Be prepared for the unexpected. If you love the outdoors and often venture out for a long hike, camping trip, or even a fishing trip, it is essential that you have the necessary equipment in case of emergencies. You can easily find yourself lost, run out of water, or even get hurt, so packing a wilderness survival kit can help you recover.

In this blog, we discuss a few essential items that you definitely need to include in your survival kit. Keep reading to learn more.

1. First Aid Kit

Let’s start with the most important item first. A first aid kit should be your number one priority when going into the wilderness. Bandages and gauze dressings, antibacterial ointments and disinfectants, and pain killers should be included in a well-packed first aid kit. You never know when you might slip and fall and hurt yourself. Being prepared for minor injuries is crucial, especially when going out by yourself.

2. Food and water

You will need sufficient food and water supplies. Your trip might turn out to be longer than expected due to unforeseeable circumstances, so packing more food and water than you think is needed is important. Consider bringing canned meals, dehydrated food, or ready-to-eat food. If you’re going to someplace with natural water sources, you can pack water filters and containers to store liquids.

3. Shelter and extra clothes

The weather can be unpredictable and staying dry and warm is crucial. Always try bringing a small tent with you as well as an extra pair of socks, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants in case you get wet.

4. Flashlight

A source of light is crucial. You can either bring a flashlight or a headlamp to help you navigate through the darkness at night.

5. Communication

This one is a must-have. You need some way of communication, whether it’s a phone or a radio. There may be areas with no signal, so you will need to be prepared for that as well.

6. Maps and compass

Don’t rely on knowing the path. Even if you have walked through some areas hundreds of times, you never know what might force you to go off track. Carry a map and compass with you at all times.

7. Fire starters and survival knives

Fire starters and survival knives are useful tools that can come in handy in more than one situation. You can pack matches or a lighter, or even some tinder and a striker. For knives, make sure they are sharp and securely stored inside your bag to prevent injuries.

8. Extras

If you have additional space, consider bringing duct tape, batteries, bug sprays, or binoculars as these items may also come in handy.

Remember to always stay safe.