Survival kit

2026-02-07T11:51:47Z

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<blockquote>This page needs to be edited towards survival.</blockquote>[[File:Moscow Polytechnical Museum, cosmonaut's survival kit.jpg|thumb|[[Astronaut|Cosmonaut]]'s survival kit in [[Polytechnical Museum|Polytechnical Museum, Moscow]]]]
[[File:US Navy 070801-N-3136P-009 Aircrew Survival Equipmentman Airmans Jessica Lockhart (left), and Rudy Inzunza inventory a C-2A Greyhound's life raft kit in USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) paraloft shop.jpg|thumb|Sailors take inventory of a [[C-2A Greyhound]]'s liferaft kit in [[USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63)|USS ''Kitty Hawk'' (CV 63)]] paraloft shop.]]

A '''survival kit''' is a package of basic tools and supplies prepared as an aid to survival in an emergency. Civil and military aircraft, lifeboats, and spacecraft are equipped with survival kits.

Survival kits, in a variety of sizes, contain supplies and tools to provide a survivor with basic shelter against the elements, help them to keep warm, meet basic health and first aid needs, provide [[food]] and [[water]], signal to rescuers, and assist in finding the way back to help. Supplies in a survival kit normally include a [[knife]] (often a [[Swiss army knife]] or a [[multi-tool]]), [[matches]], [[tinder]], [[first aid kit]], [[bandana]], [[fish hook]]s, [[Sewing|sewing kit]], and a [[flashlight]].

Civilians such as [[forestry]] workers, [[surveyor]]s, or [[Bush flying|bush pilots]], who work in remote locations or in regions with extreme climate conditions, may also be equipped with survival kits. Disaster supplies are also kept on hand by those who live in areas prone to earthquakes or other natural disasters. For the average citizen to practice disaster preparedness, some towns will have [[survival store]]s to keep survival supplies in stock.

The [[American Red Cross]] recommends an emergency preparedness kit that is easy to carry and use in the event of an emergency or disaster.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.redcross.org/portal/site/en/menuitem.53fabf6cc033f17a2b1ecfbf43181aa0/?vgnextoid=537b218c37752210VgnVCM10000089f0870aRCRD&currPage=e507d7aada352210VgnVCM10000089f0870aRCRD |title=Be Red Cross Ready - Get a kit. Make a plan. Be informed |publisher=Redcross.org |access-date=2011-11-26 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111118000533/http://www.redcross.org/portal/site/en/menuitem.53fabf6cc033f17a2b1ecfbf43181aa0/?vgnextoid=537b218c37752210VgnVCM10000089f0870aRCRD&currPage=e507d7aada352210VgnVCM10000089f0870aRCRD |archive-date=2011-11-18 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.redcross.org/content/dam/redcross/get-help/pdfs/brcr_checklist/EN_Be-Red-Cross-Ready-Factsheet.pdf | title=Be Red Cross Ready - Get a kit. Make a plan. Be informed. | publisher=Redcross.org | access-date=2021-09-26}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/survival-kit-supplies.html | title=Survival Kit Supplies | publisher=Redcross.org | access-date=2021-09-26}}</ref>

== Types of survival kits ==

=== Mini survival kits ===
Mini survival kits or "[[Altoids]]" tin survival kits are small kits that contain a few basic survival tools. These kits often include a small [[compass]], waterproof [[match]]es, minimum fishing tackle, large plastic bag, small candle, jigsaw blade, craft knife or scalpel blade, and/or a safety pin/s. Pre-packaged survival kits may also include instructions in survival techniques such as fire-starting or first aid methods. In addition, [[paracord]] can be wrapped around the tin. The paracord can be used for setting up an emergency shelter or snaring small animals. They are designed to fit within a container roughly the size of a mint tin.

[[File:Fire Making Survival Kit.jpg|thumb|Fire-making kit contained in tin]]

Other small kits are wearable and built into [[everyday carry]] survival bracelets or belts. Most often these are [[paracord]] bracelets with tools woven inside. Several tools such as firestarter, buckles, whistles and compass are on the exterior of the gear and smaller tools are woven inside the jewelry or belt and only accessible by taking the bracelet apart.

Lightweight survival kits are generally seen as a backup means of survival; however, these kits can be extensive, and have come to include tools that are generally found in larger kits as survival technology advances. Some examples of these tools are high-power [[flashlight]]s, rapid use saws, signal devices such as mini signal mirrors, and [[water purification]] methods.

=== Emergency kit ===
[[File:Signal mirror 2x3 plastic USMC.jpg|thumb|A U.S. Marine signalling an aircraft with a [[Mirror#Signalling|signal mirror]]]]
[[File:Bow Saw (PSF).jpg|thumb|Bow saws about {{convert|24|in|cm}} in length are lightweight and fast-cutting.]]
[[File:Portable stove.jpg|thumb|right|A small Snow Peak portable stove running on MSR gas and the stove's carrying case]]

An '''emergency kit''', '''disaster bag''', '''bug-out bag''' ('''BOB'''),<ref name="South1990p221">{{cite book |first1=J. Allan |last1=South |title=The Sense of Survival |chapter=Chapter 11 (Equipment), Bug-Out Bag Contents |page=221 |publisher=Timpanogos Publishers |location=Orem, Utah |year=1990 |isbn=0-935329-00-5 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book|author=Lundin, Cody|title= When All Hell Breaks Loose: Stuff You Need To Survive When Disaster Strikes| chapter=Chapter 3 (Includes a Bug Out Kit list) |publisher=Gibbs Smith|location= Layton, Utah|date= September 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://bugoutbagacademy.com/what-is-a-bug-out-bag/|title=What is a Bug Out Bag|website=Bug Out Bag Academy|date=26 June 2013 |access-date=2016-11-03}}</ref> also known as a '''72-hour kit''',<ref>{{cite web|url=http://lds.about.com/od/preparednessfoodstorage/a/72hour_kit.htm|title=72 Hour Kit – How to Make a 72 Hour Kit for Emergency Preparedness|website=About.com|access-date=2009-09-05|archive-date=2009-06-01|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090601210623/http://lds.about.com/od/preparednessfoodstorage/a/72hour_kit.htm|url-status=dead}}</ref> '''GOOD bag''' (get out of Dodge),<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.officer.com/web/online/On-the-Street/Bug-Out-Bags/21$48242 |author=Borelli, Frank |title= Equipment Review: Bug Out Bags?|website= Officer.com|date=September 4, 2009 |access-date=2010-01-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091227160237/http://www.officer.com/web/online/On-the-Street/Bug-Out-Bags/21$48242 |archive-date=2009-12-27 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://weeklygravy.com/lifestyle/the-im-never-coming-home-bag-an-assembly-guide/|title=The "I'm Never Coming Home Bag:" An Assembly Guide|last=Muska|first=Scott|date=April 30, 2014|website=Weekly Gravy|access-date=October 18, 2016}}</ref> '''personal emergency relocation kit''' ('''PERK'''), '''go-bag''', '''survival backpack''', or '''quick run bag''' ('''QRB''')<ref>{{cite web|website=Tearfund|title=Disaster Management Team Good Practice Guidelines|date=2007|url=http://tilz.tearfund.org/~/media/Files/TILZ/Topics/DMT/GPG_Disaster_Risk_Reduction.pdf?la=en|access-date=2016-11-29|archive-date=2016-11-30|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161130041556/http://tilz.tearfund.org/~/media/Files/TILZ/Topics/DMT/GPG_Disaster_Risk_Reduction.pdf?la=en|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|website=VSF Germany |title=Contingency Recommendations|url=http://www.vsfg.org/security-guidelines/contingency-recommendations |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161130042715/http://www.vsfg.org/security-guidelines/contingency-recommendations |url-status=dead |archive-date=November 30, 2016 |date=November 30, 2016 }}</ref> is a portable kit containing items that would help a person to survive for 72 hours<ref>{{cite press release|url=http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema?id=35169 |title= Disaster Planning Is Up To You |website=FEMA |access-date=2009-09-05 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091117235247/http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema?id=35169 |archive-date=2009-11-17 }}</ref> during an escape or evacuation from an emergency event or [[disaster]] such as a hurricane, earthquake, or flood.<ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Pickering|first1=Christina J.|last2=O'Sullivan|first2=Tracey L.|last3=Morris|first3=Alessia|last4=Mark|first4=Carman|last5=McQuirk|first5=David|last6=Chan|first6=Emily YY|last7=Guy|first7=Emily|last8=Chan|first8=Gloria KW|last9=Reddin|first9=Karen|last10=Throp|first10=Ralph|last11=Tsuzuki|first11=Shinya|date=2018-07-06|title=The Promotion of 'Grab Bags' as a Disaster Risk Reduction Strategy|journal=PLOS Currents|volume=10|doi=10.1371/currents.dis.223ac4322834aa0bb0d6824ee424e7f8|issn=2157-3999|pmc=6050054|pmid=30050724 |doi-access=free }}</ref>

The focus is on [[emergency evacuation|evacuation]] rather than long-term survival.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://metro.co.uk/2025/03/26/nearly-450-000-000-people-warned-prepare-war-72-hour-survival-kits-22798562/ | title=Nearly 450,000,000 people warned to prepare for war with '72 hour survival kits' | date=26 March 2025 }}</ref> The kits are also popular in the [[survivalism]] subculture.<ref>{{cite news |title=The VICE Starter Pack to Casual Doomsday Prepping |url=https://www.vice.com/en/article/akgabj/how-to-pack-an-emergency-disaster-go-bag |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210804180523/https://www.vice.com/en/article/akgabj/how-to-pack-an-emergency-disaster-go-bag |url-status=dead |archive-date=August 4, 2021 |access-date=25 August 2021 |work=Vice.com |language=en}}</ref>

====Civil defense kit====
Typical civil defense 3-day emergency kits (72 hours) contain:

* Water
* Non-perishable food
* Necessary medicines
* A battery-powered radio
* A torch
* Cash
* Identity documents
* A first-aid kit
* A Swiss Army knife
* Clothing
* Toiletries
* Bottled water
* Portable chargers

====Outline====
The term "bug-out bag" is related to the "bail-out bag" emergency kit many military aviators carry. In the United States, the term refers to the [[Korean War]] practice of the [[U.S. Army]] designating alternative defensive positions, in the event that the units had to [[Withdrawal (military)|retreat]]. They were directed to "bug out" when being overrun was imminent. The term has since been adopted by military training institutions around the world, with [[standard operating procedures]] involving a bug-out location, a method of withdrawal, and the bare supplies needed to withdraw quickly but still survive in the field. The concept passed into wide usage among other military and law enforcement personnel, though the "bail-out bag" is as likely to include emergency gear for going into an emergency situation as for escaping during one.<ref name="BlueSheepdog.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.bluesheepdog.com/2009/07/16/the-bail-out-bag/ |title=The Bail Out Bag |website=BlueSheepdog.com |date=July 16, 2009 |access-date=2011-06-18}}</ref>

The primary purpose of a bug-out bag is to allow someone to evacuate quickly if a disaster should strike.<ref>{{cite news|author=Clayton, Dr. Bruce|author-link=Bruce Clayton| work= Life After Doomsday| title=Chapter 3 (To Flee of Not To Flee)|page= 39|publisher= [[Paladin Press]]|location= Boulder, CO|date=1980}}</ref> It is therefore prudent to gather into a single place all of the materials and supplies that might be required to do this, such as a bag or a few storage containers. The recommendation that a bug-out bag contain enough supplies for 72 hours arises from advice from organizations responsible for disaster relief and management that it may take them up to 72 hours to reach people affected by a disaster and offer help.<ref name="redcross.ca">{{cite web|url=https://gadgetbackpack.com/blogs/news/disaster-supplies-kit|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180518200024/https://gadgetbackpack.com/blogs/news/disaster-supplies-kit|url-status=dead|archive-date=2018-05-18|title=Disaster Supplies Kit- Canadian Red Cross|date=2007-05-03|website=GadgetBackpack.com|publisher=Redcross.ca|access-date=2009-09-05}}</ref> The bag's contents may vary according to the region of the user, as someone evacuating from the path of a hurricane may have different supplies from someone who lives in an area prone to [[blizzard]]s, [[earthquake]]s, or [[wildfire]]s.

In addition to allowing one to survive a disaster evacuation, a bug-out bag may also be used when sheltering in place ("bugging in") as a response to emergencies such as [[Power blackout|blackout]]s, [[Structure fire|house fires]], [[tornadoes]], and other severe natural disasters.

===Typical contents===

The [[Federal Emergency Management Agency]] (FEMA), the [[United States]]'s agency responsible for disaster planning and emergency resource management, outlines the following list for a three-day basic emergency supply kit.<ref>{{cite web |title=How to Build a Kit for Emergencies {{!}} FEMA.gov |url=https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20250602/how-build-kit-emergencies |website=www.fema.gov |access-date=25 August 2021 |language=en}}</ref> Similar items can also be found from other national emergency response agencies.

The suggested contents of a bug-out bag vary and can also include weapons for defense from dangerous animals or people.<ref name=South1990p221/><ref>{{Cite book|title=Build the Perfect Bug Out Bag: Your 72-Hour Disaster Survival Kit|last=Stewart|first=Creek|publisher=Betterway Books|year=2012|isbn=978-1440318740}}{{page needed|date=November 2016}}</ref><ref>Building Kits: Getting Prepared takes commitment, by Mike Peterson, American Survival Guide Magazine, Dec., 1993, p. 76</ref><ref>Survival Skills Intensive Training: Assembling the Bug Out Kit, by Christopher Nyerges, American Survival Guide Magazine, May, 1998, p. 26</ref>

* Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)
* Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
* Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a [[National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration|NOAA]] [[Weather radio|Weather Radio]] with tone alert
* [[Flashlight]]
* [[First aid kit]]
* Extra batteries
* Whistle (to signal for help)
* [[Dust mask]] (to help filter contaminated air)
* Plastic sheeting and [[duct tape]] (to shelter in place)
* [[Wet wipe]]s, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
* Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
* Manual can opener (for food)
* Local maps
* Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

==== Additional emergency supplies ====
[[File:Emergency Hygiene Kits, Men & Women.jpg|thumb|right|Emergency hygiene kits, men and women variants]]
Since spring 2020, the [[Centers for Disease Control and Prevention]] (CDC) has recommended people include additional items in their kits to help prevent the spread of coronavirus or other viruses and the flu.

* Masks (for everyone ages two and above), soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
* Prescription medications
* Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
* Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
* Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream
* Pet food and extra water
* Cash or traveler's checks
* Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
* Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
* Complete climate-appropriate change of clothing and sturdy shoes
* Fire extinguisher
* Matches in a waterproof container
* Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
* Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and utensils
* Paper and pencil
* Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

=== Lifeboat survival kits ===
Lifeboat survival kits are stowed in inflatable or rigid [[Lifeboat (rescue)|lifeboats]] or [[lifeboat (shipboard)|life raft]]s. These kits provide basic survival tools and supplies to enable passengers to survive until they are rescued. A lifeboat survival kit for six people can include:<ref name="gps.co.uk">{{Cite web|title=Buy Survival Life Raft 9-13 person w/standard kit (3-year service interval) {{!}} from Mendelssohns|url=https://www.gps.co.uk/product/survival-life-raft-9-13-person-w-standard-kit-3-year-service-interval/|access-date=2021-07-16|language=en-GB}}</ref><ref name="viking-yachting.com">{{Cite web|title=What's inside a VIKING liferaft emergency pack?|url=https://www.viking-yachting.com/global/whats-inside-a-liferaft-emergency-pack|access-date=2021-07-16|website=www.viking-yachting.com}}</ref>

* Drinking water (9 litres)
* [[emergency rations]] (3 kg)
* first aid kit
* 36 anti-seasickness tablets
* 1 [[Bailing (boats)|bailer]]
* 2 sponges
* 6 [[sickness bag]]s
* 2 [[Space blanket|thermal survival blankets]]
* 1 bellows or pump
* 3 leak stoppers
* 2 bottles of sunscreen
* 6 drinking cups
* 1 fishing kit
* 1 [[sea anchor]] and line
* 1 pair of scissors
* 1 repair kit
* 2 [[Flare|parachute rockets]]
* 3–6 [[Flare|hand flares]]
* 2 flashlights with extra batteries and bulbs
* 1 whistle
* 1 signaling mirror
* 1 smoke signal
* survival instructions
* table of life-saving signals

=== Military kits ===

Survival kits for military aviators are often modified according to the environment of operations:

* In [[desert]] areas, survival kits may have more water and sunscreen, and have additional items such as shade hats, a compass, a whistle, medical equipment, tinder, matches, and sun glasses.

* In [[tropical]] areas, a survival kit may have mosquito head netting, additional insect repellent, anti-fungal cream, a machete, water purification tablets, foot powder, matches, a flint strike, a compass, a wire saw, a space blanket, medical equipment (gauze pads, elastic gauze bandage, antiseptic creams, [[Antimalarial medication|anti-malaria tablets]], anti-infection tablets, bandages, etc.), salt tablets, a fishing kit, snare wire, extra socks, a candle, a signal mirror, flares, a sewing kit, safety pins, tinder, tape, a whistle, and rations.

* In [[arctic]] or [[Alpine climate|alpine]] areas, survival kits may have additional cold weather clothing (winter hats and gloves), sleeping bags, chemical "[[hand warmer]]" packets, sunglasses/snow goggles, [[snowshoe]]s, a collapsible shovel, a snare wire for small animals, a frying pan, a camp stove, camp stove fuel, a space blanket, matches, a whistle, a compass, tinder, medical equipment, a flint strike, a wire saw, extra socks and a tent designed for arctic use.

* For personnel who are flying over large bodies of water, in addition to wearing a [[survival suit]] over cold water, a survival kit may have additional items such as a small self-inflating raft to get the aircrewman out of cold or predator infested waters, flotation vests, [[sea anchor]], fishing nets, fishing equipment, fluorescent sea marking dye, pyrotechnical signals, a [[survival radio]] and/or [[Emergency position-indicating radiobeacon|radio-beacon]], formerly a distress marker light replaced by a flashing strobe, formerly a [[Solar still#Seawater still|seawater still]]<ref>[https://books.google.com/books?id=8dwDAAAAMBAJ&dq=1954+Popular+Mechanics+January&pg=PA113 "Sea Water Still."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130511055559/http://books.google.com/books?id=8dwDAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA113&dq=1954%20Popular%20Mechanics%20January&hl=en&sa=X&ei=lYK0T7T1Es2dgQe5iMgH&ved=0CDoQ6AEwAjgy|date=2013-05-11}} ''[[Popular Mechanics]]'', February 1952, p. 113.</ref> or chemical desalinator kit now replaced by a hand-pumped [[reverse osmosis]] [[Desalination|desalinator]] (MROD) for desalinating seawater, a raft repair kit, a paddle, a bailer and sponge, sunscreen, medical equipment, a whistle, a compass, and a sun shade hat.

The [[United States Army|U.S. Army]] uses several basic survival kits, mainly for aviators, some of which are stored in carrying bags. Aviators in planes with ejection seats have survival kits in a vest and the seat pan. The survival vest worn by US helicopter crews also contains some basic survival items.

=== Vehicle kits ===

Another aspect of some preparedness plans are vehicle kits. In some cases, supplies and equipment may be loaded into vehicle such as a van or truck with bicycle racks and a reserve gas tank. Some survivalists also carry a small (e.g., 250 cc) off-road-capable motorcycle in the van or truck.

Food supplies in a bug-out vehicle include hundreds of pounds of wheat, rice, and beans, and enough honey, [[powdered milk]], canned goods, bottled fruit, [[vitamin]]s, dehydrated fruits and vegetables, salt, pepper, spices, and oil for several months. In addition, the kits often contain high-calorie energy bars, a cooking kit, utensils, liquid soap, and towels. The water supplies may include bottled water, filtering kit, bottles, collapsible water containers, and chlorine bleach for water purification. Food preparation and washing equipment may include items such as a grain grinder, a bread mixer, a strainer, a manual can opener, a steam canner with canning jars and [[O-ring]]s, cutlery, knives, an electric 12-volt cooler icebox, kerosene lamps and heaters, [[kerosene]] or [[propane]] stoves, extra fuel, a clothes wringer, a foot-operated treadle sewing machine, and an electric hot plate (which would require an inverter to operate off a car battery).

The medical supplies may include a blood pressure gauge, [[stethoscope]], scissors, tweezers, forceps, disposable scalpels, two thermometers (oral and rectal), inflatable splints, bandages, sutures, adhesive tape, gauze, burn ointment, antibiotic ointment, [[aspirin]], rubbing alcohol, [[Syrup of ipecac|ipecac syrup]], sterile water, cotton rags, soap, and cotton swabs.

The transportation items may include bicycles with off-road tires and suspension, emergency tools and spare auto parts (e.g., fuses, fan belts, light bulbs, head light, tire pump, etc.), and an inflatable raft with paddles.

In addition, the kits may contain typical individual "survival kit" items, such as nylon tarps, extra clothes and coats, blankets, sleeping bags, matches or other fire starting equipment, a compass and maps, flashlights, toilet paper, soap, a [[pocketknife]] and [[bowie knife]], a fishing kit, a portable camping stove, a [[power inverter]], backpack, paper and pencil, a signaling mirror, whistle, cable saw, [[bleach]], [[insect repellent]], [[magnifying glass]], rope and nylon cord, pulleys, and a pistol and ammunition.

The communications equipment may include a multi-band receiver/scanner, a [[Citizens band radio|citizens band]] (CB) radio, portable "[[walkie-talkie]]s" with rechargeable batteries, and a portable battery-powered television. The power supplies may include a diesel or gasoline generator with a one-month fuel supply, an auto battery and charger, extension cord, flashlights, rechargeable batteries (with recharger), an electric [[multimeter]], and a test light. Defense items include a [[revolver]], [[semi-automatic pistol]], rifle, [[shotgun]], ammunition, mace or [[pepper spray]], and a large knife such as a [[KA-BAR]] or a [[bowie knife]].

Tools may include cutting tools such as saws, axes and hatchets; mechanical advantage aids such as a pry bar or wrecking bar, ropes, pulleys, or a '[[come-a-long]]" hand-operated winch; construction tools such as pliers, [[chisel]]s, a hammer, screwdrivers, a hand-operated twist drill, vise grip pliers, glue, nails, nuts, bolts, and screws; mechanical repair tools such as an [[Arc welding|arc welder]], an oxy-acetylene torch, a [[propane torch]] with a spark lighter, a solder iron and flux, wrench set, a nut driver, a tap and die set, a socket set, and a [[fire extinguisher]]. As well, some survivalists bring barterable items such as fishing line, liquid soap, insect repellent, light bulbs, can openers, extra fuels, motor oil, and ammunition.

=== Get me home kit ===
Some survivalists also recommend keeping a '''get me home''' kit in the car and/or at work. This is a kit to enable a person to get back home from work in an emergency where all transport cars and public transport have broken down. It is designed around personal circumstances where, for example, a walk of 25 kilometres might be required from work to home. The get me home kit can include, for example, enough water to get home, suitable walking shoes, a map (not electronic), enough food for 12 hours, clothing for adverse weather, etc.

=== Go-kit ===
The term '''go-kit''' / '''go-pack''' is popular in the [[amateur radio]] service, especially in the [[Amateur Radio Emergency Service]] (ARES) and [[Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service]] (RACES) communities, and describes a combination personal bug-out bag and portable amateur radio station. A personal go-kit generally takes some combination of units: a "one-day" (or "24 hour") kit, a "three day" (or "72 hour") kit that adds additional supplies, or a "one week kit" that adds yet additional personal items to the three-day kit. Any or all supports deploying the operator plus his or her privately owned self-contained radio communications setup.<ref>The Handbook Of The SAS And Elite Forces. How The Professionals Fight And Win. Edited by Jon E. Lewis. p.171-Tactics And Techniques, Evasion, Capture And Escape. Robinson Publishing Ltd 1997. ISBN 1-85487-675-9</ref>

== See also ==
* [[Civil Defense]]
* [[Community Emergency Response Team]]
* [[Everyday carry]]
* [[Hiking equipment]]
* [[M30 Luftwaffe Drilling]]
* [[M6 Aircrew Survival Weapon]]
* [[Machine element]]
* [[Mini survival kit]]
* [[Retreat (survivalism)]]
* [[Survival skills]]
* [[Red Cross parcel]]
* [[Repair kit]]
* [[Electrical element]]
* [[Electronic component]]
* [[List of martial arts weapons]]
* [[Lists of weapons]]
* [[Survivalism]]
* [[Ten essentials]]
* [[Tool]]

== References ==

==Further reading==
* ''[[Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills]]''; 8th Ed; Mountaineers Books; 596 pages; 1960 to 2010; {{ISBN|978-1594851384}}.

== External links ==
* [https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/survival-kit-supplies.html Survival Kit Supplies] by the [[American Red Cross]]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20120716230249/https://www.redcross.org/portal/site/en/menuitem.d229a5f06620c6052b1ecfbf43181aa0/?vgnextoid=354c2aebdaadb110VgnVCM10000089f0870aRCRD Three Steps to Preparedness] Prepare for Disasters Before they Strike: Build A Disaster Supplies Kit by the [[American Red Cross]]
* [https://www.ready.gov/build-a-kit Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit] by the U.S. [[Federal Emergency Management Agency]] (FEMA)
* [https://www.redcross.org/search-the-red-cross-site.html/search?term=Preparing%20for%20disaster&page=1&start=0 Preparing for disaster - search results] at [[Red Cross]]
* [https://www.nam.ac.uk/explore/art-staying-alive-mcnabs-survival-kit The art of staying alive: McNab’s survival kit]
* [https://gearjunkie.com/technology/gadgets/cache-survival-belt]
* [https://www.offgridweb.com/preparation/10-lessons-from-an-urban-escape-and-evasion-class/]
* [https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1210420]
[[Category:Survival equipment| ]]
[[Category:Disaster preparedness]]

Survival kit

2026-02-07T11:48:02Z

Admin:

<blockquote>This page needs to be edited towards survival.</blockquote>[[File:Moscow Polytechnical Museum, cosmonaut's survival kit.jpg|thumb|[[Astronaut|Cosmonaut]]'s survival kit in [[Polytechnical Museum|Polytechnical Museum, Moscow]]]]
[[File:US Navy 070801-N-3136P-009 Aircrew Survival Equipmentman Airmans Jessica Lockhart (left), and Rudy Inzunza inventory a C-2A Greyhound's life raft kit in USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) paraloft shop.jpg|thumb|Sailors take inventory of a [[C-2A Greyhound]]'s liferaft kit in [[USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63)|USS ''Kitty Hawk'' (CV 63)]] paraloft shop.]]

A '''survival kit''' is a package of basic tools and supplies prepared as an aid to survival in an emergency. Civil and military aircraft, lifeboats, and spacecraft are equipped with survival kits.

Survival kits, in a variety of sizes, contain supplies and tools to provide a survivor with basic shelter against the elements, help them to keep warm, meet basic health and first aid needs, provide [[food]] and [[water]], signal to rescuers, and assist in finding the way back to help. Supplies in a survival kit normally include a [[knife]] (often a [[Swiss army knife]] or a [[multi-tool]]), [[matches]], [[tinder]], [[first aid kit]], [[bandana]], [[fish hook]]s, [[Sewing|sewing kit]], and a [[flashlight]].

Civilians such as [[forestry]] workers, [[surveyor]]s, or [[Bush flying|bush pilots]], who work in remote locations or in regions with extreme climate conditions, may also be equipped with survival kits. Disaster supplies are also kept on hand by those who live in areas prone to earthquakes or other natural disasters. For the average citizen to practice disaster preparedness, some towns will have [[survival store]]s to keep survival supplies in stock.

The [[American Red Cross]] recommends an emergency preparedness kit that is easy to carry and use in the event of an emergency or disaster.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.redcross.org/portal/site/en/menuitem.53fabf6cc033f17a2b1ecfbf43181aa0/?vgnextoid=537b218c37752210VgnVCM10000089f0870aRCRD&currPage=e507d7aada352210VgnVCM10000089f0870aRCRD |title=Be Red Cross Ready - Get a kit. Make a plan. Be informed |publisher=Redcross.org |access-date=2011-11-26 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111118000533/http://www.redcross.org/portal/site/en/menuitem.53fabf6cc033f17a2b1ecfbf43181aa0/?vgnextoid=537b218c37752210VgnVCM10000089f0870aRCRD&currPage=e507d7aada352210VgnVCM10000089f0870aRCRD |archive-date=2011-11-18 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.redcross.org/content/dam/redcross/get-help/pdfs/brcr_checklist/EN_Be-Red-Cross-Ready-Factsheet.pdf | title=Be Red Cross Ready - Get a kit. Make a plan. Be informed. | publisher=Redcross.org | access-date=2021-09-26}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/survival-kit-supplies.html | title=Survival Kit Supplies | publisher=Redcross.org | access-date=2021-09-26}}</ref>

== Types of survival kits ==

=== Mini survival kits ===
Mini survival kits or "[[Altoids]]" tin survival kits are small kits that contain a few basic survival tools. These kits often include a small [[compass]], waterproof [[match]]es, minimum fishing tackle, large plastic bag, small candle, jigsaw blade, craft knife or scalpel blade, and/or a safety pin/s. Pre-packaged survival kits may also include instructions in survival techniques such as fire-starting or first aid methods. In addition, [[paracord]] can be wrapped around the tin. The paracord can be used for setting up an emergency shelter or snaring small animals. They are designed to fit within a container roughly the size of a mint tin.

[[File:Fire Making Survival Kit.jpg|thumb|Fire-making kit contained in tin]]

Other small kits are wearable and built into [[everyday carry]] survival bracelets or belts. Most often these are [[paracord]] bracelets with tools woven inside. Several tools such as firestarter, buckles, whistles and compass are on the exterior of the gear and smaller tools are woven inside the jewelry or belt and only accessible by taking the bracelet apart.

Lightweight survival kits are generally seen as a backup means of survival; however, these kits can be extensive, and have come to include tools that are generally found in larger kits as survival technology advances. Some examples of these tools are high-power [[flashlight]]s, rapid use saws, signal devices such as mini signal mirrors, and [[water purification]] methods.

=== Emergency kit ===
[[File:Signal mirror 2x3 plastic USMC.jpg|thumb|A U.S. Marine signalling an aircraft with a [[Mirror#Signalling|signal mirror]]]]
[[File:Bow Saw (PSF).jpg|thumb|Bow saws about {{convert|24|in|cm}} in length are lightweight and fast-cutting.]]
[[File:Portable stove.jpg|thumb|right|A small Snow Peak portable stove running on MSR gas and the stove's carrying case]]

An '''emergency kit''', '''disaster bag''', '''bug-out bag''' ('''BOB'''),<ref name="South1990p221">{{cite book |first1=J. Allan |last1=South |title=The Sense of Survival |chapter=Chapter 11 (Equipment), Bug-Out Bag Contents |page=221 |publisher=Timpanogos Publishers |location=Orem, Utah |year=1990 |isbn=0-935329-00-5 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book|author=Lundin, Cody|title= When All Hell Breaks Loose: Stuff You Need To Survive When Disaster Strikes| chapter=Chapter 3 (Includes a Bug Out Kit list) |publisher=Gibbs Smith|location= Layton, Utah|date= September 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://bugoutbagacademy.com/what-is-a-bug-out-bag/|title=What is a Bug Out Bag|website=Bug Out Bag Academy|date=26 June 2013 |access-date=2016-11-03}}</ref> also known as a '''72-hour kit''',<ref>{{cite web|url=http://lds.about.com/od/preparednessfoodstorage/a/72hour_kit.htm|title=72 Hour Kit – How to Make a 72 Hour Kit for Emergency Preparedness|website=About.com|access-date=2009-09-05|archive-date=2009-06-01|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090601210623/http://lds.about.com/od/preparednessfoodstorage/a/72hour_kit.htm|url-status=dead}}</ref> '''GOOD bag''' (get out of Dodge),<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.officer.com/web/online/On-the-Street/Bug-Out-Bags/21$48242 |author=Borelli, Frank |title= Equipment Review: Bug Out Bags?|website= Officer.com|date=September 4, 2009 |access-date=2010-01-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091227160237/http://www.officer.com/web/online/On-the-Street/Bug-Out-Bags/21$48242 |archive-date=2009-12-27 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://weeklygravy.com/lifestyle/the-im-never-coming-home-bag-an-assembly-guide/|title=The "I'm Never Coming Home Bag:" An Assembly Guide|last=Muska|first=Scott|date=April 30, 2014|website=Weekly Gravy|access-date=October 18, 2016}}</ref> '''personal emergency relocation kit''' ('''PERK'''), '''go-bag''', '''survival backpack''', or '''quick run bag''' ('''QRB''')<ref>{{cite web|website=Tearfund|title=Disaster Management Team Good Practice Guidelines|date=2007|url=http://tilz.tearfund.org/~/media/Files/TILZ/Topics/DMT/GPG_Disaster_Risk_Reduction.pdf?la=en|access-date=2016-11-29|archive-date=2016-11-30|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161130041556/http://tilz.tearfund.org/~/media/Files/TILZ/Topics/DMT/GPG_Disaster_Risk_Reduction.pdf?la=en|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|website=VSF Germany |title=Contingency Recommendations|url=http://www.vsfg.org/security-guidelines/contingency-recommendations |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161130042715/http://www.vsfg.org/security-guidelines/contingency-recommendations |url-status=dead |archive-date=November 30, 2016 |date=November 30, 2016 }}</ref> is a portable kit containing items that would help a person to survive for 72 hours<ref>{{cite press release|url=http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema?id=35169 |title= Disaster Planning Is Up To You |website=FEMA |access-date=2009-09-05 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091117235247/http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema?id=35169 |archive-date=2009-11-17 }}</ref> during an escape or evacuation from an emergency event or [[disaster]] such as a hurricane, earthquake, or flood.<ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Pickering|first1=Christina J.|last2=O'Sullivan|first2=Tracey L.|last3=Morris|first3=Alessia|last4=Mark|first4=Carman|last5=McQuirk|first5=David|last6=Chan|first6=Emily YY|last7=Guy|first7=Emily|last8=Chan|first8=Gloria KW|last9=Reddin|first9=Karen|last10=Throp|first10=Ralph|last11=Tsuzuki|first11=Shinya|date=2018-07-06|title=The Promotion of 'Grab Bags' as a Disaster Risk Reduction Strategy|journal=PLOS Currents|volume=10|doi=10.1371/currents.dis.223ac4322834aa0bb0d6824ee424e7f8|issn=2157-3999|pmc=6050054|pmid=30050724 |doi-access=free }}</ref>

The focus is on [[emergency evacuation|evacuation]] rather than long-term survival.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://metro.co.uk/2025/03/26/nearly-450-000-000-people-warned-prepare-war-72-hour-survival-kits-22798562/ | title=Nearly 450,000,000 people warned to prepare for war with '72 hour survival kits' | date=26 March 2025 }}</ref> The kits are also popular in the [[survivalism]] subculture.<ref>{{cite news |title=The VICE Starter Pack to Casual Doomsday Prepping |url=https://www.vice.com/en/article/akgabj/how-to-pack-an-emergency-disaster-go-bag |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210804180523/https://www.vice.com/en/article/akgabj/how-to-pack-an-emergency-disaster-go-bag |url-status=dead |archive-date=August 4, 2021 |access-date=25 August 2021 |work=Vice.com |language=en}}</ref>

====Civil defense kit====
Typical civil defense 3-day emergency kits (72 hours) contain:

* Water
* Non-perishable food
* Necessary medicines
* A battery-powered radio
* A torch
* Cash
* Identity documents
* A first-aid kit
* A Swiss Army knife
* Clothing
* Toiletries
* Bottled water
* Portable chargers

====Outline====
The term "bug-out bag" is related to the "bail-out bag" emergency kit many military aviators carry. In the United States, the term refers to the [[Korean War]] practice of the [[U.S. Army]] designating alternative defensive positions, in the event that the units had to [[Withdrawal (military)|retreat]]. They were directed to "bug out" when being overrun was imminent. The term has since been adopted by military training institutions around the world, with [[standard operating procedures]] involving a bug-out location, a method of withdrawal, and the bare supplies needed to withdraw quickly but still survive in the field. The concept passed into wide usage among other military and law enforcement personnel, though the "bail-out bag" is as likely to include emergency gear for going into an emergency situation as for escaping during one.<ref name="BlueSheepdog.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.bluesheepdog.com/2009/07/16/the-bail-out-bag/ |title=The Bail Out Bag |website=BlueSheepdog.com |date=July 16, 2009 |access-date=2011-06-18}}</ref>

The primary purpose of a bug-out bag is to allow someone to evacuate quickly if a disaster should strike.<ref>{{cite news|author=Clayton, Dr. Bruce|author-link=Bruce Clayton| work= Life After Doomsday| title=Chapter 3 (To Flee of Not To Flee)|page= 39|publisher= [[Paladin Press]]|location= Boulder, CO|date=1980}}</ref> It is therefore prudent to gather into a single place all of the materials and supplies that might be required to do this, such as a bag or a few storage containers. The recommendation that a bug-out bag contain enough supplies for 72 hours arises from advice from organizations responsible for disaster relief and management that it may take them up to 72 hours to reach people affected by a disaster and offer help.<ref name="redcross.ca">{{cite web|url=https://gadgetbackpack.com/blogs/news/disaster-supplies-kit|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180518200024/https://gadgetbackpack.com/blogs/news/disaster-supplies-kit|url-status=dead|archive-date=2018-05-18|title=Disaster Supplies Kit- Canadian Red Cross|date=2007-05-03|website=GadgetBackpack.com|publisher=Redcross.ca|access-date=2009-09-05}}</ref> The bag's contents may vary according to the region of the user, as someone evacuating from the path of a hurricane may have different supplies from someone who lives in an area prone to [[blizzard]]s, [[earthquake]]s, or [[wildfire]]s.

In addition to allowing one to survive a disaster evacuation, a bug-out bag may also be used when sheltering in place ("bugging in") as a response to emergencies such as [[Power blackout|blackout]]s, [[Structure fire|house fires]], [[tornadoes]], and other severe natural disasters.

===Typical contents===

The [[Federal Emergency Management Agency]] (FEMA), the [[United States]]'s agency responsible for disaster planning and emergency resource management, outlines the following list for a three-day basic emergency supply kit.<ref>{{cite web |title=How to Build a Kit for Emergencies {{!}} FEMA.gov |url=https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20250602/how-build-kit-emergencies |website=www.fema.gov |access-date=25 August 2021 |language=en}}</ref> Similar items can also be found from other national emergency response agencies.

The suggested contents of a bug-out bag vary and can also include weapons for defense from dangerous animals or people.<ref name=South1990p221/><ref>{{Cite book|title=Build the Perfect Bug Out Bag: Your 72-Hour Disaster Survival Kit|last=Stewart|first=Creek|publisher=Betterway Books|year=2012|isbn=978-1440318740}}{{page needed|date=November 2016}}</ref><ref>Building Kits: Getting Prepared takes commitment, by Mike Peterson, American Survival Guide Magazine, Dec., 1993, p. 76</ref><ref>Survival Skills Intensive Training: Assembling the Bug Out Kit, by Christopher Nyerges, American Survival Guide Magazine, May, 1998, p. 26</ref>

* Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)
* Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
* Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a [[National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration|NOAA]] [[Weather radio|Weather Radio]] with tone alert
* [[Flashlight]]
* [[First aid kit]]
* Extra batteries
* Whistle (to signal for help)
* [[Dust mask]] (to help filter contaminated air)
* Plastic sheeting and [[duct tape]] (to shelter in place)
* [[Wet wipe]]s, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
* Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
* Manual can opener (for food)
* Local maps
* Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

==== Additional emergency supplies ====
[[File:Emergency Hygiene Kits, Men & Women.jpg|thumb|right|Emergency hygiene kits, men and women variants]]
Since spring 2020, the [[Centers for Disease Control and Prevention]] (CDC) has recommended people include additional items in their kits to help prevent the spread of coronavirus or other viruses and the flu.

* Masks (for everyone ages two and above), soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
* Prescription medications
* Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
* Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
* Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream
* Pet food and extra water
* Cash or traveler's checks
* Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
* Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
* Complete climate-appropriate change of clothing and sturdy shoes
* Fire extinguisher
* Matches in a waterproof container
* Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
* Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and utensils
* Paper and pencil
* Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

=== Lifeboat survival kits ===
Lifeboat survival kits are stowed in inflatable or rigid [[Lifeboat (rescue)|lifeboats]] or [[lifeboat (shipboard)|life raft]]s. These kits provide basic survival tools and supplies to enable passengers to survive until they are rescued. A lifeboat survival kit for six people can include:<ref name="gps.co.uk">{{Cite web|title=Buy Survival Life Raft 9-13 person w/standard kit (3-year service interval) {{!}} from Mendelssohns|url=https://www.gps.co.uk/product/survival-life-raft-9-13-person-w-standard-kit-3-year-service-interval/|access-date=2021-07-16|language=en-GB}}</ref><ref name="viking-yachting.com">{{Cite web|title=What's inside a VIKING liferaft emergency pack?|url=https://www.viking-yachting.com/global/whats-inside-a-liferaft-emergency-pack|access-date=2021-07-16|website=www.viking-yachting.com}}</ref>

* Drinking water (9 litres)
* [[emergency rations]] (3 kg)
* first aid kit
* 36 anti-seasickness tablets
* 1 [[Bailing (boats)|bailer]]
* 2 sponges
* 6 [[sickness bag]]s
* 2 [[Space blanket|thermal survival blankets]]
* 1 bellows or pump
* 3 leak stoppers
* 2 bottles of sunscreen
* 6 drinking cups
* 1 fishing kit
* 1 [[sea anchor]] and line
* 1 pair of scissors
* 1 repair kit
* 2 [[Flare|parachute rockets]]
* 3–6 [[Flare|hand flares]]
* 2 flashlights with extra batteries and bulbs
* 1 whistle
* 1 signaling mirror
* 1 smoke signal
* survival instructions
* table of life-saving signals

=== Military kits ===

Survival kits for military aviators are often modified according to the environment of operations:

* In [[desert]] areas, survival kits may have more water and sunscreen, and have additional items such as shade hats, a compass, a whistle, medical equipment, tinder, matches, and sun glasses.

* In [[tropical]] areas, a survival kit may have mosquito head netting, additional insect repellent, anti-fungal cream, a machete, water purification tablets, foot powder, matches, a flint strike, a compass, a wire saw, a space blanket, medical equipment (gauze pads, elastic gauze bandage, antiseptic creams, [[Antimalarial medication|anti-malaria tablets]], anti-infection tablets, bandages, etc.), salt tablets, a fishing kit, snare wire, extra socks, a candle, a signal mirror, flares, a sewing kit, safety pins, tinder, tape, a whistle, and rations.

* In [[arctic]] or [[Alpine climate|alpine]] areas, survival kits may have additional cold weather clothing (winter hats and gloves), sleeping bags, chemical "[[hand warmer]]" packets, sunglasses/snow goggles, [[snowshoe]]s, a collapsible shovel, a snare wire for small animals, a frying pan, a camp stove, camp stove fuel, a space blanket, matches, a whistle, a compass, tinder, medical equipment, a flint strike, a wire saw, extra socks and a tent designed for arctic use.

* For personnel who are flying over large bodies of water, in addition to wearing a [[survival suit]] over cold water, a survival kit may have additional items such as a small self-inflating raft to get the aircrewman out of cold or predator infested waters, flotation vests, [[sea anchor]], fishing nets, fishing equipment, fluorescent sea marking dye, pyrotechnical signals, a [[survival radio]] and/or [[Emergency position-indicating radiobeacon|radio-beacon]], formerly a distress marker light replaced by a flashing strobe, formerly a [[Solar still#Seawater still|seawater still]]<ref>[https://books.google.com/books?id=8dwDAAAAMBAJ&dq=1954+Popular+Mechanics+January&pg=PA113 "Sea Water Still."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130511055559/http://books.google.com/books?id=8dwDAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA113&dq=1954%20Popular%20Mechanics%20January&hl=en&sa=X&ei=lYK0T7T1Es2dgQe5iMgH&ved=0CDoQ6AEwAjgy|date=2013-05-11}} ''[[Popular Mechanics]]'', February 1952, p. 113.</ref> or chemical desalinator kit now replaced by a hand-pumped [[reverse osmosis]] [[Desalination|desalinator]] (MROD) for desalinating seawater, a raft repair kit, a paddle, a bailer and sponge, sunscreen, medical equipment, a whistle, a compass, and a sun shade hat.

The [[United States Army|U.S. Army]] uses several basic survival kits, mainly for aviators, some of which are stored in carrying bags. Aviators in planes with ejection seats have survival kits in a vest and the seat pan. The survival vest worn by US helicopter crews also contains some basic survival items.

=== Vehicle kits ===

Another aspect of some preparedness plans are vehicle kits. In some cases, supplies and equipment may be loaded into vehicle such as a van or truck with bicycle racks and a reserve gas tank. Some survivalists also carry a small (e.g., 250 cc) off-road-capable motorcycle in the van or truck.<ref>{{cite book|title=Build the Perfect Bug Out Vehicle: The Disaster Survival Vehicle Guide |year=2014|author=Creek Stewart |publisher=Krause Publications}}</ref>

Food supplies in a bug-out vehicle include hundreds of pounds of wheat, rice, and beans, and enough honey, [[powdered milk]], canned goods, bottled fruit, [[vitamin]]s, dehydrated fruits and vegetables, salt, pepper, spices, and oil for several months. In addition, the kits often contain high-calorie energy bars, a cooking kit, utensils, liquid soap, and towels. The water supplies may include bottled water, filtering kit, bottles, collapsible water containers, and chlorine bleach for water purification. Food preparation and washing equipment may include items such as a grain grinder, a bread mixer, a strainer, a manual can opener, a steam canner with canning jars and [[O-ring]]s, cutlery, knives, an electric 12-volt cooler icebox, kerosene lamps and heaters, [[kerosene]] or [[propane]] stoves, extra fuel, a clothes wringer, a foot-operated treadle sewing machine, and an electric hot plate (which would require an inverter to operate off a car battery).

The medical supplies may include a blood pressure gauge, [[stethoscope]], scissors, tweezers, forceps, disposable scalpels, two thermometers (oral and rectal), inflatable splints, bandages, sutures, adhesive tape, gauze, burn ointment, antibiotic ointment, [[aspirin]], rubbing alcohol, [[Syrup of ipecac|ipecac syrup]], sterile water, cotton rags, soap, and cotton swabs.

The transportation items may include bicycles with off-road tires and suspension, emergency tools and spare auto parts (e.g., fuses, fan belts, light bulbs, head light, tire pump, etc.), and an inflatable raft with paddles.

In addition, the kits may contain typical individual "survival kit" items, such as nylon tarps, extra clothes and coats, blankets, sleeping bags, matches or other fire starting equipment, a compass and maps, flashlights, toilet paper, soap, a [[pocketknife]] and [[bowie knife]], a fishing kit, a portable camping stove, a [[power inverter]], backpack, paper and pencil, a signaling mirror, whistle, cable saw, [[bleach]], [[insect repellent]], [[magnifying glass]], rope and nylon cord, pulleys, and a pistol and ammunition.

The communications equipment may include a multi-band receiver/scanner, a [[Citizens band radio|citizens band]] (CB) radio, portable "[[walkie-talkie]]s" with rechargeable batteries, and a portable battery-powered television. The power supplies may include a diesel or gasoline generator with a one-month fuel supply, an auto battery and charger, extension cord, flashlights, rechargeable batteries (with recharger), an electric [[multimeter]], and a test light. Defense items include a [[revolver]], [[semi-automatic pistol]], rifle, [[shotgun]], ammunition, mace or [[pepper spray]], and a large knife such as a [[KA-BAR]] or a [[bowie knife]].

Tools may include cutting tools such as saws, axes and hatchets; mechanical advantage aids such as a pry bar or wrecking bar, ropes, pulleys, or a '[[come-a-long]]" hand-operated winch; construction tools such as pliers, [[chisel]]s, a hammer, screwdrivers, a hand-operated twist drill, vise grip pliers, glue, nails, nuts, bolts, and screws; mechanical repair tools such as an [[Arc welding|arc welder]], an oxy-acetylene torch, a [[propane torch]] with a spark lighter, a solder iron and flux, wrench set, a nut driver, a tap and die set, a socket set, and a [[fire extinguisher]]. As well, some survivalists bring barterable items such as fishing line, liquid soap, insect repellent, light bulbs, can openers, extra fuels, motor oil, and ammunition.

=== Get me home kit ===
Some survivalists also recommend keeping a '''get me home''' kit in the car and/or at work. This is a kit to enable a person to get back home from work in an emergency where all transport cars and public transport have broken down. It is designed around personal circumstances where, for example, a walk of 25 kilometres might be required from work to home. The get me home kit can include, for example, enough water to get home, suitable walking shoes, a map (not electronic), enough food for 12 hours, clothing for adverse weather, etc.

=== Go-kit ===
The term '''go-kit''' / '''go-pack''' is popular in the [[amateur radio]] service, especially in the [[Amateur Radio Emergency Service]] (ARES) and [[Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service]] (RACES) communities, and describes a combination personal bug-out bag and portable amateur radio station. A personal go-kit generally takes some combination of units: a "one-day" (or "24 hour") kit, a "three day" (or "72 hour") kit that adds additional supplies, or a "one week kit" that adds yet additional personal items to the three-day kit. Any or all supports deploying the operator plus his or her privately owned self-contained radio communications setup.<ref>The Handbook Of The SAS And Elite Forces. How The Professionals Fight And Win. Edited by Jon E. Lewis. p.171-Tactics And Techniques, Evasion, Capture And Escape. Robinson Publishing Ltd 1997. ISBN 1-85487-675-9</ref>

== See also ==
* [[Civil Defense]]
* [[Community Emergency Response Team]]
* [[Everyday carry]]
* [[Hiking equipment]]
* [[M30 Luftwaffe Drilling]]
* [[M6 Aircrew Survival Weapon]]
* [[Machine element]]
* [[Mini survival kit]]
* [[Retreat (survivalism)]]
* [[Survival skills]]
* [[Red Cross parcel]]
* [[Repair kit]]
* [[Electrical element]]
* [[Electronic component]]
* [[List of martial arts weapons]]
* [[Lists of weapons]]
* [[Survivalism]]
* [[Ten essentials]]
* [[Tool]]

== References ==

==Further reading==
* ''[[Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills]]''; 8th Ed; Mountaineers Books; 596 pages; 1960 to 2010; {{ISBN|978-1594851384}}.

== External links ==
* [https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/survival-kit-supplies.html Survival Kit Supplies] by the [[American Red Cross]]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20120716230249/https://www.redcross.org/portal/site/en/menuitem.d229a5f06620c6052b1ecfbf43181aa0/?vgnextoid=354c2aebdaadb110VgnVCM10000089f0870aRCRD Three Steps to Preparedness] Prepare for Disasters Before they Strike: Build A Disaster Supplies Kit by the [[American Red Cross]]
* [https://www.ready.gov/build-a-kit Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit] by the U.S. [[Federal Emergency Management Agency]] (FEMA)
* [https://www.redcross.org/search-the-red-cross-site.html/search?term=Preparing%20for%20disaster&page=1&start=0 Preparing for disaster - search results] at [[Red Cross]]
* [https://www.nam.ac.uk/explore/art-staying-alive-mcnabs-survival-kit The art of staying alive: McNab’s survival kit]
* [https://gearjunkie.com/technology/gadgets/cache-survival-belt]
* [https://www.offgridweb.com/preparation/10-lessons-from-an-urban-escape-and-evasion-class/]
* [https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1210420]
[[Category:Survival equipment| ]]
[[Category:Disaster preparedness]]

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= Welcome to the Survival-Wiki. =
Survival or survivorship, the act of surviving, is the propensity of something to continue existing despite conditions that might kill or destroy it. The concept can be applied to humans and other living things (or, hypothetically, any sentient being), to a physical object, and to abstract things such as beliefs or ideas. Living things generally have a self-preservation<ref>https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-preservation</ref> instinct to survive, while objects intended for use in harsh conditions are designed for survivability.

On this wiki we provide information about survival in various conditions, [[survivalism]] and theories about prepping, survival. Including but not limited to are topics like extreme weather, societal collapse, food-prepping and other skillsets needed for surviving.

= Meaning =
The word, "survival", derives from the Late Latin ''supervivere'', literally meaning "to outlive". Most commonly, "the term 'survival' means physical survival — that is, a struggle to avoid physical extermination". For example, Charles Darwin's theory of natural selection incorporates the concept of the survival of the fittest in the struggle for existence. Darwin defines the biological concept of fitness as reproductive success, so in Darwinian terms the phrase is best understood as survival of the form that will leave the most copies of itself in successive generations.

= Editing the Survival-Wiki =
We have developed this wiki to ensure the right information and best-practices can be shared with people who are into survival. Therefore, we have a set of rules and some best-practices to be followed.

If you want to help develop or contribute to this wiki. Go to our '''[[Contributing]]''' page.

== References ==
<references />

Main Page

2026-02-06T11:44:27Z

Admin:

= Welcome to the Survival-Wiki. =
Survival or survivorship, the act of surviving, is the propensity of something to continue existing despite conditions that might kill or destroy it. The concept can be applied to humans and other living things (or, hypothetically, any sentient being), to a physical object, and to abstract things such as beliefs or ideas. Living things generally have a self-preservation<ref>https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-preservation</ref> instinct to survive, while objects intended for use in harsh conditions are designed for survivability.

On this wiki we provide information about survival in various conditions, [[survivalism]] and theories about prepping, survival. Including but not limited to are topics like extreme weather, societal collapse, food-prepping and other skillsets needed for surviving.

= Meaning =
The word, "survival", derives from the Late Latin ''supervivere'', literally meaning "to outlive". Most commonly, "the term 'survival' means physical survival — that is, a struggle to avoid physical extermination". For example, Charles Darwin's theory of natural selection incorporates the concept of the survival of the fittest in the struggle for existence. Darwin defines the biological concept of fitness as reproductive success, so in Darwinian terms the phrase is best understood as survival of the form that will leave the most copies of itself in successive generations.

= Editing the Survival-Wiki =
We have developed this wiki to ensure the right information and best-practices can be shared with people who are into survival. Therefore, we have a set of rules and some best-practices to be followed.

If you want to help develop or contribute to this wiki. Go to our [[Contributing]] page.

== References ==
<references />

Survivalism

2026-02-06T11:42:14Z

Admin:

'''Survivalism'''<ref>https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Survivalism</ref> is a social movement of individuals or groups (called '''survivalists''', '''doomsday preppers''' or '''preppers''') who proactively prepare for emergencies, such as natural disasters, and other disasters causing disruption to social order (that is, civil disorder) caused by political or economic crises. Preparations may anticipate short-term scenarios or long-term, on scales ranging from personal adversity, to local disruption of services, to international or global catastrophe. There is no bright line dividing general emergency preparedness from ''prepping'' in the form of survivalism (these concepts are a spectrum), but a qualitative distinction is often recognized whereby preppers/survivalists prepare especially extensively because they have higher estimations of the risk of catastrophes happening. Nonetheless, prepping can be as limited as preparing for a personal emergency (such as losing one's job, storm damage to one's home, or getting lost in wooded terrain), or it can be as extensive as a personal identity or collective identity with a devoted lifestyle.

Survivalism emphasises self-reliance, stockpiling supplies, and gaining survival knowledge and skills. The stockpiling of supplies is itself a wide spectrum, from survival kits (ready bags, bug-out bags) to entire bunkers in extreme cases.

Survivalists often acquire first aid and emergency medical/paramedic/field medicine training, self-defense training (martial arts, ad hoc weaponry, firearm safety), and improvisation/self-sufficiency training, and they often build structures (survival retreats, underground shelters, etc.) or modify/fortify existing structures etc. that may help them survive a catastrophic failure of society.

== References ==
<references />