Tactical Survival Bag Essentials

When building a tactical survival bag, most would agree that having the proper essential gear and supplies is critical for being prepared to handle emergency situations.

This article will provide a comprehensive guide on the must-have items to include in your tactical survival bag, ensuring you have the right solutions for shelter, water, food, first aid, fire, tools, self-defense, and navigation.

You'll discover the purpose and components of a tactical survival bag, the top 10 essentials for any survival kit, whether survival bags actually work, and details on choosing equipment for water, food, first aid, fire starting, multi-tools, self-defense items like pepper spray and knives, and navigation tools like maps, compasses, and GPS devices.

Introduction to Tactical Survival Bag Essentials

This article outlines essential items to include in a tactical survival bag kit to ensure you are prepared for emergencies. We cover critical gear across categories like shelter, water, food, first aid, navigation, and more.

Understanding the Purpose of a Tactical Survival Bag

A tactical survival bag, also known as a survival backpack, is a pre-packed collection of gear designed to help you survive in the event of an emergency or disaster. These bags are optimized for portability, durability, and containing the necessary supplies to sustain you for typically 72 hours or more if stranded. Key benefits include:

All-in-one bag keeps supplies organized and ready to go
Durable and weather-resistant construction
Enough capacity to hold 3+ days of critical survival items
Modular and customizable layout to your specific needs

With the right tactical survival bag, you can have confidence that you have the essentials for short to mid-term survival if facing a crisis scenario.

Essential Components of the Best Survival Backpack Kit

We will explore the survival kit list that makes up the best survival backpack kit, ensuring you have all the necessary tools and supplies. Well-rounded survival backpacks should contain gear for:

Shelter: Tent, tarp, sleeping bag, and pad help protect you from the elements.

Water: Filter, bottles, and purification tablets allow you to collect and clean water.

Food: High-calorie bars, freeze-dried meals, utensils and cookset provide sustenance.

First Aid: Comprehensive medical supplies like gauze, ointments, medications, etc.

Fire: Matches, lighter, fire starter allow you to generate warmth and boil water.

Navigation: Map, compass, GPS help you determine your location and the best route.

Light: Headlamp, flashlight allow you to see at night and send signals.

Tools: Knife, paracord, duct tape, multi-tool provide utility for various tasks.

With these well-stocked supplies, your tactical survival bag will help you safely endure an emergency scenario for several days while awaiting rescue. Be sure to customize your gear selection based on your environment, group size, skill level and likely risks.

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 needed to survive for 72 hours when evacuating from a disaster.

This type of bag aims to be lightweight and portable so that it can be easily carried if you need to leave quickly. The gear inside is focused on meeting basic survival needs - shelter, water, food, first aid, navigation, and self-defense.

Some key items often packed in a doomsday bag include:

Water and water purification supplies - Having access to clean drinking water is essential in an emergency situation. Most kits include durable water bottles and portable water filters or purification tablets.
Non-perishable, high-calorie food - Lightweight, nutrient-dense foods like protein bars, dried fruits and nuts, and MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) can provide sustenance when you are on the move.
First aid kit - Bandages, ointments, medications, etc. to treat injuries and ailments.
Multi-tool or survival knife - Allows you to construct temporary shelters, cut rope, open cans, etc. Useful for survival tasks.
Emergency shelter - Compact tent, thermal sleeping bag and pad, and rain poncho to protect from the elements.
Flashlight, radio, batteries - For light, communication/news, charging devices. Extra batteries are crucial.
Fire starting materials - Matches, lighter, fire starters help ignite fires for light, warmth and cooking
Navigation items like map, compass - To determine your location and the best evacuation route if cell phone service is unavailable

The exact contents can be customized based on your needs, skills, climate and possible risks. But the goal remains the same - having the essential gear on hand to improve chances of survival in a doomsday scenario.

What do you put in a survival go bag?

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

Water and Food

Having access to clean water and non-perishable food is critical in a disaster scenario. Experts recommend packing at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation needs. Choose high-calorie, long-shelf-life foods like granola bars, canned goods, and MREs.

A battery-powered or hand crank radio will allow you to stay updated on emergency broadcasts. A whistle can be used to signal rescuers if needed. Have multiple forms of light like flashlights, glow sticks, and headlamps. A map and compass can help with navigation if you need to evacuate on foot.

First Aid Supplies

A comprehensive first aid kit includes bandages, gauze, medications, tools for splinting, etc. Know basic first aid, CPR, and how to treat injuries. Having the ability to provide medical care during an emergency could save a life.

Tools and Backup Charging

Pack a multi-tool, pocket knife, duct tape, and paracord. These can assist with makeshift shelters, repairs, traps, and other survival tasks. Bring backup chargers or crank chargers to keep devices powered. A survival blanket, hand warmers, and extra layers provide protection from the elements.

Personal Items

Have copies of important documents in a waterproof bag. Pack medications, hygiene items, cash, and irreplaceable keepsakes. Items that provide comfort can be incredibly helpful for maintaining positive mental health if you need to bug out.

Customize your survival go bag based on likely risks in your region, your skills, and number of people in your family. Routinely inspect and resupply it so you're always emergency ready.

What are 10 items in a survival kit?

A well-stocked survival kit is essential for emergency preparedness. Here are 10 must-have items to include:

Flashlight - A flashlight allows you to see in the dark and can help with navigation and signaling for help. Make sure to pack extra batteries.
Whistle - A loud whistle can be used for signaling and getting attention if lost or injured.
Dust mask - A dust mask helps filter air and protect your lungs from smoke, dust, and other particles.
Maps - Local maps with marked evacuation routes and shelter locations are critical for emergency navigation.
Can opener - A manual can opener allows you to open canned food when electric openers are unavailable.
Radio - A battery-powered or hand cranked radio provides access to emergency broadcasts and weather reports when power is out.
Games/books - Simple games, books, puzzles, and coloring supplies will help comfort and occupy children during stressful times.
First aid kit - A first aid kit contains bandages, ointments, tools, and medications to treat injuries and wounds.
Water - Pack durable water bottles and water filtration/purification supplies to ensure access to clean drinking water.
Flashlight - Emergency blankets, hand warmers, and extra layers/socks will help maintain body temperature and prevent hypothermia.

Do survival bags work?

Survival bags can be extremely useful in emergency situations. Here are some of the key benefits:

Weather protection: Plastic survival bags provide shelter from wind, rain, and snow. They can help retain body heat and keep you dry.
Versatility: Many survival bags can be used as a rucksack liner, poncho, or even an emergency sled when flipped inside out. This makes them a versatile tool to have on hand.
Portability: Survival bags are lightweight and compact. They easily fit into a backpack, bug out bag, or emergency kit for mobile preparedness.
Durability: Heavy duty survival bags made from robust materials can withstand rugged use in the wilderness. Look for thick polyethylene plastic that resists tearing.
Affordability: Survival bags are relatively inexpensive preparedness items. Even a basic emergency bag provides good protective capability for the cost.

Proper use is key to getting the most out of a survival bag. Avoid direct contact with the plastic to prevent condensation. Line the bag with insulation for warmth. Carry duct tape and tools to adapt it into other survival gear as needed. With some creativity, a simple survival bag can serve many lifesaving purposes in an emergency.

Best Survival Kits 2023: Shelter Essentials

Having basic shelter in your tactical survival bag allows you to get out of the elements, retain body heat, and sleep. Prioritize versatile, packable, weather-resistant items.

Choosing the Right Tarp or Tube Tent

A tarp or tube tent provides overhead shelter from wind, rain, snow. Important features to look for include:

Durability: The tarp or tent needs to stand up to the elements without ripping. Look for reinforced stitching and ripstop fabrics.
Water resistance: Select a tarp or tent with a waterproof polyurethane coating and fully taped seams to keep moisture out.
Packability: Roll up the tarp tightly and compress the tent so it takes up less space in your bag.
Versatility: Opt for a simple A-frame tarp configuration that can be set up in various ways or a tube tent with adjustable poles.
Weight: Lightweight tarps and tents made of silnylon weigh under 2 lbs for easy carrying.

Popular options like the Snugpak Tropical 2 Tent and UST Tube Tarp 1.0 are compact, weatherproof picks.

Selecting a Sleeping Bag for All Seasons

A compact sleeping bag rated to low temperatures ensures you can sleep warmly. Key features when selecting a tactical sleeping bag include:

Temperature rating: Choose a bag with a rating of 20°F or lower to ensure warmth in cold weather.
Mummy shape: Tapered mummy bags retain heat better than rectangular bags.
Compressibility: Look for a bag that compresses down small to save pack space.
Water resistance: Select a bag with durable water repellent coating.

Quality options like the Snugpak Special Forces 1 Sleeping Bag and UST Base Bug Out Bag compress down while keeping you toasty.

Water Purification and Storage in Your Tactical Survival Bag

Having access to clean water is critical in an emergency situation. When packing your tactical survival bag, be sure to include gear for both purifying found water as well as storing purified water.

Advanced Water Purification Methods

There are a few excellent options for portable water purification that you can pack in your bag:

Pump water filters - These allow you to pump water through a filter to remove bacteria, protozoa, and solids. They are one of the fastest and most effective portable purification methods. The Sawyer Squeeze Filter is a top choice.
UV water purifier pens - UV light kills pathogens in water. The SteriPEN Adventurer is a portable, battery-powered option.
Water purification tablets - Tablets like Potable Aqua use chlorine dioxide to kill microbes. They're cheap, lightweight, and easy to pack.

Durable Water Containers for Hydration

You'll also want to pack clean containers for storing purified water:

BPA-free bottles - Choose durable, reusable bottles from brands like Nalgene or CamelBak. Look for BPA-free plastic.
Collapsible water bags/bladders - These bags with built-in handles and spouts roll up small but hold 1-5 liters when full. Try Platypus or Reliance.

The right water storage and purification gear will ensure you can safely stay hydrated in an emergency situation when relying on your tactical survival bag.

Food Supplies: Packing Calorie-Dense Rations

Packing the right food supplies in your tactical survival bag is crucial to ensure you have the nutrition and energy needed to survive an emergency situation. When choosing food items, prioritize non-perishable, calorie-dense options that will provide sustenance without taking up much space or weight.

Nutrition for Survival: What to Pack

When packing food in your tactical survival bag, focus on lightweight, nutrient-dense foods that don't require refrigeration and have a long shelf-life. Great options include:

Protein/granola bars: Pack high protein and calorie bars that can quickly boost your energy levels. Look for options with at least 5-10 grams of protein.
Dried fruits and nuts: Dried fruits like mangoes, pineapples, raisins, cranberries and nuts like almonds, cashews and peanuts are calorie-dense and full of nutrients. They also store well.
Beef jerky: Pack a few bags of jerky for a boost of protein and calories.
MREs: Meals Ready to Eat are self-contained, shelf-stable meals that pack ~1200 calories per pouch. They offer balanced nutrition.

Choose compact, single-serve pouches to conserve space. Avoid heavy cans or perishable foods like fresh fruits.

Compact Mess Kit Essentials

To prepare meals, pack a lightweight, compact mess kit including:

Insulated cup/bowl
Spork
Mini pot for boiling water
Portable stove and fuel canister

This allows you to boil water for freeze-dried meals or rehydrating fruits/veggies. It also enables cooking over a campfire if needed. Choose nesting, space-saving designs.

With the right selection of calorie-dense rations and a mess kit for preparation, you'll have reliable access to nutrition during an emergency situation. Prioritize shelf-stable foods that pack nutrients and energy.

First Aid: Building Your Tactical Medical Kit

A well-stocked first aid kit is an essential component of any tactical survival bag. Having the right medical supplies on hand can help treat injuries, prevent infections, and manage pain during an emergency situation.

Essential First Aid Supplies for Emergencies

When building a first aid kit for your tactical survival bag, be sure to pack:

Sterile gauze pads and rolls - to control bleeding and dress wounds
Adhesive bandages - provide wound closure and protection
Antibiotic ointment - prevents infection in minor cuts and scrapes
Medical tape - secures dressings and bandages
Rubber gloves - protect hands during treatment
Tweezers - remove splinters and debris
Trauma shears - cut away clothing to access wounds
Antiseptic wipes - clean wounds and skin
Triangle bandage - sling or tourniquet
Space blanket - retain body heat
First aid instruction card - refresh knowledge

Medications to Include in Your Wilderness Survival Kits

In addition to basic first aid supplies, also consider packing these over-the-counter medications:

Ibuprofen - relieves pain and reduces inflammation
Antihistamines - treats allergic reactions
Antidiarrheal medication - controls diarrhea
Electrolyte replacement tabs - replenishes fluids and minerals
Antacid tablets - alleviates indigestion

Be sure to check expiration dates and replace medications as needed. Having these supplies on hand could save your life during an emergency situation.

Fire Creation Tools for Survival Situations

Fire allows you to boil water, cook food, stay warm, and signal for help. Having reliable fire starting tools in your tactical survival bag can make the difference between life and death in an emergency situation.

Reliable Ignition Sources for Your Tactical Bug Out Bag List

When packing your tactical survival bag, be sure to include multiple methods for igniting fires to account for various weather conditions:

Waterproof matches are essential for lighting fires in damp conditions. Look for strike-anywhere matches that will ignite even when wet. Store in a water-tight container.
Pack several BIC lighters as they are inexpensive and reliable. Use one and store extras as backup.
Magnesium flint fire starters scrape to create sparks, allowing you to ignite even damp tinder. Products like the Light My Fire Swedish FireSteel 2.0 last for up to 12,000 strikes.
For a lightweight, compact option, pack a couple of fire pistons which use rapid air compression to generate extreme heat that ignites tinder on contact.

Effective Tinder and Fuel Options

Once you have an ignition source, you need material that easily catches flame along with fuel to sustain the fire. Smart choices for your tactical survival bag include:

Cotton balls soaked in petroleum jelly make excellent tinder to quickly ignite using a spark or match.
Alcohol prep pads provide both tinder and fuel. The alcohol burns slowly while the cotton lights easily.
Propane fuel tabs burn hot to help ignite kindling and provide 15 minutes of cooking fuel per tab. Esbit and HeatTab brands offer solid fuel options.
Trioxane fuel bars offer 12,000 BTUs of heat output, burning smoke-free for up to 2 hours. Break down bars to ignite or sustain a fire.

With the right mix of ignition sources and fuel materials in your tactical survival bag, you can create fire in virtually any conditions to meet critical needs during an emergency situation. Choose gear that is non-perishable, weatherproof, compact, and versatile.

Tools and Equipment: The Backbone of Best Military Survival Kits

A tactical survival bag should contain basic tools for constructing shelters, gathering resources, navigating and more. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in an emergency situation.

The Multitool: A Versatile Must-Have

A quality multitool with pliers, screwdrivers, knife, saw empowers essential bushcraft tasks. Consider a tactical survival bag loaded with a Leatherman or Gerber multitool for tackling gear repairs, food prep, shelter building, and other critical jobs. The portability, durability, and functionality of a good multitool proves invaluable when operating in the field.

Paracord, duct tape, zip ties, carabiners, and a comprehensive med kit should also make the survival backpack essentials list. These items boost flexibility in improvising solutions on the fly. Relying solely on a knife or single-purpose tools severely limits response capability across diverse situations.

The Many Uses of Paracord in Survival Scenarios

Sturdy paracord works for shelter construction, gear repairs, perimeter rigging, and other tasks. Its high strength-to-weight ratio and versatility cement paracord as a top item for the best survival backpack kits. Use paracord for lashing shelter supports, lowering gear, stringing game snares, or improvising shoe laces. The creative application of paracord aids hunting, foraging, navigation, and campsite building.

Consider quality carabiners and duct tape to maximize paracord functionality. Carabiners securely connect rigging while duct tape patches holes, reinforces joints, and provides a quick fix for failing gear. These items integrate seamlessly with paracord to enable innovative solutions.

Self-Defense: Preparing for Personal Security

While carrying weapons can provide a sense of protection, true safety often lies in prevention, awareness, and de-escalation. Consider learning self-defense techniques, traveling in groups, and avoiding dangerous situations when possible. Carry pepper spray only if trained and licensed, use good judgment if faced with conflict. Focus on disengaging and resolving disputes peacefully through communication, rather than escalating to violence.

Knowing how to navigate is critical for situational awareness and coordinating evacuations or supply drops when out in the wilderness. Having the right navigation tools in your tactical survival bag can make all the difference.

Carrying a detailed topographical map of your region is essential for navigation using traditional methods. Make sure to have a map that shows terrain, landmarks, trails, and any other features that could help you track your movements.

Pair your map with a quality compass. Learn how to take bearings and triangulate your position between known landmarks. Regular practice is key - test your navigation skills on every hike to sharpen your proficiency.

With both map and compass navigation mastered, you'll retain situational awareness even when all technology fails in a disaster scenario.

The Role of Portable GPS in Best Survival Backpack Kits

While heavy on battery, a handheld GPS device allows you to precisely track movements and locations. This aids navigation by supplementing your map and compass skills.

Look for a GPS that is compact, lightweight, weatherproof, and has ample battery life. Being able to upload detailed regional maps is also an asset for pinpoint accuracy.

Use your GPS to tag key locations - shelter, water sources, evacuation sites. This allows you to create customized maps with critical waypoints marked.

With both analog and digital navigation tools on hand, you'll be equipped to expertly navigate any landscape, increasing odds of survival in an emergency situation.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Packing Your Tactical Survival Bag

When preparing your tactical survival bag, focus on the essentials. Carry versatile gear that covers fundamental needs like shelter, water, food, and first aid.

Here are some key takeaways:

Pack light. Only include the absolute necessities in your bag to reduce weight.
Train with your survival kit. Practice using all the gear so you know how to effectively utilize it in an emergency.
Focus on versatility. Opt for multi-use tools and equipment that can serve several functions. For example, a metal water bottle can boil water in addition to storing it.
Prepare for your specific climate and terrain. If venturing into extreme weather, pack extra insulation and shelter accordingly.
Organize gear systematically. Use pouches to separate and protect equipment while keeping related items together. This allows quick access when needed.
Inspect contents routinely. Check expiration dates, functionality, and supply levels to ensure your bag is equipped for emergency use at all times.

Keeping these best practices in mind will help optimize your tactical survival bag for any situation. Preparedness is about having the right fundamentals covered so you can improvise solutions, rather than attempting to predict every scenario. Start with the essentials, train regularly, and stay adaptable.