What Do Survival Kits Contain?

Survival kits are essential – much more than you may realize. In fact, standard recommendations state that you need to set aside enough provisions to last you three days in case an emergency occurs, since this is the time frame that emergency agencies can arrive where you are and offer help.

While you might have supplies in your home, you cannot carry them with you everywhere – which is why you will require a survival kit. While you can buy a pre-assembled one, it is better to go with your own kit because you know exactly what you need and why. But what exactly do these kits contain? Read on to find out.

Choosing the supplies

Keep in mind that supplies will come in several main categories, which include water, communication, food and shelter. Broken down, they are:

Water

Regardless of the exact situation, water is important in making a survival kit for all of them. The items to carry here include water pouches, filtration kits, as well as purification tablets, such as Aquamira water treatment, which you can buy from various stores. While these may seem very many, they should be compact and light for easier carrying.

Food

This is the second most important item after water. An average adult will require between 2000 to 2600 calories every day for the body to remain healthy. In an emergency, you might not be able to get food that meets this requirement, so consider buying the best food you can get.

The best option is going for food bars, as they can last for long periods and are easy to organize in your bag.

Items for warmth

Rain poncho/jacket

You may not think much about this one, but it will save you in case it starts raining and helps 3you remain dry.

Fuel sources and fire starters

You cannot function much without fire. It helps you remain warm throughout the night, gives you a way to cook your food, and gives you light. Emergency lighters include candles and flashlights, to help you do tasks when it gets dark, and you can include some extra batteries for the flashlight. In addition, include matches, magnesium or flint fire starters, and a magnifying glass.

Other tools

• Tape and cordage – includes duct tape, and monofilament fishing lines
• Tools – pocket knife, pliers and multi-tools
• Safety pins
• Trekking poles
• Space blanket – this helps you remain warm throughout the night as you sleep. It is also easy to pack and compact in size, making it easy to carry.
• A large-size tarp
• Tools for eating and drinking – mugs, plates, metal pot for cooking purposes
• Rescue signals – includes a whistle and signaling mirror, to call for help when you spot it
• First aid kit – must have gauze, band aids (various sizes), aspirin, ace bandages, antiseptic wipes, antihistamines, tweezers, antibiotic ointment, and NSAIDs.

These items will not remain the same in every case, but it is a good idea to have some of them. All of those in the list are the general minimum you need, and you can add any additions after that.

Final thoughts

Assembling a survival kit requires careful consideration of the dangers you might face, but these items will serve you well in almost any emergency, if not all.