Top Picks for the Best Survival Kit for Hiking
When it comes to hiking, having the right survival kit can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency. Here are our top picks for the best survival kit for hiking:
1. LifeStraw Personal Water Filter
Staying hydrated is crucial when hiking, but carrying enough water can be challenging. The LifeStraw Personal Water Filter lets you drink directly from streams and lakes, removing 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria and 99.9% of waterborne protozoan parasites.
2. Surviveware Small First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is a must-have for any hiker. The Surviveware Small First Aid Kit is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry on any hike. It contains over 100 pieces, including a variety of bandages, antiseptic wipes, and first aid tools.
3. Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Survival Kit
The Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Survival Kit is a comprehensive survival kit containing everything you need to survive in the wilderness. It includes a fire starter, knife, signaling mirror, and emergency cord, among other tools.
4. SOL Emergency Bivvy
If you get lost or injured during a hike, staying warm is essential. The SOL Emergency Bivvy is a lightweight and compact emergency blanket that reflects 90% of your body heat to keep you warm.
5. Goal Zero Nomad 7 Plus Solar Panel
When hiking for an extended period, it can be challenging to keep your electronic devices charged. The Goal Zero Nomad 7 Plus Solar Panel is a portable and efficient way to charge phones, GPS devices, and other electronics on the go.
These survival kits are just a few of the many options available on the market. Remember to always be prepared for the unexpected and carry the essentials when out on a hike.
Essential Items to Include in Your Hiking Survival Kit
When you're out on a hike, anything can happen. That's why it's important to be prepared with a well-stocked survival kit. Here are some essential items that should be included:
- Water: Whether it's a water bottle or a hydration pack, make sure you have enough water to stay hydrated throughout your hike.
- Food: Pack some energy bars, trail mix, or other non-perishable snacks to keep your energy up.
- First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit should include bandaids, antiseptic wipes, gauze, tweezers, and pain relievers.
- Knife or Multitool: A sharp knife or multitool can come in handy for a variety of tasks, from cutting rope to preparing food.
- Flashlight: Make sure you have a reliable flashlight and extra batteries in case you get stuck out on the trail after dark.
- Emergency Blanket: A lightweight, compact emergency blanket can help keep you warm in case of unexpected weather or a sudden chill.
- Whistle: A whistle can be a lifesaver if you get lost or injured and need to bring attention to yourself.
- Map and Compass: While most hikers today rely on their smartphones for navigation, it's important to have a backup plan in case your battery dies or you lose service.
- Sun Protection: Don't forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays.
- Extra Clothing: Even if you think the weather will be mild, it's always a good idea to pack an extra layer or two in case of unexpected temperature drops or rain.
These are just a few of the essential items to include in your hiking survival kit. Depending on the length and intensity of your hike, you may want to add additional items such as a water filtration system, a fire starter, or a signaling device. The key is to be prepared for anything and to always stay safe while enjoying the great outdoors.
How to Choose the Right Survival Gear for Your Next Hiking Adventure
When heading out for a hiking adventure, it's essential to have the right survival gear to ensure your safety and comfort. But with so many different types of gear available, it can be overwhelming to know exactly what to pack. Here are a few key things to consider when choosing the right survival gear for your next hiking adventure.
1. Weather Conditions
The first and most important factor to consider is the weather conditions you'll be facing on your hike. Will you be facing high temperatures and intense sun? Or will you be dealing with cold temperatures, snow, and rain? Be sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear to protect you from the elements, including a waterproof jacket, a hat, gloves, and layers of clothing that can be added or removed as needed.
2. Length and Difficulty of the Hike
The length and difficulty of your hike will also play a role in determining what type of survival gear you'll need. If you're only going on a short day hike, you may be able to get away with packing minimal gear. However, if you're embarking on a multi-day trek through rough terrain, you'll want to make sure you have more advanced gear like a reliable backpack, camping stove, and a durable tent.
3. Basic Survival Tools
No matter what type of hike you're going on, there are a few basic survival tools that should always be included in your gear list, including a map, compass, first-aid kit, and a multi-tool. These essentials will help you navigate your way, treat any injuries, and perform basic tasks like cutting through branches or opening cans of food.
4. Water and Food
Staying hydrated and nourished is key to a successful hike, so it's important to pack plenty of water and food. Pack more food than you think you'll need, as you'll likely be burning more calories than usual on a long hike. In addition to food and water, consider packing a water filtration system or water purification tablets in case you need to refill your water supply from a stream or other water source.
5. Emergency Communication
In case of an emergency, it's important to have a way to communicate with the outside world. A GPS device or a satellite phone can be extremely helpful in this scenario, but they can be quite expensive. Alternatively, you can bring a whistle or a signaling mirror to help attract attention if you become lost or injured.
By considering these five key factors, you can ensure that you're packing the right survival gear for your next hiking adventure. With the right gear in tow, you can enjoy the beauty of nature while staying prepared for any situation that may arise.
