In this article, you will learn how to make a good outdoor survival kit, with the necessities and without unnecessary bloat.
Being unprepared can be frustrating, primarily when your life depends on being prepared. Putting together a practical outdoor survival kit to bring along while hiking, camping, or even driving could save your life.
All you need is some fundamental equipment, which should resolve most survival scenarios. Perhaps once you’re done setting up the basics, you can expand and customize your outdoor survival kit for your climate.
Let’s jump right in.
In This Article
1. Storage for Your Outdoor Survival Kit
First off, you need something to carry all your supplies. A plastic or metal container is an option. However, I highly recommend you use a bag, especially a durable bag.
Unless you’re not planning to hike or camp too much, you much, then it would be okay to use a container to store in your car or house.
I would recommend a high-quality bag with a MOLLE system, is waterproof, and has great zipper quality.
2. Cordage
This is one of the 10 C’s of survival and it is very essential for every outdoor survival kit.
It would be best if you had cordage for many things such as bundling firewood, hanging a blanket or tarp for shelter, or suspending your storage to a tree to keep out of harm from animals.
Some survival experts prefer a parachute cord, which is very lightweight and super durable. A lot of people just use rope or rubber cordage.
3. The Flashlight
The flashlight is necessary for finding your way around in dark areas. The flashlight can also be used to send signals. I recommend you use a metal LED flashlight because they are more durable and brighter.
You may also decide to carry extra batteries to reinforce the flashlight and other supplies.
4. Water and The Water Purifier
Clean water for drinking and cooking is vital for life in the wilderness. You firstly need a good amount of water – a good rule of thumb is however much you can carry without having too much weight. To carry this water, I would recommend a collapsable canteen(s).
There are water purifiers out there that are very useful, such as tablets/pills and water purifier straws work great. Familiarize yourself with the pills and read the instructions carefully.
If you choose to use tablets, don’t eat the tablets directly without familiarizing yourself with the chemical contents. I also recommend you carry water in your storage, especially in a desert-like area.
5. The Field Knife
A knife can be used to shave wood to make tinder, but a cord, help to fish, and even to open cans. Multi-tools are also okay, they’re usually folding, pocket-sized, multi-purpose devices.
Some survival experts like simple non-foldable plan knives longer around 4-7 inches, which are usually more durable than folding knives.
6. The First-aid Kit
There are various pre-assembled kits available to buy. However, it is cheaper the create your own. There are basics items you need that I’ll list here:
- Adhesive bandages
- Antibacterial ointments
- Medical tape
- Roller gauze
- Tweezers
- Wound disinfectant
- Sterile cotton swabs and applicators
- Pain killer(acetaminophen)
- If you have an allergy, then Epinephrine
- Sterile gloves
If you want to learn more about building a first aid kit, here is an article on making a survival medical kit.
7. A Fire Source
Something to start a fire is necessary. If you have practice and experience with starting fires with rocks and wood, good for you, but if you can’t, I recommend getting waterproof matches and a simple Bic lighter.
If you want to learn more about fire starting, here are 7 ways to start a fire in the wild.
8. Extra Clothing
Weather can be unpredictable, and forecasting can be inaccurate. So, it is always a good idea to pack or wear a raincoat.
I also recommend storing at least a pair of underwear, socks, shirts, and pants in a ziplock(waterproof) bag. Perhaps if it is sunny, pack some sunglasses. If you’re in a cold location, perhaps a spare hat and gloves. This will make a good addition to your survival kit.
10. The Blanket
Wool blankets are my personal recommendation because they are more water-resistant and comfortable. This is a great option if you’re planning to stay in the woods for several nights.
There are also space blankets, which is a foil blanket that is completely waterproof, lighter, smaller, and retain your body heat more efficiently, which is also a great option.
If you would like to know which blanket is the warmest blanket for camping, click there.
11. Longlasting Food
Non-perishable foods are a great source of instant energy. Foods like these are usually small and lightweight. I would recommend packing five days worth of food. I will list some possible options here:
- Dried fruit
- Nuts
- Protein bars
- Meat jerky
- Protein bars
- Beans and lugemes
Here is an article all about essential survival food to hoard and why.
12. A Physical Map and Compass
This may be necessary for you. A physical map is always helpful because your wifi connection can be unreliable. Compasses are entirely up to you, if you know how to tell which direction you’re going without a compass, you don’t need a compass.
13. Hygiene Items
This is often underestimated. Remember to bring oral health things like a toothbrush/paste and floss. I would also recommend wet wipes, condensed soap, along with chapstick and nailclippers.
These things are often taken for granted, but in the wilderness, you will thank yourself once you’ve brought all this.
Closing
Thank you for reading this article and be creative with your outdoor survival kits!
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