Not a collection of random gadgets, but a coherent system
Survival Gear is only useful if you’ve got the basics right. Start with water, warmth, light, orientation and first aid. Then you can expand your kit to suit your route, the season or your emergency kit.
The 5 essentials of a survival kit
Water
Water filter, purification tablets, hydration pack or bottle. You can survive for up to 3 days without water.
Fire and light
Fire steel, storm matches, head torch or emergency torch. Fire provides warmth, light and can purify water.
Shelter and warmth
Emergency blanket, poncho, tarpaulin or compact shelter. Protects against rain, wind and hypothermia.
Tools
Multitool, a knife where permitted, rope or paracord. For working with wood, building shelters and carrying out repairs.
Orientation and care
Compass, whistle and EHBO kit. For navigation, signalling and first aid in the event of injuries.
Select your usage scenario
Day trip or hike
Torch, water filter, EHBO and power bank. Enough for a day out, returning to your starting point.
Camping/bushcraft
Fire, shelter, tools and water. For multi-day trips where you set up your own camp.
Bug-out bag/emergency bag
Compact, lightweight and multifunctional. Everything you need to get by on your own for 72 hours.
Car/emergency kit
Water, heat, light, safety and EHBO. For breakdowns on the road or if you’re stranded in winter weather.
Build your kit step by step
A good kit doesn’t have to be big. Choose items you understand, test them at home or on a short walk, and replace anything that’s run out or is about to go off.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should go in a survival kit?
The basics consist of water (filter or tablets), fire (fire steel or matches), shelter (emergency blanket or tarp), tools (knife or multi-tool), navigation (compass) and EHBO. You can then add to these depending on your route and the season.
What is the difference between survival gear and bushcraft gear?
Survival gear is compact and designed for emergency situations: fast, lightweight and multifunctional. Bushcraft gear is more robust and intended for extended stays in the wilderness, where you build shelters and make use of natural materials.
Which water filter should I choose?
For everyday use, choose a compact bottle filter or a squeeze filter. For longer trips or larger groups, a pump filter is more practical. Water purification tablets are lighter but take longer to make the water safe to drink.
Do I need a knife or a multi-tool?
A multi-tool is more versatile and can be taken anywhere. A fixed-blade knife is stronger and better for batoning (splitting wood), but in some countries you need a licence to carry one. Start with a multi-tool and expand your kit once you start doing bushcraft.
What should I pack in a bug-out bag?
Water filter, non-perishable food for 3 days, emergency torch, power bank, EHBO kit, multi-tool, emergency blanket, spare clothes, waterproof poncho, a copy of your ID and cash. Keep it compact enough to be able to move it quickly.
How can I stop my kit from becoming too heavy?
Choose multi-purpose items: a poncho can serve as both a raincoat and a tarp. Opt for dried food rather than tinned food. Take only what you really need and leave luxury items at home. Test your kit on a short walk to see what you’re missing or, conversely, what you don’t actually use.