Get the Right Essential Survival Gear, Like, C’mon!
Alright, let’s talk the ultimate of outdoor survival, survival kits! To be able to venture into the wild and possibly unknown and survive, you need some essential gear. You need to know your gear, and know it well.
You Can Find Our List of Recommended Survival Gear HERE
First and foremost, an excellent multi-tool – because having one is, well… awesome! These pocket-friendly tools come equipped with knives, screwdrivers, bottle openers, and sometimes even tiny saws. If you can’t fix it with a multi-tool, you’re probably dealing with a dragon.
Next, add a fire starter to your kit (of course you can rub sticks together, but that would be too much fun). If you don’t have one, get a ferro rod or some waterproof matches. Fire is your best friend in the wild, whether you need warmth, light, mosquito repellant, or just some s’mores.
Obviously, you’ll need a light source of some kind. Look for one that’s sturdy, with a long-battery life, waterproof, and multi-flash features (like strobe and flashing red). And don’t forget extra batteries – because in the wild, there are no outlets!
Having an emergency blanket is a no-brainer. Folded, it’s the size of a deck of cards. It reflects your body heat back to you, keeping you warm during unexpected weather changes. It can be used as a signal mirror or makeshift shelter. And!, it makes a super cool crinkly-crinkle noise.
Next up, MREs. Nah, you don’t need those, we have much better options now (like protein bars, protein snacks, superfoods), or just make some at home. For water, grab some purification tablets or a portable water filter. Clean water is non-negotiable—unless you like playing Russian roulette with your stomach.
Some vital elements include a shelter. If you’re trying to go full Rambo, branches and leaves will do, but why? It’s lightweight and compact for added protection. And a first aid kit. Blisters can get helluh annoying, and an accidental cut with no bandage sucks. Maybe even save your life. Stock it with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications you might need.
Some extra items include rope or paracord, and a whistle. Having some sort of tether is great for pitching tent, while a whistle… well, singing to yourself can get boring.
Last, my favorite, a good blade. Yes, most multi-tools have at least 1 knife on it, but having a quality blade is… just cooler! Use for cutting, cooking, eating, skinning, wood chopping, fixing, repairing, destroying, fightING, RULING, CONQUERING! SPARTA!!!
If you have these items in your kit, dude, you’re good to go intentionally survive. So pack smart, stay safe, and remember—the wilderness may be wild, but you’ve got the gear to handle it!
Quality Items that are Durable and Reliable, bc Otherwise You’re F’d!
When it comes to survival gear, and most things in life, you get what you pay for. So drain that bank account a bit! Think about you approaching adventure – scorching deserts, frozen tundras, and dense forests. Your gear should be tougher than a two-dollar steak and last for years. That’s right!
Multi-tool – it should be able to do everything but cook you breakfast (and if you find one that does, let me know). Fire Starter – the best choice here would be a ferro rod with a striker. You can easily make some wood shavings (with your trusty multi-tool) and start a fire. Water Purifier – look for something that can handle muddy puddles and questionable streams with ease.
Shelter – pretty simple here, get a compact, durable tent or tarp to withstand wind and rain. Sleeping Bag – now depending on your chosen adventure, you might get away with just shelter, or just a sleeping bag, but either way, get one that keeps you comfortable and dry.
Clothing – should be planned for the terrain and weather. 1 layer or 3, waterproof or cool, hiking or training to be Jason Bourne? Footwear – a broken sole or wet feet while absolutely ruin your day. Invest in reliable boots that are waterproof, sturdy, and comfortable.
Backpack – a place to put your things. Compass – if you’re to have a compass, at least have a good one. A reliable GPS device can serve as a backup, but don’t rely solely on electronics.
Top Recommended Products
Leatherman Signal, 19-in-1 Multi-tool for Outdoors
The ultimate gadget for those who believe one tool is never enough. Featuring 14 tools, including spring-action pliers, screwdrivers, and a bottle opener (because life’s unpredictable), this stainless steel wonder ensures you’re always the hero in any situation. From fixing tents to opening wine at a fancy dinner, embrace your inner MacGyver. Over-prepared? Maybe. But who doesn’t love a shiny, all-in-one pocket savior?
4 Inch Survival Ferrocerium Drilled Flint Fire Starter
Because matches are so last century. This little beast comes with a handy paracord lanyard, ensuring you’re never without it when the going gets tough. Need to start a fire in the rain? No problem. Camping, hiking, or surviving the apocalypse, this fire starter has got you covered. It’s your pocket-sized insurance policy for when nature decides to test your patience. Who needs electricity when you’ve got sparks flying in your pocket?
GearLight LED Tactical Flashlights
Stumbling in the dark is so passé. This powerhouse offers blinding brightness, a zoom function, and multiple modes to dazzle any intruder. Perfect for camping, late-night dog walks, or finding that rogue LEGO piece. With a rechargeable battery, you’ll never be left in the dark (literally). It’s your portable spotlight for when life decides to hit the dimmer switch. Who needs daylight when you’ve got this beacon in your hand?
Huge Emergency Blankets [4-Pack]
Hypothermia is a terrible way to end a camping trip. This ultra-durable, space-age Mylar blanket reflects 90% of your body heat, ensuring you stay toasty whether you’re lost in the wilderness or just trying to survive your cousin’s freezing basement. Compact and lightweight, it fits in your pocket, so you’ll always be ready for Mother Nature’s worst mood swings. Survive in style with a blanket that’s as tough as you are.
LifeStraw Personal Water Filter
Drinking from a muddy puddle should be a last resort. This handy gadget filters out 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria and 99.9% of protozoan parasites, making even the sketchiest water sources safe. Perfect for hiking, camping, or surviving the zombie apocalypse. Lightweight and easy to carry, it’s your portable insurance against bad decisions. Hydrate safely, even if you wouldn’t normally dip your toe in the water. Stay alive and well-hydrated!
Go Time Gear Life Emergency Survival Shelter
Getting caught in the rain is only romantic in movies. This ultra-lightweight, waterproof tent packs into a tiny bag, ensuring you always have a roof over your head. Made from tear-resistant material with a reflective interior, it keeps you warm and dry, whether you’re lost in the wilderness or your camping trip takes a soggy turn. Easy to set up, it’s your portable safety net when Mother Nature decides to crash your plans. Stay dry and survive in style!
I GO 85 Pieces Hard Shell Mini Compact First Aid Kit
A band-aid won’t fix that gash from your heroic tree-climbing attempt. This all-in-one kit includes 100 essential items, from antiseptic wipes to tweezers, ensuring you’re ready for any mishap. Perfect for camping, hiking, or surviving your kids’ latest adventure. Compact and lightweight, it’s your portable ER in a pouch. So go ahead, embrace your inner adventurer, and when things go south, at least you’ll be patched up with style. Stay safe, stay prepared!
Strong All-Purpose Utility Rope
Duct tape can’t fix everything. This lightweight, polypropylene wonder is perfect for camping, boating, or securing your latest impulsive purchase to the roof of your car. It’s UV resistant, floats on water, and boasts impressive strength, making it your go-to for any task Mother Nature (or your DIY projects) throws at you. Compact and versatile, it’s the ultimate tool for those “just in case” moments. Who knew rope could be this exciting?
Emergency Whistles with Lanyard
Yelling at the top of your lungs isn’t always effective. This high-decibel lifesaver ensures you’re heard over any chaos—be it lost in the woods, stranded at sea, or surviving your kid’s soccer game. Made from durable, weather-resistant plastic, it’s lightweight and floats, so it’s always ready when you need it. With a lanyard included, you’ll never lose it in a crisis. Sound the alarm and let the world know you mean business!
Freezing your toes off isn’t part of the adventure. This lightweight, waterproof marvel keeps you cozy from spring to winter, ensuring you’re snug whether you’re camping in the Rockies or your backyard. Easy to carry and compress, it’s perfect for spontaneous trips and fits in your pack without a struggle. With its comfy design and durable material, it’s your trusty sidekick for conquering the great outdoors—or just surviving family camping trips. Sleep tight, no frostbite!
Getting lost should be a choice, not an accident. Perfect for hiking, backpacking, and navigating those pesky urban jungles, this professional-grade compass ensures you always know which way is north (or south, or east, or west). Lightweight and durable, it fits in your pocket, ready for any adventure—or when your phone’s GPS decides to take a nap. Never wander aimlessly again and impress friends with your impeccable sense of direction. Find your way, stay on track!
Maintenance and Storage Tips – ‘cuz Gear Orderliness is Next to Outdoor Sweetness
I learned to take care of my things. After every trip, I check and clean my gear. That makes me ready for my next adventure and increases awareness of any worn, torn, or broken items.
Being organized in how you store your gear makes it much easier to grab what you need for specific outings. For instance, my electronics are in one spot, tents and chairs in another, a place for winter gear like hand warmers and gloves, a place for rope and tethers, one for any water gear, and so on.
Then, I can grab specific bags depending on where I’m going. I also keep a bug-out bag, or go-bag, in my car. Many times I’ve ventured somewhere and wanted to jump in a lake, or go hiking, or a spontaneous camping trip but couldn’t because I had no gear.
It’s wise to prepare some premade snack food, or have recipes for your go-to easy-to-make snack foods. Make sure you’re getting protein, healthy fats, and carbs in your snacks.
Another good rule of thumb is to sharpen blades, clean and dry all gear, check batteries, and maybe even keep a gear inventory. It would suck if you started dressing a deer and your knife was completely dull.
Know When and How to Use Your Shh…Survival Kit
Having all the survival gear you need is just part of the responsibility. You need to know your gear inside and out. If the time comes when you need to quickly make a fire and use SOS signals with a flashlight, you better know how to do that…or your beer-drinking buddies won’t be able to find your campsite.
Get familiar with your gear. Take it out, play with it, use it, and understand it. You shouldn’t need the manual when you’re out. You should be confident when making a fire, tracking your location, building a shelter, and cooking healthy foods.
Crucial knowledge includes first aid, communication (whistle, smoke signals), and being mentally ready for any challenge. You don’t want to go on a deep trek in the snow pissed off from your team losing.
Understanding how to quickly set up your shelter, purify water, start a fire, and navigate can significantly increase your survival chances in adverse conditions. Remember, practice might not make perfect, but it makes you pretty darn prepared!