Survival Gear 101: 9 Things You Need to Live Outside of Civilization

The wilderness might be one of the locations where man is potentially not at the top of the food chain. We might have the brains to analyze the situation or the thumbs to grab things. However, in the jungles, forests, tundras, and deserts of the world, we can be considered prey. There are a lot of animals that are bigger, faster, and stronger than us. Plants can also pose a danger, either by being poisonous or a nuisance. The wilderness itself can be your greatest enemy, but it doesn’t stop people from enjoying it. Being one with nature should be a part of our bucket list every year. Read this page on the benefits of doing so.

We must be constantly reminded that the universe does not revolve around us. In the wild, anything can happen but we also enjoy that. Going back to basics, camping and hiking seem to be on the rise in the younger generations. There is an ongoing interest because many people feel disconnected from nature. This is why most people do these activities even though they can potentially turn dangerous. However, it doesn’t have to be that way, as long as you are prepared. If you are new to this, there are some basic survival gear that you need to have before you can embark on your chosen journey.

The Gear You Need

First off though, this would all depend on the location that you are going to stay and explore. For example, certain items would not work in a rainforest. You would not want to bring parka in that kind of climate unless climate change has already taken its toll. Meanwhile, we are going to introduce you to some well-rounded tools that would still be useful. Even if you are going to go up the snowy mountains or camping near rivers, these items are a must-have. Sites like survivaltechie also offer kits that you can obtain as well. These tools can save your life, as the wild can be the most unpredictable experience you can have.

1. Multi-tools

Some of the basic tools that you need are a knife and a pair of pliers. However, one of the best ones that you can have is a multi-tool gadget that holds most of what you need. Preferably this should be an army-grade, as this ensures its quality and usability in the wild. However, a good pocket knife is already an advantage since you can also use this to cut materials as well as defending yourself. Hopefully, you would not need to use a knife in that manner.

2. Light Sources

Bring a flashlight with you every time you go out hiking or camping. This source of light is the most convenient because it can act as a light source and emergency signal. It would be best though if you have other emergency tools like a whistle or signaling mirror since you need to conserve its energy. Speaking of which, make sure that the batteries are full or new before you go out.

3. Fire starters

If you do not have a flashlight, it can be difficult to traverse at night. You need to start a fire before the sun goes down so that you would not experience that kind of difficulty. Having a set of waterproof matches is important since this is going to make it easy to build a fire. Flintstones and a magnifying glass are also great, but you need to have tinder with that.

4. Water Purification Tablets

Since you are potentially going to the middle of nowhere, you need to have some water with you. However, you cannot bring more of it because it is going to make your bags heavier. Having some of these tablets would be helpful since the last thing that you want to experience in unfamiliar territory is dysentery. You need to have a large and clean container to maximize its effects. Here’s how they work: https://www.livestrong.com/article/169622-how-water-purification-tablets-work/.

5. Extra Food Sources

It would not hurt to bring some biscuits, beef jerky and other easy to eat food while on your hiking or camping trip. This is going to come in handy since most of us do have any hunting skills. Make sure that it is easy to open as well since you need to conserve your energy. Pre-packed survival food is also always a good option.

6. Metal Utensils

Once you get trapped in the woods or some other locations for a long time, you will have to cook some food. Having a metal bowl or mug can help because you can expose these items to an open flame. They can be stored easily inside your bags since they will not break. You have to make sure though that these are thick enough to handle the heat. Otherwise, you would end up with a pool of metal.

7. Tapes, Ropes, and Cords

This would come in handy at any point in your journey. However, if you end up getting trapped, they are priceless. You can use them in conjunction with some twigs to set-up traps for small animals. Also, these are great for building your camp from scratch as these can keep some poles together to form a tent. 

8. Tarp and Blankets

The night would always be colder, no matter where your location is. Spiders, mosquitoes and other insects can creep up all over your body and cause irritation and allergies. A space blanket would come in handy for this. The tarp can also be used for making a tent.

9. First Aid Kit

Lastly, these should have most of the basic tools that you need for medication. Swabs, bandages, tweezers, and disinfectants are great for wounds and scratches. Medicines such as antihistamines, antibiotics, and aspirin would be beneficial. Make sure that they are new or can still be used. 

Final Thoughts

As mentioned before, these are just the basic tools that you may need if you are going to go to unfamiliar territories. Most of them would contribute to your chances of survival. There are some tools that you might also need depending on the weather in the area. However, it can be hard to predict that so you need to prepare beforehand. Being educated and informed about the location you are going to would be helpful since it can help you prepare more efficiently and effectively.