I’ve been in the survival gear industry for many years and have spent more nights under the stars than I can count. Whether it’s been wilderness expeditions or field testing load-bearing equipment in the backcountry, I’ve seen what works and what’s just a waste of space in your pack. This list comes from years of hands-on experience and a fair share of lessons learned the hard way.
Let’s cut to the chase: having the right survival gear can mean the difference between a great adventure and a total mess. This isn’t about grabbing the shiniest gadgets; it’s about packing smart, packing light, and being ready for whatever nature throws your way.
Water and Hydration Gear
Water is not optional. You’ll need at least 3 liters per day in most environments and want ways to collect and purify more. Here’s what I recommend:
- Water Filter or Purification Tablets: A small portable filter like the Sawyer Mini is a game changer. Tablets are a good backup.
- Collapsible Water Bottle: Lightweight and space-saving. Try the kind that folds flat when empty.
- Metal Canteen or Bottle: This can be used as a container to boil water if tablets or filters fail.
Remember, no water means no survival. Prioritize this like your life depends on it—because it does.
Shelter and Warmth
Even the toughest of us can’t tough it out when hypothermia sets in. A good shelter setup doesn’t have to be fancy—it just has to work.
- Tarp or Emergency Bivvy: Tarps are versatile. Pair one with some paracord and you’ve got instant shelter. Emergency bivvies are tiny but pack serious warmth.
- Sleeping Bag: Get one rated for the coldest temps you might face. I’ve always gone with synthetic bags because they handle wet conditions better.
- Fire Starting Kit: Don’t count on a single lighter. Carry waterproof matches, a ferrocerium rod, and a few tinder options like cotton balls soaked in petroleum jelly.
When night falls and temps drop you’ll thank yourself for thinking ahead.
Food and Cooking Supplies
Nobody wants to eat bark or nibble on unknown plants. Bring food you know will keep you going.
- Non-Perishable Foods: High-calorie options like energy bars, dehydrated meals, and nuts are compact and easy to carry.
- Compact Stove: A tiny stove and small fuel canister weigh almost nothing but make meal prep so much easier.
- Lightweight Cookware: A single pot or cup can handle most cooking tasks. Titanium options are expensive but worth it for weight savings.
Pro tip: pack a small spice kit. A pinch of salt or pepper can make even the most bland of trail food edible.
Navigation and Communication Tools
Getting lost is no joke and calling for help might be your only way out. Always have tools to help you stay on course and connected.
- Map and Compass: GPS devices fail, batteries die and signals disappear. A map and compass never do.
- GPS Device or Smartphone with Offline Maps: Good as a supplement but never your only navigation method.
- Emergency Beacon or Satellite Messenger: If you’re going way off-grid this one is worth its weight in gold.
Take it from someone who’s been lost more times than I can count: knowing where you are can save your life.
First Aid Kit
Accidents happen. Whether it’s a minor scrape or something more serious you’ll want a kit that can handle it.
- Basic First Aid Kit: Bandages, pain relievers, and antiseptic wipes.
- Specialty Items: Blister pads, tourniquet, and any personal medications.
- Multitool with Scissors and Tweezers: These come in handy for everything from splinter removal to cutting tape.
Remember: Please learn how to use all items in the survival kit before a situation arises where you must use them.
Clothing for All Conditions
Mother Nature doesn’t care about your comfort. Layer up and prepare for everything.
- Moisture-Wicking Base Layers: Stay dry to avoid hypothermia.
- Insulating Mid-Layer: Fleece or puffy jackets keep you warm without adding too much weight.
- Waterproof Outer Layer: A rain jacket or poncho will keep you dry in a sudden downpour.
- Gloves and Socks: Very important as wet and cold feet are no bueno. Dry socks are a morale booster.
You’re not trying to be fashionable out there. Function always wins.
Tools and Repair Items
When things break you’ll need to MacGyver a solution. A few tools go a long way.
Multitool or Knife: A good blade is a survival essential. Make sure it’s sharp.
Duct Tape: Fixes everything in a pinch.
Paracord: Strong, lightweight, and endlessly useful. Use for shelter, repairs, or even fishing lines.
I once saw a guy rig up a makeshift sled with duct tape and paracord after his gear bag tore. Be that guy.
Lighting and Power
Don’t get caught in the dark. Reliable lighting and backup power are non-negotiable.
- Headlamp with Extra Batteries: Hands-free light is key for setting up camp or reading a map.
- Compact Backup Flashlight: Because redundancy is key.
- Portable Power Bank: For charging devices or powering your GPS.
The sun sets whether you’re ready or not.
Personal Protection
Safety isn’t just about bears or mountain lions. Sometimes you need to protect yourself from other people or the elements.
- Pepper Spray or Bear Spray: Good for both wildlife and personal safety.
- Signal Whistle: Loud, lightweight, and easy to carry.
- Emergency Blanket: Small enough to fit in your pocket but big enough to keep you warm or signal for help.
Being prepared doesn’t make you paranoid—it makes you smart.
Mental Preparedness and Skills
Survival isn’t just about the gear; it’s about knowing how to use it. Practice setting up your tarp shelter, starting a fire, and reading a map before you head out. The more you practice these skills the less you’ll panic when things go south.
Health and Hygiene Items
Hygiene isn’t glamorous but it’s essential for staying healthy.
- Biodegradable Soap: You and the environment will thank you.
- Trowel: For digging cat holes to properly dispose of waste.
- Hand Sanitizer: When water is scarce.
A little bit of effort here goes a long way to avoiding unnecessary illness.
Emergency Signaling Gear
If you need help make sure you can get someone’s attention.
- Signal Mirror: A simple, lightweight tool for reflecting sunlight and signaling rescuers.
- Flagging Tape: Mark trails or create visible signs for searchers.
These are small but powerful when you need them most.
Seasonal Considerations
Adjust your pack to the time of year.
- Summer: Sunblock, hat, and lightweight clothing for hot weather.
- Winter: Crampons, insulated sleeping mat, and extra layers for cold conditions.
Packing seasonally means you’re prepared for the specific challenges.
Personal Comfort
A little comfort goes a long way on a tough trip.
- Foam Sit Pad: Lightweight and perfect for sitting.
- Earplugs: Block out snoring or wildlife noise at night.
- Lightweight Hammock: Relax during downtime without adding too much weight.
These aren’t essentials but they make the experience a lot more enjoyable.
Conclusion
Survival packing isn’t a skill; it’s an art. I’ve seen people try to bring their entire garage into the wilderness and others who think a pocketknife and some gum will do. The sweet spot is somewhere in between. Follow this list, modify it for your trip and you’ll be ready for anything.
As we say at Green Cove Tactical: “Hope for the best, prepare for the worst, and always bring extra duct tape.”
Stay tactical
Andy
