Whether you currently live in an area with vast wilderness and need to keep a pack with supplies in your vehicle all the time in case of emergency, or if your disaster plan is to get out of the urban area you live in and head for the hills, here is a list of 10 items you will not want to be without and can be carried in your pack.
This list may not contain every item you want for your survival plan in your area, but with few exceptions they take up very little room. There should be room left over in your pack to put in anything you feel is lacking. But the items on this list should not be taken out to make room for others without careful consideration.
Tarp
Shelter will always be your number one concern, and a tarp will get you started. If you are concerned with being rescued, a tarp with a silver or blue side is preferable. If you are going for stealth you will want a brown or even camouflage tarp.
Paracord
Cordage can be useful when cooking, making shelter, first aid, and manufacturing anything you need.
Knife
A knife’s uses are nearly endless. From fire starting, manufacturing and shelter building, and even signaling for rescue, a knife is a must have.
Mess Kit
A container that can both hold liquid and be heated over a fire is a must. Without this you will not be able to boil water to drink and will be limited in what you can cook.
Head Lamp
With a light source you will be able to cover ground at night, work on your shelter, gather wood, and signal for help. Without it you will be effectively blind for half of your day.
Fire Steel
With a knife and fire steel you will be able to boil water for drinking, stay warm, cook food, and signal for help.
Fire Starter
The size and weight of some Vaseline covered cotton balls will not be noticed in your pack, but the effect they will have on your ability to start a fire will be noticed. Don’t waste time and energy, pack a fire starter.
Map and Compass
Whether you are bugging out or trying to get back to civilization, you will need to know where you are in relation to your goal and water sources. Getting a compass and topographical map of your area will keep you from wandering blindly.
Blanket
Exposure will kill you quicker than anything else. Staying warm needs to be your first concern. A fire is not always an option; keep the heat you have.
Collapsible Container
You will not always be able to stay near water. So you will have to take it with you. A gallon jug can take up a lot of room whether full or empty. But a container that collapse, like a camel pack or collapsible bucket can be rolled up to virtually nothing while not is use.
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