Are you unsure about what to include on your survival gear list? Well, here are some helpful tips on how to make it more manageable. To begin with, depending on the type of scenario you are preparing for, it’s important to consider various perspectives. You can opt for including gear that is modern and technologically advanced. On the other hand, you may choose to only include simpler and more basic gear. Sometimes, it’s best to include a combination of both. The first step is to ensure that the gear you include is something you are familiar with. It’s crucial to be completely confident in using all the items on your survival gear list before including them in your pack for field use. Bringing untested and unfamiliar gear could potentially endanger your life or the lives of your family members. Simple tools like flint and steel for fire making, a knife for carving, or a hatchet for splitting wood are excellent choices. However, it’s important to remember that simple doesn’t mean easy. Practice using these tools in different conditions, including challenging weather, poor lighting, cold temperatures, and fatigue.
It is wise to include redundant items in your survival gear list. For instance, having multiple tools to make a fire, more than one knife, extra batteries, and similar items. However, this should be balanced with the need to keep your pack or other gear containers lightweight and easily carried. This leads to the consideration of how long you will depend on this gear. The quantity and type of gear necessary can vary significantly based on the duration of your outing.
Map & Compass
Although technology, especially GPS, can be an excellent aid, it is crucial not to rely solely on your smartphone in case you get lost in remote areas. Including a map and compass in your survival kit can increase the likelihood of finding your way back to the starting point. Nevertheless, it is worth mentioning that these tools are only effective if you possess the necessary knowledge to utilize them.
First-Aid Kit
If you are going on a long backpacking trip, it is crucial to include a triangle bandage and gauze in your first-aid kit. Although small bandages and antibacterial ointment are helpful, these items are necessary for more severe injuries and can be utilized along with a makeshift splint.
Signal Mirror
Avoid finding yourself in a situation where you are too tired or distant to indicate that you are lost and require assistance. Numerous signal mirrors have the capability to be observed from a distance of 15 miles. On a bright and cloudless day, a signaling mirror serves as an efficient method of capturing the attention of emergency responders. Several compasses incorporate a mirror, eliminating the need for an extra one.
Fire Starter
To ensure your survival in cold temperatures, it is important to have the ability to initiate a fire. It is recommended that you pack various fire starters in waterproof bags, including matches, a lighter, a striker, and dry tinder. By having multiple methods available, you will be prepared in case one fails. Primus, a trusted brand, offers a reliable all-weather option called the Ignition Steel. Additionally, a small folding saw can be a valuable addition for gathering additional tinder.
Water Purification System
While a human can go without food for about three weeks, the situation is different when it comes to water. In the best case scenario, someone can survive up to a week without water, but it is more probable that they can only last for three to four days. Therefore, it is crucial to have a water purification system on hand in case you run out of your own water. Additionally, it is advisable to pack water purification tablets as a backup in case your system stops functioning.
Knife
If you find yourself lost in the forest, a practical knife can be useful for various tasks such as sharpening sticks, cutting cord or bandages, and potentially even skinning animals or fish. We highly recommend the Primus Field Chef Pocket Knife due to its lightweight design and sharpness.
Cordage
Cordage, similar to a knife, is useful to have in various situations. It serves multiple purposes such as aiding in climbing steep surfaces, hanging clothes, securing shelters, creating fishing lines, trap triggers, and more. Certain types of cordage, such as Paracord, can withstand up to 550 pounds of weight, thus proving handy for emergency rappelling.
Fishing Line and Hooks
In a survival situation, it’s crucial to have a means of obtaining food once the emergency rations are depleted. Cordage can be used as fishing line, making it a handy tool to carry. By tying fishing line and hooks to a branch, nearby streams can be utilized for fishing purposes.
Flashlight or Headlamp
Having a compact light available during dark hours will simplify navigation at night. Carrying extra batteries, if feasible, would be advantageous.
Solar Blanket
When the temperature is only 50°F, it is possible to experience hypothermia. Staying warm can be challenging if your clothing is wet or if you have limited clothing. One way to combat this issue is by using a solar blanket, which can effectively keep your body warm even in low temperatures, particularly during the night. Solar blankets are highly portable and can be conveniently carried due to their compact nature.
Final Thoughts
When you consider each step, the cumulative weight of all this equipment becomes evident. Continuously practice with each item until you gain confidence.
Short term survival involves getting through a difficult situation and seeking assistance. Various materials from a survival gear list can be utilized for this purpose, not just limited to the suggestions given here. Long term survival, also known as “wilderness living,” also relies on a deep understanding of the environment and typically requires the collaborative efforts of a group, such as a tribe or village. In order for long-term survival to be sustained, knowledge gained through experience must be applied. This knowledge is often passed down from previous generations who have practiced it. Wilderness living entails working together with others, including the living beings in the environment that support life. Keep in mind that the most crucial survival skill is your knowledge. Expand your understanding of wilderness survival by taking classes taught by experienced bushcraft practitioners and survival schools. There is nothing better than learning directly from a seasoned instructor and practicing under their guidance.
