I think backpacking got me started on this, but I've thought a lot about survival kits, particularly lately. Earthquakes, hurricanes, 2012, zombies... you never know when you need to be ready. So having a survival kit around the house is pretty smart, but what do you put in it?
So... I'm thinking the first question is size. There's a really neat kit in a
sardine can. That's a bit smaller than I'm thinking.
So here are the restrictions. First, it needs to be adequate to survive on for a month. Second, one person should be able to move it. To be generous, we'll say "move it" means from the floor of the garage to the back of the pickup for your mad get away. So maybe two big duffel bags at most.
Ideas:
- Water purification, either a filter or iodine drops. I'd prefer a filter. Collapsible water bottles.
- Multitool like a leatherman.
- Some form of compact high calorie food with a long shelf life. MREs?
- Fire starting equipment. Waterproof matches, some tiny starter logs, maybe a small can of fluid?
- Rope, tarps, maybe a compact tent, metal stakes
- Collapsible fishing pole.
- Collapsible small animal trap (I've never actually seen one)
- Reliable hunting/survival type knife.
- First aid kit.
- Basic clothing layers (a fleece, windbreaker, gloves, hat, socks)
Anything else?
Extra credit points if its an item that should ALSO be in your SMB, like the first aid kit.