Rain poncho – To protect you from the unexpected rain storm, to provide shelter should you need it (use with emergency blanket)
Emergency Space Blanket – To provide warmth if needed and used as a thermal barrier between you and the ground. Can be used in conjunction with rain poncho as a shelter.
50 feet of 550 paracord – To provide cordage to create shelter, along with other potential uses.
Multi tool – cutting tool you can use with other potential uses.
A lighter and a box of wind/waterproof matches. Always have at least two or more ways to start a fire. When suffering from hyperthermia it becomes hard to use your fingers, having a lighter could make a difference. However, a lighter may not work if it becomes wet so another way is needed.Learn to use a ferro rod.
Mini water filter that can remove 99.99999% of all bacteria and protozoa. This can be used with a straw to drink directly out of a stream, and will attach to your water bottles and bags. Having a way to make potable water could save your life. After maintaining your core temperature, water will be your biggest need.
2 to 3 Empty liter bags to collect water – Being able to collect two to three liters of water can prevent you from being dehydrated before you find your next water source should it be absolutely necessary to move.
Nutrition bars. Look for ones that are the highest in protein and carbs. While you can go 21 or more days without food, when your blood sugar drops it becomes harder to do everything.
Mini flashlight with strobe – It\’s dark in the woods. Use sparingly, however, when rescue is looking for you in the dark this can bring them right to you.
1\” x 1\” signal mirror – It is very difficult to see a person on the ground from the air. Use the mirror to signal a rescue aircraft.
Whistle – Since the sound of a whistle carries much further than your voice, it can help rescuers find you.
Large brightly colored bandana (our favorite is hunter orange) – If you can\’t stay in an opening, putting a bright bandanna out can help you get spotted. It also has many other uses.
Button Compass -If you familiarized yourself with the area prior to your hike, you may be able to hike out based on your knowledge of where backdrops are that will lead you to civilization.