When you head out into nature, you should always be prepared for the unexpected. Being stranded in the wild without the proper tools for survival can result in dire consequences. Whether you are an avid hiker, an experienced camper, or a novice explorer, having these essential survival gear items will help you stay prepared, safe, and ready to tackle any situation that comes your way. Read on to find out what the must-have items for preparing for emergency situations in the wild are.
1. A Necessity: What Wild Survival Gear Should You Carry?
Wild survival is a crucial skill to have when in the wilderness, or even when just travelling in a new area. Having the right survival gear can make the difference between life and death, or at least a successful and enjoyable trip. Here are the essential pieces of wild survival gear that you should always carry with you:
- Water Purification: It’s almost impossible to tell if a water source is safe to drink from, so carrying a water purifier is essential for filtering out any bacteria or viruses that could be present. Filtration straws or drops are great lightweight options for wild survival.
- Basic First Aid Kit: Whether it’s a small cut or a more serious wound, having the right first aid items on hand could be the difference between simple and prolonged discomfort, and even injury or death. Bandages, gauze, and antibacterial ointment are the essentials, but make sure to add whatever else you need for your specific situation.
- Knife: A knife might seem obvious, but it can come in handy for many tasks like cutting rope and building a shelter or fire. Make sure to choose a knife that has a comfortable grip and a full tang length, as well as a sharpening stone to keep it sharp.
- Fire Starter Kit: Starting a fire is one of the most important survival skills, and having the right tools handy will ensure that you can get a fire going quickly and efficiently. A flint and steel, lighter, and waterproof matches are a great way to always be prepared.
- Warm Clothes: Having the right clothing is important to keeping warm and dry, especially in cold and wet climates. Be sure to pack multiple layers to keep your body temperature regulated and also include a wind or waterproof outer layer.
Having the right wild survival gear on hand will make sure that you are always prepared for any situation. From essential items to small extras, gathering the right items into a survival kit can help you stay safe and comfortable in any wild environment.
Have fun and explore responsibly. Don’t forget to leave no trace in the wilderness.
2. Making the Most of Your Wild Survival Kit
- Find the Essentials – Start with the basics and backpack and water bottle, as these are the two items that your future self will thank you for. Having a good quality sack to carry all your gear is essential. Also, considering bringing a rope and a few sleeping bags. These three will act as the foundation for your kit.
- Pack the Rest of Your Tools Strategically – A few other items that you should consider including in your kit are food, firestarting tools, a tent, a knife, and navigation tools. When packing these items, to ensure the weight is evenly distributed, place heavier items in the middle of your bag and lighter items at the top or bottom.
- Be Prepared For Any Disaster – Lastly, it’s important that you take a few of the more specialized items with you. Investing in a firestarter and first aid kit is essential for any wild survivor. Other items, such as a hatchet, strapping, and tent stakes, may become useful in certain situations. Always remember that if you’re ever in a life or death situation, having the right tools can give you the greatest chance of survival.
3. Tips For Making the Most of Your Wild Survival Gear
Make a Plan
Crafting a plan is the first step to making the most of any wild survival gear. Head out with an aim in mind and make sure that you know what pieces of your kit might be necessary to reach that goal. Some tips for making this preparation easier include:
- Research the area you are planning to explore. Familiarizing yourself with the terrain and climate will help you plan for the best way to use your gear.
- Find out the regulatory conditions for the area and plan accordingly. Depending on the region, different rules may apply for such activities as fishing, hunting, and setting up camp.
- Ensure you have the right kit for your target. Bear in mind the type of terrain that you are likely to encounter, as well as the kind of wildlife you could stumble across. Gearing up appropriately will help you keep safe and enjoy your time in the wild.
Keep Your Kit Organized
Organization is essential when packing your kit and heading out for a wild adventure. Losing important gear or struggling with clunky and poorly packed items can take up valuable time and energy. To make the most of your kit, and to save your time and energy:
- Group items in different bags or compartments that correspond to their intended use. This will make it easier for you to grab the items you need quickly and know where to put them back.
- Secure flammable items with the appropriate safety measures. Make sure lighters, fuel canisters, and other combustible materials are tightly sealed and tucked away safely.
- Pack your items in good quality, waterproof cases. Keep these cases away from any sharp edges or surfaces to ensure that your equipment is well protected.
Keep Your Gear Updated
Over time, the wear and tear of the elements can take a toll on even the best gear. Before setting off, check your gear against your plan to make sure its ready for the task. Plus, make sure it is well maintained with a little TLC. Remember to:
- Make sure your equipment is in good working order – check for cracks, breaks, or signs of wear and tear and replace any damaged items before heading out.
- Test your gear in advance. In the days before your departure, take out your gear and make sure it still works the way it should.
- Clean and lubricate items like knives and axes to ensure their blades stay sharp and in good condition.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the most out of your wild survival gear, no matter where your journey may take you. Safe and happy adventuring!
4. Prepare Now For Unexpected Emergencies in the Wild
No one likes to contemplate the idea of facing an unexpected emergency in the wild, but preparation is key in surviving and staying safe. Knowing the right steps to take when something goes wrong can make all the difference in the world.
Store the Right Supplies. Before heading out, make sure you’re packing the right supplies to tackle any unexpected scenarios. Make sure to include a medical kit, with items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and gauze. Bring along some essentials like a flashlight, small mirror, and a lighter, as these can help you create a signal for help in case of an emergency. You may also want to include some snacks to help increase your energy should your situation become dire.
Stay Away From Trouble. Whenever you’re heading out into the wild, avoid taking any high-risk activities, such as venturing out on more strenuous hiking trails if your experience level isn’t up to it. Doing so can lead to dangerous conditions and yield unintended results that can exacerbate your emergency.
Stay Informed. Lastly, know the area you’re in. Before starting, research your destination to ensure you’re aware of any unexpected dangers that may lie ahead. Learn the terrain, and be mindful of the weather. This can be especially important if you’re in a remote area where help may be out of reach.
- Store medical supplies like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and gauze.
- Bring items like a flashlight, small mirror, and a lighter.
- Avoid taking high-risk activities and risky trails.
- Research the terrain and weather of the area.
By following these easy steps, you’ll be equipped with the right tools to help you tackle any unexpected emergency that may arise while exploring the wilderness. Remember, knowledge is power in uncertain wilderness scenarios, so stay informed and stay prepared!
In conclusion, having the right tools ready in the event of an emergency in the wild can mean the difference between life and death. Remember, the essential survival gears are the key to staying safe, secure and alive until help can arrive, so make sure to arm yourself accordingly.