8 Essential Survival Items You Can't Do Without

Being prepared for any situation is an important part of being a responsible adult. Whether it’s in the event of a natural disaster, an accident, or a power outage, having the right survival items on hand can help you stay safe and comfortable in an emergency. That’s why it’s important to be aware of the eight most essential survival items you can’t do without. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at each item and explain why it’s so important to have them in your emergency supplies.

1) Map And Compass

A map and compass are two of the most essential items to carry if you ever find yourself in a survival situation. A map allows you to quickly locate your current position, determine your destination, and plan the best route to get there. A compass is used to help orient the map to true north and provide a way to navigate in a direction when visibility is limited.

When selecting a map and compass, be sure to choose a high quality item that will last. The map should be detailed and waterproof, while the compass should feature an adjustable declination, an adjustable needle and a luminescent dial that can be read in low light.

Additionally, it’s important to practice using the map and compass so that you’ll know how to use them effectively in a pinch.

2) First-Aid Kit

No matter where you are headed, a first-aid kit is one of the most important pieces of survival gear that you should have. You never know when you may need to quickly treat a wound or minor injury, or even a severe one. A comprehensive first-aid kit should include items such as bandages, gauze, medical tape, antiseptic wipes and cream, tweezers, scissors, antibiotic ointment, and an assortment of over-the-counter medications for pain and fever relief. Make sure to double check your kit before heading out, as well as periodically throughout your trip to ensure everything is in working order.

3) Signal Mirror

A signal mirror is a great item to have with you when you are out in the wilderness, as it can help you signal for help in emergency situations. Signal mirrors can be used to flash a bright light across long distances, which makes them perfect for alerting rescuers if you ever get lost or injured. A signal mirror should be small and lightweight, so that it’s easy to carry with you and won’t take up too much space in your survival kit. Make sure you practice using the signal mirror before heading out, so you know how to effectively use it in an emergency. Carry two-way radios and/or a cell phone whenever possible so that you can keep in contact with people at home and during emergencies. Pack extra batteries, chargers, and a solar charger just in case.

Always make sure that these items are well maintained and charged, so that you will have them at all times when you need them most.

Additionally, packing a whistle can help draw attention from far away. It's also important to pack a basic first aid kit - even a simple one will contain some essential items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, antibiotic ointment, and other useful items. Make sure you are familiar with its contents and how to properly use each item.

Finally, you should always keep some form of shelter with you; this could include tarps, tents, blankets, sleeping bags, etc. This will provide protection from the elements and allow you to stay warm and dry during the night.

4) Fire Starter

Fire starters are essential for survival in almost any environment. Whether you need to start a campfire for warmth or to cook food, a reliable fire starter can mean the difference between life and death. There are many options when it comes to fire starters, ranging from traditional matches and lighters to modern devices such as flint and steel. Choose the one that best suits your needs, but make sure you have a dependable one on hand at all times.

The most popular fire starter is matches. Waterproof matches are a great choice as they are less likely to get damaged in the elements. Additionally, they burn hotter and longer than regular matches, so they can be very useful in an emergency situation.

If you don’t want to rely on matches, then there are other options such as a flint and steel. This device produces sparks which can be used to light tinder and build a fire. It is important to practice using a flint and steel before taking it into the field as it can be difficult to master.

Another popular option is a magnesium fire starter. This device uses magnesium shavings which, when scraped together, create a spark which can be used to ignite tinder. Magnesium fire starters can be easily carried and used in any situation, making them an ideal choice for those who don’t have much experience with fire starting.

No matter what type of fire starter you choose, it is important to have one on hand at all times. Fire starters can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency situation, so make sure you are prepared.

5) Flashlight

A flashlight is one of the most essential survival items you need to have on hand. Not only is it a great way to light your path in dark or low-light situations, but it can also be used as a signal device if needed. Look for a flashlight that is durable, lightweight and waterproof with a long battery life. Make sure to check the battery regularly and keep some spare batteries on hand in case of an emergency. LED flashlights are more energy-efficient and provide brighter light, but traditional bulbs work just as well. Choose the flashlight that is most suitable for your needs, whether you are camping, hiking or planning an emergency preparedness kit.

6) Water Purification System

Water is essential for survival and a water purification system is an important part of your kit. A water purification system can filter out contaminants in your water supply, making it safe to drink. This can help prevent you from getting sick, and give you peace of mind in an emergency situation.

There are several different types of water purification systems available. The most common type is a filtration system that uses a pump or gravity feed to pass the water through a filter. These filters remove bacteria and other harmful substances, leaving clean, safe drinking water.

Another option is to use a chemical purification system, such as iodine or chlorine tablets. These tablets will disinfect the water by killing off bacteria and other contaminants, though they will not remove particles or sediment.

If you are looking for a lightweight, affordable way to purify water, a UV light purification system is a great option. UV light kills off pathogens and bacteria without the use of chemicals. However, it does not remove sediments or particles from the water.

When choosing the best water purification system for you, consider your environment and budget. If you are in a remote area where access to clean water is scarce, then a more robust filtration system is likely your best choice. On the other hand, if you're just looking for an inexpensive way to purify your drinking water, then a chemical purification system or UV light might be more suitable.

No matter which system you choose, always remember that clean drinking water is essential for survival. Investing in a quality water purification system could be a life-saving decision.

7) Knife

A knife is one of the most essential survival items you can own. It can be used for a variety of tasks, from cutting rope and fabric to preparing food and defending yourself. When choosing a knife for your survival kit, pick a fixed blade with a full-tang design. This means that the blade runs through the entire length of the handle, making it more durable and less prone to breakage.

Also look for a stainless steel blade that won't corrode in wet conditions. A good survival knife should have a sharp point, a sturdy handle, and a reliable sheath to protect the blade when not in use.

8) Solar Blanket

A solar blanket is an essential item for anyone looking to be prepared in a survival situation. It is made of lightweight, reflective material that helps retain body heat in cold conditions. This type of blanket can be used to cover exposed skin or provide shelter from wind and rain. It is also a great item to keep in your emergency kit if you ever find yourself stranded outdoors.

A solar blanket is designed to reflect up to 90% of the sun’s rays, which makes it a great choice for anyone who needs to conserve their body heat in cold temperatures. It can also help keep you warm during wet or windy conditions. It is an especially useful item for people who spend time in remote areas where temperatures can dip below freezing.

The solar blanket is lightweight and compact, so it’s easy to store in an emergency kit or backpack. It comes with a special storage bag and is made of durable material that can withstand harsh conditions. When using the solar blanket, make sure to lay it out flat and place it against your skin for the best heat retention.

A solar blanket is an invaluable tool for anyone who wants to be prepared in a survival situation. It is lightweight, compact and easy to store, so you can take it with you wherever you go. With its ability to retain body heat and provide shelter from wind and rain, it's an essential item for any emergency kit.

If you want to see a list of items I recommend, click here now!