When venturing into nature, having the right gear can make all the difference in an emergency.
This guide will provide beginners with a straightforward overview of the most essential items to include in a survival kit.
You'll learn the 10 must-have basics for shelter, water, food, first aid, tools, and signaling, as well as tips for personalizing your kit based on your needs.
Introduction to Survival Kits
A survival kit is an essential set of basic tools and supplies to help you safely endure an unexpected emergency situation. As a beginner prepper, thoughtfully packing the top 10 critical items outlined below will set you on the path to being self-reliant and prepared.
Understanding the Basics of Emergency Survival Kits
When facing an unpredictable crisis scenario, having quick access to a few key survival basics can make an immense difference. A well-rounded survival kit should contain:
- Water - Pack water purification tablets or a compact filter to acquire safe drinking water from natural sources. Dehydration is extremely dangerous.
- First Aid - A compact first aid kit with bandages, ointments, medicines, etc. is vital for treating injuries. Consider packing quick clotting agents and tourniquets as well.
- Fire - Staying warm is critical. Pack weatherproof matches, a lighter, fire starters, tinder and a small hatchet/saw for processing fuel.
- Shelter - A lightweight emergency tent or tube tent can protect from the elements. Include a sleeping bag and insulating pad. Hand/foot warmers also help greatly.
- Signaling - Pack a loud emergency whistle, signal mirror and brightly colored cloth for visibility. A satellite messenger device can call for emergency help when outside cellular range.
Carefully choosing this foundation of survival gear tailored for your needs is key. Continue reading for more guidance.
The Importance of Personalizing Your Survival Kit List
While the basics above form a solid core, it's vital to customize your survival kit based on your common activities, locations, group size, climate, potential risks and personal needs.
For example, a hunter would pack differently than a weekend camper. A snowy climate demands more insulating gear than a tropical locale. Solo hikers require less than a family group.
Analyze your situation, identify potential risks through logical reasoning, then pack accordingly. A personalized survival kit offers the best protection.
Essential Survival Gear for the Unpredictable
As you advance in your prepping journey, certain key survival tools greatly complement the basics in protecting against the unexpected:
- Knives - Well-made bushcraft knives are endlessly useful for shelter building, fire craft, food prep, defense and other critical tasks.
- Light - LED flashlights and headlamps prevent injury when moving in darkness. Consider self-powered and waterproof models.
- Navigation - Map, compass, GPS device and other navigational tools prevent getting dangerously lost, especially when visibility is poor.
- Food - Pack high-protein, lightweight, long-lasting foods like protein bars, beef jerky, nuts, dried fruits and MREs. Have at least 3 days' supply.
Choose this supplemental gear wisely to meet your personal situation and risk factors. Their utility can prove invaluable.
The Role of Tech & Gear in Survival Situations
While basic primitive survival skills are essential to learn, innovative tech and gear can also play important roles by significantly expanding your capabilities to endure an emergency scenario:
- Communication - Satellite messengers and personal locator beacons enable summoning emergency rescue from anywhere, overcoming lack of cellular signal. This access to help can prove life-saving.
- Water - Modern water filters provide safe drinking water from even highly contaminated sources, preventing dangerous waterborne illnesses.
- Power - Portable solar chargers allow indefinitely recharging devices, maintaining access to electronic tools and navigation when no power grid is available.
Smart prepper combine both traditional and innovative tools for comprehensive resilience.
Trip Planning: Preparing Your Survival Kit for Different Scenarios
Carefully planning your survival kit contents based on the specifics of each trip or activity is vital for ensuring you have what's needed if an emergency occurs:
- Analyze the expected climate, terrain, elevation, duration and group size of the excursion. Account for seasonal changes.
- Identify potential location-specific risks like harsh weather, dangerous animals, getting lost, injury, etc. Pack solutions accordingly.
- Regularly maintain your survival kit, inspecting contents for damage/expiration and replacing as needed.
- When venturing into more hazardous areas, consider upgrading gear to professional grade for greater resilience.
By realistically preparing for trip-specific risks, your survival kit becomes an invaluable asset keeping you safe if the unexpected happens.
What are the 10 essential survival kit items?
Here are 10 must-have items to include in a basic survival kit for beginners:
- Flashlight - A flashlight with extra batteries is crucial for lighting your way in the dark. Choose one that is durable, waterproof, and has different brightness settings.
- Whistle - A loud whistle can signal rescuers from far away if you get lost or injured. Get one that is pea-less so it won't freeze up or clog.
- Dust mask - A dust mask helps filter the air during dusty conditions or if air quality is poor after a disaster. Choose N95-rated masks.
- Map and compass - Always carry a detailed map of the area you'll be in. Pair it with a good compass to help navigate your way if you get lost.
- Can opener - Pack a manual can opener to open canned food when electric openers are unavailable. Sturdy keychain versions work well.
- Emergency radio - An AM/FM radio can provide weather alerts and news during emergencies. Crank or solar-powered models ensure you don't need batteries.
- First aid supplies - A first aid kit contains treatments for minor injuries, including bandages, ointments, medicines, etc. Waterproof containers help keep supplies dry.
- Multitool - Choose a multitool with pliers, screwdrivers, knife, bottle opener and other functions. It's useful for gear repairs and other tasks.
- Water purification - Carry water purification tablets, a filtration straw or other methods to make found water safe for drinking.
- Fire starter - Essentials like waterproof matches, lighter, fire steel, tinder and kindling help start campfires for cooking, warmth and signaling.
Focus your basic survival kit on reliable gear that meets critical needs for safety, navigation, nutrition, first aid and communication in an emergency situation. As your skills improve over time, you can add more advanced tools to your kit. The key is having versatile items that work well and fit your skill level.
What is the most useful survival tool?
A fire starter is perhaps the single most important survival tool to have in your top survival kit. Being able to start a fire allows you to:
- Cook food and boil water, making found resources safe to consume
- Stay warm in cold weather, helping prevent hypothermia
- Keep predators away while sleeping
- Signal for help by creating smoke during daytime or a large fire at night
Having the ability to create fire gives you access to essential elements of survival. Some top options for reliable fire starters to include in a survival kit are:
- Stormproof matches - These special matches have wax coating so they stay lit even in wind and rain. A small box takes up little room.
- Flint and steel - This classic spark generating tool takes practice but provides limitless fire starting ability.
- Fire piston - Compressing air quickly inside this handheld device creates an intense spark to ignite tinder.
- Magnesium bar - Shaving pieces of this metal into your tinder creates a flammable spark when struck with a knife or ferro rod.
The key is choosing a Best Fire Starters option that is easy to use and durable. Simple spark-based tools like stormproof matches or a ferro rod are good for beginners building their first survival kit. Having fire gives you heat, light, ability to signal, and makes food and water safer, making a fire starter the most versatile Survival Gear item.
What should I put in a doomsday survival kit?
A doomsday survival kit, also known as a bug out bag, is essential for emergency preparedness. This kit should contain supplies to sustain you for at least 72 hours in a crisis situation. Here are some of the most important items to include:
Water
Having access to clean water is critical in an emergency. Pack at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation purposes. Consider packing water purification tablets or a portable water filter as well.
Food
Pack high-calorie, non-perishable foods that don't require cooking, such as protein bars, nuts, dried fruits, and canned goods. Make sure to include a can opener. Plan for at least 2,000 calories per day.
Light Source
Pack multiple light sources, like a flashlight, headlamp, and glow sticks. Extra batteries are also essential. Being able to see at night and in dark places is crucial.
Radio and Communications
A battery-powered or hand crank NOAA weather radio will allow you to monitor emergency broadcasts. A satellite phone, emergency whistle and signal mirrors are also good to have to call for help if needed.
First Aid Supplies
A comprehensive first aid kit is vital, containing bandages, gauze, medications, sanitation supplies, etc. Know basic first aid as well.
Tools and Specialty Gear
Pack essential tools like matches, a pocket knife, duct tape, and cordage. Specialty gear like protective clothing, maps, sleeping bags and tents may also be necessary depending on the situation.
Customize your doomsday survival kit based on your needs, skills and expected scenarios. But having emergency supplies for water, food, first aid, communication and navigation will give you the best chance of survival.
What you really need in a survival kit?
A basic emergency kit should contain essential items to help you survive for at least 72 hours in an emergency situation. Here are some of the most important items to include:
Light Source
Having a reliable light source is critical in an emergency. A small, waterproof flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries is essential. Waterproof matches are also good to have as a backup.
Water
Pack at least 1 gallon of water per person for each day you might be without access to clean water. Having the right amount of water is vital for survival.
Non-Perishable Food
Pack high-calorie, non-perishable foods like protein bars, dried fruits and nuts. Canned goods can also be included, along with a manual can opener. Don't forget baby food if you have little ones!
First Aid Supplies
A basic first aid kit with bandages, gauze, medication, etc. can be lifesaving. Know basic first aid as well.
Tools
Have a pocket knife, duct tape, and a multi-tool on hand. These can help you repair gear, construct basic shelters, open cans, and more. Paracord is also very versatile.
Hygiene Items
Pack toilet paper, feminine products, toothbrush and toothpaste, soap, hand sanitizer, and other hygiene necessities.
Pet Supplies
If you have pets, include food, water, bowls, waste bags, medication, leash and collar, ID tag, and their own first aid supplies.
The exact contents can vary based on your situation, but these basic items can help you survive until help arrives. Customize your kit based on your needs, family, pets, climate and potential risks in your region.
Shelter and Warmth Essentials
Securing shelter and maintaining body warmth are critical in survival situations. Having the right gear and knowledge can help you safely weather difficult conditions.
Choosing The Best 4-Season Tents for Shelter
When choosing a 4-season tent, key factors to consider include:
- Weight - Heavier, sturdier materials are better for winter but less ideal for backpacking. Prioritize your needs.
- Ventilation - Condensation can be an issue in cold weather. Look for mesh panels to allow airflow.
- Poles & Frame - Fiberglass poles are more durable but heavier than aluminum. Go for a freestanding dome style for easiest pitching.
- Fabric - Look for tents with durable, waterproof/breathable fabrics like nylon or polyester with good hydrostatic head ratings.
Some top-rated 4-season backpacking tents to consider are the NEMO Kunai, MSR Access, and Hilleberg Jannu. The right one depends on your specific needs and budget.
The Best Emergency Blankets to Retain Heat
Emergency blankets, also called space blankets or mylar blankets, are lightweight, compact blankets that reflect body heat to prevent heat loss. Key features to look for include:
- High reflectivity rating
- Durable, rip-resistant material
- Compact size for portability
- Drawstring, grommets, or loops for versatility
Top options include the Survive Outdoors Longer Emergency Blanket, Swiss Safe 2-in-1 Emergency Blanket, and Primacare HB-10 Emergency Foil Blanket.
Best Thermal Underwear for Men and Women
Quality thermal underwear helps regulate body temperature in cold environments. When choosing thermal underwear, look for:
- Moisture-wicking fabrics
- Snug fit to limit air pockets
- Lightweight warmth
- Odor resistance for multi-day wear
Top-rated brands include SmartWool, Icebreaker, Patagonia Capilene, and Arc'teryx Rho LT. Consider a merino wool or synthetic blend for versatility.
Best Wool Socks for Foot Protection and Warmth
Quality wool socks help insulate feet and wick moisture. When selecting socks, consider:
- Weight - Light/medium for active use, heavy for stationary activities
- Wool type - Merino for odor + moisture control
- Fit - snug but not constricting
- Cushioning - for blister prevention and comfort
Top options include Darn Tough Hiker Socks, SmartWool PhD Outdoor Light Socks, and Fits Light Hiker Socks.
Best Backpacking Quilts and Sleeping Pads for Comfort
Quality sleeping gear is vital for restful, warm sleep in the wilderness. When choosing gear, key factors include:
Quilts
- Temperature rating
- Fill material (down vs synthetic)
- Weight
- Attachment system
Sleeping pads
- Insulation rating (R-value)
- Weight
- Packed size
- Durability
Top-rated options include the Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt, Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite, and Nemo Switchback Foam Pad. Choose gear suited for expected conditions and packing constraints.
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Water Access and Purification
Securing a safe and reliable water source is critical in any survival situation. Having access to clean drinking water can mean the difference between life and death when out in the wilderness. As beginner preppers building your first survival kit, focus on simple, effective water purification methods.
How to Acquire Safe Water in the Wild
- Locate a water source. Look for moving water in streams or rivers, which is less likely to harbor harmful bacteria or parasites than standing water. Be cautious of water that may be contaminated from farms or industry runoff.
- Boil water for 5-10 minutes. This is the surest way to kill bacteria, viruses and parasites. Have a metal container and heat source like a camp stove or fire in your kit.
- Use water purification tablets. They kill microbes and viruses. Easy to pack and lightweight. Follow instructions for dosage and wait time.
- Try a water filter or purifier. They remove bacteria and particles from water. The Sawyer Squeeze and LifeStraw Personal are top portable options.
Best Water Filter Options for Survival Kits
Water filters should be compact, lightweight and easy to use. Good options for beginner survival kits include:
- LifeStraw Personal Water Filter: Ultralight at 2 oz. Filters bacteria and parasites. Built-in mouthpiece to drink directly from water source.
- Sawyer Mini Water Filter: Filters down to 0.1 microns. Attach to included drinking pouch or water bottles. Reliable and low maintenance.
- Survivor Filter Pro: Combines filter with activated carbon to improve taste/odor. Flow rate up to 500 ml per minute. Durable.
Best Backpacking Water Filter Systems
For more advanced water filtration, backpacking-specific systems excel at filtering large volumes of water:
- Platypus GravityWorks: Gravity-powered. Can filter 1.75 liters per minute. Ideal for groups.
- Katadyn BeFree: Ultralight at 3 oz. Attach to hydration packs. 0.1 micron filter.
- MSR Trailshot: Uses pressure pump system. Filters 1 liter per minute. Portable and easy to operate.
Water Bottles and Storage Solutions
Carry and store water properly:
- Durable Nalgene wide mouth bottles in 32-48 oz sizes. Made in USA.
- Collapsible Platypus SoftBottles: Lightweight, roll up when empty.
- HydroBlu Versa Flow water bladder for hands-free hydration.
- Abide by water storage time limits to avoid contamination.
Understanding Water Purification Techniques
- Filtration uses physical barrier to remove bacteria, protozoa and some viruses.
- Chemical treatment (iodine, chlorine) kills microbes but doesn't remove particles.
- Boiling heat kills viruses, bacteria and parasites.
- UV light devices damage DNA of microbes to make them unable to reproduce.
Combining methods like filtering plus chemical treatment ensures safe drinking water. Test kits can verify water potability. Stay hydrated!
First Aid Essentials
A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for treating injuries and preventing infections when in survival situations. Having the right supplies on hand can make all the difference in an emergency.
The 10 Best First Aid Kits of 2023
When creating a survival first aid kit, it's important to choose one designed specifically for wilderness use. Look for kits that are lightweight and packable, yet include essentials like bandages, medications, tools, and wound care items. Waterproof bags help keep contents clean and dry. Consider convenience factors like organization and portability as well.
Some top-rated survival first aid kits for 2023 include:
- Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Backpacker Kit: Ultra-lightweight and packed with medical essentials.
- Surviveware Large First Aid Kit: Durable case with 100+ pieces for treating injuries and wounds.
- REI Co-op Trail First Aid Kit: Affordable option in a handy, soft-sided pack.
- Coghlan's Backpacker First Aid Kit: Compact and portable for minimalists.
- Johnson & Johnson All-Purpose First Aid Kit: Trusted brand with versatile home and travel use.
When selecting a first aid kit, tailor it to your specific needs and group size. Prepare for likely injuries and medical situations you may encounter.
Bandages, Wound Care, and Trauma Supplies
Bandages, gauze, wraps, and trauma supplies are first aid essentials for treating cuts, burns, sprains, and other wounds. Prioritize these items:
- Adhesive bandages: Assorted sizes for minor cuts. Choose waterproof types.
- Gauze pads and rolls: Control bleeding from large wounds.
- First aid tape: Secure dressings and gauze. Waterproof tape offers durability.
- Antiseptic wipes: Clean cuts and scrapes to prevent infection.
- Trauma pads: Absorb blood from deep wounds or stop bleeding.
Also pack butterfly closures for deep cuts, antibiotic ointment to prevent infection, and hydrogel pads to treat burns.
Essential Medications and Ointments
Having basic medications on hand allows you to effectively treat pain, inflammation, allergies, digestive issues, and other common ailments:
- Ibuprofen and acetaminophen: Relieve pain and reduce fever.
- Antihistamine: Treat allergic reactions from plants, foods, or insect bites.
- Antidiarrheal medication: Control digestion issues if drinking untreated water.
- Antibiotic and antifungal ointments: Prevent skin infections.
Aspirin can also aid heart attack and stroke victims in a pinch. Oral rehydration salts help replace fluids and electrolytes after vomiting or diarrhea.
Tools for First Aid: Scissors, Tweezers, and More
A variety of specialized tools assist with wound care and medical treatment:
- Scissors and safety pins: Cut bandages, cloth, tape or remove splinters.
- Tweezers: Remove splinters, glass shards, ticks, stingers, etc.
- Thermometer: Check body temperature to identify fever.
- Glow sticks: Mark injuries or your location after dark.
Also useful are cotton-tipped applicators for applying medications, hand sanitizer, and disposable gloves to prevent bodily fluid exposure.
Creating a Custom First Aid Kit for Specific Needs
While pre-packaged kits provide an excellent starter option, consider customizing based on your situation:
- Backpacking: Focus on ultra-lightweight supplies. Consider altitude sickness, foot injuries.
- Water sports: Emphasize wound care, medications for water-based hazards.
- Winter weather: Prepare for frostbite, hypothermia risks. Include emergency blankets.
- Children: Include kid-friendly medications, bandages, ointments for common injuries.
Prepare your own survival first aid kit tailored to likely medical situations. Organize essentials for quick access and periodically refresh perishable supplies.
Food and Sustenance
In a survival situation, having the right food can make all the difference. Discover the best survival foods to include in your kit.
The Best Survival Foods for Long-Term Energy
When packing food for your survival kit, focus on non-perishable, calorie-dense options that will provide long-term energy. Some great choices include:
- Nuts and trail mixes: High in protein, fat, and calories. Go for unsalted when possible. Some good options are almonds, cashews, peanuts, and nut blends.
- Dried fruits: Raisins, cranberries, apricots and apple chips pack a nutritional punch. Look for unsweetened varieties.
- Canned meats: Spam, canned chicken, salmon, sardines, and tuna are full of protein. Choose options packed in water over oil.
- Protein/granola bars: Easy to pack and transport. Look for whole food ingredients.
- Hard tack crackers: Nearly indestructible crackers act as a great compact carb source.
When possible, pack some comfort foods like chocolate, tea, or coffee to boost morale in tough times. Rotate and replace food every 6-12 months.
Survival Kit Food: Packing Calorie-Dense Options
When every ounce in your pack counts, focus on calorie-dense foods that pack the most punch per pound. Some lightweight, nutritious options include:
- Pemmican: A mix of dried meat and rendered fat that provides a huge caloric boost.
- Meal replacement shakes: Powdered shakes provide protein, carbs, vitamins and minerals in a light package.
- Vacuum-sealed pouches: Items like nuts, protein bars and dried fruit take up less space when vacuum compressed.
- Dehydrated meals: Companies like Mountain House make tasty, lightweight entrees that just need hot water.
- Hard cheese: It keeps without refrigeration and a little goes a long way nutrition-wise. Good for fat and protein.
Get creative with preparations too - consider powdered eggs, milk, or nut butters that just require water for a nutrient and calorie boost.
Utensils and Cookware for Preparing Survival Food
Don't forget the tools you'll need to actually prepare your survival food. Key items include:
- Pocket knife: Choose one with different blades and tools like a can opener, screwdriver or bottle opener.
- Spork: Part spoon, part fork. Lightweight and functional.
- Collapsable cookset: Includes pot, pan, bowls and utensils in a compact kit.
- Camp stove and fuel: Choose a small, portable stove that doesn't require electricity.
- Fire starters: Weatherproof matches, lighter, flint rod, tinder and kindling make starting cooking fires easier.
- Mess kit: Cups, plates and bowls made specifically for camping. Often nest for easy packing.
Look for titanium options when possible - they are ultra lightweight without sacrificing durability.
Planning Meals and Managing Food Supplies
Get the most out of your survival food by planning quick, easy, nutritious meals ahead of time. Some tips:
- Focus on one-pot meals to minimize cleanup. Things like stews, chili, rice dishes, pasta and oatmeal are great options.
- Figure out cooking times and fuel requirements for your planned meals.
- Have a strategy for procuring/purifying water. Plan for at least 1 gallon per person per day.
- Portion out rations appropriately so food supplies last. Be strict about not overeating.
- Carry emergency food like protein bars separately. Save them for when other food runs out or if you're on the move.
Following these best practices helps ensure you and your party stay energized in times of crisis.
Preservation Techniques for Survival Kit Food
To make your survival food last longer, utilize methods like:
- Vacuum sealing: Removes oxygen to prevent spoilage and elongation.
- Canning: Sterilizes food stored in sealed jars to extend shelf life.
- Dehydrating: Removes moisture to inhibit bacteria growth. Works well for fruits, veggies and meat.
- Curing: Using salt, smoke and nitrates to preserve meats and fish.
- Freeze drying: Flash freezing then dehydrating food while preserving nutrients.
- Oxygen absorbers: Packets absorb oxygen from containers to delay spoilage.
Practice proper hygiene, store food securely away from animals, and inspect supplies regularly for freshness. Rotate stock as needed.
Tools, Lighting, and Navigation
Having the right tools and the ability to navigate are crucial when building an effective survival kit. This section explores some of the best gear to include for these critical purposes.
Best Bushcraft Knives for Versatile Use
A good bushcraft knife is an essential piece of any survival kit. When choosing a bushcraft knife, durability and versatility are key. Look for one made of high-carbon steel with a full tang construction. The blade should be 4 to 5 inches long for most tasks. A drop point blade is a good all-purpose shape. Make sure to pair your knife with a quality whetstone for sharpening in the field. Some top bushcraft knife recommendations include:
- Morakniv Bushcraft Knife - Tough carbon steel blade at an affordable price
- Benchmade Bushcrafter - Durable, full tang knife with contoured G10 handles
- ESEE Laser Strike - Versatile fixed blade knife perfect for survival situations
Best Pocket Knives for Everyday Carry
A good pocket knife can come in handy in countless everyday situations. When selecting a pocket knife for your survival kit, look for one that is lightweight yet high quality. Key features to look for include one-handed opening, a 3 to 4 inch blade length, a sturdy frame lock or liner lock, and an easy to grip handle material like G10 or micarta. Some excellent EDC pocket knife options include:
- Spyderco Para 3 Lightweight - Favored for its ergonomic handle and full flat ground blade
- Benchmade Griptilian - Sturdy knife with excellent Axis lock mechanism
- Ontario RAT II - Budget-friendly folder with nylon handle scales
Best Headlamps for Hands-Free Illumination
Having a reliable hands-free light source is invaluable for survival situations. When choosing a headlamp, durability, brightness, battery life, and beam distance are important factors. Look for waterproof models with multiple lighting modes. Recommended headlamp options include:
- Black Diamond Spot 325 - Compact and fully weatherproof with powerful single triple LED
- Petzl Actik Core - Rechargeable battery with red lighting preserves night vision
- Fenix HM61R - 1000 lumen output can reach up to 325 feet
Best Flashlights for Reliable Light Sources
While headlamps free up your hands, a sturdy flashlight is still an essential item for layered lighting needs. When selecting a flashlight, prioritize reliability, brightness, and impact resistance. Useful features include IPX waterproof ratings, multiple modes, and the ability to tailstand. Top flashlight picks include:
- Streamlight ProTac 1L-1AA - Compact yet pumps out 300 lumens with aircraft-grade aluminum body
- Olight Warrior Mini 2 - 1500 lumens from a lightweight yet durable light with magnetic recharging
- Fenix PD36R - 1000 lumen output with 5 lighting modes and built-in USB-C charging
Navigational Tools: Maps, Compasses, and GPS Devices
Being able to navigate is crucial for survival situations. Equip your kit with multiple navigational tools for redundancy, like detailed topographic maps of your region, a baseplate compass, and a handheld GPS device loaded with batteries. Learn essential navigation skills like orienteering, reading terrain, pacing, and more. Quality gear picks include:
- Suunto M-9 Compass - Reliable global needle and sighting mirror
- Garmin GPSMAP 66i - Rugged, high-sensitivity receiver with preloaded TOPO maps
- ExpertGPS mapping software - Allows creating/printing customized, waterproof topo maps
Having versatile, reliable tools and the ability to navigate in an emergency can make a huge difference. Invest in quality gear and take time to practice essential skills.
Communication and Rescue
Effective communication can be lifesaving in an emergency. Devices like personal locator beacons and satellite messengers allow you to call for help from remote locations. This section covers the best options to signal rescuers and stay connected when disaster strikes.
Best Personal Locator Beacons and Satellite Messengers
Personal locator beacons (PLBs) transmit distress signals to satellites, pinpointing your location for rescue teams. Satellite messengers also provide 2-way emergency communication via text. Top options include:
- ACR ResQLink PLB: Compact, affordable, 5-year battery, GPS location tracking
- Garmin inReach Mini: Satellite text messenger with SOS button, location sharing
- Somewear Global Hotspot: Satellite communicator and GPS tracker in one
When choosing a satellite communication device, prioritize reliability, battery life, coverage area, size/weight if backpacking, and any subscription fees.
Best Satellite Messenger Devices for Remote Areas
For backcountry travel where cell service is unavailable, satellite messengers allow 2-way text communication. They provide peace of mind by enabling check-ins, SOS alerts, GPS tracking, and weather/route planning. Top picks are:
- Garmin inReach Mini: Most popular, compact and lightweight
- Zoleo Satellite Communicator: Affordable, easy texting via smartphone app
- Bivy Stick: Pairs with your phone for messaging and location sharing
Key features to compare are coverage areas, battery life, subscription plans, smartphone connectivity options, and SOS capabilities.
Signaling Techniques and Tools for Rescue
Having the right signaling tools can save your life if injured or stranded. Whistles cut through ambient noise to alert rescuers to your location. Mirrors and flares reflect sunlight or produce bright light to stand out. Some top affordable options:
- Fox 40 Micro Whistle: Loud 115+ decibel whistle
- Orion Safety Flares: USCG-approved, various signals
- Coghlan’s Signal Mirror: Lightweight, glare-reducing sighting hole
Also practice makeshift techniques like arranging rocks or debris to form “HELP” signs identifiable from the air.
Staying Informed: Emergency Radios and Information Sources
After a disaster, staying updated about rescue efforts, recovery services, safe shelters and more can be challenging without power, internet or cell service. Battery-powered or hand crank AM/FM/NOAA radios tuned to emergency broadcast stations are essential. Top recommendation:
- RunningSnail Emergency Radio: Solar/hand crank/battery powered, flashlight, phone charger
Also prepare an information binder with printed maps, contacts, procedures, etc. as offline reference.
Creating an Emergency Contact Plan
Having a contact plan ensures loved ones can reach you if cell towers are overloaded post-disaster. Share details like your location, planned check-in times, out-of-town contacts, rendezvous points and contingency locations. Coordinate communication options like satellite devices, radio frequencies, or coded messages. Update annually and keep copies in survival kits, cars, etc.
Power and Energy Solutions
Maintaining power for your devices is critical when planning for emergency situations. Having reliable, portable power sources can make a significant difference in your ability to stay connected, access information, and meet basic needs when the grid goes down. In this section, we'll explore some of the best options for keeping your gear powered up using renewable energy sources.
Best Solar Chargers for Off-Grid Power
Portable solar chargers allow you to harness the sun's energy to charge phones, tablets, battery packs, and other electronics when you don't have access to the power grid. The best solar chargers for survival kits are lightweight, durable, waterproof, and can charge devices quickly even in low light conditions.
When selecting a solar charger, key factors to consider include:
- Portability - Lightweight and compact so you can easily carry it in a backpack or survival kit
- Durability - Rugged and weatherproof construction to withstand the elements
- Efficiency - High efficiency solar panels to enable fast charging speeds
- Capacity - Power output to meet your specific device charging needs
Some top-rated portable solar chargers include:
- Anker 21W Solar Charger - Compact, lightweight panel great for charging phones/tablets
- Goal Zero Nomad 20 Solar Panel - Weatherproof and rugged for off-grid use
- Renogy Eclipse 20W Panel - Affordable mid-size panel good for variety of uses
Portable Battery Packs and Power Banks
In addition to solar chargers, having backup battery packs and power banks ensures you have reserve power when you need it most. The best portable power banks for survival have high capacity, fast charging speeds, and additional features like built-in lights or charge indicators.
When selecting a power bank, key factors include:
- Capacity - Measured in mAh, higher is better to enable more device charges
- Size - Balance watt-hours and portability
- Charging Speed - Faster input/output for quickly charging devices
- Ruggedness - Durable casing to prevent damage if dropped
Some top-rated power banks include:
- Anker PowerCore Slim 10,000 mAh - Ultra compact and lightweight
- MAXOAK 50,000 mAh Power Bank - Huge capacity for extended off-grid use
- OUTXE Rugged Power Bank - Durable and waterproof for harsh conditions
Best Fire Starters for Quick and Efficient Fire Making
Having reliable ways to start a fire is an essential survival skill. Fire provides warmth, light, ability to purify water, and cook food. Highly effective and quick-lighting fire starters are a must-have for any survival kit.
Key factors when selecting fire starters include:
- Reliability - Ability to light quickly even when wet/windy
- Durability - Withstand exposure to elements without degrading
- Compact Size - Easily portable for inclusion in survival kits
Some top fire starter options include:
- Ultimate Survival Technologies BlastMatch Fire Starter - All weather performance
- Light My Fire Swedish FireSteel 2.0 - High grade ferrocerium rod for 30,000 strikes
- Zippo Emergency Fire Kit - Windproof stormproof matches and wax-soaked tinder
Energy Conservation Tips for Survival Gear
In a grid-down emergency scenario, careful conservation of power from your devices and survival gear will be critical. Here are some tips:
- Minimize use of battery-powered devices
- Use lowest brightness settings on screens/lights
- Turn off devices when not in use
- Limit recharging to only when needed
- Prioritize most critical communication devices
Renewable Energy Options for Long-Term Survival
For longer-term, self-sufficient off-grid living, integrating renewable energy sources beyond just solar chargers is important. Some options include:
- Solar panels + battery bank for ongoing power production
- Small scale wind turbines where conditions allow
- Pedal/crank power generators using human power
- Wood gasifiers to produce flammable gas from biomass
Having both short-term portable power options as well as long-term energy production abilities is key for reliable electricity to meet needs when living off-grid. Careful planning of your power needs and sources is essential.
Conclusion
Creating a compact, lightweight survival kit with essential items prepares you to effectively handle unexpected emergencies. Tailor your specific components to your needs, environment, and skill level.
Recap of Top Survival Kit Essentials
Having the right survival kit can be a lifesaver in an emergency. The most essential items to include are:
- A high quality first aid kit with bandages, gauze, medications, etc. This allows you to treat injuries.
- A fire starting kit with waterproof matches, a lighter, fire starters, etc. This lets you create warmth and boil water.
- A flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries. This provides light when it's dark.
- A knife and multi-tool. These are useful for cutting, opening cans, repairs, etc.
- Water purification tablets or a filter allow you to have safe drinking water from natural sources.
- High calorie food bars give you needed energy.
- An emergency blanket retains body heat if temperatures drop.
The exact items depend on factors like climate, planned activities, group size, and personal needs. But these categories cover the basics.
Final Tips for Assembling Your Emergency Survival Kit
When putting together your survival kit, keep these tips in mind:
- Pack items in a durable, waterproof bag or case for protection.
- Include only necessary items to reduce weight and bulk.
- Make sure any batteries are fresh and that expiration dates on food, water, medicine are current.
- Consider adding a personal locator beacon, whistle, duct tape, paracord, and other situational items as needed.
- Have multiple means of lighting, water purification, first aid, etc. in case something fails. Redundancy is key.
- Label medication clearly and include basic usage instructions.
Following these guidelines helps create an effective, reliable survival kit.
Maintaining and Updating Your Survival Kit
To keep your survival kit in working order:
- Inspect all items every 6 months. Check for damage, expired products, dead batteries.
- Replace any degraded, broken, or missing pieces.
- Update the kit as needed for changing personal or environmental factors.
- Re-pack items neatly and ensure the kit is complete.
By regularly maintaining your survival gear, you can trust it will perform when called upon in an emergency.
The Importance of Regular Practice and Familiarity with Your Gear
In addition to having well-stocked survival equipment, it is vital to:
- Familiarize yourself fully with each item and how to use it. Review instructions so you can operate gear reliably.
- Practice setting up your kit and using key pieces of equipment regularly. This builds critical muscle memory.
- Take your survival kit on trips to test in real conditions. Learn what works and what doesn't.
- Consider taking wilderness first aid and survival training courses. Gain knowledge and techniques.
Regular hands-on practice develops the skills and confidence to deploy your survival kit effectively when it matters most. This ultimately gives you the best chance of overcoming emergencies.
