what do you put in your survival pack?
- Thread starter cajun47
- Start date
davlandrum
New member
Only thing I see I do a little different than some is I have 3 ways of lighting a fire - wind proof butane, waterproof matches, and flint/steel.
I keep a thin (translation: will break before it hangs me) cord around my neck with a Finnish knife and my flint/steel combo. Will add a whistle to it before this season.
I have a tendency to drop my pack at the first sign of an elk, and push come to shove, I can make it through one night with my survival necklace.
I keep a thin (translation: will break before it hangs me) cord around my neck with a Finnish knife and my flint/steel combo. Will add a whistle to it before this season.
I have a tendency to drop my pack at the first sign of an elk, and push come to shove, I can make it through one night with my survival necklace.
I take my kids hunting and their mother packs em up with all sorts of stuff
So I generally travel light
IF I ever get the chance and need to pack a day pack it'll be just like my Alice was packed.Extra boots,poncho, MRE's for two day's, toilet paper,E-tool,sleeping bag,Extra-ammo,Bandage one-each, compass and map, survival blanket, 2 litres of water, iodine tabs,zippo, knife and stone, and a picture of my wife, (that would keep up the drive to survive), and cleaning kit for my rifleclean change of clothes, extra socks,a small mirror, a 1/2 pint of who-hit-john
, 550 cord 20ft,almost forgot few days supply of heart medicine
So I generally travel light IF I ever get the chance and need to pack a day pack it'll be just like my Alice was packed.Extra boots,poncho, MRE's for two day's, toilet paper,E-tool,sleeping bag,Extra-ammo,Bandage one-each, compass and map, survival blanket, 2 litres of water, iodine tabs,zippo, knife and stone, and a picture of my wife, (that would keep up the drive to survive), and cleaning kit for my rifleclean change of clothes, extra socks,a small mirror, a 1/2 pint of who-hit-john, 550 cord 20ft,almost forgot few days supply of heart medicine
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I love that story! It does point out the result of failing to light the fire on the first try!
My emergency pack has:
Dry clothes (wind suit, poly thermals, wool socks)
Space blanket
Plastic poncho
Tube tent
250 ft of parachute cord
Sierra cup
Small mess kit
Knife and sharpeners
Cable saw
Lighter
Bouillon cubes
3 MREs
Moleskin
First Aid kit (with triple antibiotic, burn cream, and bandages)
Aspirin tablets
Insect repellent
Lomotil
Toilet paper
Salt & pepper
Signal mirror
Whistle
Compass
This kit is designed to address the most common survival nees for short survival situations, and it all fits into a US military LRRP rucksack, it is not very bulky. It is all set up so I can grab it and go. Every years I go through the pack and replace any items that have expired or gotten damaged. I have only had to use the contents of the pack one time, but I really needed the items in the pack that one time.
I travel light when hunting and don't over think things too much and this all fits in a small pack with hydration bladder. I carry a small Garmin GPS w 1 set of spare batteries, along with back up map and compass on a out of State or mountain hunt. I usually skip the flashlight and use a head lamp, preferably one that uses the same batteries as my GPS. I carry rain gear, and spare socks but no extra clothes. Pocket knife and a fixed blade, as well as a Wyoming saw or cable saw.
One 30-50 gallon trash bag and one kitchen trash bag the large trash bag can double as a poncho if needed, or cut into strips to tie splints and such. The smaller one is my water proof bag and substitute water bladder. One emergency space blanket and a cigarette lighter butane works the best with cold fingers. Most matches sold these days are not the strike anywhere so be careful what you buy.
The MRE is proabably the most important thing I carry. It has matches in it as well as toilet paper and cardboard to start fires, all contained in a water proof bag. The water reactive heater is made of Magnesium metal which can be used as a fire starter as well. Plus there are enough calories in there to help keep you warm and going for at least a couple of days.
Small medical emergency kit with asprin as a mild pain killer/anti inflamatory and if some of the old guys I elk hunt with start having heart problems. Allergy medication benadryl/claratin in case I have a reaction to something. A roll of Tums/Rolaids, bandaids, and a couple maxi pads for larger wounds.
I like as well to carry parachute/550 cord as well or a small piece of 3/8" nylon rope 25-50' will usually get it done. Another nice thing to have along is a partial roll of duct tape or eletrical tape. Never know when either one of these things will come in handy.
I take my cell phone even though it rarely works in most places a guy goes deep for game. Plus always tell someone where you are going to be hunting at and what time they should expect you back. If I go back to AK and do an interior hunt then I'll probably look into one of those SPOT GPS trackers as well.
One 30-50 gallon trash bag and one kitchen trash bag the large trash bag can double as a poncho if needed, or cut into strips to tie splints and such. The smaller one is my water proof bag and substitute water bladder. One emergency space blanket and a cigarette lighter butane works the best with cold fingers. Most matches sold these days are not the strike anywhere so be careful what you buy.
The MRE is proabably the most important thing I carry. It has matches in it as well as toilet paper and cardboard to start fires, all contained in a water proof bag. The water reactive heater is made of Magnesium metal which can be used as a fire starter as well. Plus there are enough calories in there to help keep you warm and going for at least a couple of days.
Small medical emergency kit with asprin as a mild pain killer/anti inflamatory and if some of the old guys I elk hunt with start having heart problems. Allergy medication benadryl/claratin in case I have a reaction to something. A roll of Tums/Rolaids, bandaids, and a couple maxi pads for larger wounds.
I like as well to carry parachute/550 cord as well or a small piece of 3/8" nylon rope 25-50' will usually get it done. Another nice thing to have along is a partial roll of duct tape or eletrical tape. Never know when either one of these things will come in handy.
I take my cell phone even though it rarely works in most places a guy goes deep for game. Plus always tell someone where you are going to be hunting at and what time they should expect you back. If I go back to AK and do an interior hunt then I'll probably look into one of those SPOT GPS trackers as well.
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Going back in the Bob Marshall Wilderness in about 4 weeks for eight days, 25 miles or so from a telephone or cell service.
I'm 57. One of the guys is in his 70's. Anyhow, I will take a fresh supply of nitro glycerin. You never know.
BTW, five of them are doctors. So, I'm not flying by the seat of my pants with anybody else.
Won't rehash, but will add that "strike anywhere" matches are still around and are better than any other match, just for that reason. I dip a few in wax to protect the tip.
Also, I have around 1/2 dozen zip ties in my pack. They take up virtually no room and make constructing a shelter easier when you are alone - it's a PITA to tie branches together sometimes, but zip ties are quick - but they do not supplant the need for para cord.
A wound closure kit and a clotting gauze is also a must. It's easy to get careless with a knife. After all, "survival" isn't just making it through the night, but could be surviving a wound.
Also, I have around 1/2 dozen zip ties in my pack. They take up virtually no room and make constructing a shelter easier when you are alone - it's a PITA to tie branches together sometimes, but zip ties are quick - but they do not supplant the need for para cord.
A wound closure kit and a clotting gauze is also a must. It's easy to get careless with a knife. After all, "survival" isn't just making it through the night, but could be surviving a wound.
"Also, I have around 1/2 dozen zip ties in my pack. They take up virtually no room and make constructing a shelter easier when you are alone - it's a PITA to tie branches together sometimes, but zip ties are quick - but they do not supplant the need for para cord."
100% great idea. im so glad i made this topic. thanks to everyone for sharing. continue please.
100% great idea. im so glad i made this topic. thanks to everyone for sharing. continue please.
mitchell koster
New member
I do agree that it never hurts to be prepared. 
The actual dedicated survival pack:
1 ea, 35 gal trash bag
Fire starter & lighter
Small knife sharpener
10-12 water-pur tabs (2x2 ziploc)
3 handi-wipes (2x2 ziploc)
3 Alcohol wipes (2x2 ziploc)
Styptic powder (2x2 ziploc)
Neosporin powder (2x2 ziploc)
6 ea, DIY empty tea bags (2x2 ziploc)
2 pr vinyl gloves (4 water bags)
1 plain Chapstick
Small (3 inch) Ace bandage
1 roll self adhesive athletic tape
Small signaling mirror
1 space blanket (new unopened)
Small plastic bottle of liquid insect repellent
20 ft 550 cord
Most of this fits in one small/medium fanny pack slung around back with room for ammo. Or both cargo pockets with no problem. Outside the pack, but survival equip: 1 good scabbard knife, 1 good folder, 1 12-16 oz bottle water, smokes. Deep woods, I take a machete too.
1 ea, 35 gal trash bag
Fire starter & lighter
Small knife sharpener
10-12 water-pur tabs (2x2 ziploc)
3 handi-wipes (2x2 ziploc)
3 Alcohol wipes (2x2 ziploc)
Styptic powder (2x2 ziploc)
Neosporin powder (2x2 ziploc)
6 ea, DIY empty tea bags (2x2 ziploc)
2 pr vinyl gloves (4 water bags)
1 plain Chapstick
Small (3 inch) Ace bandage
1 roll self adhesive athletic tape
Small signaling mirror
1 space blanket (new unopened)
Small plastic bottle of liquid insect repellent
20 ft 550 cord
Most of this fits in one small/medium fanny pack slung around back with room for ammo. Or both cargo pockets with no problem. Outside the pack, but survival equip: 1 good scabbard knife, 1 good folder, 1 12-16 oz bottle water, smokes. Deep woods, I take a machete too.
- Fishing line - Space/Emergency Blanket
- Fishing Hooks - Poncho
- Waterproof Matches - Boot Laces
- Lighters x2 - Field/Signal Mirror
- 550/Para Cord x approx 25' - Cell Phone
- Gallon Ziplock bags x2 - Extra Ammo
- Spare Flashlight - Weapons Cleaning Kit
- AA batteries x8 - Extra Knife
- Lensetic Compass - Extra Socks
- Topo Map - Extra Warming Layer (Seasonal)
- GPS - COPENHAGEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
- Chemlights - Riggers/duct Tape
- metal Wire for game snares
- Tylenol & Ibuprofen
- Band aids & Bandages
- Iodine & Rubbing Alcohol
- Military Survival Handbook (S.E.E.R)
*** It may seem to be an overkill, but my training has always taught me to be prepared. I'd rather lug it around & not need it than need it & not have it.
- Fishing Hooks - Poncho
- Waterproof Matches - Boot Laces
- Lighters x2 - Field/Signal Mirror
- 550/Para Cord x approx 25' - Cell Phone
- Gallon Ziplock bags x2 - Extra Ammo
- Spare Flashlight - Weapons Cleaning Kit
- AA batteries x8 - Extra Knife
- Lensetic Compass - Extra Socks
- Topo Map - Extra Warming Layer (Seasonal)
- GPS - COPENHAGEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
- Chemlights - Riggers/duct Tape
- metal Wire for game snares
- Tylenol & Ibuprofen
- Band aids & Bandages
- Iodine & Rubbing Alcohol
- Military Survival Handbook (S.E.E.R)
*** It may seem to be an overkill, but my training has always taught me to be prepared. I'd rather lug it around & not need it than need it & not have it.
bamaranger
New member
basics
AL is not so remote and the areas I frequent populated enough, that I dpo not worry about getting lost in vast wilderness. But is is possible I might get immobilized w/ an injury or illness, and have to stay out overnight. In my area, a hard walk will get you to a traveled road in almost any direction. but you might not be able to walk, so......
Shelter, water, food, signaling devices, fA gear
-a space blanket or GI poncho covers the shelter bit, I can wrap in a disposable one, , or fashion a shelter. Cord or line for this, THE CABLE TIE IDEA IS SUPER. Some type of fire starter, lately the waxed saw dust you see for fireplaces. A bic and some waterproof matches. I have some small 5 minute fusees for in my serious woods pack, one is about the size of 3 "C" batteries and WILL start a fire.
-I should carry a water purifier, but don't. Two GI canteens in hot weather, one in cooler times.
- 2-3 of the big waxy energy bars (can't think of name) that last forever
-whistle, mirror, lite sticks, cover the signal aspects. I'm ashamed to admit I have started to carry a phone (hey, I'm 53)
-an ace bandage, duct tape, small personal FA kit, w/ lots of cling gause .
All this except the canteens, , fits in a small, nylon bike bag about 6x9" like what goes on the rear of a bike seat. It can thread on a belt, or fit in the rear pocket of a hunting, climbing (treestand) or turkey vest and be near unnoticeable. All of it is sealed in zip bags. It sounds like alot, but is not.
A knife, sometimes a big one, is std equipment. I expect to have some type of firearm along. Same for a light, lately the Streamlight pen lights. I carry a compass, usually for doping the wind to pick stand sites, but could walk bearings or off sets if need be, but don't plan on it.
AL is not so remote and the areas I frequent populated enough, that I dpo not worry about getting lost in vast wilderness. But is is possible I might get immobilized w/ an injury or illness, and have to stay out overnight. In my area, a hard walk will get you to a traveled road in almost any direction. but you might not be able to walk, so......
Shelter, water, food, signaling devices, fA gear
-a space blanket or GI poncho covers the shelter bit, I can wrap in a disposable one, , or fashion a shelter. Cord or line for this, THE CABLE TIE IDEA IS SUPER. Some type of fire starter, lately the waxed saw dust you see for fireplaces. A bic and some waterproof matches. I have some small 5 minute fusees for in my serious woods pack, one is about the size of 3 "C" batteries and WILL start a fire.
-I should carry a water purifier, but don't. Two GI canteens in hot weather, one in cooler times.
- 2-3 of the big waxy energy bars (can't think of name) that last forever
-whistle, mirror, lite sticks, cover the signal aspects. I'm ashamed to admit I have started to carry a phone (hey, I'm 53)
-an ace bandage, duct tape, small personal FA kit, w/ lots of cling gause .
All this except the canteens, , fits in a small, nylon bike bag about 6x9" like what goes on the rear of a bike seat. It can thread on a belt, or fit in the rear pocket of a hunting, climbing (treestand) or turkey vest and be near unnoticeable. All of it is sealed in zip bags. It sounds like alot, but is not.
A knife, sometimes a big one, is std equipment. I expect to have some type of firearm along. Same for a light, lately the Streamlight pen lights. I carry a compass, usually for doping the wind to pick stand sites, but could walk bearings or off sets if need be, but don't plan on it.
reloader28
New member
One thing I dont see anybody mentioning is a knife sharpener. I have a 4" Diamond folding sharpener (8" altogether) in my fanny pack and have actually used it many times in my 25 years of hunting.
When I'm hunting I like to keep the weight down as much as possible. I usually hunt in the North East where it can get pretty cold and wet. I always dress in wool and although I don't like to pack a lot here's what I don't leave without.
SOG Seal Pup(leather sheath;I hate the factory one)
Magnesium fire starter(I've proved it in heavy rain and snow storms)
lighter
compass
small coil of string
small folded square of tinfoil
Frontier Water Filter Straw
Extra ammo
Everything but the belt knife fits in the front button down pocket of my coat. I wouldn't be too comfortable but I'd definately survive an overnighter.
SOG Seal Pup(leather sheath;I hate the factory one)
Magnesium fire starter(I've proved it in heavy rain and snow storms)
lighter
compass
small coil of string
small folded square of tinfoil
Frontier Water Filter Straw
Extra ammo
Everything but the belt knife fits in the front button down pocket of my coat. I wouldn't be too comfortable but I'd definately survive an overnighter.
Contained in a little fanny pack sized clutch and weighing a little under two pounds:
100' 440 cord
Small first aid kit
Signal mirror
55 Gallon trash bag
A few ziplock sandwich bags
Emergency poncho
Moleskin
Survival/Mylar blanket
115 Lumen LED flashlight
100' 50# fishing line
Whistle
Camping type Swiss army knife
Magnesium fire starter
Wire saw
Bic lighter
Compass
Pack of tissue
100' 440 cord
Small first aid kit
Signal mirror
55 Gallon trash bag
A few ziplock sandwich bags
Emergency poncho
Moleskin
Survival/Mylar blanket
115 Lumen LED flashlight
100' 50# fishing line
Whistle
Camping type Swiss army knife
Magnesium fire starter
Wire saw
Bic lighter
Compass
Pack of tissue
I do suggest folks who end up in woods or mountain terrain check out Glo-Toob products. These battery powered mini-lightsticks have multiple uses, but as a beacon they're hard to beat.
Advantages over Chem lights:
1. Can be turned off and on.
2. Last longer - up to 30 hours of useable light. 8 hrs at max intensity.
3. Has 7 modes from 25% bright, max bright, strobe, slow strobe, SOS, flash, etc.
4. Smaller - about like a shotgun shell: 2¾ x ¾" around.
5. Lightweight - only 34 grams (under 1.2 oz)
6. Resusable - uses on A23 12v battery
7. Rated water-proof to 3,500 meters or 11,500 feet
8. Infra-Red versions available.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YPjq4cuFcqE
If lost in the woods, a light item like this can be attached to fishing line or paracord and strung between trees near a clearing or on a ridgetop. Set into "strobe mode" an Amber or White beacon can be seen a long way at night or during twilight hours. At night, an I/R beacon will be easy to pick up on any FLIR search system.
Advantages over Chem lights:
1. Can be turned off and on.
2. Last longer - up to 30 hours of useable light. 8 hrs at max intensity.
3. Has 7 modes from 25% bright, max bright, strobe, slow strobe, SOS, flash, etc.
4. Smaller - about like a shotgun shell: 2¾ x ¾" around.
5. Lightweight - only 34 grams (under 1.2 oz)
6. Resusable - uses on A23 12v battery
7. Rated water-proof to 3,500 meters or 11,500 feet
8. Infra-Red versions available.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YPjq4cuFcqE
If lost in the woods, a light item like this can be attached to fishing line or paracord and strung between trees near a clearing or on a ridgetop. Set into "strobe mode" an Amber or White beacon can be seen a long way at night or during twilight hours. At night, an I/R beacon will be easy to pick up on any FLIR search system.
reloader28
New member
Hooligan
I figured you were packing a stone as in throwing rock. I'm good enough with a gun that I just started packing a throwing stone too, in about 75 caliber just to make it a challenge.
Just kidding. I guess I missed your knife and stone.
I figured you were packing a stone as in throwing rock. I'm good enough with a gun that I just started packing a throwing stone too, in about 75 caliber just to make it a challenge.
Just kidding. I guess I missed your knife and stone.