Now we never know when civilization will collapse, nor do we know IF it will collapse (although I wouldn’t be surprised if something does happen in the 21st century – if you’re reading this in 2100 or even 2200 leave a comment below :P), however – what ever happens, the ones that survive the breakdown of society are the ones that have prepared themselves beforehand.
However the most important question is this – Do you want to survive or do you want to die a horrible, starving or long-waited-out death. Because if you get hurt or sick you are going to suffer a painful death in a broken world full of trigger-happy murderers or even zombies if it comes to that :O All in all, whatever happens, I have compiled a list of the best bushcraft survival equipment in this article. So if you want your family and friends to stay safe and healthy then I suggest you keep reading.
Equipment For Your Bag
Before we start packing our bags, we’re going to need one. If you have no idea where to start you can check out my top 6 recommended backpacks. My recommendation will be one of the Long Haul backpacks, because when you set up your campsite in the wild you’ll be storing most of your inventory there.
Please Read: Most survival equipment lists I see contain way too many items that are just so unrealistic, especially when a disaster strikes there’s no way you’re going to have time to bring so much inventory – nor will your mind be thinking straight. My list is going to cover ONLY necessary items, so you stay ready-to-go and as light as possible.
- Flashlight ==> The J5 Tactical flashlight is my favorite
- 9mm Pistol + Ammo (of course staying in the laws of your country, however remember that if civilization collapses, there will be no laws!)
- Basic First Aid kit
- Tent ==> The Alps Mountaineering Tent makes a great, compact choice
- Sleeping Bag ==> Read my article on how to stay extra warm in your tent
- Pocket Knife
- Knife Sharpener
- Nails
- Emergency Candles
- Duct Tape
- Pliers (better to be safe than sorry)
- Magnifying Glass
- Lighter + Fluid
- Ferrocerium Rod
- Water purification tablets
- Gill Net (for fishing)
- Rice
- Canned Food
- Survival Rations
- Can Opener
- Cast Iron Pan (A pot will take up way too much space)
- Cooking Utensils
- Tarp (1 or 2 depending on much much room you have left)
- Compass
- Handheld radios
- Batteries (AA or AAA lithium or alkaline)
- Bear Spray (Survive a bear attack? here’s how)
- Toilet Paper
- Insect Repellent
- Cellphone
- Solar Powered Phone Charger
- Sunscreen
- Rubbing Alcohol
- Hard Candy (boost of energy and morale)
- Family Photos (for a boost of morale)
Equipment For Your Bag (Hang Off The Sides)
- Crowbar
- Axe with built-in hammer (of course, you’ll need axe skills first)
- Water Bottle
- Multi-Tool
- Full Tang Construction Knife (great for making tools and chopping wood) ==> Ontario Sk5 works perfectly
- Binoculars
- Rope/Cordage
Clothing
- Sweater
- High Quality Rain Jacket
- Rain Boots or Hiking Boots
- Poncho
- Pants
- Wool Socks
- Gloves
- Shirt
- Scarf
The list I have provided above is designed for ultimate lightness (as possible) while still following the rule of taking necessary items ONLY, meaning 1 person will be carrying everything outlined above.
If you would like to take your entire bushcraft survival kit to the next level – meaning you have a bug out car or truck – then you can also include the items below to keep in your car/truck for when the big day comes.
Additional Items To Take (If You Have A Bug Out Car)
- Sleeping Pad
- Blankets
- Saw
- Mini Shovel
- Extra Clothing
- 2x Water Containers/Canteens (dehydration will kill you faster than you expect – 3 days to be exact)
- Head torch
- Cast Iron Pot
- Portable Gas Stove and Gas Canisters
- 2x First Aid Kit
- Body Warmers (Aluminized space blanket or survival blanket)
- More Toilet Paper
- Hygiene Products
- Soap
- Hand Towels
- Matches (at least 5+ ‘strike anywhere’ boxes)
- Fishing Hooks
- Fishing Line
- Fishing Flies
- Sinkers
- Medicines (anything you think is important)
- Anti-Bacterial Soap
- Tweezers and Needle
- Towels
- Plastic Tubing
- Machete
- Jumper Cables
- Oil
- Tool Kit
- Tyre Repair Kit
- Spare Tyre
- Dust Mask
- Lantern
Keep in mind, it’s not just about having a perfect wilderness survival list, your chances of surviving have increased by 10x if you have a buddy or 2 – this isn’t just good for keeping you company, it is mostly for safety reasons.
Conclusion
It may or may not matter if you get prepared for a disaster or not, you might have prepared yourself for years, only to get shot on the first day of Armageddon.
Either way, what if it does happen and you’re not prepared? You and your family could end up dying from hunger or a deadly disease – a slow and painful death is not something to look forward to, nor is it good to watch your family and friends die this way.
My rule of thumb: Get prepared, build your survival kit and be ready for when a disaster DOES happen. The last thing you want is to not be prepared and end up starving to death.