With so much at our fingertips daily, the modern man/woman has a much more difficult time being “off the grid.” Those with experience will (hopefully) look at this list and agree. Others will (probably) look at and think, “I can’t survive on just those ten things!” Trust this, and these items are not meant to keep you comfortable. They are intended to keep you alive!
1. Ties/Cords:
Bungee ties or a parachute cord are both useful for securing cargo or building an emergency shelter. Some other smaller uses include:
- keeping food away from wildlife
- splinting up broken bones
- repairing tents
- climbing
- fishing line
- trap hunting
2. Beanie/Cap:
Since most body heat is released through the head, keeping it covered by a cap during cold nights is essential.
3. Knife:
Out of everything included in this list, a knife has the most uses as a survival kit and everyday life. If you ever find yourself in a survival situation and have nothing else but a knife on you, your chances of surviving are exponentially increased. Some of its uses include:
- cutting rope
- creating weapons
- opening packages
- creating fire starters
- building emergency shelters
- cutting cloth to make bandages for splints
4. Canteen
This requires no explanation. Without a canteen for water, your chances of surviving in any given situation are significantly decreased. Experts say that you can only survive without water for approximately three days.
5. Whistle/Flashlight:
If you are stuck in a real survival situation, which means you have no cell phone service, you will need an alternative means of communicating or alerting others. A flashlight or whistle is an excellent way to both signal for help and wards off unwanted animals as guests.
6. Tarp:
A tarp is ideal, but space may be limited in the bag you choose to carry, so that a large garbage bag can do the trick. Having something to build a shelter with when sleeping at night will keep you dry and warmer. There are several shelter options, so before heading out on your adventure, look them up if you find yourself in a survival situation.
7. First Aid Kit:
A pocket medic will significantly simplify the bandaging and increase the healing time of any wounds. A smaller one with just the necessities such as gauze, bandages, alcohol pads, and gloves is all you will need.
8. Matches:
Unless you have training in building a fire with nothing but sticks or grew up a Boy Scout, matches are essential. If you are lucky enough to get your hands on some wind and waterproof matches, then you’ve got it made (a fire, that is)!
9. Change of Clothes:
If you get wet while in a survival situation, you must get dry as fast as possible. Moisture pulls heat away from the body, and while it may be warm during the day, most evenings in a remote place get cold quickly. Please note that synthetic clothing is more ideal. Cotton clothing will stay wet and keep you moist for a long time.
10. Bag/Pack:
Do you need me to tell you what this is for? I mean, where are you going to put the other nine items on this list?! A bag of some sort will also allow you to pick up useful things along the way.
That’s it! Do you think you could survive with just those ten items?
