It does not matter whether we are hikers, hunters, campers, or just lost, because the need to survive will be first and foremost on our agenda.
So where do we start? First off you will need something to carry your survival kit items in. This does not need to be very large, actually the smaller the better. If you are hiking you will no doubt already have a good back pack, so its just a matter of having the right things. This would apply to hunters as well.
The main things that are needed would be some tools to help make a resonable shelter, a basic cooking utensil like a small tin or stainless steel cup, something to light a fire, and food of some sort to cook in it.
For shelter there are some very light weight tarps available and parachutes are ideal. Also the knowledge of making a shelter out of what is available is essential.
First Aid Kits can be purchased almost anywhere. Make sure it is compact and add any special tablets or medications that you need because if lost for a few days you won't be able to go to a chemist to buy them. What you have in your kit is all you will have.
Food and water are items that are most needed and a knowledge of the area you are in is one of the best things you can learn. Like what type of plants grow in this area that are eatable and how can I catch a fish or bird or other animals. The water you can carry is very limited, maybe two water bottles and that is not much so knowing where there is water and having the knowledge and means to catch it is a good idea. Conditions will vary from tropical, desert, to cold country. The whole idea of survival comes back to you and how much preparation you have put into it. But one of the best things is to know the type of country you are in.
Included here is a basic list of items needed for survival, but keep in mind that these may need to be changed to suit your particular area, e.g. are you in snow country, desert or tropics. The list can be varied quit a bit.
Below the Survival Kit list are some links that have plenty of ideas, training and supplies.
Always remember the scout motto,"BE PREPARED."
Survival Kit
This is just an example and can be altered to suit your needs. It is recommended that the kit stays with your person all the time because if it is not with you and something happens then you are without anything to help you survive.
- mess tin.
- fuel tablets or fire starters, e.g. cotton balls soaked in vasoline.
- emergency blanket.
- water proof matches.
- stock cubes.
- fish line - approx. 30' of 20 Lb. breaking strength.
- several small to medium fish hooks and sinkers.
- pocket knife with approximately a 4" blade.
- compass with the ability to use it.
- map of the area if possible.
- small sharpening stone.
- mirror.
- strong, lightweight rope.
- salt.
- paper and pencil.
- saw wire.
- water sterilization tables or the like.
- needle, thread, and safty pins.
- tarp - very light weight and waterproof that folds up small.
- candle.
Links
Trueways Survival
Survival courses that teach you how to survive of the land. Comprehensive, practical and fun courses led by leading professional survival instructors.
© January, 2004 by D & S Goeldner.
