Food and drink
There are no promises when it comes to the kind of place you could find yourself stranded in. Food and water should be your primary concern in an emergency. At a minimum, your kit should include:- Water purification tablets or purification straws
- Pots and mugs
- Non-perishable food bars
- Rations, such as MREs
Cordage and tape
Cording and tape can serve many purposes, from holding up tarps for shelter to keeping a leg splint in place. For cordage, your kit should include ample paracord and monofilament fishing line. Duct tape is a must as well, as it is both multi-purpose and highly dependable.
Fire starting tools
Ask anyone who has ever been caught out in the woods overnight - fire is life. Being able to start a fire means being able to keep warm and safe, provide illumination, and offers the ability to cook, boil water, and even create a signal for rescue. Your kit should include the various things you might need to start a fire including:
- A flint or firestarter
- Waterproof matches
- Emergency tinder
Lighting
Surviving is harder if you trip and fall and break bones or cause yourself other injuries. Being able to see in the dark of a forest, into caves and overhangs, or along paths is important. Flashlights are a must, as are extra batteries. You should also carry emergency candles - and waterproof matches with your fire starters - in case your flashlights don’t work or you run out of batteries.Protection from the elements
Protecting yourself from injury is important, but so it protecting yourself from the elements. Having the ability to create even minimal shelter will keep you dry and warmer than you would otherwise be, staving off things like hypothermia. Space blankets are lightweight and easy to pack in your kit. Ponchos will help keep you dry. Tarps can be used to keep you off of the wet and cold ground or strung between trees to offer shelter and cover.First aid
A medical emergency will slow you down and make rescue more challenging. To keep your kit light and portable, however, you can’t pack medical supplies for every conceivable situation. Instead, opt for a basic first aid kit that can cover wounds, support sprains, and keep infection at bay.- Band-aids
- Antiseptic wipes
- Antibiotic ointment
- Anti-itch cream and antihistamines
- Pain relievers, like aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen
- Gauze
- Ace bandages
- Tweezers