Backpacking/everyday survival

[KevDen2005]

I figured this section could also be about every day pack-packer/camper survival. These are the items that I usually bring. I have done it this way for years and am not always set in my ways. I would love to hear about how other people do it as well. I will add pictures later.


1. Army poncho liner
2. Military style water proof bag
3. Silk weight long underwear (top and bottom)
4. Extra pair of pants (lightweight-conversion into shorts
5. 2 pairs of gloves
6. Extra socks
7. Gators
8. Balaclava
9. Emergency blanket/tarp (Green on one side-Silver on the other
10. Rag
11. SOG Seal Pup survival knife
12. Gerber multi-tool
13. Stove w/fuel
14. Cooking utensils/silverware
15. Water purification filter
16. 2 meals
17. 200 FT. of Parachute Cord
18. Candle
19. Electrical Tape
20. 2 silver/gold emergency blankets
21. 1 Trash Bag
22. Zip-lock bags
23. Silva Ranger Compass
24. Fox 40 Whistle
25. 3” x 5” Glass Signal Mirror w/ case
26. Emergency Strobe
27. Water-purification tablets
28. Head Lamp w/ extra batteries
29. Mini-Mag light w/ extra batteries
30. Orange construction marker tape
31. Baby wipes
32. 2 snap/cyalume lights
33. Pressure bandage
34. Triangle bandage
35. Strike anywhere matches in a water proof container
36. 0000 Steel Wool w/ 9v Battery (battery is kept in film container)
37. Carbide (kept in film container)
38. Lighter
39. Flint (Strike My Fire)
40. 1 package of emergency fire starter
41. Chapstick
42. 2 one quart wide-mouth Nalgene Bottles (BPA Free)
43. Canteen Cup or metal camping cup
44. Gortex shell (jacket)
45. Fleece Top
46. Boonie hat or baseball cap
47. Leather gloves
48. Sun screen
49. Tooth brush w/tooth paste
50. Soap

I know this seems like a lot, but I don’t like to take chances and like to practice using many different items. I am currently working on making a better first aid kit. I also will bring a small light weight snow shovel (depending on time of year). If I am only back packing I carry an Air weight Smith & Wesson .38 Spec. loaded with +P’s. w/ one speed loader.

I found that I can use the old military canisters used to keep NBC clean up material in as a small waterproof container. I cut out some trouser pockets on some of my old BDU’s as a way to carry most of the survival items and Parachute cord.

I also bring a +20 degree down sleeping bag made by Marmot

[spleify]

Great list. Thanks for sharing that.

[Irving]

About how big is your bag? With all that, I'd throw an extra deodorant and maybe some mouth wash in there as well.

[KevDen2005]

About how big is your bag? With all that, I'd throw an extra deodorant and maybe some mouth wash in there as well.


Actually I forgot to mention the toilet paper. I can't remember how big my pack is exactly, it's not overly large and believe it or not it's not that happy!

[Mtn.man]

I just use the same pack that I hunt with, very basic, and no frills. total wiegh in at about 30#'s could hang out for at least a week.

[KevDen2005]

I just use the same pack that I hunt with, very basic, and no frills. total wiegh in at about 30#'s could hang out for at least a week.

My pack here weighs roughly 30 pounds with the food and water. Post your list of what you carry.

[theGinsue]

Great list. Thanks for sharing that.

Agreed.


Actually I forgot to mention the toilet paper. \

How many times do I have to tell you people? DON'T FORGET THE TOILET PAPER!

[Beprepared]

How many times do I have to tell you people? DON'T FORGET THE TOILET PAPER!

I picked up Edible and Medicinal Plants of the Rockies by Linda Kershaw
I read that Great Mullein Verbascum thapsus (a weed) was used for toilet paper.[Luck] Haven't tried this yet. Good to have alternatives. The stalk was used for torches and lantern wicks. The seeds were used as a fish narcotic. A little boy scout stuff....be prepared.... to go native(if you have to).[Beer]

[KevDen2005]

I picked up Edible and Medicinal Plants of the Rockies by Linda Kershaw
I read that Great Mullein Verbascum thapsus (a weed) was used for toilet paper.[Luck] Haven't tried this yet. Good to have alternatives. The stalk was used for torches and lantern wicks. The seeds were used as a fish narcotic. A little boy scout stuff....be prepared.... to go native(if you have to).[Beer]


But I like it to be Charmin Soft!!!

[Irving]

I've noticed that not a single list I've seen posted on here has mentioned any extra clothes. For extra clothing, I think I'd carry all polyester or some other "tech" blend. With polyester shirts, you can wash them and lay them out to air dry and the whole process will be done in like 20 minutes tops. Can't do that with cotton.

[Beprepared]

I've noticed that not a single list I've seen posted on here has mentioned any extra clothes. For extra clothing, I think I'd carry all polyester or some other "tech" blend. With polyester shirts, you can wash them and lay them out to air dry and the whole process will be done in like 20 minutes tops. Can't do that with cotton.

Yep I love my cotton and wool. But back in Alaska, we never wore cotton. "Cotton Kills" seams to be a mantra of the great North.

[KevDen2005]

I've noticed that not a single list I've seen posted on here has mentioned any extra clothes. For extra clothing, I think I'd carry all polyester or some other "tech" blend. With polyester shirts, you can wash them and lay them out to air dry and the whole process will be done in like 20 minutes tops. Can't do that with cotton.


My list does have extra pants, socks, and long underwear, none of it is cotton

[Irving]

Right at the top too. FML

[KevDen2005]

Right at the top too. FML


LOL!!!

But it is always good to reiterate the importance of such items that people look over

[Irving]

Kevin, I dug this thread up and stole your list as a basis for my own. I've added a thing or two as well. I was just wondering what "Gators" (#7) are. Thanks.

So far I'm up to 13/56.

[KevDen2005]

Kevin, I dug this thread up and stole your list as a basis for my own. I've added a thing or two as well. I was just wondering what "Gators" (#7) are. Thanks.

So far I'm up to 13/56.

Gators are leggings that go over the boot and lower pant leg. Imagine the pictures of WWII Rangers and the coverings over the bottoms of their pants at Omaha Beach (Saving Private Ryan) except a lot more modern. They are great for keeping pants try through deep snow, or very wet brush. Also great to put on if there is thorny brush to walk through. I dont use them terribly often but come in handy!

I am very glad that you like the list and that it is useful. Please share your additions so that I or others may "steal" your ideas as well.

[Irving]

Oh I'm glad you saw this. Thanks for the break down.

I added:
51. Binoculars
52. Shovel (shovel/pick ax foldable style)
53. Sewing kit
54. Road flares
55. Chain saw
56. Sleeping bag

I have a small sewing kit and I've already sewn so many clothes and stuffed animals and even a leather holster up with it. It really helps prolong the usefulness of things.
The chainsaw is the hand held chain that is used as a saw kind.

[KevDen2005]

Oh I'm glad you saw this. Thanks for the break down.

I added:
51. Binoculars
52. Shovel (shovel/pick ax foldable style)
53. Sewing kit
54. Road flares
55. Chain saw
56. Sleeping bag

I have a small sewing kit and I've already sewn so many clothes and stuffed animals and even a leather holster up with it. It really helps prolong the usefulness of things.
The chainsaw is the hand held chain that is used as a saw kind.


I haven't been checking the site as often as I used to and this area even less so luckily I noticed it before more than a week or so went by.

I like the sewing kit idea a lot. If you are super outdoorsy you can make a fishing line out of it. I sometimes carry a shovel, in winter, I just didn't think I used it often enough otherwise.

What kind of sleeping bag are you going with? And have you weighed your pack?

I don't always carry a sleeping bag but always have a military poncho, poncho liner (which is like a lightweight but fairly warm blanket and easy to pack) and two emergency blankets

[StagLefty]

Replace sewing kit thread with dental floss ! Much stronger and waterproof,much overlooked addition to PSK. [Coffee]

[KevDen2005]

Replace sewing kit thread with dental floss ! Much stronger and waterproof,much overlooked addition to PSK. [Coffee]


Thanks for the tip, gonna have to try that

[jerrymrc]

A sewing kit was one of the first items I posted here. http://www.co-ar15.com/forums/showthread.php?t=22229

Besides the sewing kit I also keep some fabric around for repairs. I also keep about 15' of hook and loop around. I have it with backing but it can be sewn into fabric as well.

Sorry I have not been around much but I have been putting in long hours in Seattle. Be back in another week.

[Irving]

I don't even have a decent BoB yet. Just a crappy old duffle with like 13 of the items out of 56 in it. It probably weighs about 8 pounds or so. I don't even have a sleeping bag, nor know much about them. The floss is a good idea, but I wouldn't want to repair my clothes with dental floss (wouldn't care if I was bugging out though).

The friend on another site who makes those paracord dog collars (like our guy on here does) has one that includes 15' of fishing line and a hook in the collar. A lot of fishing line in with the sewing kit would be easy. I'd just get the thread used to sew jeans together and it would be plenty strong enough for anything you'd have to sew anyway.

[PanamaDave]

8. Balaclava

Thought you were packing a Greek dessert there for a moment until I read again.... [UZI]

[Irving]

That's how I say it in my head too.

Which would people prefer, a shemagh, or a balaclava?

[KevDen2005]

8. Balaclava

Thought you were packing a Greek dessert there for a moment until I read again.... [UZI]


Wait, did I mispell it or what?!


And dessert does sound delicious and something that I will now put into my pack

[KevDen2005]

I don't even have a decent BoB yet. Just a crappy old duffle with like 13 of the items out of 56 in it. It probably weighs about 8 pounds or so. I don't even have a sleeping bag, nor know much about them. The floss is a good idea, but I wouldn't want to repair my clothes with dental floss (wouldn't care if I was bugging out though).

The friend on another site who makes those paracord dog collars (like our guy on here does) has one that includes 15' of fishing line and a hook in the collar. A lot of fishing line in with the sewing kit would be easy. I'd just get the thread used to sew jeans together and it would be plenty strong enough for anything you'd have to sew anyway.

You can look around for some good deals on ebay and things like that. I ahve a couple sleeping bags but went onto ebay and bought a brandnew lightweight military bag for 20 bucks plus shipping. I got that one just to keep in the tool box of my truck.

[StagLefty]

Thrift stores are a great place for bug out stuff like sleeping bags,cookware,xtra clothing etc.

[glock21]

wow i still have a lot to learn about bob

1. rain pancho
2. para cord
3. water tablets
4. saw and knife
5. snakebite kit
6. suture kit and first aid
7. fire starting stuff
8. sleeping bag
9. slingshot
10. gloves, hats, longjohns

thats about it, we need to all get together and show our bags so guys like me can get better educated to help ourselves and our family

[StagLefty]

I have several BOB's for different reasons. I have my everyday one that's always with with me,a bigger one for traveling,and some seasonal ones. This time of year I keep a large Rubbermaid container with dry clothes,boots,blankets,a few MRE's,extra batteries for flashlights,firestarters/tinder,etc. I know some will say they always have this stuff with them but it's not as much fun that way [Beer]

[enthusiast]

What kinds of backpacks/bags are you guys using?

[StagLefty]

My everyday BOB is from LAPG might be 5.11,large BOB is an NRA range bag I won at Bowers and anything bigger is usually in containers like Rubbermaid. I don't do backpacks anymore except for a Camelback MULE for short term.

[glock21]

I just have a big woodland camp backpack that's waterproof with a small waist pack attached. I got it from Walmart for 30 bucks

[KevDen2005]

wow i still have a lot to learn about bob

1. rain pancho
2. para cord
3. water tablets
4. saw and knife
5. snakebite kit
6. suture kit and first aid
7. fire starting stuff
8. sleeping bag
9. slingshot
10. gloves, hats, longjohns

thats about it, we need to all get together and show our bags so guys like me can get better educated to help ourselves and our family


I am always open for a get together with like minded people! But I also tried to post pics on here of my gear but the image size was WAY TOO BIG!!! And I am not a computer guys or techno guy so I am going to have to mess with it a bit before I figure out exactly how to get the pics uploaded

[glock21]

Yea set up a date and time, I'm in. We could use my house or a park

[ChunkyMonkey]

I am always open for a get together with like minded people! But I also tried to post pics on here of my gear but the image size was WAY TOO BIG!!! And I am not a computer guys or techno guy so I am going to have to mess with it a bit before I figure out exactly how to get the pics uploaded

youtube man... you tube. Image is so yesterday. [Tooth]

[Irving]

I was going to get both size bags from that Countrycomm website.
(http://www.countycomm.com/)

About the get together, Wulfguy already has one scheduled a meeting in November to do BoBs. He has it posted here in the survival section (under the name FIRE!) and on Arfcom.

[enthusiast]

I was going to get both size bags from that Countrycomm website.
(http://www.countycomm.com/)

About the get together, Wulfguy already has one scheduled a meeting in November to do BoBs. He has it posted here in the survival section (under the name FIRE!) and on Arfcom.

Those are some cool bags. I may order some.

[KevDen2005]

youtube man... you tube. Image is so yesterday. [Tooth]


I know, I am so behind the times

[Irving]

For what it is worth, I think that the LA Police Gear bags are the CountryComm bags repackaged and sold for a little bit cheaper. I don't know if you can get the LAPG bags in anything but black though.

[StagLefty]

For what it is worth, I think that the LA Police Gear bags are the CountryComm bags repackaged and sold for a little bit cheaper. I don't know if you can get the LAPG bags in anything but black though.

I think I paid $30 or less for the medium bag in khaki. Here's an old pic[Beer]

http://i848.photobucket.com/albums/ab49/StagLefty/Knives/hestbob.jpg

[KevDen2005]

I think I paid $30 or less for the medium bag in khaki. Here's an old pic[Beer]

http://i848.photobucket.com/albums/ab49/StagLefty/Knives/hestbob.jpg

You definitely have spent some time on the LAPG website!!!

I buy a lot of stuff from them, they have good prices, long waits on shipping but pretty good prices.

[StagLefty]

You definitely have spent some time on the LAPG website!!!

I buy a lot of stuff from them, they have good prices, long waits on shipping but pretty good prices.

Mike at Bowers told me they are almost forced to overstock and that's why they have some good clearout sales. [Coffee]

[Cujo0920]

http://zombiehunters.org/forum/viewtopic.php?f=14&t=4103

For those who aren't aware of Zombie Squad, they have some great preparedness forums, including my personal favorite where members post pics & descriptions of their bug-out bags. Clearly some of these guys put some serious thought & practical field experience into the contents.

[Irving]

So I'm trying to put together a small kit that fits inside an Altoids can, which will fit very nicely in my little grab bag. I've found these two sites that have great small stuff to put into a tin like this. They are actually the same people. The second site is their "new" site. I was checking out on the first site, and saw a message that I could get 10% off on the new site with a provided code. I went to the new site, got my 10% off, but the shipping was $2 more, so I ended up paying $.50 more. Either way, both site have some good stuff I thought.

http://www.bestglide.com/

http://www.adventuresurvivalequipment.com/

For the record, I got:

2 of these P-51 can openers - http://www.adventuresurvivalequipment.com/p51-military-can-opener.html

1 of these credit card tools - http://www.adventuresurvivalequipment.com/credit-card-survival-tool.html

2 of these folding razors (orange) - http://www.adventuresurvivalequipment.com/folding-utility-razor-knife-derma-safe.html

2 of these whistles - http://www.adventuresurvivalequipment.com/nato-marine-distress-whistle.html

[KevDen2005]

So I'm trying to put together a small kit that fits inside an Altoids can, which will fit very nicely in my little grab bag. I've found these two sites that have great small stuff to put into a tin like this. They are actually the same people. The second site is their "new" site. I was checking out on the first site, and saw a message that I could get 10% off on the new site with a provided code. I went to the new site, got my 10% off, but the shipping was $2 more, so I ended up paying $.50 more. Either way, both site have some good stuff I thought.

http://www.bestglide.com/

http://www.adventuresurvivalequipment.com/

For the record, I got:

2 of these P-51 can openers - http://www.adventuresurvivalequipment.com/p51-military-can-opener.html

1 of these credit card tools - http://www.adventuresurvivalequipment.com/credit-card-survival-tool.html

2 of these folding razors (orange) - http://www.adventuresurvivalequipment.com/folding-utility-razor-knife-derma-safe.html

2 of these whistles - http://www.adventuresurvivalequipment.com/nato-marine-distress-whistle.html

Good stuff, however I am not sure I would keep it the size of an altoids can, that is pretty small. You can still keep it small but I just think limiting yourself that much isn't that necessary. But all the more power to you if you get it done. I would definitely want some sort of fire starter, water purification, para-cord, and possibly some fishing items, just to name a few. Just my thoughts and if you already have them, disregard.

[StagLefty]

These small packs like I have on my knife sheath come with an Altoids tin and are great for small items:
http://i848.photobucket.com/albums/ab49/StagLefty/Knives/HESTpack.jpg
I keep similar items that you have in there Stuart. I picked up a few Otter boxes last year from REI and they are great for FAK's and other gear:waterproof and different sizes JMHO

[Irving]

The whole deal isn't limited to an Altoid can, just the stuff I can fit into it. It is a great way to get a lot of stuff into a small spot. The bag that the Altoid tin is going into, could actually carry about 7 of them if I packed them into there.

I like that little setup there Stag. Do you wear it on your belt?

[StagLefty]

I like that little setup there Stag. Do you wear it on your belt?

If I'm camping otherwise that knife/sheath without pack is my EDC.

[Irving]

Here are some other small things that are on my list of "to get." I was trying to stay around $20 last night. I spent just under $24 last night.

This box looks to be about 4x the size of an Altoid tin and would fit great in my bag - http://www.adventuresurvivalequipment.com/adventurer-survival-kit-box.html

If I was made of money I'd buy a bunch of these and put them on various bags and jacket zippers - http://www.adventuresurvivalequipment.com/pico-led-zipper-lite.html

Couple of these silica gel packets - http://www.adventuresurvivalequipment.com/silica-gel-desiccants-moisture-absorbing-packets.html

Had I seen this magnifying glass last night I might have picked up 2. Seems flimsy though - http://www.adventuresurvivalequipment.com/adventurer-magnifier-lens.html

These saws are for sure on my list - http://www.adventuresurvivalequipment.com/survival-tools-sharps/spiral-survival-wire-saw.html

I really like these tweezers too - http://www.adventuresurvivalequipment.com/uncle-bills-sliver-gripper-tweezers.html

This knife sharpener could come in handy - http://www.adventuresurvivalequipment.com/superior-knife-sharpener-sterling-systems.html

A first aid kit is a must, but I don't know anything about that stuff.

[StagLefty]

I have that magnifying card-use it for fire starting but takes some practice. Check out countycomm.com also for some unique gear. [Beer]
FAK just stock with basics you may need-your absolutely correct in not carrying stuff you don't know how to use.

[Irving]

I've checked out that site many many times. :)

I think I got it from you originally. I know it was someone from here. County Comm is a bit difficult to navigate though.

[Irving]

So I was going to use two Altoid tins and dedicate one of them to a fishing/sewing tin. Any ideas on how to hold the fishing stuff? Right now I just have some hooks and weights tossed into the tin. Is there like a tiny plastic box to keep them together or something?

Seems like this would work: http://goinggear.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=252

But it also seems like it'd be too much weight for little result.

[StagLefty]

I have a couple of those pill holders for keeping a few meds safe and dry. I had picked up an altoid kit from Best Glide and the hooks are still in the small zip lock
bags they came in. As long as your aware of hooks being in there I think your fine without any special holder. JMHO

[Inconel710]

For the fish hooks - try taping them to the back of the Altoids tin. Regular Scotch tape should do the trick, just leave the shank of hook out where you can get a fingernail under it to remove it from the tape. That should keep them from rattling around and poking you when open the kit.

[Eldorado556]

If you know someone who is a diabetic the bottles that hold test strips are pretty handy. The lids are nice and tight and they have an oxegen absorber inside. Great for a fishing kit or other small items.

I actually made up a bunch of small fishing kits recently.


Each kit has 2 lidded poly containers. 1 2 ounce and 1 1/4 ounce to hold the small items.

50 feet of 20lb Power Pro braided line wound onto a metal sewing bobbin with snap swivel attached.
1 9" 30 lb wire leader.
4 size 14 snap swivels.
10 BB size removable split shot. (only 6 shown in picture)
2 Eagle Claw #8 snells.
1 Matzuo 3/0 sickle treble hook, use for snagging or retrieving items.
2 Matzuo size 1 red chrome worm hooks.
3 Matzuo size 12 baitholder hooks.
2 Sanhu size 8 baitholder hooks.
3 Matzuo size 6 plain shank hooks.
Berkley Gulp maggots for bait.

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s240/ilbruche/Fishing/IMG_8906.jpg

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s240/ilbruche/Fishing/IMG_8907.jpg

The small container sits in the bottom of the larger one. The bigger hooks and line go on top. Plenty of room to add your own gear. This kit was built around the idea of passive fishing. Setting up trot lines and bank lines. Lures can be added to suit your environment if desired. I really can't see the point of kits that include spoons when you have no reel to use them effectively.

[ghettodub]

I'm about to start working on a BOB today, and heading to the store this afternoon to start getting goodies for it. I'm kinda excited!

[Irving]

Great post Eldora. I actually found that I had a ton of fuse boxes in an old tool box. They are perfect for holding hooks, swivels, weights, etc, so they aren't rattling around. One is a normal plastic box with a snap on lid. The other is a metal/plastic type where the lid slips on and off. They are the perfect size to fit inside an Altoid tin. I did end up switch to a cigar tin that I had laying around though. It is about 2.5x bigger than the Altoid tin and works just great. Also, I got all that stuff I ordered last week.

[gnihcraes]

Finally got all the bob's setup for the family. One "Nice" Kelty backpack for each member. I still have a few items to add, but they are the more expensive items like good clothing, hats, gloves, medical, water bottles, maps, compass, etc. I built a list of items and slowly spend the money on a few of the items. Eventually it will be complete.

My daughter (10) was very excited to put all the items in her backpack I just picked up. (Sportsmans Warehouse has Kelty backpacks discounted on a end shelf away from the regular backpack isle)

http://www.dcandh.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=922&g2_serialNumber=1

[ghettodub]

Got a good start on mine last night. Picked up a non-framed alice pack, and have the following goodies in it as of now:

Waterproof/steel-toe hiking boots
waterproof pants and gloves
thermals
tarp
magnesium fire starter
compass
small first aid kit
glow sticks
water purification tabs
lightweight paracord


more to come, but I think that's a good start

[gnihcraes]

ghettodub: I'm very interesting your waterproof clothing, is it light weight stuff? brand? etc.

I'm struggling with the clothing part of this, good stuff is expensive, cheap stuff isn't that good for warmth, dryness, etc. Especially buying for 4 people, two whom are still growing by inches a day it seems.

[ghettodub]

ghettodub: I'm very interesting your waterproof clothing, is it light weight stuff? brand? etc.

I'm struggling with the clothing part of this, good stuff is expensive, cheap stuff isn't that good for warmth, dryness, etc. Especially buying for 4 people, two whom are still growing by inches a day it seems.

The clothing is definitely the bulky part of the pack. I didn't go super high-end either, just some light weight snow pants, waterproof hunting gloves, and waterproof boots. Don't know the brand off hand, but I'll try to make a note of that.

[StagLefty]

Especially buying for 4 people, two whom are still growing by inches a day it seems.

Check out the thrift stores like ARC-when my son was in Scouts I got almost all of his camp clothes that way. You'd be amazed at what you can find including stuff for yourself at an affordable price. It's kinda funny now that he's 26 and he still loves searching thrift stores. [Beer]

[gnihcraes]

Yep, will start searching the thrift stores. I find pretty good stuff now and then, but haven't started searching for the BOB items there yet.

I got a great shotgun cart at a thrift store recently. (truth: its a jogging stroller and I made it a gun cart for clays).