10 (or 11) Must-Have items for a Survival Bag
No one knows if the next big disaster will happen to them or exactly what it will be. But everyone should be prepared for an eventuality that has happened many times and is likely to happen again i.e. a natural disaster. There are many other possible scenarios in which you may need a pack like this, heck, you could even use it camping, I do. And I'm assuming at least a basic knowledge of the outdoors, fire-starting and the like, if you are a total city slicker, then go and get some instruction. The best thing about a bag like this is that it's easy and fun to put together, and even if you (hopefully) never use it, you can use everything in it anyways! So here it is, in my order of importance.
1) BAG - Sounds obvious , but the best advice is to get a good pack or bag to put everything in. Not a cheap one. Companies like 5.11 Tactical and Blackhawk make heavy duty, military style packs. They cost a bit more, but will last forever and have all sorts of useful pockets and compartments that most 'ordinary' people wouldn't think about.
2) WATER - Some packs have a built in hydration system, some have external webbed bottle carriers, but one way or another you'll need about 2 qts per day per person. Also under this category, I'd advise throwing in some purification tablets. You never know what kind of water you're going to end up with.
3) WEAPON - Some people scoff at putting a weapon in their bag. If you're not comfortable with a pistol, then get a Taser , Stun Gun or Pepper Spray. Reason? You may have the best bag out there, but if you ever need it, it's likely to be during bad times of one sort or another. And other people, even ones that used to be nice folks, will take your bag from you. Period.
4) FOOD - You won't have lots of room, so keep it simple. The food must be small, contain lots of calories, and be able to stay fresh for a long time. Protein bars are good, so are MRE's (Meals Ready to Eat) like the military uses. Dried fruit or other dried staples are good as well.
5) FIRE - You may be living outdoors, but regardless, you'll need a way to start a fire. To stay warm, heat food, purify water, or signal for help. A BIC lighter, some waterproof matches, AND a flint striker type of tool should all be in your bag. And some sort of tinder. You can use some of the items in your bag if necessary.
6) LIGHT - A small to medium size flashlight will suffice, along with extra batteries. You'll need to be able to see at night, and you can signal as well. My advice would be to add a headlamp style light to free up your hands for carrying tools, weapons or climbing.
7) KNIFE - A good knife will be invaluable as a tool or weapon. Like everything else on this list, do not go cheap on this one. Expect to pay around $100 for a good knife with sheath. The question will be: fixed blade or folding? This will be a personal decision with many pros and cons on each side. See my other blog on this topic....
8) FIRST AID KIT - A must have, you can get a nice size one for under $20 or go a bit larger if you like. If you live in a desert region, throw in a snakebite kit.
9) SHELTER - This will refer to both clothing and housing, anything to keep the wet and cold (or heat) off your body. Once again, you may be living outdoors, or in a structure that has lost electricity and gas, so based on your particular area, choose the appropriate items. Space blankets can double as a sleeping bag or an overhead protector from sun or rain. Extra socks are a good idea, the feet always need to be kept in good shape, and a bandana, see http://survivalcache.com/30-uses-for-a-bandana/ or use a shemaugh, a cotton desert headdress worn by desert tribes and made popular by US Forces serving in that region.
10) WHISTLE/MIRROR/COMPASS - I put these together since they can often be purchased as a set, and you won't need the absolute best of these for an emergency, you'll just be glad you have them when you need them.
11) MULTI TOOL - A good, full-size multi-tool could save your life. Or at least make it a lot easier. Leatherman, SOG and Gerber all make good ones and a little research will find the one that fits you best. Again, this will not be cheap, $80 - $140 will be needed to get a good one, or eBay can be a good place to find one used. The pliers will come in handy along with the bit drivers, can openers and bottle opener.
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