Are you getting ready for a camping trip? You will need to pack a number of survival supplies, such as a high-powered flashlight and a first aid kit. In the wilderness, you can experience multiple obstacles and unexpected events. That’s why you need to prepare yourself for different scenarios with these survival kit items. Whether you are a beginner camper or a seasoned pro, it doesn’t hurt to use this list to make sure you have everything packed and ready-to-go for your upcoming camping trip.
Everything You Need to Pack Into Your Survival Kit
Don’t Forget to Pack These 12 Items in Your Camping Survival Kit
1. Food and Water
If you plan on going camping, you will need to bring enough water to last everyone at least one gallon per day. You will want to bring a few extra gallons for cleaning and washing up. Most campers just store their water in some jugs. You can also look up the campsite you intend on visiting to see if there is a water source nearby.
Of course, you will also want to bring some food for your camping trip. Meal planning ahead of time can help you determine what type of foods you want to bring and will also let you save time organizing and cooking once you are at the campsite. Some easy camping meals you can prepare by the fire include:
- Hot dogs
- Breakfast hash including sausage, corn, and potatoes
- Snack mix
- Chicken soup ready for heating
- Omelet
- Pancakes
- Mac and cheese
- Sandwiches
Along with your food and drinks, you need to remember to bring supplies to pack them in. Resealable bags, ice packs, a cooler, foil, tupperware, and foil are perfect for storing your food and supplies.
2. Flashlight
No matter where you go camping, you’re going to need to bring a powerful and reliable flashlight along with you. You might be surprised at how dark it can get outside in the woods. That’s why you need a special camping flashlight to help you avoid tripping or falling in the dark, function as an emergency signal if you end up separating from your friends, and even act as a form of self-defense against attackers.
When looking for a flashlight, make sure it features:
- High light output
- Long battery life and run-time
- Water-resistance
- Drop-resistance
Some campers prefer to wear headlamps so that they can carry supplies or work around in the dark. As you check out different flashlights, you should purchase one that offers some type of portability, such as a handle or a light body weight.
3. Radio
Radios can be useful for your camping trips in a variety of ways. For one thing, they can act as an easy and fun form of entertainment. Whether you want to stay up-to-date with the latest current events or listen to some of your favorite music, you can turn on your radio to enjoy it. Radios can also help you remain alert for any news of bad weather. Should your radio detect an alert from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), it can alert you and allow you to prepare accordingly.
As you look into different radios, you should evaluate them based on a number of different factors such as their:
- Sound quality
- Reception
- Range
- Volume
- Water and drop-resistance
- Portability
4. Pocket Knife
A pocket knife can serve a variety of different purposes, from cutting up vegetables to fixing the radio. The type of pocket knife you bring will depend on the intensity of your trip. If you are planning a laid back weekend getaway at the lake, you might just need a simple small sheath knife or multi-tool. However, if you are planning an intense, month-long trip into the mountains, you are going to need something a little more complex and durable.
5. Water Purification Tablets
Water purification tablets are great for getting rid of any bacteria or viruses that might be hanging around in your water. Most tablets only take around a half hour to work. They are also small and easy to carry around with you wherever you go. Simply drop a sheet of tablets in your backpack and you are ready to go! When you’re ready to drink up or take a short bath, drop some tablets in your water supply.
6. Fire Starting Supplies
Unless you want to sit out in the dark all night, you are going to need to bring some fire starting supplies. Luckily, you can purchase fire starting kits at a variety of different online stores. Most of these kits contain all of the essentials you need to start a fire, including:
- Lighter
- Matches
- Tinder to start the fire
7. Extra Blankets and Sleeping Bags
You will also need to bring along some comfortable blankets and sleeping bags for your camping trip. Blankets are perfect for snuggling up near the fire or just keeping you warm during the cold night. Make sure you purchase blankets and sleeping bags that are durable and waterproof. Coverings made out of weak or flimsy material can end up making you more uncomfortable.
8. First Aid Kit
In the case of an emergency or an unexpected injury, you should pack a first aid kit. This kit should contain first aid supplies like:
- Adhesive bandages
- Gauze pads
- Tweezers
- Neosporin
- Safety pins
- Knife
- Sunscreen
- Cold compress
- Heat packet
- Insect repellent
9. Whistle
Whistles will be handy if you ever find yourself in a sticky situation while camping. High-quality whistles can produce loud noises using little effort. Make sure you bring a few whistles for each member of your camping group. Even if you never use it, it is still best to carry a pack of whistles with you just in case.
10. Signaling Mirror
If you ever find yourself lost or injured, you can use a signaling mirror to attract help. Some mirrors are equipped with a retro-reflective grid. This grid helps users adjust the mirror and aim it so that the flash of the mirror is placed on whatever source you are attempting to aim it toward. Most signaling mirrors are portable and easy to carry around with you wherever you go.
11. Rain Jacket
Rain jackets are always a great addition to your survival kit. If you suspect that it might rain during your camping trip, it’s best to bring an extra rain jacket or two with you just in case. The best rain jackets offer breathability, wind-resistance, and, of course, water-resistance. Some rain jackets also offer a soft interior for keeping you warm in cold weather. If you plan on camping out during the fall or spring, you might want to purchase a jacket with some extra padding.
12. Tent
When it comes to camping, packing up a tent is a bit of a no-brainer. As you look into different tents, you need to consider the amount of floor space, height, and vents it offers. If you are planning to sleep in a tent with a larger group of people, you should try to find tents containing at least two doors. The tent’s durability and material will also play a crucial role in whether or not you decide to pick it.
Camping Safety Tips
Before you go out camping, make sure you familiarize yourself with these safety tips
Packing up the right gear plays just one part in helping you prepare for your upcoming camping trip. Make sure you know what camping site you want to visit, how to get there, and how to properly set up your tent. If you have never used your tent before or it has been a while since you went out camping, remember to practice pitching your tent before your leave.
Along with your pack of survival supplies, you should also bring fun games, books, binoculars, and a camera to stay entertained throughout the trip. Remember to regularly apply sunscreen and insect repellent to protect your skin.
Once your trip is over and you are ready to leave, you need to clean up the camp and throw away any trash. The campsite should look the same as it did when you arrived there.
Going backpacking and camping can be an extremely fun adventure! But it can quickly turn dangerous if you find yourself unprepared during an emergency. Before you go, make sure you have packed all of these items.
Where are your favorite places to go camping? Let us know in the comments!
