By Jerimiah Ake
Survival in the wilderness requires the right tools and equipment. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the top 10 essential items you need in your survival kit to stay safe and prepared in any situation.
1. Cutting Tool
A cutting tool is the cornerstone of any survival kit. It needs to handle multiple tasks, from processing firewood to fine carving. A blade length of 4 ½ to 6 inches strikes the perfect balance. Opt for High Carbon Steel blades for their durability and ability to generate sparks. Ensure the blade has a sharp 90-degree spine and is of full tang design to withstand heavy use.
Recommended: Morakniv Mora Bushcraft Survival Knife
- The Mora Bushcraft Black Knife is perfect for splitting wood and starting fires, making it an ideal choice.
2. Combustion Device
Creating fire is crucial for survival. It keeps you warm, purifies water, cooks food, and signals for rescue. A Ferrocerium Rod is an excellent choice as it produces hot sparks even when wet and is long-lasting. Combine it with waterproof tinder soaked in accelerants for a reliable fire-starting solution.
Recommended: UCO Titan Fire Striker Ferrocerium Rod and Tinder
- This combination ensures you can start a fire under any conditions.
3. Cover
Proper clothing is your first layer of protection. Additionally, a reusable emergency space blanket with a sturdy backing and grommets is essential. It should also have an orange side for signaling.
Additional Item: Cotton Bandannas from Self-Reliance Outfitters
- Durable and versatile, these bandannas are invaluable for multiple survival tasks.
4. Container
A robust container is essential for carrying, disinfecting water, cooking food, and preparing medicines. Stainless steel, single-walled, and one-piece designs with wide mouths are ideal.
5. Cordage
Cordage is crucial for constructing and repairing shelters. Carry about 100 feet of high-quality cordage, such as Tarred Mariners #36 Line. It offers high tensile strength and can be broken down into finer fibers.
6. Cotton Bandannas
A 3-foot square, 100% cotton bandanna is a multifunctional item. It can be used for creating slings, bandages, hygiene purposes, carrying items, and protecting your head from the sun.
7. Cargo Tape
A full 2-inch roll of Gorilla Brand Duct Tape is incredibly versatile. It can be used for repairs, first aid, and even fire starting. The adhesive is highly flammable, which helps ignite marginal tinder.
8. Compass
A multifunctional compass is vital. It should include a mirror for signaling and first aid, and a magnifying lens of at least 5x power for backup fire starting.
9. Cloth Sail Needle
A large, strong sail needle is essential for repairing gear and can be used as an improvised compass when magnetized. It’s versatile for various tasks, including emergency suturing.
10. Candling Device
A headlamp is preferable to a flashlight as it frees up your hands. Multiple brightness settings and a flash mode are useful for signaling and various tasks.
Recommended: UCO Headlamp
- The UCO Beta headlamp is versatile and highly functional for survival situations.
By ensuring you have these top 10 items in your survival kit, you’ll be well-prepared for any wilderness situation. Stay safe, stay prepared.
This article is written by Jerimiah Ake, providing you with essential insights into survival gear and preparedness.