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Picture this: you’re lost in the vast wilderness, miles away from civilization, with nothing but the clothes on your back. The sun is setting, and the temperature is dropping rapidly. In moments like these, having the right supplies can make all the difference between survival and disaster. In this article, I’ll explore the essential items you need in your wilderness survival kit to conquer any environment and emerge unscathed. From water purification to navigation tools, I’ve got you covered on what it takes to endure the wild. We’re diving into the must-have gear for facing the great outdoors head-on.
Keep in mind that this is not a comprehensive list. There are many other items that can come in handy when in survival scenarios. This list is composed of the basic necessities and keeps the 5 C’s of wilderness survival in mind. Build your full kit through time, if necessary. These are just the basics I tend to carry when spending time in the wilderness, especially the Backcountry of Alaska.
Other Helpful Wilderness Survival Articles:
- Wilderness Survival Gear: How to Score Unbelievable Deals
- Backcountry Water Purification: The Ultimate Survival Guide
- How to Ignite a Fire in Wet Conditions
Water and Water Purification in Your Wilderness Survival Kit
One of the most crucial elements of surviving in the wild is staying hydrated. Without access to clean water, your chances of making it out unscathed diminish significantly.
In your wilderness survival kit, be sure to include water bottles or a hydration pack. Additionally, it’s essential to have a reliable water purification method, such as water purification tablets or a portable water filter, to ensure that the water you find in the wild is safe to drink.
Proper hydration is key to maintaining your strength and focus, so don’t overlook the importance of water and water purification in your survival kit.
Sawyer Products SP129 Squeeze Water Filtration System w/ Two 32-Oz Squeeze Pouches, Straw, and Hydration Pack Adapter
Food and Energy Bars
When you’re out in the wild, you’ll need to keep your energy levels up to navigate the challenges of survival. Pack nutrient-dense food like energy bars to provide a quick and convenient source of sustenance.
These bars are compact, lightweight, and packed with essential nutrients to keep you fueled during your journey. Choose bars with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats to sustain your energy levels. Be sure to check the expiration dates regularly and rotate them out to keep your supply fresh.
Emergency Food Rations- 3600 Calorie Bar (Vanilla Poundcake) – 3 Day, 72 Hour Ready To Eat Supply
First Aid Supplies for Your Wilderness Survival Kit
In the unpredictable wilderness, injuries can happen when you least expect them. That’s why it’s essential to have a well-stocked first aid kit on hand.
Include items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, adhesive tape, and pain relievers to treat minor injuries and alleviate discomfort. Don’t forget essentials like tweezers for removing splinters and a pair of scissors for cutting bandages.
Prioritize having a compact, lightweight kit that won’t weigh you down as you embark on your journey. With your first aid supplies in tow, you’ll be better equipped to handle unexpected bumps along the way.
EVERLIT 250 Pieces Survival First Aid Kit IFAK EMT Molle Pouch Survival Kit Outdoor Gear Emergency Kits Trauma Bag
Navigation Tools
When venturing into the wilderness, having the right navigation tools is crucial for staying on course and reaching your destination safely. A compass, map, and GPS device are essential for plotting your route, determining your location, and navigating through challenging terrain.
These tools not only help prevent you from getting lost but also guide you towards water sources, shelter, and other important resources. By equipping yourself with the proper navigation tools, you can confidently explore the wild and ensure a successful adventure.
Land Nav Kit with Lensatic Compass, Protractor, Pace Counter & Map Markers
Shelter and Fire Starters for a Wilderness Survival Kit
When facing the unpredictable elements of the wilderness, having reliable shelter and fire starters in your survival kit is essential for staying protected and warm. Your shelter could be as simple as a lightweight tent, emergency bivy sack, or even a poncho to shield you from the wind and rain. A quality sleeping bag and insulating pad will also help keep you comfortable through the night.
Go Time Gear Life Tent Emergency Survival Shelter – 2 Person Emergency Tent
But staying warm is not just about having a roof over your head; it’s also about being able to start a fire. Pack waterproof matches, a lighter, and fire starter cubes to ensure you can quickly spark a flame, even in wet conditions. Consider including a small stove or portable cooking device for preparing hot meals and boiling water. By prioritizing shelter and fire starters in your wilderness survival kit, you’ll be better prepared to face whatever challenges come your way, making your wilderness experience safer and more enjoyable.
Emergency Fire Starting Kit, 15-Piece Waterproof Fire Starter Survival Tool Kit
Cordage: the Overlooked Item in a Wilderness Survival Kit
One of the most important items to have in your survival kit is cordage. Cordage, also known as rope, is a simple yet essential item that can make all the difference in a survival situation. From building shelter and hunting to creating tools and traps, cordage has endless uses in the wild.
It’s crucial to have at least 50 feet of cordage in your survival kit. And while there are many types of cordage available, choosing the right one can make a difference. Natural fibers like jute or sisal are strong and versatile but tend to rot when wet. On the other hand, synthetic fibers like nylon are water-resistant and have a higher breaking strength.
If given the choice, I usually opt for high quality and strength Para-cord. It’s small enough to be easily portable, but strong enough for tough jobs.
At the end of the day, cordage is often overlooked, but is easily one of the most important components in any wilderness survival kit.
TECEUM Paracord 550 lb
Container: Keeping the 5 C’s in Mind for a Wilderness Survival Kit
One of the most important items to include in your wilderness survival kit is a container. It may seem like a small and insignificant item, but its benefits are invaluable.
First and foremost, a container allows you to store and carry items that are essential for survival. From water and food to first aid supplies and fire-starting materials, a container provides a safe and secure place to keep these crucial items. Without it, you may find yourself scavenging for resources or risking your safety by storing items in unsafe ways.
But a container’s usefulness goes beyond just storage. It can also serve as a multipurpose tool. For example, a metal container can be used to boil water and cook food, while a plastic one can be used to collect rainwater for drinking. Furthermore, a container can be used to collect and transport fire-starting materials, such as dry leaves or tinder, making it easier to start a fire in an emergency situation.
the importance of adding a container to your wilderness survival kit cannot be overstated. So the next time you head into the great outdoors, make sure you have a container in your kit. It could be the difference between life and death.
Adventurer Mini Survival Gear Box
Conclusion on Building Your Wilderness Survival Kit
In the unpredictable realm of the wilderness, it’s crucial to be equipped with the right tools for survival. From water purification to navigation tools, each item in your survival kit plays a vital role in ensuring your safety. By taking the time to pack these essentials, you are arming yourself with the best possible chance of making it out alive in any situation.
Remember, preparation is key – don’t wait until it’s too late to gather your supplies. As the saying goes, “It’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.” Stay safe, stay prepared, and conquer the wild with confidence.
