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Survival Kit Ideas: Must-Have Items
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Many of us enjoy the great outdoors and all that it has to offer, but how many of us are really prepared when we head out? It’s easy to forget all the scenarios that can happen when we’re away from civilization, but just a little inexpensive preparation can take the stress out of your outings.
As such, we have listed some gear that you must put in your kit for you to survive in the wilderness, no matter what happens. All of the items listed below can be found on Amazon for a relatively affordable price. Nevertheless, if you would rather purchase a premade Wilderness Survival Kit, we have a couple of recommended packages for you to choose from.
Basic Items
From the term basic, the following items should be present in your survival kit:
1. Compass
A compass is important to ensure that you know which way to stay on course so that you don’t end up lost. What’s great about it is that you do not need to worry about batteries as they work without any power sources.
2. Map
It is recommended that you carry a large-scale map with you so that you can plan out your hunting or hiking activity. It is also best to get those that are waterproof. You might not think about it until it happens, but paper maps are obviously useless when wet.
3. Multi-Tool or Swiss Knife
A folding and durable stainless steel tool is essential while you’re on your hike. You can use it to cut food, untie ropes, and the likes.
4. Water Purification Tablets or Filters
Having some sort of a purification filter or tablet on hand can be critical for survival. Boiling water isn’t enough when you are out in the wilderness, and you might not always have the luxury of doing so. These products will ensure that you have enough clean water supply since some of them can be used directly in murky water.
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5. Survival Blanket
A survival blanket can make a difference between life and death situations. It will keep you warm, dry, and can work as a sleeping bag. Since it is also compact and lightweight, you can keep it in your bag without it occupying too much space and adding too much weight.
6. Waterproof Matches
Not everyone can start up a fire with sticks or stones, so it is best to have some waterproof matches in your survival kit. Although they are waterproof, you should keep them safe in a plastic bag or container.
7. Headlamp or Flashlight
A hands-free light source when you’re working in the dark is mandatory, and it’s best to carry extra batteries. Be sure to replace the bulb and batteries after every hunting season.
8. Stainless Steel Cup
It’s always great to have something to use whenever you drink, but that isn’t the only thing a stainless steel cup can do. You can also utilize it to heat water and cook food. Although it may be a little bulky to take with you, it is far better than taking a cooking utensil or none at all.
9. Wire Saw
A lightweight wire saw will do the trick when you need to cut some wood or build a temporary shelter. These little saws cut through anything, including plastic, bone, and some composite materials.
Wilderness Survival Kit
As we mentioned earlier, there are available kits that already contain some of the essentials to survive in the wilderness. Here are two recommended Wilderness Survival Kits that can be used every hunting and hiking season.
However, to ensure the functionality of your survival kit, you must remember to restock it at the end of each activity. Here are some of the critical items that require regular replacement:
1. Food
Make sure to replenish any food every after hunting season, and always pack high energy bars, some tea, instant soup, and jerky.
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2. First Aid Items
Always make sure that the items you need for first aid are complete even if you’re going for a short trip to the woods. Accidents do happen, and even a small incident can become a catastrophe without the right tools, bandages, and medicines.
There may be items you never need, but it’s vital that you’re prepared for any situation. Think of it as a primary insurance plan that you carry with you.
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A Few Extras to Pack
Apart from the basic items, food, and first-aid kit, the following items will also come in handy:
1. Heavy-Duty Aluminum Foil
Foil works great as a heat reflector or for cooking over the fire. Cut out five sheets with a size of 18 by 24 inches, and safely keep it in your survival kit.
2. Fishing Line
Monofilament fishing lines can be used in many ways aside from fishing. You can utilize them for drying strips of meat and repairing ripped clothes.
3. Trash Bag
Another great tip is to take along large and heavyweight garbage bags. You can use these as cover in case it rains since they’re waterproof.
4. Whistle
Having a whistle on hand really helps if you get lost and need to help someone to locate you in case you’ll be lost or stranded.
5. Small Mirror
A small hand mirror can be used to flash a signal when someone is locating you as well as can help scare off an animal. You can also use it to see a possible wound on your face or back.
6. Toilet Paper
A toilet paper is a great accessory to take with you in the wilderness not just for wiping things but also for starting fires and cleaning your tools.
7. Pencil and Paper
Don’t forget to pack a pencil and paper as you never know when you need to leave a map for directions for the rescuers to be able to find you.
8. Coffee Filters
Pack a few extra coffee filters since you can use them to filter out water before purification. They can also serve as fire starters and wound bandages.
9. Cotton Balls with Vaseline
Here’s a great tip from one of our readers. He always packs cotton balls that are saturated in Vaseline to act as a fire starter. Pack a bunch in a ziplock and use one at a time.
Thanks so much for sharing your fantastic tip with us Rob! Greatly appreciated. 🙂
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, you found our survival kit idea useful so that you can plan ahead and be prepared for any situation while you’re out on a hunt. No matter what your activity is, always remember to be safe and always go prepared.
If we missed anything that you’d like to add to our list, feel free to leave it in the comments below. We would love to hear your ideas based on your own experiences in the great outdoors.
About the Author Pink Crossbow
Jen loves the outdoors and enjoys exploring a wide-range of activities. A mother of 3 whose seen far too many friends suffer from cancer, she believes Pink Crossbow reflects a sport for LIFE. It's a reminder that archery belongs to everyone regardless of age, size, or gender...and real enthusiasts aren't afraid to wear pink!