashlights, glow sticks, and headlamps with extra batteries. The Best Headlamps offer hands-free illumination that is extremely useful for tasks like administering first aid at night.

First Aid Supplies

A comprehensive first aid kit allows you to effectively treat injuries until professional medical care is available. Be sure to include bandages, gauze, trauma shears, antiseptic wipes, over-the-counter medications, etc.

Tools and Gear

Equip your kit with practical survival tools like a pocket knife, duct tape, fire starters, a multitool, rope/cordage, and heavy-duty emergency blankets. Items like the S.O.L. Emergency Blanket provide warmth and shelter from the elements.

Tailor your survival supplies to your specific needs, location, and potential risks. Maintain and routinely inspect your kit so you can grab it at a moment's notice whenever disaster strikes.

What are 10 things you need to survive?

Having the right survival gear can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency situation. Here are 10 of the most important items to have in your survival kit:

Water - Clean water is essential for survival. Pack water purification tablets, a portable water filter, or a stainless steel bottle to collect and disinfect water.
Knife - A fixed blade knife with a full tang is versatile for preparing food, making shelters, and defending yourself. The Benchmade Mini Adamas Folding Knife is a great option.
Fire starter - Stay warm and cook food with products like stormproof matches, Pyro Putty, and a magnesium alloy fire starter.
Shelter - Protect yourself from the elements with a lightweight, packable Black Diamond Storm 500R tent or tarp and a S.O.L. Heavy Duty Emergency Blanket.
First aid - Treat injuries and illness immediately with a comprehensive first aid kit stocked with medical essentials.
Signaling device - Get rescued with a bright SureFire Stiletto Pro flashlight and an emergency whistle.
Navigation - Know your location and find your way with a map, compass, and Garmin inReach Mini 2 satellite communicator.
Insulation - Beat the cold with warm layers like Smartwool Merino 150 base layers, Big Agnes Women’s Luna Jacket/Men’s Shovelhead insulated jacket, and Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew socks.
Power - Charge phones and devices with compact solar panels like BioLite SolarPanel 5+ or power banks.
Food - Pack calorie- and nutrient-dense foods like meal replacement bars, freeze dried meals, canned goods, and ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply 72 Hour.

Having versatile, reliable survival gear can give you confidence to handle any outdoor emergency. Choose items that pack light, serve multiple purposes, and meet your basic needs for water, shelter, first aid, fire, navigation and more.

What are the essentials for survival?

When preparing for emergency situations, having the right gear can make all the difference. Here are some of the most essential survival tools to have on hand:

Maps and Compasses

Don't rely solely on technology like smartphones for navigation. Have backup options like maps and compasses in case devices fail in survival scenarios.
Topographic maps are useful for understanding terrain, landscape features, and measuring distances.
Compasses help orient yourself to cardinal directions when landmarks aren't available.

First Aid Kits

Well-stocked first aid kits treat injuries and ailments in the wilderness.
Include bandages, gauze, medications, instruments, and instructions for emergency care.
Waterproof storage keeps contents clean, dry and ready to use.

Fire Starters

Critical for warmth, sterilizing water, signaling, and more.
Waterproof matches, lighters, firesteel, tinder, and kindling help start fires easily.
Practice fire building skills before you need them.

Water Purification

Safe hydration is essential - purify with filters, chemicals, UV light, or by boiling.
Choose portable, durable options like the Sawyer Squeeze filter suitable for wilderness use.

Light Sources

Bright headlamps and flashlights illuminate work areas hands-free.
Solar chargers keep battery-powered lights powered up indefinitely.

Get training, test gear under controlled conditions, and continue gaining knowledge to boost emergency preparedness. Having versatile, reliable survival tools on hand builds confidence to handle unexpected situations.

Essential Survival Gear for Any Scenario

Having the right survival gear can make all the difference when facing an emergency situation. Whether stranded in the wilderness or dealing with a natural disaster, being prepared with versatile, reliable equipment is critical. In this section, we'll explore some of the most essential categories of survival tools to have in your kit.

Best First Aid Kit for Immediate Medical Response

A comprehensive first aid kit is vital for responding quickly to injuries or medical issues. Look for kits that cover a wide range of needs, including bandages, gauze, medical tape, antiseptic wipes, trauma shears, burn gel, medicines, etc. Waterproof storage helps keep contents intact. Be sure to learn proper first aid techniques for emergencies.

Best Satellite Messenger for Remote Communication

When venturing into remote areas out of cell range, a satellite messenger like the Garmin inReach Mini 2 can literally be a lifesaver. It allows 2-way text communication via satellite network, interactive SOS alert triggering, location sharing, weather reports, and more - no cell service required. Crucial for summoning help from anywhere.

Best Water Filter for Safe Hydration

In survival scenarios, drinking unsafe water can quickly lead to serious illness or worse. The MSR Guardian purifies water via a multi-stage filtration system, removing bacteria, protozoa, and viruses. Its high flow rate means you can efficiently filter water on-demand rather than relying on treated water reserves. Clean water access enables survival.

Cutting Tools: Benchmade Mini Adamas Folding Knife

A good knife is one of the most versatile survival tools, useful for cutting cordage, dressing game, splitting wood, opening cans, and countless other tasks. The Benchmade Mini Adamas stands out for its rugged 3.5” blade designed to tackle the hardest use, while still folding down for safe carry. Highly capable cutting tool.

Illumination: Black Diamond Storm 500R Headlamp

Being able to see at night or in dark spaces is hugely advantageous for navigation, gear repairs, first aid, and more. The Black Diamond Storm 500R offers 500 lumens of powerful light with red and strobe modes. Waterproof and dustproof housing withstands harsh conditions. Reliable hands-free illumination enables survival capability.

Fire Creation and Management

Mastering the art of fire-making is critical for warmth, signaling, and food preparation when in survival situations. Having reliable tools and techniques can make a life-saving difference.

The Best Fire Starters: Pyro Putty and More

Pyro Putty is an excellent fire starter that is versatile, long-lasting, and easy to use. Simply mold a small amount of the putty around your tinder and strike the included scraper to generate a shower of sparks. The putty burns slowly, allowing time to build an initial flame. Other top options for fire starters include stormproof matches, magnesium fire starter blocks, and ferrocerium rods. Each has advantages in certain conditions, so consider carrying multiple types in your survival kit.

Maintaining a Flame with SureFire Stiletto Pro

Once you have a flame started, keeping it going is the next challenge. Strategies like constructing a log cabin fire lay and shielding from wind are key. Having a reliable flashlight like the SureFire Stiletto Pro allows you to tend a fire even in the dark and locate additional fuel as needed. The Stiletto Pro features a max output of 1,500 lumens and an IPX7 waterproof rating, making it ideal for survival purposes.

Portable Cooking Solutions: MSR PocketRocket 2

For cooking over a fire in an emergency situation, a compact backpacking stove like the MSR PocketRocket 2 is extremely useful. Weighing only 2.6 oz, the stove screws directly onto isobutane-propane fuel canisters and provides adjustable flame control. The overall small size and boil time under 3 minutes for a liter of water make the PocketRocket 2 easy to pack and efficient to use.

Emergency Fuel Sources

When standard fuel sources are unavailable, there are several alternative options to consider. Dry grass, leaves, bark, and resinous wood all can sustain a flame. Rendering animal fat into tallow also produces a viable fuel. In dire circumstances, a small amount of fuel can be carefully extracted from automobiles or small engines. The key is exercising extreme caution and having backup sources available.

Shelter and Warmth

Securing adequate shelter and warmth is critical for survival, especially in harsh conditions. Having the right gear and clothing can make all the difference.

The Best 4-Season Tents for Harsh Weather

4-season tents are designed for the harshest weather and coldest conditions. Key features include:

Durable, waterproof construction to withstand high winds, heavy snow loads, and freezing rain
Reinforced poles and anchoring points for stability
Full coverage rain flys and vestibules to protect against the elements
Ample ventilation to reduce condensation

Some top-rated 4-season tents include the Mountain Hardwear Trango and the Hilleberg Jannu. Both offer exceptional durability and weather protection for extended trips in extreme alpine environments.

S.O.L. Heavy Duty Emergency Blanket

The S.O.L. Heavy Duty Emergency Blanket is an essential piece of survival gear. Key features include:

Reflects 90% of radiant heat to retain body warmth
Waterproof and windproof construction
Grommeted corners allow you to shape into a makeshift shelter
Can also be used as a signal mirror, ground cover, or rain poncho

This versatile blanket has many uses for emergency shelter and warmth when camping or backpacking. Its small size and weight make it easy to pack as part of any survival kit.

Insulating Clothing: Smartwool Merino 150 Base Layer

Merino wool base layers like the Smartwool Merino 150 regulate body temperature exceptionally well. Benefits include:

Maintains insulation properties even when wet
Wicks moisture away from skin to keep you dry
Antimicrobial properties reduce odor buildup

Wool base layers provide critical insulation by trapping body heat close to the skin. They make excellent survival clothing in cold weather.

Best Puffer Jackets and Pants for Insulation

When extreme cold is a threat, down or synthetic insulated puffer jackets and pants provide vital protection:

The Big Agnes Shovelhead Jacket (men's) and Luna Jacket (women's) offer 650 fill-power down and a durable, water-resistant shell.
The Rab Argon Pants use high-loft PrimaLoft insulation for lightweight and compressible warmth perfect for layering.

Both serve as excellent insulators against the cold when survival depends on maintaining body heat.

Having the proper shelter, insulation, and warmth-related gear can make all the difference in an emergency situation. Investing in quality 4-season tents, emergency blankets, merino base layers, and puffer jackets/pants provides protection against hypothermia and frostbite when conditions are life-threatening.

Nutrition and Sustenance

Keeping a well-rounded supply of food is necessary to maintain energy and health in survival situations. Having nutrient-dense, non-perishable foods like ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply 72 Hour can provide sustenance when access to fresh ingredients is limited.

Best Survival Foods: ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply 72 Hour

The ReadyWise 72 hour food kit contains freeze-dried entrees, fruits, vegetables, and proteins, offering balanced nutrition in compact, lightweight pouches. With a 25 year shelf life and requiring only water, this food supply is convenient for bug out bags and emergency preparedness.

The Best Backpacking Cooking Gear

Backpacking stoves like the MSR PocketRocket 2 allow you to boil water and cook meals with minimal fuel. Pair it with a lightweight pot like the MSR Alpine Stowaway Pot for efficiency. Sporks, can openers, and a S.O.L. Emergency Blanket can also aid in cooking and preserving warmth.

Foraging for Wild Edibles

Foraging can supplement food supplies but identifying edible plants takes knowledge and caution. Focus on abundant options like blackberries or dandelion greens. Always positively identify the plant, check for contamination, and consume only a small amount at first to test for allergic reactions. Consider bringing a foraging field guide.

Preserving Food in the Wild

Without refrigeration, the cold night air, a nearby stream, or even a layer of soil can help food keep longer. Hard cheeses, nuts, and pemmican have natural preservatives. Canning, pickling, drying, and smoking meat or produce can also extend shelf lives. Store food securely away from animals.

Tools and Equipment

A well-equipped tool kit can aid in building, repairing, and navigating during emergencies. Having versatile, durable tools on hand can make a crucial difference when facing unexpected situations.

Best All in One Survival Tool: Leatherman Surge

The Leatherman Surge is one of the most popular multi-tools for preppers due to its durability and wide range of features. This tool contains pliers, wire cutters, knives, screwdrivers, scissors, a saw, and more all in one compact, pocket-sized unit.

The Surge stands out for its reliability even under heavy use. Its 420HC stainless steel construction resists corrosion and is less prone to breaking than other multi-tool materials. The tool also features easy-to-use locking blades for added safety. With all these capabilities at your fingertips, the Surge allows you to tackle repairs, crafting, and navigation without needing to carry several separate tools.

Cutting and Chopping: Axes, Hatchets, and Saws

Having the right cutting tool can make gathering firewood, building shelters, and clearing paths much easier during an emergency. Axes, hatchets, and saws each serve distinct purposes.

Axes: Ideal for chopping thicker logs and branches with more force and leverage. Useful for felling trees or splitting large pieces of wood.
Hatchets: Allow more precision and control over swings. Lighter weight than axes. Good for limbing trees, hammering, and stakes.
Saws: Efficient at quickly cutting through wood. Less tiring than axe work. Bow saws fold up easily. Chain saws require fuel but cut very fast.

Consider your needs, strength, and pack weight when choosing which to include in a survival kit. Having an axe or hatchet plus a folding saw combines heavy-duty chopping with convenient sawing.

The Best Pocket Knives for Everyday Carry

Pocket knives are among the most essential pieces of EDC (everyday carry) gear. When choosing a folding knife for frequent use, key features to look for include:

Blade Steel: High carbon stainless steel offers maximum toughness and edge retention. Common alloys like 154CM or S30V maintain sharpness through heavy use.
Ergonomic Handle: Contoured grip fits comfortably in hand, with grippy texture for solid hold, even in wet conditions.
Assisted Opening: Fast spring-assisted opening deploys blade smoothly with one hand via thumb stud or hole. Important for quick access.
Pocket Clip: Keeps the closed knife securely positioned in a pocket for quick access when needed. Deep carry clips with discreet profiles are ideal.

With their convenience, versatility, and durability, quality pocket knives like the Benchmade Mini Adamas meet the demands of daily carry while also proving invaluable in unpredictable circumstances.

Fixed Blades: Dependable and Durable

While folding knives offer convenient portability, fixed blade knives feature superior durability crucial for survival uses. Their solid full-tang construction lacks moving parts that could break under pressure. The fixed shape also allows for better leverage and control when cutting, chopping, prying, or hammering.

Many preppers keep a sturdy fixed blade like the Ka-Bar Becker BK2 sheathed on their belt or pack. The thick blade and ergonomic handle on such knives provide unmatched stability for tackling whatever rigorous tasks one may encounter when away from civilization. The right fixed blade knife plays an integral role in handling emergencies confidently and effectively.

Power and Energy

Reliable sources of power are essential for keeping devices charged and operational in the field. Having backup charging methods can make the difference between life and death in an emergency situation.

Best Solar Chargers: BioLite SolarPanel 5+

The BioLite SolarPanel 5+ is one of the best portable solar chargers available. At just 11 ounces, it provides 5 watts of power from its high-efficiency monocrystalline solar panels. This is enough to charge most smartphones, GPS devices, and other electronics.

Key benefits of the BioLite SolarPanel 5+:

Compact, lightweight, and durable construction
Built-in sundial with adjustable kickstand for optimal sun alignment
Waterproof design for use in any weather conditions
Integrated power pack with 6,700mAh battery capacity
Can directly charge devices via USB or store power for later use

With a battery pack integrated into the panel itself, you can store solar energy for use anytime - even at night or on cloudy days. This makes the BioLite SolarPanel 5+ one of the most versatile solar chargers.

The Best Power Banks for Emergency Charging

When selecting a power bank for emergency preparedness, key factors to consider are capacity, durability, and reliability.

Higher capacity power banks can hold more charge, meaning they can keep devices powered longer between charges. A 20,000mAh+ power bank would be recommended for off-grid use.

Durability is also vital - the power bank must withstand drops, water exposure, temperature extremes, and other tough conditions. Rugged, waterproof designs perform best.

Finally, lithium-ion power banks from reliable brands using quality cells tend to have better longevity and more consistent power delivery over years of use. This matters when depending on them in critical situations.

Some top emergency power bank options include:

Anker PowerCore 20100mAh
NOVOO Power Bank 25800mAh
OUTXE 20000mAh IP67 Rugged Power Bank

Alternative Energy: Hand Crank Generators

When battery and solar options are unavailable, hand crank generators offer a reliable backup for producing emergency power in the field. Models like the Anker PowerHouse 521 Portable Generator provide key benefits:

Generate power completely off-grid without fuel
Simple manual hand cranking charges internal battery
Can directly power or charge phones, lights, and other small electronics
No reliance on sunshine - works rain or shine

The main downside is slower charging compared to large solar panels or wall outlets. But hand crank generators shine when you need an emergency power source anywhere, anytime, without external power sources available. Rugged, portable, and indefinitely reusable, they are a versatile addition to any survival kit.

Clothing and Personal Gear

The right clothing and personal gear are critical for protection and comfort during emergency situations. Having the proper base layers, insulation, socks, and outerwear can help regulate body temperature, prevent hypothermia, and allow one to better endure the elements.

The Best Thermal Underwear for Men and Women

Thermal underwear provides essential insulation against the cold. Top options like the Black Diamond Solution 150 Merino Half Zip Hoody utilize wool's natural temperature regulation and moisture wicking capabilities. The hoody's snug fit traps body heat while preventing overheating. Its odor resistance also allows for multi-day wear.

For women, the Smartwool Merino 150 offers comparable warmth, breathability, and next-to-skin softness. Both the men's and women's pieces deliver indispensable core insulation for frigid environments.

Best Wool Socks: Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew

Proper footwear and socks are vital for comfort and injury prevention during extended activity. Darn Tough's Light Hiker Micro Crew hiking socks utilize a blend of merino wool, nylon, and spandex to deliver durable cushioning and breathability. Their snug fit helps prevent blisters while merino wool's natural odor and moisture resistance allows for multi-day wear. Having multiple pairs ensures dry, healthy feet.

The Best Backpacking Quilts and Sleeping Pads

Restful sleep recharges the mind and body for survival challenges. Backpacking quilts like the Rab Argon Down Pants provide essential warmth while minimizing weight. Pairing them with insulated sleeping pads like the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite pad enhances comfort. The NeoAir's tapered design and advanced insulation reflect body heat for all-night coziness. Together, these pieces facilitate restorative rest.

Protective Outerwear

Waterproof, windproof jackets and pants safeguard against the elements, preventing dangerous body heat loss. Pieces like the Big Agnes Women's Luna Jacket utilize waterproof-breathable fabrics to shed moisture while venting perspiration. Storm-proof construction seals out wind and weather even in extreme conditions. Having reliable outer layers makes all the difference in emergency scenarios.

Conclusion

As seen, having the best survival tools is crucial for emergency preparedness. When choosing survival gear, focus on versatility, durability, and reliability. Key items to have on hand include:

Multi-tools like Swiss Army Knives or Leatherman tools with features like knives, pliers, screwdrivers. These allow you to perform various tasks with one compact tool.
Fixed blade knives and hatchets for cutting, chopping wood, self-defense. Models like the Benchmade Adamas or a compact hatchet offer usefulness across situations.
Fire starters like storm-proof matches, flint, and tinder keep you able to create warmth and cook food. Waterproof stormproof matches are extremely reliable.
Headlamps and flashlights like the Black Diamond Storm or SureFire Tactical light your way and free up your hands for other tasks. Choose durable, weatherproof models.
Navigation/communication devices like Garmin inReach devices or personal locator beacons allow you to navigate unfamiliar areas and call for emergency help when needed. Satellite messengers are invaluable for backcountry travel.

Continuously evaluate and update your survival supplies based on your situation, location, and potential risks. The right tools can save your life when things go wrong, giving you the ability to overcome challenges. Prepare now so you have confidence to handle emergencies in the future.