Reliable Survival Kit

Lately i've seen all these do it yourslef survival kits, and quite frankly they suck. As an experienced backpacker and wilderness enthusiest, any "survival kit" that fits into an altoids tin isnt adequate. I will show you the survival kit that i bring on any trek. In fact, besides a tarp and jacket, this is all i take for a week long trek.

Step 1: Water

Water is you biggest asset in the wild. So you want many ways to carry it.

A non breakable water bottle is the prefered way.

A foldable water container can supply extra storage while not taking up much space when not in use.

And believe it or not, a non- lubritcated condom can hold up to a gallon of water.

Step 2: Fire

Fire ca be used to keep away bugs and predatores, cook, purify water, prvide warmth, and boost morale. to make life easier on yourself you may want to use these to start your fires.

Fire steel works very nice.

Matches should be coated in wax and and placed in a waterproof match safe.

Butane lighters work very nicely. However, the clear ones are better because you can see the amount of fuel left and adjust the size of the flame.

Cottonballs soaked in vasoline ignite easily and burn for quite a while

Step 3: Flashlight

Bring a flash light for night time activities. While in some places the moon is bright enough to see by, clouds could be in the sky blocking out the light. And because torches can be unreliable bring a flashlight and extra batteries.

Step 4: First Aid

You never know what will happen to you so be prepared with an adequate first aid kit.

Mine contains:

Small tube of Neosporin
A 36x36x51 inch triangular bandage
Roll of adhesive tape
Some adhesive bandages
Mole skin
Small bar of soap
3 inch sterile pad
2inch sterile pad

Step 5: Knife

A good sharp knife is always a necessity. It can be use for all kinds of things.

Step 6: Compass

You should always have a compass with you if you no matter what.

Step 7: Iodine

Make sure that you have tincture of iodine 2%. You can use this for a couple of things. It can be used as a first aid antiseptic, and you can purify tour water with it.

Step 8: Signal Mirror

Obviously you want a way to get someones attention. There is no better way than a signal mirror. Make sure you put it in a protective case so that is doesnt get scrathced.

Step 9: Trash Bags

You can use trash bags for many things. If it starts to rain you can cut arm and neck holes and use it as a poncho. You can also use them to collect water.

Step 10: Para Cord

Para cord is stronger that most rope making it ideal for survival. But be sure you get real par cord. The real stuff has seven smaller cords inside of it. You should have about 50 feet of it.

Step 11: Wool Cap

Step 12: Bandana

Step 13: Emergency Blanket

Emergeny blankets will help to keep you warm by reflecting your body heat back at you.

Step 14: Dental Floss

Dental floss is amazingly strong and can be used as cordage.

Step 15: Whistle

Bring a whistle because ther is not natural sound that is close to that of a whistle. It may save your life.

Step 16: Duct Tape

Duct tape can be used for a lot of stuff. you can use it to repair rips in tents, tarps, clothing, temporarily seal a crack in a bottle, or canoe. It is an amazing thing to have with you because it can be used for just about anything.

Step 17: Surveyors Tape

You can use this tape to mark the way you went so that rescuers have an idea of where you are at.

Step 18: Ziploc Bags

Ziploc bags can be use to hold water, make a solar still, store food, and much more. It is a good idea to bring a coule different sized bags.

Step 19: Storage

You can keep it all in a nice little bag so that it is in one place.