How to Build a Backpacking Survival Kit

Embarking on a backpacking adventure is an exhilarating way to explore the great outdoors. However, the unpredictable nature of the wilderness means that even the most experienced hikers can find themselves in unexpected situations. A well-prepared survival kit can turn a potential crisis into a manageable challenge. In this article, we’ll guide you through building a lightweight, essential survival kit that could make all the difference in the backcountry.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app. One minute you’re enjoying the sunset, and the next you’re nursing a broken ankle in the dark, with miles between you and the trailhead. At times like these, a simple backcountry survival kit can make the difference between a good story and a close call, or worse. Build your own with the following essential items, broken down by their life-saving functions. We’ll keep the weight to a minimum, promise.

The image presents a backpacker, worn but resolute, standing in the heart of an untamed wilderness. The scene is a panorama of nature’s untrammeled beauty, with craggy mountains looming in the distance, their peaks shrouded in an ethereal mist. Closer, the land unfurls in a tapestry of emerald forests and sapphire lakes, while a crystal-clear stream meanders through the foreground, its waters babbling softly over smooth stones. The backpacker is not merely a spectator, but an integral part of this rugged tableau, their well-used gear testifying to their journey. A survival kit is laid out meticulously on a nearby flat rock, each item a potential lifeline, revealing a person who respects the wilderness and understands the importance of preparation.

The survival kit is an assemblage of essentials, each item carefully chosen for its utility. A well-creased map lies unfolded, its margins marked with notes and symbols that hint at paths explored and adventures undertaken. Beside it, a sturdy compass rests, its needle pointing steadfastly north, a tangible link to the world beyond the wilds. A water bottle, scuffed and dented from use, bears testament to the miles traveled, while an emergency blanket, still neatly folded, offers a sense of security, a promise of warmth and shelter should the need arise. Together, these items paint a picture of a traveler who is not just passing through, but embracing the wilderness, prepared to face its challenges with courage and respect.

Essential Survival Gear and Supplies

In an era where uncertainty and natural disasters can strike at any moment, the importance of having a well-stocked survival kit cannot be overstated. A robust survival kit serves as a lifeline, significantly enhancing your chances of enduring challenging situations with minimal discomfort and maximum safety. Whether you’re an avid outdoor adventurer, a cautious homeowner, or someone preparing for potential emergencies, a well-assembled kit provides peace of mind and practical tools to navigate unforeseen circumstances.

To create a comprehensive survival kit, consider including essential items from several key categories. Firstly, food and water are crucial. Opt for non-perishable, high-energy food items and clean water sources, or purification methods. For shelter, include items like a lightweight tent, emergency blanket, or even a large trash bag, which can be surprisingly versatile. Navigation tools such as a map, compass, or a reliable GPS device can prevent disorientation. Additionally, pack multiple firestarters, like waterproof matches, lighters, or ferro rods, to ensure you can create warmth and cook food.

Other indispensable components include reliable light sources like flashlights or headlamps with extra batteries, and a well-equipped first aid kit for treating minor to severe injuries. Lastly, multi-purpose tools such as a quality multi-tool, knife, or duct tape can address various unexpected needs. While this might seem extensive, each item serves a unique purpose, and you’ll be grateful for every piece should the need arise. However, it’s also important to consider the weight and portability of your kit, as well as the specific needs and environments you might encounter. Balancing comprehensiveness with practicality is key when assembling your survival kit.

Food and Water: Fuel for Survival

When preparing a survival kit, the inclusion of appropriate food and water supplies is paramount. The key to selecting food items is to focus on longevity, nutritional value, and ease of preparation. Canned goods, such as beans, tuna, and vegetables, are excellent choices due to their extended shelf life and ready-to-eat convenience. Additionally, calorie-dense bars, like energy or granola bars, offer several benefits: they are lightweight, compact, and packed with essential nutrients to maintain energy levels during emergencies. Moreover, they have a long shelf life, making them a reliable food source even after prolonged storage.

Water is equally, if not more, crucial in survival situations. It is recommended to have at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation. While bottled water is a straightforward choice, it can be bulky and heavy. A more practical alternative is a hydration bladder. These portable, flexible containers can hold significant amounts of water and fit conveniently into backpacks or small spaces. They are reusable and, when equipped with a drinking tube, allow for hands-free hydration, making them ideal for mobile survival situations.

However, water supplies can deplete quickly, and finding additional water sources may be necessary. To ensure safe consumption, include water purification tablets in your survival kit. These tablets offer several advantages: they are compact and lightweight, have a long shelf life, and can kill bacteria and viruses within a short time frame, typically 30 minutes. Nevertheless, they may not eliminate all potential contaminants, such as cryptosporidium, and can leave a slight aftertaste. Therefore, it is essential to consider combining them with a portable water filter for optimal water treatment. Key points to remember:

• Calorie-dense bars provide essential nutrients and energy in a compact form.
• Hydration bladders offer a practical and portable water storage solution.
• Water purification tablets are a lightweight and efficient way to treat water, but may not eliminate all contaminants.

Shelter and Warmth: Staying Safe in the Elements

In the realm of survival preparedness, two elements that are often underscored but absolutely vital are emergency shelter and extra layers. The importance of having these in a survival kit cannot be overstated. Emergency shelter provides a barrier against harsh environmental conditions, helping to maintain core body temperature and protecting from elements like wind, rain, or snow. Extra layers, on the other hand, offer additional insulation, trapping body heat and reducing the risk of hypothermia. Together, they address the critical need for thermoregulation, which is one of the core principles of survival.

Among the various options available, space blankets stand out due to their compact size and efficiency. Their advantages include:

• Lightweight and easy to carry: Space blankets weigh mere ounces and can be folded into a small packet, making them highly portable.
• Effective heat reflection: Designed with a reflective surface, they can redirect up to 90% of radiated body heat back towards the user.
• Versatility: Besides use as a blanket, they can be fashioned into makeshift shelters, signals, or even water collectors.

However, they are not without drawbacks. Space blankets can be noisy with movement, and their thin material makes them susceptible to tearing.

Ultralight jackets also offer significant benefits, such as:

• Excellent insulation: Modern materials like synthetic fibers or down provide superior warmth for their weight.
• Compressibility: Many ultralight jackets can be packed into a small stuff sack, conserving space in a survival kit.
• Wind and water resistance: Some models offer protection from wind and light rain, enhancing their protective capabilities.

Yet, they too have limitations. Depending on the fill material, ultralight jackets may lose insulating properties when wet, and they may not provide as much warmth in extreme cold compared to heavier jackets.

Lastly, insulated water bottles are a valuable addition to any survival kit. Their advantages include:

• Hot or cold retention: Double-walled insulation helps maintain the temperature of liquids, keeping drinks hot or cold for extended periods.
• Durability: Many insulated bottles are made from stainless steel, making them resistant to damage.
• Multipurpose use: Besides holding water, they can be used to heat water for purification or cooking.

However, insulated water bottles can be heavier and bulkier than non-insulated options, and their effectiveness depends on the quality of the insulation.

FAQ