How To Pack an Outdoor Survival Kit

A trip to the great outdoors is not for the faint hearted – be it for a few hours or for a few days. One should be prepared physically and mentally for the challenges ahead. Things do not always go your way so it is best if you are prepared. In case things go wrong, having a survival kit handy will go a long way.

If you are planning on having an outdoor adventure with your friends, keep in mind that you have to prepare of it. Part of the preparation is making sure you pack everything that you need, but to not over pack at the same time.

To know how to pack a survival kit for your outdoor activity, follow the instructions below.

Materials you will need

• Flashlight
• Swiss knife
• Matches or lighter
• Lantern or flashlight
• Compass
• Tube tent
• Lightweight clothing
• Wool socks
• First aid kit
• Laminated ID with photo
• Plastic zip lock bags
• Needle and thread
• Safety pins
• Razor blade
• Mirror
• Whistle
• Folding shovel
• Solar blanket
• Purification tablets
• Jug of water
• Non-perishable food items
• Foil

Collect your materials

Create a checklist of all the items you need to bring, including your survival kit materials. Almost any container will do as a survival kit, though experts recommend a tin can. The size of the tin can should just be enough to fit your kit. Do not bring anything bigger as you need to pack as small as possible without leaving any of the necessities.

Do not forget to bring water

Though this can be bulky and heavy, do not leave without a small bottle on hand. Also bring purification tablets with you. This is very useful in case you run out of drinking water and would need to drink whatever is available in the outdoors without a way to boil it first. Make sure you check the expiration of those tablets.

Bring foil

This is not for any possible food take out. A large piece of foil can be used as a makeshift pan. Fold the foil and flat it before putting in your survival can.

Carry a large zip lock bag

If there are any objects that you do not want to get wet, store it inside the zip lock bags. These can also be used as storage for food or water. As they can be folded, similar to foil, it will not take so much space in your kit.

Bring matches or lighter

Though it may be cool to make fire out of dried twigs, this can take time. Bring matches with you and place it inside a zip lock to make sure it does not get wet. Or, you can also bring a lighter instead.

Pack easy to cook and light food items

You will have very limited capacity to cook, so pack food items that do not need cooking or are fast to cook. Protein bars are good for snacks.

In case of emergency, a mirror and whistle can be a big help

If you get lost, a mirror placed directly on sunlight can be used as signal. You can blow a whistle as well to catch attention of other campers

Pack a sewing kit

No, you are not to sew clothing or a tent outdoors. A sewing kit can be useful in case you incur deep wounds that would need stitching. Bring an alcohol and apply it to the needle and threat before stitching yourself to sterilize the materials and avoid infection.

Bring a tent for shelter

Make sure the materials to assemble your tent are complete before leaving. Your tent should be waterproof and lightweight.

Bring a laminated ID

You ID should contain your full name, address, and contact person in case of emergency. Also indicate allergies if applicable.

Double check your list before leaving your home. Depending on how long you will be gone, you may have to pack more. Also inform family or friends where you are going and when you will be back.