The great outdoors can be an ultimate escape from everyday life. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a newbie exploring nature, the key to a safe and enjoyable outdoor adventure is being prepared. One way to prepare for any unforeseen circumstances is by ALWAYS having a survival kits handy. In this blog post, we’ve got you covered by sharing the ultimate guide on what to include in your survival kit to keep you safe during outdoor adventures.
- Navigation
Your navigation should include a map and a compass, and a GPS. Even when you’re familiar with the area, never underestimate how easy it can be to get turned around or disoriented. Make sure you know which direction will take you back to your base, and have a reliable way to track it.
- Hydration
When you’re outdoors, often in the heat, proper hydration is key to staying safe. Always have a water bottle, hydration pack or canteen, and you should include purification tablets, water filtration, or a LifeStraw. These tools will ensure that you have safe drinking water and can prevent illnesses which may compromise your time outdoors.
- Food and Snacks
You never know when you’ll be caught on the trail longer than planned, so always bring non-perishable food like protein bars, trail mix, and jerky, to keep your energy levels high. Plan ahead and, if you plan to camp overnight or longer, pack a small portable stove, cookware and utensils so that you can cook up some warm food for yourself.
- First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is a must-have for any outdoor activity to keep you safe should an accident happen. A personal kit should include essentials such as various size band-aids, moleskin for blisters, antiseptic ointment, medication for headaches, bites, and small cuts. Include any prescription medication in this kit, as well as tweezers, scissors, and a small mirror.
- Emergency Shelter
An emergency shelter is essential to protect you from the elements should you be without your tent shelter or found yourself stranded, lost and unable to make it to your original destination. You can use a thermal blanket, bivy or a lightweight emergency shelter, should you find yourself without shelter. In mid-spring to summer, you may also use a lightweight tarp style shelter if you plan on sleeping outdoors.
Depending on the type of emergency shelter you use, you will want to consider a few things. If you are using a tarp style shelter, make sure it is large enough for your group and properly secured with sturdy stakes and ropes so that it does not blow away in windy conditions. If you are using a thermal blanket or bivy, consider a ground pad or something to put beneath you for extra insulation and comfort.
Taking on the challenge of the great outdoors is full of adventure and fun. But, it’s important that you’re always prepared for any situation that might arise. Keep your essential survival kit closeby and always double-check before setting out on your adventure. The above survival kit must-haves are by no means exhaustive and should be adjusted to match the level of difficulty you expect to undertake, which will help to ensure that your outdoor adventures remain safe and fun, and so they stay that way.