We may be more plugged in than ever thanks to smartphones, smartwatches, and smart homes, but that doesn’t mean this generation has totally shut out the great outdoors. According to a recent report by Kampgrounds of America’s, the number of households who took a camping trip increased 20 percent in recent years. Smartphones may still have been present, but people are getting outside. That’s great news, but it’s essential to be safe when venturing out and that means bringing a survival kit.
Survival kits have an intimidating name and for a good reason. From leisurely activities like camping and hiking to emergency situations, survival kits can literally help you survive, containing crucial items like fire starters, tactical knives, emergency blankets and more, all things people don’t typically have on hand.
Often regarded as an after-thought when something tragic happens, survival kits should be at the top of your packing list anytime you leave the house. Lightweight and portable, survival kits work not only because they’re filled with versatile items that are great in many situations, but because they’re affordable enough that it’s easy to add one to your pack without much consideration. Pick up a survival kit now and thank us later.
1. EVERLIT 250 Pieces Survival First Aid Kit
Designed by US military veterans and field-tested by a former Army sergeant, the EVERLIT 250 Pieces Survival First Aid Kit will prepare you for battle, whether that battle is a natural disaster or a tent that won’t stay up. Cased in a military-grade, water-resistant EMT bag with molle compatibility, the kit includes an extensive list of survival pieces, including glow sticks, a thermal blanket, a fire starter, a flashlight, some paracord, a whistle, a tactical card and more. The comprehensive kit is durable and lightweight with the entire set coming in at under 2 pounds.
Pros: The FDA-approved medical kit included in the EVERLIT features multiple sizes of bandages, burn and wound dressings, tweezers and more and exceeds OSHA guidelines for a single-family, making it appropriate for group outings.
Cons: Food, water, and hemorrhaging control items must be added separately.
2. FiveJoy Military Folding Shovel Multitool
For survivalists, the FiveJoy Military Folding Shovel Multitool is a heavy-duty multi-tool that can be the difference between life or death in emergency situations. The virtually indestructible rust, water and fracture-resistant solid carbon steel tool is a saw, a blade, an ax, a hoe and a shovel in one. With multi-tool, you can cut branches, chop firewood, and dig yourself out of any situation. Weighing only 1.2 pounds, the tool is light enough to carry on hunting, hiking and camping excursions or keep in your car for emergencies.
Pros: In addition to the multi-tool, the kit also comes with a tactical knife and magnesium rod and whistle.
Cons: A more comprehensive survival kit featuring a fire starter and medical package must be purchased separately.
3. XUANLAN Emergency Survival Kit
For a kit that is lightweight and compact enough to fit into a backpack or glove compartment, the XUANLAN Emergency Survival Kit is the ideal accompaniment to any outdoor adventure. The comprehensive kit comes with a 5-in-1 paracord with an embedded military-grade compass, a fire starter, a whistle, a thermal blanket, a flashlight, a tactical knife and more.
Pros: The XUANLAN has a wire saw for cutting branches and a tactical card featuring a screwdriver, escape rope, Allen key, serrated edge and more, making it a bonus item that can be carried separately.
Cons: Other than the emergency blanket, the kit does not include any first aid medical items.