Wilderness Survival Kit: 10 Essentials You NEED

How to Build a Wilderness Survival Kit: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand the Purpose of the Kit

   • This wilderness survival kit is not for long hiking trips with tents and food rations. It is designed for emergency situations where you need to survive in the wilderness with limited resources.

2. Choose the Essentials

   • The 10 essential items for a wilderness survival kit are:
     • Blade
     • Shelter
     • Fire starter
     • Water container and filtration
     • Cordage
     • Light source
     • Signaling device
     • First aid kit
     • Quality bag for storage

3. Blade

   • Include a reliable blade in your kit for various tasks like cutting wood or freeing yourself from entanglements.
   • Recommended options: Small Eldris knife for basic kit, full tang knife or small hatchet for advanced kit.

4. Shelter

   • Pack an emergency tent or tarp to stay warm and protected during the night in the woods.
   • Consider adding a footprint or hammock for extra comfort.

5. Fire Starter

   • Learn how to start a fire in the wilderness using matches, a ferro rod, or a magnesium fire starter kit.
   • Pack waterproof matches and tinder for easy fire ignition.

6. Water

   • Water is crucial for survival. Have a container for water storage and a method to filter drinking water.
   • Options include a water filter bottle, iodine pills, or a water filtration kit with a LifeStraw and Sawyer filter.

7. Cordage

   • Include survival cord in your kit for setting up tents, fishing, and other purposes.
   • Paracord with additional functionalities like monofilament lines and nylon strands is recommended.

8. Light Source

   • Carry a headlamp or chemical light for illumination during the night.
   • Consider adding a candle lantern or battery-powered lantern for extended light.

9. Signaling Device

   • Include a whistle for basic signaling and attracting attention.
   • Advanced options include signal flares, signaling mirror, or a beacon for long-distance signaling.

10. First Aid Kit

    • Pack a first aid kit with essentials like bandages, alcohol swabs, and pain relievers.
    • Consider advanced kits with needles for stitching wounds and additional tools like a compass.

11. Quality Bag

    • Choose a waterproof, durable bag with compartments for organizing your survival kit.
    • Look for a bag with attachment points for adding smaller bags for specific items like water or fire kits.

12. Customize Your Kit

    • Tailor your wilderness survival kit based on your specific needs and the environment you'll be in.
    • Trim down the essentials for a compact, on-the-go kit that can be easily carried anywhere.

13. Additional Tips

    • Stay prepared for unexpected situations by having a well-equipped survival kit.
    • Regularly check and update your kit to ensure all items are in good condition and functional.

By following these steps and assembling a comprehensive wilderness survival kit, you can be better prepared for emergencies and stay safe in the outdoors.