Survival Bag Kit Essentials

When building a survival bag kit, having the right essentials is crucial for handling unexpected emergencies or disasters.

In this post, you'll discover the must-have items to include in your survival backpack, ensuring you have the gear and supplies to safely endure a crisis event or situation.

We'll explore the 10 essentials to stock your survival bag with, from water and food to first aid and communication devices. You'll get actionable advice on tailoring emergency kits to your specific needs and budget, helping properly equip you for uncertainty.

Introduction to Survival Bag Kit Essentials

A survival bag kit contains essential items to help you endure an emergency situation or natural disaster. Having the right supplies on hand can provide safety, sustenance, and peace of mind when faced with the unexpected. This article will cover key aspects of survival bag kits to help you prepare.

Understanding the Importance of a Survival Bag Kit

A thoughtfully packed survival bag allows you to shelter in place or evacuate quickly during emergencies. Key benefits include:

Access to provisions like food, water, first aid when infrastructure fails
Ability to withstand harsh weather, injuries, lack of utilities
Peace of mind knowing you can handle the unexpected

Tailoring supplies to your location, household needs, climate and potential risks maximizes preparedness.

Defining Your Survival Kit List: Tailoring to Your Needs

Your survival bag should contain:

3 days worth of non-perishable food and 1 gallon of water per person per day
First aid kit, medications
Flashlight, radio, batteries
Shelter - tent, tarp, emergency blankets
Basic tools - can opener, duct tape, matches, multi-tool
Extra clothes, gloves, sturdy shoes
Personal hygiene items - toilet paper, feminine products, soap

Also consider unique needs like pets, seniors, medical conditions. Know how to turn off utilities, deal with flooding. Store irreplaceable items like documents.

The Best Survival Backpack Kit: What Makes It Stand Out

An ideal survival backpack kit is durable, organized and sized right for your family. Key features include:

Water-resistant bag with multiple compartments
Molle webbing to attach more gear
Waist and chest straps for heavy loads
Roll-top closure to seal out moisture
Bright color to spot easily

Focus on purpose-built survival backpacks instead of school or hiking bags.

Military Survival Backpack Kit vs. Civilian Kits

Military kits are made for extreme, austere environments where resupply may not occur for weeks. Civilian kits focus more on short term evacuation.

Military kits excel at:

Extended duration - food, water for 1 month+
Ruggedness - highly durable under harsh conditions
Modularity - customize with specialized gear

Civilian kits better suit:

Lightweight, lower cost options
Short term emergencies - 3 days to 1 week
Tailored to family needs

Evaluate your situation to choose the right option. Both can provide crucial emergency preparation.

What are the 10 essential survival kit items?

Having the right items in your survival kit can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency situation. Here are 10 must-have items to include:

Flashlight

A flashlight with extra batteries is crucial to have in your survival bag. It allows you to see in the dark and can aid in signaling for help. Choose an LED flashlight for efficiency and long battery life.

Whistle

A loud whistle can alert rescuers to your location from far away. Get one with a lanyard so you can wear it around your neck.

Dust Mask

Dust masks protect against smoke, ash, and airborne particles if evacuation is necessary. Choose N95 or N100 masks for the best filtration.

Local Map

Having a local map in your kit helps you navigate the area if you need to reach safety. Laminate paper maps to keep them intact.

Manual Can Opener

Pack a simple manual can opener to open canned food when electric openers are unavailable. These do not require batteries or electricity.

Battery-Powered Radio

Stay updated on news and emergency instructions with a battery-powered or hand cranked radio. Make sure to pack spare batteries.

Games for Children

Keep children occupied with simple games, books, puzzles etc. This provides comfort and distraction during stressful times.

First Aid Kit

A first aid kit contains supplies to treat injuries until professional medical treatment is available. Customize your kit based on your family's unique needs.

Having these 10 items in an organized, ready-to-go bag will equip you with what you need if a disaster strikes. Customize and add items based on your family's unique needs, such as supplies for pets or seniors. The key is being prepared before an emergency occurs.

What do you put in a survival bag?

A well-stocked survival bag is essential for emergency preparedness. At a minimum, your survival bag should contain the following:

Water

1 gallon of water per person, per day for a 3-day evacuation kit
2 weeks' worth of water for a shelter-in-place kit
Water filtration system or water purification tablets

Having ample water is critical, as you cannot survive long without it. The general recommendation is to store at least one gallon per person, per day. For a portable evacuation bag, pack enough for 3 days. For a shelter-in-place kit, have a 2 week supply. A water filter or purification tablets allow you to filter found water sources.

Food

High-calorie, non-perishable food like granola bars, nuts, jerky
Comfort foods like candy, crackers
Utensils and mess kit
3-day supply for evacuation kit, 2 weeks for shelter-in-place

Pack nutritious, non-perishable foods that are easy to transport and require no refrigeration or heating after opening. The most practical choices are high-calorie foods like granola bars, nuts, and jerky. Bring comfort foods like candy or crackers to lift spirits. Include utensils, plates, and a cup for each person. Like water, plan for 3 days of food for an evacuation kit, and 2 weeks for shelter-in-place.

Gear

Flashlight, headlamp, batteries
Battery-powered or hand crank NOAA weather radio
First aid kit
Multitool or pocket knife
Emergency thermal blanket and poncho

In addition to food and water, a survival backpack kit should contain other essential gear including a flashlight, weather radio, first aid supplies, a multitool, and emergency blankets. Choose battery-powered or hand crank devices that do not require charging. A NOAA weather radio allows you to receive emergency alerts and weather forecasts even without cell service.

Customize your survival bag to meet your unique needs - add medications, supplies for pets, or items for seniors, children, and babies. The key is having the essential food, water, and gear in case you need to evacuate quickly or shelter in place.

How to get free emergency kit?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers a free Emergency Financial First Aid Kit to help you prepare for unexpected emergencies or disasters.

Here are the steps to get your free emergency kit:

Go to the FEMA website.
Click on the green "Download the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit" button.
The kit will download as a PDF file that you can save and print.

The Emergency Financial First Aid Kit covers important topics like:

Gathering financial documentation
Evaluating your finances
Identifying recovery resources
Tracking expenses and documenting losses

Having this information organized in one place helps you navigate the financial impacts of an emergency.

The kit also includes checklists and forms to help you take stock of your finances. Filling these out is an easy way to get prepared.

Getting the free Emergency Financial First Aid Kit from FEMA is a simple way to be proactive about emergency preparedness. Having a plan in place can provide peace of mind for weathering unexpected events.

What is a doomsday bag?

A doomsday bag, also known as a bug out bag (BOB), is an emergency kit designed to provide critical supplies for survival for 72 hours when evacuating a location due to a disaster or emergency.

The key goal of a doomsday or bug out bag is portability and preparation. The bag should contain essential gear, tools, and provisions that will aid survival while trying to reach a secure location. The 3 day timeframe allows sufficient duration to potentially access help or arrive at a planned destination.

Some key characteristics of an effective doomsday bag include:

Portable backpack form factor for ease of transport
Durable and weatherproof construction
Lightweight while maximizing storage capacity
Contains 3 days' worth of critical survival supplies
Customized to an individual's or family's specific needs

The exact contents of a doomsday bag can vary depending on factors like climate, destinations, health needs, etc. However, most standard checklists focus on major categories like:

Water and food rations
First aid supplies
Tools for navigation, lighting, and signaling
Shelter and clothing appropriate for the conditions
Personal hygiene items
Important documents
Cash

Customizing the bag for your situation can optimize preparedness. Planning alternate routes, accounting for family members' needs, and researching likely risks for your area can help determine the ideal gear to include. Regularly inspecting and updating the contents ensures it will be ready to serve its purpose when needed most.

Water and Hydration Solutions

Packing enough water is critical when assembling your survival bag kit. Having access to safe drinking water will be essential in an emergency situation.

Water Purification Methods

There are several methods to purify water when out in the wilderness:

Water purification tablets - These dissolve in water and kill microorganisms. Easy to pack and lightweight. However, they can leave an aftertaste.
Water filters - These remove bacteria and particulates. They are reusable but can clog over time. Look for lightweight filters designed for hiking/camping.
Boiling - One of the most reliable methods. Boil water for 1 minute to kill pathogens. You'll need a heat source like a portable stove.

Storing and Carrying Water

Choose containers designed for hiking and camping when packing your survival bag:

Collapsible water bags - Lightweight and take up little space until filled. Easy to carry.
Hard plastic bottles - Durable and reusable. Stainless steel bottles also work.
Cans/pouches - These store water long term. Ensure they are BPA-free.

Bring at least 1 gallon per person for a 3 day supply.

Hydration Packs and Systems

Hydration packs with bladders and drinking tubes allow you to sip water on the go:

Hands-free - Tube and nozzle mean you don't have to stop to get water.
Lightweight - Weigh less than bottles when empty.
Space saving - Take up less room than hard bottles when storing.

Easy access to water means you can stay hydrated more easily.

Signs of Dehydration and Prevention

Know the symptoms of dehydration:

Thirst
Dry lips/mouth
Fatigue/confusion
Yellow or dark urine

Prevention tips:

Drink frequently, even when not thirsty
Seek shade to avoid perspiring excessively
Avoid alcohol and caffeine which are dehydrating

Packing sufficient water and utilizing hydration systems will help avoid dehydration.

Food Supplies: Sustenance for Survival

Food is a critical component of any survival bag kit. When packing food for an emergency situation, it's important to choose items that are high in calories and nutrition to maintain energy, have a long shelf life, and require minimal preparation.

Survival Backpack Kit with Food: Must-Have Items

When building your survival backpack kit, be sure to include:

High-calorie, non-perishable foods like granola/protein bars, beef jerky, nuts, dried fruits and vegetables, and MREs (Meals Ready-to-Eat). These foods are dense in calories and nutrients.
Comfort foods like trail mix, peanut butter, and hard candies can lift mood.
A lightweight backpacking stove, fuel canister, and mess kit for cooking food and boiling water. Choose compact, portable options.
Utensils like spoons, forks, knives, and a can opener.
A reusable water bottle and water filtration system like a LifeStraw or Sawyer filter. Staying hydrated is critical.

Meal Planning for Emergencies

When meal planning for a survival situation:

Focus on calorie-dense foods that pack nutrition and energy into small servings.
Choose foods that require minimal preparation like MREs, protein bars, nuts, jerky.
Include familiar comfort foods to lift mood if in stressful situation.
Plan for 1-2 weeks of non-perishable foods, more for extended disasters.
Store food in airtight, waterproof containers to prevent spoilage.
Rotate stock every 6-12 months to ensure freshness.

Cooking Tools and Accessories

Important cooking gear for a survival kit includes:

Backpacking stove and fuel canister
Lightweight cook pot
Spork or mess kit with utensils
Can opener
Foldable utility knife
Fire starters like stormproof matches, lighter
Small biodegradable soap

Choose durable, packable options to conserve space in bag.

Special Dietary Considerations

Those with dietary restrictions like food allergies/intolerances, diabetes, etc. should pack:

Shelf-stable alternatives like non-dairy milk, gluten-free bars
Necessary medications like insulin, epinephrine
Snacks free of allergens
Details of condition written down in case of emergency

Carefully check labels to avoid unsafe ingredients.

First Aid Kit: Handling Medical Emergencies

A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any survival bag to be prepared for injuries or medical issues when professional care may be delayed. Having the right supplies and some basic first aid knowledge could save a life during an emergency.

Essential First Aid Supplies

When packing first aid supplies in your survival bag, focus on including items to treat common wounds and stabilize medical emergencies:

Sterile gauze in multiple sizes - 2x2, 4x4, and rolls are useful for applying pressure to wounds or wrapping injuries.
Adhesive bandages of varying sizes to protect minor cuts and abrasions. Waterproof bandages are also handy.
Antiseptic wipes to clean wounds and prevent infection.
Medical tape and butterfly closures to hold gauze or bandages in place.
Trauma pads to absorb heavy bleeding from major wounds.
Triangular bandages that can be folded into slings, swathes, or tourniquets.
Burn gel and dressings to treat thermal or chemical burns.
Sam splint to stabilize injured limbs or digits.
CPR mask for performing emergency resuscitation.

Space and weight are limited in a survival bag, so prioritize compact supplies that can treat the most common injuries. Rotate items to keep them from expiring.

Prescription Medications and Health Records

If you or those in your group rely on prescription medications, pack at least a week's supply in your bag. List each medication and dosage to avoid confusion. Also include copies of medical histories, allergy information, insurance details, etc. This info could save your life if you become injured or ill.

First Aid Skills and Knowledge

Simply having supplies is not enough - you need to know basics like stopping bleeding, immobilizing fractures, and responding to allergic reactions. Consider taking a first aid course specifically focused on wilderness or disaster scenarios. Know your limits too - some cases may require getting expert medical assistance.

Emergency Survival Kit: Special Considerations for Seniors

Seniors often have additional health needs, so tailor first aid supplies if they will carry or depend on your survival bag kit. Extra medications, medical alert bracelets, supplies for chronic conditions like diabetes, and emergency contact info can help address senior-specific concerns. The basics still apply though - stop bleeding, protect wounds, stabilize injuries.

Shelter and Protection from the Elements

Packing the right shelter and protection is critical for survival preparedness. Having weather-appropriate gear can help regulate body temperature, retain heat, and provide refuge from the elements when needed.

Choosing the Right Shelter Equipment

When packing your survival bag kit, assess the climate and terrain to determine the best shelter solutions. A lightweight nylon tent or tarp can provide cover from wind, rain, and snow. Ensure your tent is durable, waterproof, and easy to set up. If anticipating warmer weather, a simple tarp may suffice for basic overhead shelter.

Weatherproof Clothing and Footwear

Prepare for different weather conditions by packing lightweight, quick-drying layers that can be added or removed. Materials like wool and synthetic fibers insulate while wicking moisture. Waterproof and windproof jackets, pants, hats, and gloves maintain body heat. Pack an extra pair of wool hiking socks. Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support and good traction prevent injury.

Emergency Blankets and Sleeping Gear

Small, lightweight emergency blankets made of heat-reflective mylar can prevent hypothermia. Foil space blankets fold down small. In colder weather, wool blankets or compressed sleeping bags retain more body heat. A sleeping pad or inflatable mattress insulates from the cold ground.

Creating Makeshift Shelters

With some wilderness survival skills, your gear can be supplemented with natural shelters. Use a tarp or emergency blanket as overhead cover between trees or large rocks. Pine boughs, leaves, moss, or straw piled beneath you act as insulation. A small dugout in earth or snow bank can shield from wind. Locate shelter away from flood zones and potential deadfall trees.

Tools and Equipment for Survival

Equip your go-bag to handle makeshift repairs, personal sanitation, survival skills, and other essential tasks.

Multi-Tools and Knives: The Backbone of Survival Gear

A multi-tool like a Leatherman or a fixed-blade knife are essentials for any survival bag kit. These tools empower you to cut rope, strip wire, pry open cans, screw/unscrew bolts, and perform dozens of other tasks critical for survival scenarios. Consider carrying 2-3 cutting tools in your pack to account for loss or damage. We recommend a folding knife, fixed blade knife, and multi-tool.

Quality brands to look for include Gerber, SOG, Benchmade, and Spyderco. Features to prioritize are one-handed opening/closing, serrated edges, combo straight/serrated blades, and non-slip grips. Stainless steel offers durability; carbon fiber provides lightweight portability. Sheaths, cases, and belt clips keep gear secure while moving.

Fire Starting Essentials

The ability to start a fire is a matter of life or death. Pack waterproof stormproof matches, a lighter (e.g. BIC), a magnesium alloy flint rod, tinder (cotton balls, dryer lint), and fire starter cubes. Having multiple ignition sources across various weather conditions is key. We recommend UCO Stormproof matches as they will stay lit even in heavy rain or wind.

Store fire starting tools in a waterproof case to keep essentials dry until needed. Practice fire starting skills regularly to stay proficient. Having fire gives warmth, light, cooking ability, and water sterilization - all critical for survival.

### Survival Bags Backpack Kit with Gear: What to Include

A well-stocked survival backpack kit contains all the gear you need to handle a wide range of emergencies. Start with assessing your unique needs - factors like climate, group size, health conditions, pets, and likely disasters will dictate what specific items to pack.

However, some universal inclusions are:

Water - 1+ gallon per person per day
Non-perishable, high-calorie foods (3-5 day supply)
First aid kit - bandages, ointments, medications
Flashlights, batteries
Radio, chargers, power bank
Cash in small bills
Maps, compass
Tools - knife, duct tape, zip ties, gloves, whistle

The exact composition depends on your situation. Customize based on regional risks and personal considerations. Update/replace expired items every 6-12 months.

How to Turn Off Utilities in an Emergency

In a disaster, you may need to shut off gas, water, and electricity to prevent fires, flooding, electrocution, and other threats. Learn how to safely turn these utilities off:

Gas

Locate main shut off valve adjacent to gas meter
Use crescent wrench to turn perpendicular to pipe
When aligned with pipe, gas is ON - when crossed, it's OFF

Water

Find the main valve near pressure tank or water meter
Turn wheel or flat head clockwise to shut off

Electricity

Locate main breaker box panel
Flip largest breaker switch to OFF position
Unplug or turn off individual appliances

Practice shutting off utilities so the steps are familiar before an actual emergency. Have the right tools nearby and ready. By controlling utilities, you reduce risk of further property damage, injury, or contamination.

Stay oriented and connected with a map, compass, flashlight, radio, whistles, flares, and portable chargers for devices. Having reliable communication devices and navigation tools in your survival bag kit is essential for staying safe and getting help when needed.

Reliable Communication Devices

Reliable communication can make all the difference in an emergency situation. Consider packing the following devices in your survival bag:

Satellite phone - Expensive but allows communication even without cell towers. Useful in remote areas.
Two-way radios - Allow short-range communication without infrastructure. More affordable option.
Emergency radio - Receive critical news and alerts. Crank or solar-powered models available.
Whistles - Simple and loud way to signal for help.

Choose devices that don't rely on infrastructure and have alternate power sources like hand cranks or solar.

Navigational Aids and Techniques

Knowing how to navigate is a critical survival skill. Have these tools on hand:

Topographical map of the area
Compass
GPS device (optional)

Learn skills like:

Reading terrain on map
Using compass for orientation
Navigating by landmarks
Basic orienteering

Developing these abilities takes practice but can save your life.

Signaling for Help in Emergencies

If stranded, make yourself visible:

Mirrors, whistles, flares - tried and true signaling devices
Bright clothes, fire, smoke signals
Ground-to-air signals like large X marked with contrasting colors

Having multiple signaling options in your survival kit increases chances of getting rescued.

Power Sources for Electronics

Various power alternatives for electronic devices:

Solar chargers - harness the sun's energy
Hand turbine chargers - generate power by cranking
Battery packs - store charge to use when needed
Extra batteries - common sizes for your devices

Solar options work well for extended outdoor use. Precharged battery packs are great backup sources.

Personal Care and Sanitation

Maintaining personal hygiene and sanitation is critical in a survival situation to prevent illness. Here are some key items to include in your survival bag kit:

Hygiene Essentials for Health and Comfort

Toilet paper - Necessary for proper sanitation and comfort. Aim for a small, compact pack.
Baby wipes - Useful for cleaning hands and body when water is limited. Get unscented to avoid attracting insects/animals.
Feminine products - Pads and tampons take up little space but provide necessary protection and comfort.
Toothbrush and toothpaste - Prevent dental issues and promote health. Choose small travel sizes.
Soap - Bar or liquid soap for washing hands/body. Antibacterial is ideal.
Hand sanitizer - Kills germs when soap/water isn't available. Get a small bottle.
Plastic bags - Sealable bags to contain waste and promote sanitation.

Focus on compact, portable items tailored to your unique needs. Having basic sanitation gear promotes health in uncertain conditions.

Waste Management Strategies

Managing human waste properly prevents contamination and illness when regular facilities aren't available:

Dig catholes 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet from water sources.
Use plastic bags to line cathole. Deposit waste, then seal bag and bury.
Urine can go directly into cathole. Cover with dirt when done.
Burn toilet paper and feminine products if possible. If not, bag and bury with other waste.
Wash hands thoroughly with soap/sanitizer after waste handling.

Following leave no trace principles allows you to maintain sanitation standards and environmental responsibility.

Bug Out Bag: Keeping Pests at Bay

Bugs and insects can quickly become a nuisance and health hazard in survival scenarios:

Insect repellent spray/wipes keep mosquitos, ticks, and flies away. DEET is effective but can damage plastics.
Head nets, long clothing provide a physical barrier against bites. Treat clothes with permethrin.
Seal food in airtight bags or containers to avoid attracting ants and wasps. Do tick checks after being outdoors.

Prevention is critical since insect bites can lead to dangerous infections and diseases. Adjust gear based on insects and conditions in your region.

Caring for Children and Infants

Special considerations for sanitation and hygiene apply when packing survival bags for babies and kids:

Diapers - Pack enough for several days. Consider reusable cloth diapers to conserve disposables.
Diaper rash ointment - Prevent painful rashes from prolonged exposure to waste. Zinc oxide is soothing and protective.
Baby wipes - Gently clean delicate skin and ease changing on the go. Get hypoallergenic fragrance-free wipes.
Kid-sized toiletries - Child-specific soap, toothbrushes, and other gear makes hygiene easier for them.
Hand sanitizer - Reduce germ spread by cleaning little hands. Get a no-rinse formula.

Meeting kids’ hygiene needs keeps them healthy and comfortable in trying survival situations. Choose gear that’s compact, kid-friendly, and multi-day ready.

Catering to Specialized Needs

Tailor your survival bag to your specific needs with items like prescription medications, pet supplies, cash, entertainment options, protective equipment, and more.

Survival Kit List for Pets

If you need to evacuate with pets, be sure to pack:

Extra food and water
Medications
Collar with ID tag
Leash
Crate/carrier
Litter box and litter
Comfort items like toys or blankets

Having the essentials for your furry friends ensures their safety and comfort during an emergency.

Financial Preparedness: Cash and Documents

Include copies of important documents like identification, insurance policies, birth certificates, etc. Having extra cash in small denominations also prepares you for situations where electronic payments may not work. Store documents and cash in a waterproof bag or container.

Adapting Kits for Seniors and Those with Disabilities

Consider mobility aids, assistive devices, or medical equipment needed. Pack extra medications, batteries or charging cables. Mark your bag with reflective tape for visibility. Include comfort items to reduce stress.

Shelter in Place: Preparing for Home Confinement

If remaining at home for an extended period, have supplies for:

Turning off utilities
Blocking doors/windows
Light sources
Communication devices
Entertainment options

Tailor your survival bag so it meets your unique needs during an emergency, whether that involves pets, home confinement, or other special considerations.

Conclusion: Building Your Comprehensive Survival Bag Kit

Creating a comprehensive survival bag tailored to your situation provides insurance against disasters when immediate external support is unavailable. Combine foundational basics like first aid, food, shelter and tools with region-specific and personal items.

Key Takeaways for Your Emergency Survival Kit

When building your survival bag kit, be sure to:

Pack at least 3 days' worth of non-perishable, high-calorie foods like protein bars, dried fruits and nuts. Also include a reusable water bottle and water purification tablets.
Include a first aid kit with bandages, gauze, medicines, etc. Also pack any essential prescription medications you may need.
Choose a high quality, durable backpack made of waterproof material. Make sure it has enough room for all your gear and is comfortable to carry.
Pack an emergency blanket, flashlight, radio, batteries, lighter, multi-tool, rope/cord, and duct tape. These provide shelter, communication, illumination and basic tools for survival.
Tailor the bag to your climate and geography. Those in cold regions should pack extra insulating clothes, gloves, and a hat. If in hurricane or flood zones, include flotation devices.
Don't forget personal hygiene items like toilet paper, soap, feminine products, etc. Being able to maintain health and sanitation is crucial.

Final Thoughts on Preparing for the Unexpected

Creating a survival bag kit prepares you for the unexpected, whether a natural disaster, infrastructure failure, or personal emergency. Tailor your bag to your situation, continue to refine it over time, and practice using it. An up-to-date survival bag provides much needed reassurance that you and your loved ones will remain safe and healthy even in the most dire circumstances.