Survival Kits

I figured I would open this up for discussion here since it's a topic that some might find some interest in or get use out of.

I've been tasked to give a class on Survival Kits. That is the extent of what I've been told about my assignment so I guess I can really take it wherever I want from there. I plan on pretty much explaining that a person might have several different survival kits for any given situation. A large kit with plenty of bigger supplies, full first aid, etc... that someone might leave in their truck permanently to always be ready. A backpack sized kit that if you're backpacking in an area you would have with you. A fanny pack sized one that just has really basic stuff in it and is always in your gear somewhere no matter where you're going. And I don't know, what ever other styles/sizes you might carry. So I was planning on listing off as many different sizes as I could think of and then breaking down the contents of each one individually and after that doing some practical application on how to use everything in a survival situation.

*Fishing Gear
*Fire Starting materials
*First Aid
*Shelter Supplies

I'm just listing off some stuff that's coming to mind quickly. Please let's discuss this and break down in depth how all of you would ideally (because I'm sure some of you "would" pack stuff that you currently don't) pack and prepare for survival situations in any given environment.

Thanks to you all, I hope we get some good input on this and that everyone can get something from it.
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Sounds like you are going to talk about short term survival. Having enough to get you by until you are found or find your way out. Telling someone where you are going and when you'll return is number one. Learning to signal for help will be high on your list of things to do. A mirror, whistle and building a smokey fire wiil do (i carry waterproof matches). It's good to know how to control the fire so you don't start a forest fire too. Learn to use a map and compass so when your GPS uses up the batteries you have a chance. Shelter is usually simple. I carry a small reinforced space blanket and some mason line and find a spot that is out of the weather (hard to signal help from there though). A filter for water and purification drops. Protein/energy bars are good too. A small supply of any meds you may need regularly. A good rule of thumb is never dress or travel so light that you can't stay warm or spend at least a night out. And above all else go practice in bad weather (be it hot or cold or rainy) close enough to your vehicle or in your backyard so you'll be familiar with what to do and if it works so you can quit and go inside, because if it's survival you can't quit if it ain't working. All the book knowledge and technology in the world won't prepare you for the real thing, you need at least some misery to see if you can really do it. Have fun teaching your class.
Mark
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amp713
Mark made a lot of really good points. Number one thing to take out with you is knowledge!!! (You could have all the best and amazing survival tools in the world but if you don’t know how to use them then they are no help) Always plan for the worse, I keep an extra pair of shoes, knives, lighter, a blanket and a mug in my truck. When i go hiking i put on a good base layer then layer over it till i feel its enough then pack more just in case. Some other things I would add are: a good utility knife and a good sharpener. I would also say some antibiotics for cuts and bandages, both band aids and an ace bandage or two. I carry a lighter and a piece of striker I can easily create sparks with (I have never had good luck with waterproof matches but I do carry a few in a small container just in case). Lots of water and something to carry and purify water in (camel back down to just a few small plastic cups you “borrowed” from a hotel a few years back) some very light and cheap water/wind protection, I would say something like a Wal-Mart poncho for this. 100 feet or so of rope. I have a camera, a small flashlight and a gps that all use "AA" batteries, i take extras with me but this way im not carrying many different batteries. I would even go as far as to say to throw in some daily vitamins, i take some with me and i would like to think that they could help me survive a lil longer. Also something you can add is for small things (matches, lighters, batteries) that you want to keep dry take an old medicine bottle. They are free, usually laying around and light weight. Also when adressing backpackers often times they will skimp to try and save weight, give ides such as trimming the map edges off and carrying only the bristled end of their toothbrush to save a few ounces, almost all gear in our packs can be lightened a little some how and you can add some more survival items without changing the weight. I also take a small notepad and pen with me, if i think of something that would have been useful or that something i brought is of no use i will write it down for the next trip...
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amp713
Oh and sunglasses. I forgot my pair when i went hiking today and was dying...
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"amp713" wrote:Oh and sunglasses. I forgot my pair when i went hiking today and was dying...
 As I get older I forget more, but not my glasses. I need them to find the truck! So don't worry it'll get better. lol
Mark
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amp713
"m gardner" wrote:
amp713 wrote:Oh and sunglasses. I forgot my pair when i went hiking today and was dying...
 As I get older I forget more, but not my glasses. I need them to find the truck! So don't worry it'll get better. lol
Mark
 After hiking 5 hours in the snow & sun i came back indoors and couldnt find anything for like 30 minutes.... thats probably a sign that i shouldnt do it lol
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Tonoonyi
http://survivalandoutdoorsafety.com/ss.html

This guy passed away a few years ago, but his stuff is simple and light. Worth looking at.

He also put out a CD that shows all of his techniques and shelters.
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amp713
I have found this lately and think its a good idea. Im going to buy one, Might be worth your time to check out!

http://www.survivalstraps.com/
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Mularcher
Sunglasses are a must.. a couple years ago I went a quad ride half the day and forgot my sunglasses boy did I pay for it all night it felt like I had sandpaper in my eyes. never again!
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I will echo the idea that Knowledge is the foremost tool you must have, to gain this knowledge you must practice. My pack is light but gets expanded when the HCIC (house Commander in Chief) goes with me. Some of my items:
100ft 550 cord (parachute card), 1 military style poncho, Extra 2 Liter water, 2 MRE’s, Signal Minor, Compass and map, Wyoming Saw, 3 knifes, surveys tape (Orange), 2 space blankets, 3 one gallon zip lock bags, waterproof matches in waterproof container, Magnesium Fire Starter, small mag light, head lamp with red filter. Water straw (made by PUR) and chlorine tabs.
The water is the heaviest item, make sure it is fresh.
I’ll post the story about my second trip as a guide, you all will enjoy laughing about it.
V/R
M. Bird
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