Whether you buy a ready-made survival kit or put together your own, this is an essential bit of kit to take on a long hike and is crucial for ensuring your safety and well-being, especially when venturing into remote or challenging terrain where unforeseen emergencies can arise. Here we delve into why this piece of kit might literally be a matter of life or death.
Be prepared for emergencies. Nature is unpredictable, and even the most experienced hikers can encounter unexpected situations such as sudden weather changes, injuries, or getting lost. A well-equipped survival kit helps you stay prepared to handle emergencies effectively.
In remote areas, help may not be readily available. Having essential supplies on hand allows you to address minor injuries, signal for rescue, or sustain yourself until help arrives, promoting self-reliance and resilience in challenging situations.
Outdoor activities like hiking or climbing inherently involve certain risks, including injuries, illness, or encountering wildlife. Carrying a survival kit with essential items helps mitigate these risks and ensures you're better equipped to handle unforeseen challenges.
Knowing you have a survival kit packed with essential supplies provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on enjoying the hike without worrying excessively about potential emergencies.
While the contents of a survival kit may vary depending on factors such as location, climate, and personal preferences, certain essential items should be included to ensure basic survival needs are met. Below we cover some of the most important items to include.
A map and compass or GPS device can help you stay oriented and find your way if you get lost.
A lightweight, waterproof emergency shelter such as a tent, tarp, or space blanket provides protection from the elements and helps maintain body heat.
Waterproof matches, a lighter, or a fire starter tool enable you to start a fire for warmth, cooking, signaling, and morale.
Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, adhesive tape, pain relievers, and any necessary medications to treat injuries and medical conditions.
Carry an adequate supply of water and water purification tablets or a filtration system to ensure access to safe drinking water.
Pack lightweight, non-perishable food items such as energy bars, nuts, dried fruits, and jerky to sustain energy levels during emergencies.
A versatile tool or knife can be invaluable for various tasks such as cutting, slicing, chopping, and gear repair.
Include a whistle, signal mirror, or personal locator beacon (PLB) to attract attention and signal for help in case of emergency.
Pack extra clothing layers suitable for the expected weather conditions, including insulation, rain gear, and moisture-wicking materials.
Carry a fully charged cell phone or satellite communication device with emergency contacts programmed, as well as spare batteries or a portable charger.
Depending on the environment, include items such as sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, and gloves for protection against sun exposure, bugs, and harsh conditions.
Equip yourself with basic wilderness survival skills, such as navigation, shelter-building, fire-making, first aid, and signaling, to effectively utilize the items in your survival kit.
By ensuring your survival kit contains these essential items and having the knowledge and skills to use them effectively, you'll be better prepared to handle emergencies and stay safe during long hikes in the wilderness. Remember to regularly check and replenish your survival kit to maintain its effectiveness and readiness for future outdoor adventures.
March 2024
