Outdoor Survival Essentials

At a minimum, you should have a way to make a fire, a first aid kit, a knife or multi-tool, and an emergency shelter like a survival bag or blanket.

It's like having a toolbox in your pocket. The pliers are great for gear repairs or handling hot pots, the knife is essential for countless tasks, and a saw blade can be a lifesaver for preparing firewood.

You want the basics like plasters, dressings, and antiseptic wipes, but it's also a good idea to add things like blister plasters, painkillers, and any personal medication you might need.

A survival knife is usually a "fixed blade" knife, which means it's one solid piece of metal. This makes it much stronger and more reliable for tough jobs like splitting wood. A pocket knife is great for smaller, everyday tasks.

Yes. Add personal medications, electrolyte tablets, or specialised items like hemostatic gauze for heavy bleeding. Tailor contents to activity risks—e.g., add burn dressings for campers. 

Include antihistamines, pain relievers (ibuprofen), and rehydration salts. Label all medications clearly and check for allergies beforehand. 

If you're into watersports like kayaking or paddleboarding, or if you're often out walking in the rain, then a waterproof kit is a brilliant idea. It keeps all your dressings and bandages dry and ready to use, no matter the weather.