Survival kit

Are you ready for the unexpected? How to assemble your survival kit without dying in the attempt

Picture this: you decide to go on a weekend getaway to the mountains, everything is going smoothly, and suddenly... the weather changes dramatically, or you get disoriented. Does that sound familiar? In those moments, crossing your fingers won't cut it; what truly saves your life is what you have in your backpack.

In our outdoor category, you can find everything you need for your excursions. However, today we're not here to sell you snake oil. We want to answer those real questions you leave in the comments about which emergency gear is worthwhile and which is better left at home.

Because let's be honest: you go online, watch a couple of videos, read three blogs, and end up overwhelmed. There's too much information! In the end, the best advice is the least common of all senses: common sense. Your gear doesn't have to be that of a special forces commando; it needs to adapt to you, your environment, and your real needs.

The first step: Where will you store your things?

Before you go crazy buying accessories, think: where will this equipment be? Preparing something to carry while hiking is not the same as a storage system to keep at home or in the car trunk just in case.

The golden rule is simple: away from moisture and protected from the sun.

• If you're going to be on the move, put everything in waterproof bags inside your tactical backpacks.
• If it stays at home, a good plastic box or a dry bag will make your life easier.

From there, let's divide the game into two major blocks: what keeps you alive (food and drink) and the tools that make your life easier.

🍽️ Food and drink: Real energy for critical situations

When the body goes into alert mode, it needs good fuel. Carbohydrates are your best allies to give you that energy boost you're going to need.

Emergency rations: Your life insurance

Forget gourmet dishes if things get ugly. Here we are looking for durability and resistance. TREK’N EAT brand emergency rations (like the famous NGR or Survivor) are truly amazing. They last for years, have a slightly sweet baked wheat flavor, and you can eat them anywhere without needing to heat them. Plus, if you have little ones, you can mix them with a little water or milk to make a porridge. And there are gluten-free options!

Pro tip: Carrying a pack of these rations in your car's glove compartment can save you from a lot of trouble if you get stranded in a snowstorm or an accident.

Of course, there are more options. Many users combine these rations with freeze-dried food to have greater autonomy for several days. You can also opt for classic canned goods. They weigh more, yes, but they come pre-cooked, taste delicious, and you can eat them cold if there's no other option. Just make sure you don't forget to pack a spoon or a can opener in your survival gear!

Water: Don't take chances

You can last days without food, but without water, you're finished. For quick outings or emergencies, individual 100 ml water rations are ideal because they are treated to last a very long time in perfect condition.

However, if you have to collect water from nature (a stream, a puddle, or a pond), things change.

• If the water is clear: Water purification tablets are a must. One tablet per liter, wait the indicated time, and you're good to go. Be careful, cheap ones leave a rather stubborn chlorine taste; better quality ones are more mindful of the flavor.
• If the water has mud or sediment: You need to filter before drinking. From basic mesh to sophisticated ceramic systems from Katadyn, which remove germs and impurities.

If you combine good filtering with a purification tablet, you're playing it safe.

🛠️ Essential tools: Less is more

If you are preparing a complete emergency kit, you might also be interested in consulting our guide on survival kits. But if we had to choose three sacred elements that cannot be missing from your survival packs, they would be these:

1. Paracord and cutting tools

Paracord is the undisputed king of the outdoors. A brutally strong rope that can be used to tension a shelter, mend a boot, or tie down cargo. And of course, to cut it, you'll need a good blade.

Here the eternal question always arises: Stainless steel or carbon steel? Carbon steels have an incredibly sharp edge, but they rust if you look at them wrong (especially if you cut acidic foods like a tomato). If you choose carbon, pamper it: clean it well and give it a thin coat of oil after use.

2. Fire is life

For cooking, for warmth, for morale... knowing how to make fire is vital. Don't rely solely on a lighter that can get wet. Carry matches, ferro rods, or magnesium. Trick: Always carry some cotton or wax fire starters in a tightly sealed zip bag. If the tinder is dry, fire is guaranteed.

3. Light and information

A good flashlight —preferably a headlamp to keep your hands free— will change your life at night. Look for adjustable LED lights; the more power you use, the faster you'll drain the battery.

And to keep them alive, a good power bank is non-negotiable. Prioritize charging important items (phone, flashlight) and save some reserve for emergencies. Oh, and add a classic AM/FM radio. If the internet or power goes out, the radio will still keep you informed of what's happening out there.

⛺ The art of improvising a shelter

If night or a storm catches you while on the move, you need to insulate yourself from the ground and water. A waterproof poncho is one of the most versatile pieces of equipment out there: it covers you, protects your backpack, and, with a little skill using its eyelets and your paracord, you can set up an improvised shelter (a bivouac or basha) in five minutes.

The secret for your feet: If your feet get wet, you're out of the game. Always carry dry spare socks in a dry bag. And if you feel a blister forming, stick a piece of wide fabric adhesive tape directly on your skin (on your heel or wherever it rubs). It will act as a second skin and save your hike.

Finally, never leave without a basic first aid kit (bandages, dressings, alcohol, personal medicines) and a roll of toilet paper well protected from moisture.

🎒 In summary: Weight is your worst enemy

Your survival backpack could be infinite, but remember that if you have to move, every gram counts. Carry the basics, plan well, and use your head.

We hope these small tips help you dip your toes into the exciting world of preparedness. On our survival blog, you'll find much more detailed information, tricks, and guides to master the terrain.

Thanks for reading, and see you on the next adventure!