You don’t need to spend a bundle on a survival kit just to feel more secure as you are out and about. Sure, there are a lot of things that would be nice to have but if you buy them bundled usually you also pay a bundle. Better to head off to your local discount store such as Dollar tree. Many of these items can be found there. A cheap backpack (hit the before school sales) makes a convenient way to transport them. A good first aid kit is also well organized and easy to get to.
In all cases, tailor your kit to where you are. If you live in a cold area, include warm blankets and a bag of kitty litter to give you traction on ice. If in a warm place, pack extra water, disposable cold packs, and sunscreen. If your car is old and needs repair, pack an extra quart of oil. Everyone should have jumper cables, a spare tire, a jack, and a lug wrench.
First Aid Kit
Band Aids – just a few large ones. You don’t need a million tiny ones. They can be cut to fit with your
Scissors, Knife, Tweezers – make sure they’re sharp
Antibiotic ointment like Neosporin, change once a year
Gauze pads
Tape, both duct tape and first aid tape
Feminine pads (like Kotex) they make a great semi-sterile dressing
Gloves to protect yourself from blood borne illnesses should you help someone
Pain and fever relief – Aspirin or Ibuprofen, avoid acetaminophen because of liver damage.
Benadryl gelcaps – for allergic reaction.
Survival Kit
A good knife – needs a strong blade that can be sharpened.
Means of making fire – such as matches, lighter, flint and steel, or burning glass.
Compass – never breaks, rarely fails.
Flashlight – LED type is best.
Extra batteries – change them once a year.
Water – at least a quart.
Energy bars – high quality ones that will last. Cheaper than camping food.
Multitool – not required but great to have.
Many other things can be added to a survival kit depending on where you are and what you need. Mine has rain ponchos for monsoon season and two small umbrellas. Mine also has mylar blankets – they are good for a sun shade as well as for warmth. Important in the place where I live! I also have some instant cold packs in case I have to deal with a case of heat exhaustion. You might want an Epi-pen if you’re allergic to bees.
I hope this gives a good framework to start your own survival kit! Remember, it’s better to have a bad survival kit than none at all, and you can always improve as you go along.
Keep calm, be prepared.
Mindflight 