12 Survival Tools Everyone Should Own

How prepared are you when you’re camping or hiking? Make sure you have these survival tools in your kit to survive any emergency situation in the wilderness!

Survival Tools You Must Have, No Excuses

While most of us can enjoy a good survival show or movie, it’s been hard to picture finding yourself in a post-apocalyptic world or as the sole survivor of a plane crash. But the recent events put into motion by the coronavirus pandemic may have changed your tune.

Our world today is already very different than it was a month ago. And it’s hard to picture ever going back to the “normal” we once knew.

If you’re worried about things deteriorating even more, or have a general interest in what supplies are recommended for camping, hiking, and survival in the wilderness, here are 12 tools you’ll want to have on hand.

1. Firestarter – Even if you go the rudimentary approach with matches, you’ll want to have fire-starting tools on hand. Fire can help you cook your food, keep you warm, and protect you from danger.
2. Knife or Multi-tool – If you’re packing light, an axe probably isn’t on your list, despite how useful it can be. At a minimum, you’ll want to have a knife on you. A multi-tool can offer more utility, but only if you’re comfortable using the tools.
3. Water Filtration or Purification – You’ll need access to clean water over anything else – you can only survive for three days without it! Being able to filter or purify any water into potable drinking water is crucial.
4. Compass – As you navigate, potentially without electricity or cell service, a compass is an invaluable tool that everyone should own.
5. First Aid Kit – This is not an item to skimp on! Splurge on a complete kit with things like splints and long ACE bandages. Prepare for treating and dealing with cuts with jagged edges, broken bones, and more.
6. Rope or Paracord – Ropes have many uses, but most survivalists now prefer military-grade paracord. Because paracord is made up of multiple strands of nylon, it can be separated to sew things together or make a fishing line.
7. Tarp – With a myriad of uses, a tarp should be high on everyone’s gear list. A tarp is lightweight and foldable. You can use it for everything from shelter from the elements to collecting rainwater.
8. Whistle – A whistle is a great tool for calling for help or alerting people and animals to your presence.
9. Flashlight/Lantern/Headlamp – Having a light source other than your campfire will be extremely helpful, especially if you can’t find your way back to camp.
10. Rescue Mirror – Tiny and unbreakable, a rescue mirror can signal for help from miles away.
11. Dry Bag – If you are traveling with matches, maps, or important papers, you will want to protect them. Investing in a dry bag can save you a lot of trouble later.
12. Space Blanket – Great to keep you warm and dry, you can also use a space blanket as a tarp or to reflect light.

This list of survival tools isn’t intended to be comprehensive. And sheltering in your home without basic utilities would require a different set of tools. But if you may find yourself camping or braving the elements long-term, you will want to pick up these 12 items.

Up Next:

• Wilderness Survival Tips: Water Purification
• Emergency Fire Starting Kit
• The Do’s and Don’ts of Getting Lost in the Wilderness

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***Disclaimer: The contents of this article are for informational purposes only. Please read our full disclaimer.***

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on April 14, 2020, and has been updated for quality and relevancy.