The great outdoors is a perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether going for a hike, camping, or backpacking, being in the wild can help to clear your mind and give you much-needed peace. However, it’s crucial to stay safe when spending time in nature, and that means having the right gear. In this article, we’ll go over some essential survival kit items you’ll need to stay protected during your outdoor adventures.
Are you planning a trip to the great outdoors? If yes, then you should know that anything can happen in the wilderness, which is why it is crucial to have a survival kit. It doesn’t matter if you are a seasoned adventurer or a beginner; the wilderness can be unpredictable, and you should always be adequately prepared. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the essential items that should be in your survival kit.
Water: The human body can go for a few days without food, but not for long without water. You need to carry sufficient water or a filtration system so that you can purify water when needed. Always remember to have more water than you think you’ll need. Staying hydrated is essential in the outdoors to avoid dehydration.
Food: Food is a basic necessity for survival, but you don’t need to carry a gourmet meal with you. You need to carry enough food to last you until you can find your way back or get rescued. The food you carry should be high in calories and easy to prepare. Granola bars, canned beans, jerky, and peanut butter are examples of food that is easy to carry and can last for an extended period.
First Aid Kit: Always carry a first aid kit. In the outdoors, you can quickly get cuts, bruises, and other injuries. The first aid kit should have band-aids, antibiotic ointments, gauze, and pain relievers. If you or your team member has a pre-existing medical condition, make sure you carry the required medication.
Navigation tools: The area you are exploring may not have proper cell coverage, or worse, you may lose your phone. That’s why you should carry a map and compass. These tools will help you find your way back to the trailhead or your destination. Practice using a compass and reading a map to be more self-reliant and avoid getting lost.
Shelter: If you plan on spending the night in the great outdoors, you need shelter to protect yourself from extreme weather conditions and animals. You can carry a tent or a tarp to create a makeshift shelter. Make sure the equipment you carry is lightweight so that it’s easier to carry across terrains.
Fire Starter: Fire is essential in the outdoors. You need it to cook, stay warm, and signal for help if needed. Carry matches or a lighter, but make sure you keep them in a waterproof container to keep them dry. Also, practice building a fire before you need it, so that you are well prepared in case you need to create one.
Water is undoubtedly one of the most critical resources when spending time in the great outdoors. It’s essential to bring enough water with you, but that’s not always possible. So what do you do if you run out of water? A water filtration straw, like the LifeStraw, is an excellent item to have in your kit. These straws can filter out bacteria and parasites, making most water sources safe to drink from. They’re lightweight and easy to carry, making them the perfect addition to your survival kit.
Another crucial item is a first-aid kit. The kit should have all the essentials for treating minor injuries, such as bandages, gauze pads, adhesive tape, and antiseptic wipes. It’s also a good idea to include a pocket knife, scissors, and tweezers. If you’re going on a more extended trip, you may want to consider taking a wilderness first aid course.
If you’re lost or injured in the wilderness, having a way to signal for help can be life-saving. That’s where signaling devices come in. Some of the best signaling devices include a whistle, a signal mirror, and a flare. A loud whistle can be heard over long distances, making it an excellent tool for making your presence known. A signal mirror can reflect sunlight, making it visible from a distance. Flares are also an excellent tool, as they can be seen from the air and can alert rescuers to your location. Make sure to store these items in an easily accessible place in your backpack.
It’s easy to underestimate how quickly the weather can change, particularly in mountainous or forested areas. The key is to dress in layers and be prepared for any weather conditions. A waterproof and windproof shell is a must-have, as well as a warm hat, gloves, and wool socks. It’s also essential to have a thermal blanket, which can help retain body heat in cold weather. When choosing clothing for your outdoor adventure, avoid cotton as it can absorb moisture and leave you feeling cold and damp.
Finally, fire-starting tools are a must-have in any survival kit. A lighter or waterproof matches are convenient tools, but it’s wise to pack a backup. A flint and steel or magnesium fire starter can be used when all else fails. Make sure to pack tinder, such as cotton balls or dryer lint, to aid in starting a fire. It’s essential to learn how to start a fire in various conditions, so practice before heading out on your adventure.
Conclusion:
When heading out into the great outdoors, a well-prepared survival kit can make a significant difference to your safety and survival. Ensure that you pack these essential items, so you’re prepared for any obstacles that may come your way. A water filtration straw, first-aid kit, signaling devices, proper clothing, and fire-starting tools are the foundation of a well-prepared survival kit. Take the time to prepare, so you can enjoy your adventure with the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re always prepared for the unexpected. Stay safe, and happy adventures!
In conclusion, the outdoors can be unpredictable, and the best way to survive is to be prepared. Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or a beginner, you should always carry a survival kit. Your survival kit should have water, food, a first aid kit, navigation tools, shelter, and a fire starter. With these essentials, you will be better equipped to handle whatever comes your way. Remember, it’s better to have something and not need it than to need something and not have it.