(Part 2) Best camping safety & survival equipment according to redditors
We found 1,276 Reddit comments discussing the best camping safety & survival equipment. We ranked the 498 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the products ranked 21-40. You can also go back to the previous section.
![Gerber Zombie Apocalypse Survival Kit [30-000601]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41OcnuJ-LSL.jpg)
Yay! I always look forward to this thread. Here are some of my go to gifts:
I'll add more as I think of them!
Totally not needed. You pad already has a thermostatic controller. The pads only heats up when the cat sits on it (maintains a slightly warm temperature otherwise). And the 45 degrees is way too low for a cutoff temp. Cats natural body temp is 101.5 degrees. Anyway, your pad is already low energy.
A better option is to get one of these:
https://www.amazon.com/Grabber-Outdoor-127008-Weather-Blanket/dp/B000CSJWWW
The heating element on the pad is on the bottom. A common complaint about that heating pad is that it's not warm enough. The surface the pad is on matters a lot. You need a surface that reflects the heat back up to warm the cat.
Or you could carry something useful.
> He shot it in the air , the bear stopped to run , looked at him and charged again!
And that is why I always encourage people to carry UDAP bear spray over just about any other deterrent product (Here's an example of the effects on an aggressive pitbull and here's one being used on a bear). It's unpleasant to fire, especially if you are downwind, but you have a much, much higher rate of scaring off a bear through physical injury, rather then just hoping hoping and praying that noise intimidation will be enough get the job done.
This, mylar is better in every way for retaining body heat.
A link for you
It's a hand warmer, you light the charcoal stick and it burns inside the case keeping you warm.
https://www.amazon.com/Celsius-Lasting-507-HW-Odorless/dp/B00305KAUW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1517677855&sr=8-1&keywords=charcoal+hand+warmers
> fire blanket
For those wanting a link to a fire blanket:
https://www.amazon.com/Emergency-survival-Fiberglass-Blanket-fireplace/dp/B074CCDW6S/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1549219537&sr=1-2&keywords=kitchen+fire+extinguisher
https://www.amazon.com/Hot-Headz-H-FIR-BLN100-Blanket-36-Inch/dp/B00IYCE7IC
I guess Imgur isn't so friendly on links so I'll put them here as well:
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8+. Otterbox SYMMETRY, Black :: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01K6PBSK4
https://www.amazon.com/Celsius-Lasting-507-HW-Odorless/dp/B00305KAUW
DATREX pouches. Tough, freeze-safe, long-term, and a failure will cause a fraction of your water to leak out.
OP likely means the typical Coast Guard approved water pouch, like Datrex. https://www.amazon.com/DATREX-Emergency-Water-Disaster-Survival/dp/B01DULZFRI
They're pouches because they let you optimize space in a box (or stored on your person/vehicle/vessel), where a cylinder is going to mean lots of wasted space between bottles.
This guy took his 0 degree bag and added this $50, 8 oz SOL bivy to it and it kept him warm enough at -3C that he had to take his clothes off.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWxeGddKNRo
Bivy in question
would investing in rappelling rope or this backpack help in this situation?
edit: or this thing
I'd like to join the drunk shopping friends group. I have bought:
I know what you are saying "cal you are saying you were drunk when you ordered all that?"
Yes, it was during a time when I filled boredom with drinking and online shopping. Also...I mean look at this crap, would you order any of it when you were sober??
I've never had to use it, but the one I have is this one. It's kinda big, but significantly smaller than a 1 qt water bottle. The little elastic holster thing is crap, but it'll easily fit in a cargo pants pocket, bottle pocket, or decent-sized jacket pocket. We picked up two of these for a 1 week family vacation in Yellowstone/Tetons because it was cheaper than renting them and the guy at the Sierra Trading Post in Cody, WY said he wouldn't go into the woods out there without one of those or a shotgun.
EDIT: Derp, haha!
For feet I have these Smoko USB Foot Warmer
For hands maybe this would help you: Smoko Toast USB Handwarmers
Mittens are typically warmer than gloves.
Zippo hand warmers
Electric hand warmer if Zippo scares you
I can think of two options you might not have considered:
A) basically a space blanket
B) synthetic insulation from recycled plastics like [here] (https://www.rei.com/product/112623/big-agnes-encampment-15-sleeping-bag)
I'm not sure either, but to stay safe anyway, I would recommend you a space blanket to shield you from all this electromagnetic bullshit.
See you on the ground suckers!
Old school hand warmer. You can still buy them and their solid fuel sticks. Celsius Solid Fuel Hand Warmer https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00305KAUW/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_Gu.vyb8ME1B6A
Grabber Outdoor Space 127008 All Weather Blanket, Orange,5 X 7 Feet is a nice one.
I dunno man. They could have had a gun or something. He didn't have to fight. I would have pulled a pussy. I carry [bear mace] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002BMOJXE/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1485210145&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=bear+mace&dpPl=1&dpID=41btjoyt41L&ref=plSrch) on me for this reason. I don't box. And I avoid fights.
I keep this bag in my truck in case I need to get home on foot and for day hikes. It's an REI Stoke 9, jam packed with the following (left to right):
GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Bottle Cup/Pot
Etekcity Ultralight Portable Outdoor Backpacking Camping Stove
Food - Cliff Bars and GU
Gorilla Tape To-Go
Morakniv Companion Fixed Blade Outdoor Knife
SecureLine 100-Feet 550 Nylon Paracord
Petzl Pro Am'D Screw-Lock Carabiner
LifeStraw Personal Water Filter
Coast 20266 HL46 Dual-Color LED Headlamp
Extra AAA batteries
Coast HP2 Universal Focusing 85 Lumen Penlight
Waterproof Windproof Matches
Nite Ize Gear Tie Reusable Rubber Twist Tie, 6-Inch, Blue, 2-pack
Small Flask
Headphones
Mophie Powerstation and cord
PackTowl Personal Towel
Nylon Tarp with Bungee Ties - think this came with my REI 2 person tent - awesome instashelter
Extra Underwear
SmartWool socks
Wool beanie
Vinyl poncho
Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight & Watertight .5 First Aid Kit
Also in the FAK pouch: Bic Lighter, Rubber gloves, Emergency Blanket
Coast BX310 Lock Back Folding Knife 2.63-Inch Blade
Coast LED145 LED Micro Pliers
REI Stoke 9 Pack
 
*Full disclosure, my wife used to work for Coast.
Edit 1: hella formatting errors
Solid fuel hand warmer.
Video of how it's used.
/u/82Burgers is right. https://www.reddit.com/r/whatisthisthing/comments/52u957/belonged_to_my_grandfather/d7nd07l
Datrex Emergency Water Packet - 3 Day/72 Hour Supply(12packets) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001CS53E2
Not to rain on your parade here but....you're talking about just carrying a high-vis piece of fabric as a signaling device? Sure, great idea. I'll do you one better. Include in your survival kit a high-vis, mylar backed tarp shelter. This can be used as a shelter, signaling device, water gathering device, all kinds of things.
I really like my gear to be as multi-use as possible.
Also there are plenty of other compact signaling ideas as well. You can spin a glow stick on a string at night to create a large, visible sign. There's signal mirrors, signal fires, flares, all kinds of options.
Hand Warmers: You can go with lighter fluid powered or rechargeable; whichever style you pick really depends on him. I personally would like the Zippo but I don't mind the muss with the fluid - as a downside, it requires he also carry a lighter. If you do go the Zippo route, don't forget to buy some lighter fluid for it and a lighter if he doesn't already have one.
Ugh I know your pain, I'm 5'3" so getting a good spot for GA shows is always a major operation. With the right strategy you should definitely get there though, out of the ~70 shows I've seen I've only missed being on the rail three or four times.
You're on the right track getting there as early as possible, I'm not sure how big that venue is but ~9:30 should be early enough to give you a good chance of being at the front of the queue. Maybe not first in line, but close enough.
Re: the cold, you might want to pick up some of these chemical hand warmers. I stuffed a couple of them in my coat when I queued all day to see Jack White in January 2015, they pretty much kept me from freezing to death.
One of the best things about queuing for hours before a show is making friends with other cool people. When doors open go right into the performance space & grab a spot near those people, usually they'll be nice enough to hold your spot while you run to the bathroom, hit the merch stand etc. Even still I'd recommend skipping the coat check if possible, again I don't know that specific venue but in my experience those things are always a clusterfuck & major time sinks, the longer you're away from your spot the higher the chance some dickhead will muscle their way in. Besides, if you get a spot on the rail you can just put your coat on the floor in front of you.
I hope these suggestions are helpful, good luck!
I carry this every time I ride.
http://amzn.com/B002LAHLLS
Here's one way to deal with water:https://www.amazon.com/DATREX-Emergency-Water-Disaster-Survival/dp/B01DULZFRI
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They last about 4 years.
So you could buy 3 days' worth and just shove them into the closet where you keep that stuff, and write the date in big letters on the end of the box that you'll see. Then start using it up and order new once you get to that date.
and here's an emergency management site.
https://earth911.com/home-garden/how-to-store-water-for-emergencies/
there is "water preserver" that treats water in containers.
https://www.thereadystore.com/water-preserver
And you can buy a water filter that could filter any water you do have.
https://theprepared.com/gear/reviews/portable-water-filters/
1/2" X 5" Ferrocerium Rod
Gorruck 34L GR2 Coyote Tan - a good bag, heavy, uncomfortable, probably give it to my grandchildren in like 50 years
Flip Flops - generic things
Bigblue 28W solar charger - very good, can charge my battery up during the day if i leave it in the sun which I've never really done honestly
Jakemy hardware tools - seamed useful? i've never needed this
Army glove shells - i thought i used these a lot and were indistructable but now that i think of it, i don't use them that often and are probably pretty cheaply made.
Sharpie, pen, all weather notebook - probably should switch over to a fisher space pen...
Straws - these are probably already broken.
Whistle - really really really loud
Fire-striker, matches, lighter - i'm not sure i have enough ways to start a fire
Fresnel lens - ok, now i have enough
LED flashlight - i used to go running in the middle of the night with this flashlight, its tiny
LED flashlight - this isn't the one i have but looks kinda similar? i don't remember where i got mine
Earbuds - generic cheap earbuds
Leatherman Surge - given to me by my wife for passing the bar. thanks wife!
First Aide kit - i put mine together from stuff i've stolen from friends houses whenever i go over and use the bathroom
playing cards - these look very similar to the ones i have, they are plastic so they won't get rained on
glasses/ sunglasses - i have really bad vision
personal hygiene kit - aahhhh dry shaving
Sawyer Mini / syringe, collapsible canteen (dirty), heavy duty straw - i've never used this
collapsible canteen (clean) - i've never used this either
sewing kit - i've used this a lot
ID tags - i guess if i get blown up they'll know my blood type?
garbage bag - for when my pockets are full
elastic bands - i use these when packing to keep rolled socks and things from falling apart
Salt - i have nooooo idea why i have this
cooking grate - i'm not going to hold meat over a fire with a stick like some sort of caveman
heavy duty ziplock bag - in case my mapcase breaks and other reasons
rip-patch - leftover from when i needed a pack because i bought a crummy cheap inflatable sleeping pad.
Army Fleece Beanie - i always keep this at the top of my pack
4 Bungie Cords - not the one i use but similar. to make a field-expedient shelter
Trowel - for disposal of biological wastes
Lensatic compass - because GPS should only be a backup
Pocketboy 130 folding saw - i have a bigger one for yardwork, this small one is really great
Tent stakes - for tent staking
Ravpower 26800 Battery - use this all the time can fast chage my stuff
Battery Battery holder, cables, wall charger - all fits togehter like glove!
Army Poncho - wear it, make a tent out of it etc
Microfiber towel - not the one i use but similar. i mainly use this for when the kids accidentally fall in a lake like they tend to do for some reason
Down Jacket - cheap chinese knockoff... i feel bad for not buying american
Wet weather top - not sure this is worth the space/weight
Wet Weather bottom - not sure if this is worth the weight/space
Silkweights - PJs! and warmth
Jungle Blanket - this is a lot better than the army's woobie. lighter and warmer
Gransfors Bruks Wildlife Hatchet - again, gift from wife. she wanted me to chop things and be more manly, generally. now i come home with parts of wildlife for her to cook
Map of New England - or, how i stopped worrying and love dismounted land navigation
PT belt - keeps me safe in all situations
Compression straps - i don't like lashing things to the outside but i guess i can if i wanted to
Fork and Spoon - stole these from the kitchen. i'll probably be replacing this soon with something titanium.
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EDIT: i just priced it out: $1,585.08 total
From the inventory of that kit vs. a lazy Amazon search:
QuikClot clotting sponge
$10.99
SWAT-T Tourniquet
$12.03
Nitrile Gloves
$0.24
Antiseptic wipe
$.06
Disposable bag
$.09
Trauma pad (5 x 9 in)
$1
Duct tape (2 x 26 in)
$0.06
TOTAL $23.47, leaving you $11.52 to package it in something waterproof and cheap like a ZipLoc bag (so you can see what's in it), and add the other boring stuff you'll need 99% of the time like band aids, tweezers, immodium, ibuprofen, antihistamine, etc. You'll even have 178' of left over duct tape for taping the living crap out of everything around you.
Also, if you don't have (recent -- as in the last couple of years) training on when it's appropriate to use a tourniquet, chances are you'll do more harm than good with it. A lot of the medical philosophy around using them has changed with all the recent combat experience US forces have experienced.
:-)
These guys (Adventure Medical -- same company) actually put out a very smart, more comprehensive kit for $29.99:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000G80KZQ
Or for something a little lighter and single-person, their $14.99 kit is great (to which I added a clotting sponge):
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AAZ08ES
I think people are better off buying a kit that covers the 99% first, and THEN adding to it a bit of trauma kit (after taking a ALS/EMT course so they actually know what to do with it).
I'd like to take this opportunity to add some general fire safety advice, too.
Change the batteries in your smoke detectors and CO detectors every year. Daylight Saving Time is this weekend, and it's a good idea to make a habit of changing your detector batteries when DST changes in the winter. Amazon has an 8-pack for $10, which is about half the price of Energizers.
Replace smoke detectors every 10 years, and CO detectors every 6 years. They all have a date of manufacture on the back. Check it when you replace the battery.
If you have second-story bedrooms, get a fire escape ladder. Make sure everyone knows where it's kept and how to use it - you don't want to be trying to read directions in a panic, or in a smoke-filled room. Especially if you have kids, go over it with them at least once a year.
Don't keep your kitchen fire extinguisher near the stove! Think about it: you don't want to be reaching through the fire to get at it. Keep it near a doorway away from the fire. This is safer, and gives you a path to retreat.
Keep the fire extinguisher visible. If it's hidden in a cabinet, guests may not be able to find it, and that's the same as not having one. If you don't like a big red fire extinguisher hanging out, they make white ones.
Consider a fire blanket for the kitchen too. Stovetop fires can be snuffed out with one of these before they spread, without making a mess out of your house.
And finally, if you can't extinguish a fire with a single fire extinguisher, just get out! House fires spread terrifyingly fast. In less than a minute, a small fire can fill a room with thick, black smoke that makes it impossible to see and impossible to breathe. Get you and your loved ones away from the fire, closing doors behind you along the way, and get out.
This is why I have an issue with most external filters- and built mattenfilters into all my tanks. We are in the mountains and lose power sometimes. I also keep a lot of spare hothands in fish supply to put into ziplock baggies and drop in tanks to keep them warm. Just in case.
Well if you truly are heading out into the backcountry then there are a number of things. Here is a small sampling of the kit I have put together. I am by no means an experienced backcountry snowboarder, through have spent a lot of my life hunting and exploring the wilderness during winter time. Still please take this as advice from a novice that has been doing a lot of research on the subject and has just gotten into it in the last year.
Essentials no matter where I am
If you are going into avalanche terrain
Some other good stuff
Edit: I should also mention that the first book I listed up in the other comment is written by one of the top experts in the world on avalanches.
I think most of the suggestions you're getting are actually quilt alternatives that you could comfortably use instead of a sleeping bag even at 0C/32F (and colder).
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For nights where you're confident you'll be experiencing lows of 10C/50F or higher, you can get by with a very minimal, summer weight quilt that weighs 10 or 12 ounces. They aren't that cheap, though, for an item that may be used only rarely.
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Another alternative for those warmer nights is to use a SOL Escape Bivy, which uses an aluminized tyvek material and weighs around 8 ounces, costs $50 but you can find it for less. The SOL Escape Bivy wasn't really made as a sleeping bag alternative, but it breathes well and many people have used it as sleeping bag alternative in warmer conditions. Not toasty warm at 10C/50F, but okay if you're wearing clothes. You'd want the SOL "Escape Bivvy", not the "Escape Lite Bivvy". This one is green, but they also come in orange: https://www.amazon.com/L-Survive-Outdoors-Longer-Water-Resistant/dp/B00EZEPCB4?th=1
Nah, firesteel.com don't make that plastic-nub handle thing on the bottom and use a different striker. That looks more like a 'classic' Light-My-Fire Army model.
Edit: That seems to be the generic Coghlan's copy of it actually, based on the striker. I've found Coghlan's products to be hit-or-miss. Mostly miss with critical equipment. I wouldn't recommend getting one.
OP should still get the Firesteel.com one. Superior product in my opinion. I recommend the Gobspark Armageddon as it has a nice handle and optional palm scraper (Get it, worth the money). Makes lighting fire with cold hands easier and you don't scrape the skin off your thumbs with the striker.
OP, if you're interested, you can learn how to start your own fire with flint and steel. It's not that difficult, really, and is a pretty cool thing to do. It just takes some practice and preparation.
There's tons of how-to videos out there, like this one or this one. I like this one, too, but it's very long (23 minutes) and detailed.
You can go find your own piece of flint rock or just buy a ferro rod.
Separate
Emergency supply hand held bag
Emergency supply bum-bag
Medical kit, need to update my meds!
Financial Documentation Grab-bag
Other Documentation
Thermal blankets.
http://www.amazon.ca/Emergency-Mylar-Thermal-Blankets-Pack/dp/B007IYIYFE/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1382141568&sr=8-2&keywords=thermal+blanket
To be honest, I've never heard of using a fire blanket in that way, but it would work. That's not a bad idea!
Fire blankets are great, they are the ideal way to extinguish oil fires, as well as fires on people. Just remember, if you do use a fire blanket on something like an oil fire: DO NOT REMOVE THE BLANKET WITHOUT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT TELLUNG YOU TO. The reason I put that in caps and bold is because it is really that important. Oil fires especially, retain a lot of heat. If they are extinguished with a fire blanket, they can retain enough heat for a long time to autoignite, which will then happen as soon as you remove the blanket. The fire department well need to attend regardless to make sure that there isn't any damage from the fire before you extinguished it anyway - or it hasn't made its way into the ceiling space, etc.
By the way, this is the style of fire blanket that I'm speaking of - http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00IYCE7IC/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1458284873&sr=8-1&pi=SX200_QL40&keywords=fire+blanket&dpPl=1&dpID=41tya7LswXL&ref=plSrch (whoops, forgot to actually add the link). It is the standard here in Australia. You attach them to the wall with the hole in the top, then a sharp yank down on the two tabs will remove the blanket from the cover and you will be holding it about 1/4 of the way from each end along one side.
I would thoroughly recommend watching videos on YouTube about how to safely extinguish an oil fire with a fire blanket. The basic gist of it is you grab the fire blankets two tabs and pull down, which will remove the blanket from the holder. You then wrap the blanket around your hands to protect your hands and face from the fire. Approach, gently lay the blanket over the pot and ensure you cover completely. If you haven't already done so, call the fire brigade. You can also use a fire extinguisher on any additional fires started by the oil fire, once the fire blanket has been placed. You don't want to use the fire extinguisher on the oil fire directly, unless you have one that is destined for flammable oils and you have been trained to do it, because it can cause a spray of oil to come up and then you have what is effectively a flamethrower.
I don't have anything against candles per say, what I don't like is peoples cavalier attitude to fire safety. Candles, like a lot of things, are safe if handled properly and if they have the required fire equipment - i.e. blanket and extinguisher.
I could talk about fire safety all day, so if you have any questions I'd love to answer them to the best of my abilities.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IYCE7IC/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1
>On some comments there people complain not getting any sparks so I guess there's really some kind of quality issue with some.
Generally, it's not that there are quality issues. It's that people are unaware ferrorods can have different hardnesses. The harder the rod is, the more difficult it will be to get sparks off of the rod. You will need to scrape faster and press harder, but the rod will last much longer as a result. You probably have noticed it is incredibly easy to scrape dents and wells into that Light My Fire rod, and that's because the rod is about as soft as they come. But the result is that you can flick sparks off of it with ease.
If you have confidence with your ferrorod technique, or are ready for a better challenge, it is absolutely time to graduate to one of the harder rods. You get more mileage out of them, and you can actually use them in more different ways than the softer rods. I bought two of these last year, and I have been a very happy customer. They will undoubtedly last me for many, many years.
I just bought one of these - hoping it works!
Keep your core warm and your extremities will be warmer. It sounds like you have that covered though. Doing some light cardio exercise can also help get the blood pumping a bit and make you feel a tad warmer.
Those are some ideas to keep the root problem away, but it's likely you might still have cold fingers. I tend to submerge my hands into a basin of hot water and stretch them around a bit and then dry them with a warm hair dryer when I find them getting overly cold during practice sessions.
I also have a pair of hand warmers I'll sometimes use for cold, outdoor gigs, but that's probably not necessary for your situation.
Hot Hands (https://www.amazon.com/HotHands-Toe-Warmers/dp/B00SA6KMAE) in the bottom of the sleeping bag.
I use these toe warmers on mega cold days...ie anything < -15C
EMT-B here. I only carry a foot care kit and Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight & Watertight .5 First Aid Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AAZ08ES/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_I9NMxbB8ZRRDR.
Thank you for that, I just went through their line I was impressed. I think I'll keep looking however, I use a very small pack that is tight on space. The reason being that most backpacks I have used snag in the types of of tight saplings I go through snowshoeing. I like your idea adding down to mylar, such a good idea.
I used to use three of these, I wish it was still 5$: http://www.amazon.com/MPI-Weather-Emergency-Survival-Blanket/dp/B000CSJWWW/ref=pd_sbs_sg_3?ie=UTF8&amp;refRID=1K7ZHPKY000BST0MWEBE
10 pack for $6
https://www.amazon.com/Mylar-Mens-Emergency-Thermal-Blankets/dp/B007IYIYFE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1474998821&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=emergency+blanket
54 inches x 84 inches so you could totally use the extra to make super cool space kites.
Also tow warmers or heated socks.
https://www.amazon.com/HotHands-Toe-Warmers/dp/B00SA6KMAE
I found a boat load of these at a local store that worked out to a dime a pair.
Here are a few from me!
Nongshim veggie ramen 50-pack
Versa Flow Light-Weight Water Filter by HydroBlu
Victorinox Swiss Army Classic SD Pocket Knife
BSN Medical Leukotape P Sports Tape, 1 1/2 Inch x 15 Yard
S.O.L. Survive Outdoors Longer Escape Bivvy
Get yourself a first aid kit. Buy some bic lighters. Buy some cordage. Get yourself a multi tool or simple knife. Get a tarp. Buy something to filter or treat water. That outta meet your immediate needs for a few survival situations.
Surviveware Small First Aid Kit for Backpacking https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HGSLB6K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_CdLnDbV6F8BD4
BIC Lighter Classic, Full Size 12 Pieces, Bulk Packaging https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IMVL206/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_viLnDbNCA2J5C
PARACORD PLANET 100' Hanks Parachute 550 Cord Type III 7 Strand Paracord Top 40 Most Popular Colors (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GG0RLJQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ijLnDbWKWWT7C
Victorinox Swiss Army Multi-Tool, Fieldmaster Pocket Knife, Red https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IOI0NC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_9jLnDbXDQ4F0G
Arcturus Heavy Duty Survival Blanket - Insulated Thermal Reflective Tarp - 60" x 82". All-Weather, Reusable Emergency Blanket for Car or Camping (Olive Green) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01H6NC8XU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_plLnDbT9PE2Q4
PURINIZE - The Best and Only Patented Natural Water Purifying Solution - Chemical Free Camping and Survival Water Purification (8 oz) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075ZZP1VG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_6mLnDbFS98KKN
https://www.amazon.com/SkySaver-260-Building-Escape-Backpack/dp/B013F0N7G0/
Boots: I have Raynauds so I have a lot of opinions about boots and here are all of my recommendations:
Face and head: I think the best is a knit hat with an inside fleecey part over your ears, like this. I wear glasses, so I usually don't cover my face because they fog up, but sometimes I use a buff.
Warm underlayers: if you don't mind spending money, merino wool ones are lovely. They are $$ though so I mostly wear Uniqlo HEATTECH all over my whole body and would definitely recommend that.
Also you didn't ask for this but Darn Tough socks are A+. And if your hands get cold, buy a giant box of hand warmers and keep them in your pockets.
The radio is a perfect idea. Definitely get bear spray ( https://www.amazon.com/Frontiersman-Bear-Spray-Maximum-Strength/dp/B002BMOJXE/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=bear+spray&amp;qid=1556825913&amp;s=gateway&amp;sr=8-3 ).
Also, a firearm isn't a bad idea, for when the bear spray runs out.
I can’t find the exact product link but I use something similar to this: Insulated Thermal Reflective Tarp -https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01H6NC8XU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_BDBZCbVBCJCA4
It’s as sturdy as a tarp and has those holes so I can put them on the top of my tent, but leave a layer of air between them and my tent (v. important) by staking them in the ground.
Remember, making that pocket of air to create the shade is what turns your tent from a cool retreat into a baked potato
What's wrong with pocket or hand warmers?
and finally,
Ok you need a first aid kit because YOU NEVER KNOW and rocks are sharp.
You could also use FOOD, either in dehydrated form to cook with water on a camp burner, or in bar form.
HAVE FUN!
https://www.amazon.com/Udap-12HP-UDAP-Bear-Spray/dp/B001QGYH7Y
Do not test it. It works.
What do you do in a zombie apocalypse?
Make sure there's always one in the chamber.
Make sure you always have a second form of defense not less than one arm's length away from you.
And make sure there's someone covering your six.
EDIT: And get your hands on one of these.
It's a charcoal hand warmer. https://www.amazon.com/Celsius-Lasting-507-HW-Odorless/dp/B00305KAUW
https://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Products-SP103-Filtration-System/dp/B00MPH1LEU
buy one of these
and this https://www.amazon.com/Survival-Magnesium-Starter-Compass-Whistle/dp/B016UWWS2O/ref=sr_1_3?s=sporting-goods&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1503134173&amp;sr=1-3&amp;keywords=flint+and+steel
that should buy you about 30 days if you don't get murdered when shit hits the fan
http://www.sweaterchalet.com/quality-woolens/wool-socks/
https://www.amazon.com/HotHands-Toe-Warmers/dp/B00SA6KMAE
; )
Thanks!
I went with this one:
Relefree 1/2" X 5" 12.7mmx12.7cm Ferrocerium Rod Flint Fire Starter Lighter Magnesium Tool Kits Camping Hiking Survival Outdoor Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00UHD41T6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_9WJOwb10GP4JQ
Thanks to whoever recommended it here on /r/Bushcraft. :)
https://smile.amazon.com/Frontiersman-Bear-Spray-Maximum-Strength/dp/B002BMOJXE/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1522483087&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=bear+mace
Here's a link to help him out for future content.
The SOL Escape Bivy is relatively inexpensive and pretty durable. Couple with a Therm-A-Rest Z-pad and sleeping bag and it should be pretty comfortable.
1 yummy
2 I like zombies because its actually plausable.
3 you should buy this
4 warm bodies was amazing!
You can find Mylar blankets for literally under $1. You might get away with just using binder clips to hold them onto your canopy or tent, I'd just use a lot in case of wind.
https://www.amazon.com/Mylar-Mens-Emergency-Thermal-Blankets/dp/B007IYIYFE?th=1
10 pack for $7.29
Most certainly take a camera! Its extra weight, but the memories are worth it. Don't forget though a ziplock bag to keep it dry in case of a sudden rain.
First Aid Kit should include band aids, blister treatment, Tylenol and aspirin, heartburn medicine, and antihistamine medicine. This covers most of your basic ailments. If you want to grab one at the store: First Aid
I do carry about 15 feet of rope, but I use it as my dogs leash. For dogs, remember that if they are not leashed you can get fined. I wouldn't ever go hiking without my dog, but you have to be really conscientious of others on the trail, both for your dogs and others safety. My dog has his own backpack to carry his own food and treats, he loves it.
I'm not sure if this counts because its an add on but if it doesn't then maybe this. The compass may be an obvious thing you want but think about it, no electronics so youd want to have a map right? Okay what if you cant figure out which was it north? Or what if you don't have a map altogether? The flint I'd definitely want more because I think fire is one of the most useful tools in order to survive. Exposure is just as deadly as an animal and you aren't going to want to be eating anything raw that you may catch. Both are really useful to have in any kind of survival situation and I still need both for my pack.
I use an adventure medical .5
I've taken it on kayak trips and caving.. I like the fact that it comes with a waterproof bag inside the yellow storage bag.
Depends on what you anticipate you might need it for. I keep a pouch with 8 or 9 of these. They don't take up much space, and they won't burst if they freeze. I don't foresee any situation where I'm unexpectedly trapped in my car for more than 24 hours absolute max, so these would be sufficient for me.
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00842AIX0/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=solidproduc03-20&amp;camp=15121&amp;creative=330641&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B00842AIX0&amp;linkId=940da254c230f4625ab9e1aeeca933f8
I carry 4 of these, but I am also in the PNW, so lack of water is not an issue.
I use this one. It's 2.7 oz, which isn't too bad. I've been fairly happy with it. I added a bit more tape and moleskin.
Try this at home kids.
I toss this over my tent...
Grabber Outdoor Space 127008 All Weather Blanket, Orange,5 X 7 Feet https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000CSJWWW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_M.JhAb3TNTRPB
Yeah, you can get yourself a kickin' raft with an onboard computer system, and still have plenty money left over for a lot of grub and water inside little packets
I was wrong, its $7.95.
1 BEST Fire Starter - SurvivalSPARK Emergency Magnesium Fire Starter - Survival Fire Starter with Compass and Whistle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B016UWWS2O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_F7AkxbFCYCNJM
This.
Fire steel, baby.
https://www.amazon.com/SkySaver-260-Building-Escape-Backpack/dp/B013F0N7G0
Something like this could be scaled up.
Thanks!
I think I might buy the hoodie, and buy a cheaper jacket to cover it since I work in concrete.
Are you familiar with these hand warmers? They work pretty well, but I am not sure if they would be so practical while on top of a tower lol.
We got a reflective tarp for this exact reason. It helps a lot.
https://www.amazon.com/Arcturus-Weather-Outdoor-Survival-Blanket/dp/B01H6NC8XU/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=reflective+tarp&qid=1562617817&s=gateway&sr=8-3
I actually use to have this happen to me at times. What I ended up doing was putting on a hoodie and putting the hood up over my headset. I would also use Hot Hands hand warmers (https://www.amazon.com/HotHands-Hand-Warmers/dp/B00PY8N0UU) in the winter if my fingers just would not stop shivering, which made them hard to control. Oddly enough, this never happens to me anymore, no matter the season.
Hi! I don't know anything about cars, but I'm always cold! This is how I get through the winter:
For a coat, you'll want to get a down parka that at least covers your hips. Try on couple different lengths and see what you think is comfortable. My coat comes down to mid-thigh. You need to buy a coat with a hood.
For your hands, mittens are actually better than gloves if you have cold hands. Gloves separate your fingers, while mittens keep them together (sharing the warmth). I basically have 10 pairs of wristies, and wear them under mittens. When I need dexterity, I just take my mittens off and just wear the wristies. I would rather wear the wristies than wear gloves, if I was given the option. As far as mittens, I have several pairs. I have cute mittens that aren't that warm, but are good for going to work and back. And heavy-duty insulated dad-like mittens like these. You can also order a couple of these disposable hand warmers. A 30-pack will last you multiple winters. I put them in my wristies.
For your head, always have a hat or headband on when it's cold. My face gets *so cold*, so sometimes I wear a neck warmer. Skida makes neck warmers (and hats and headbands!) with super cute patterns, so you won't look like a serial killer.
For your feet, I wear darn tough socks, because merino wool is incredible. I wear them on hiking trips in the summer, and in the winter, they keep my feet really warm without being bulky (so I can still wear cute boots!). You can get them at places like REI, or online. Boots are super personal. I actually don't own a great pair of snow boots right now, because we don't typically get that much snow. I have hiking boots sort of like this that I wear when it's really snowy. But there are a ton of great options available. Honestly, I'd go somewhere like REI and try on a bunch to find what's comfortable. But you can probably make it through the winter without something super specialized.
Good luck!
If you're doing a beginning-level hike, the good news is that there aren't many things you have to do. You're basically going on a walk in the woods. That being said, here are a couple of things I learned from trial and error:
http://www.amazon.com/Gerber-30-000601-Zombie-Apocalypse-Survival/dp/B00842AIX0 i know its expensive but DO IT. haha
Hard to tell by just looking at it. It's obviously been used so it looks sort of old. But they still make them and they haven't really visually changed over the years.
I had one of these when I was younger and it got that charred looking after a few uses. I wouldn't assume the one in the picture is ancient based on the condition.
This actually exists. It's called the SkySaver. It's rappelling gear with a controlled descent device, packed in a backpack. You just strap it on and gtfo.
Amazon prime that shit baby. https://www.amazon.com/Udap-12HP-UDAP-Bear-Spray/dp/B001QGYH7Y
Hope this helps
https://www.amazon.com/Hot-Headz-H-FIR-BLN100-Blanket-36-Inch/dp/B00IYCE7IC
This one for $9 throws great sparks. Throw a handle on it and you will have a ferro rod that will work very well and last you a long, long time. I am assuming you are in the US, shoot me a PM if you are, I may have something for you.
Bear mace. Can hit a target from 30 ft out and stop it from advancing. https://www.amazon.com/FRONTIERSMAN-Bear-Spray-Maximum-Strength/dp/B002BMOJXE/
I know there are dog variants of this but I can only vouch for what works on bears
Thanks for the contest!
These
All of the suggestions so far are pretty spot-on. We've been having an unseasonably warm winter up until now but, knowing Michigan, that won't last long. The thermal or fleece-lined pants/leggings will be your best friend. You don't need to go crazy regarding the coat, since you will only be here for the Winter term and coats are all over the place when it comes to price (and since you can layer up underneath anything you do get). I'd recommend looking for something with a hood that comes past your face so it will block the wind - quite often the sub-zero winds are the worst part of the winter weather (at least imho).
It doesn't sound as if you'll be needing to do a lot of walking to get from your dorm to your classes so any decent, waterproof boot should be good. I lived a bit off campus and took the bus into downtown so there was quite a bit of walking. These hand & toe warmers were an absolute necessity for me. I'd keep them in my boots, pockets, and gloves. I'm not sure how I would've survived waiting outside for the bus without them.
That all being said, have fun in Michigan and go blue!
One alternative that could help you get around the brittleness problem would be to forge/file a hard edge onto part of the brooch (not sharpened like a knife), and incorporate something like this, maybe attached with leather or something. That way you could still use the brooch to start a fire, but won't risk it breaking.
They're both things you can get at just about any sporting goods store. The one I got my friend was a Nitecore, you can find it here on Amazon.
If you want to go for economy, here's a combo magnesium fire starter and compass with a whistle. If you prefer, you can get a magnesium fire starter separately, they don't cost much.
Nobody who's going to be travelling off the beaten path anywhere should ever be without either of these things.
They have the kit on amazon - Zombie Apocalypse Survival Kit
It's out of stock, of course, and no price listed.
This has some good ideas of how to "Adulting So Hard"...
So here's my suggestions:
...and here are my actual suggestions:
Good luck with the house! :D
https://twitter.com/populationwatch/status/896910554492682240
Autists around the world are analyzing it, trying to find out who it is. There were a handful of cameras and they have pictures of him with a bunch of other people, but like all the Antifa goons, the guy was cosplaying as ISIS at the time. Supposedly he was wearing some pretty heavy duty goggles, so that means he knew what he was doing.
Given the style of can they think it might be Industrial Bear Spray -- it looked akin to this. https://www.amazon.com/Udap-12HP-UDAP-Bear-Spray/dp/B001QGYH7Y with the pull top.
What's the effects of using Bear Spray on a human eye?
Not good.
> My canister indicates it's 2.0% capcaisin and 'related capsaicinoids,' and comes with the warning that it "may cause irreversible eye damage if sprayed in the eye at close range." Couple that with the lack of the ability to breathe and your sinuses filling full of snot and tears in short order, it's what I call in my business "a bad day."
So while we're still figuring out what exactly it was (early reports were hydrochloric acid but those are unconfirmed, and fact checking myself says capcaisin isn't an acid so my bad on that) we do know he was hospitalized and they fear he has permanent eye damage if not blindness, which makes it a bit more than "mace."
Edit: Just so we're all on the same page... Antifa members were arrested for planning an acid attack on the alt-right months ago: https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/Protester-Pleads-Guilty-to-Discussing-Inaugural-Ball-Plot-415715103.html?amp=y
So the idea that they'd use acid isn't a stretch.
You can seal it in mylar with no problem, make your own of these in whatever size you want. The problem is trash created (not good for hiking), the ease with which it could be ripped or punctured if thrown unprotected into a pack, and the "floppiness" of the container once it's been opened... It'd be much more likely to spill than almost any other liquid container out there.
I've bagged water in mylar inside of 5 gal buckets because the taste of even food-grade plastic leaches into water. It's fine.
How cold we talkin? I found that a base layer of Hotchillys helped me stay out in colder weather, and ride for much longer. I was previously only comfortable in mid-50s weather, now I'm fine in mid-40s. Below mid-40s I start needing heated gloves, and in the 30s I start needing a heated jacket liner and disposable toe warmers. Never ridden in below freezing weather, so can't help you there.
I should mention... what I do is mainly to maintain comfort, not survival/avoiding frostbite. I know I could technically tough it out and be out in colder weather with what I have, but I would be grumpy (and I have). One time it was so cold that my hands went completely numb yet felt like they were burning, and I had to pull over every 20 mins and use my Ducati's exhaust as a handwarmer just to physically continue. God that sucked.
Also, it sounds obvious, but the type of gear you need is not just dependent on the temperature outside, but also the wind, how fast you're riding, for how many hours you're out riding, and whether the sun is out or it's overcast/you're in shade. For me, going 45mph, for 45 min, in 45 degree weather was my limit before I started wishing I had heated gloves for comfort.
As for gear, a non-vented leather jacket with a thermal removable liner is actually weirdly insulating and kept me way warmer than I thought it would, but there's actual winter gear on Revzilla you should take a look at.
Edit: Oh, and definitely get a Balaclava! Loove this TurtleFur one.
A) Money. $20-$100 would be very useful and would get you out of more jams than anything else. Flat tire, out of gas, buying more food or water, paying someone to give you a lift, etc. Most survival situations aren't Hatchet.
B) A few Datrex Water Packs. I usually think these are kind of...a luxury...but if you stick with your idea then having some clean, fresh water could be a life saver. I know you have water purification tablets but there are plenty of climates where water is hard to find at all, and that could be huge for keeping you hydrated enough to eventually find water.
Have you tried the breathable SOL bivy? I have heard good things about these. https://www.amazon.com/L-Survive-Outdoors-Longer-Water-Resistant/dp/B00EZEPCB4/ref=pd_sbs_468_2/133-2881177-5943957?_encoding=UTF8&amp;pd_rd_i=B00EZEPCB4&amp;pd_rd_r=91725c64-6136-11e9-a56a-39d659a90f68&amp;pd_rd_w=HLq63&amp;pd_rd_wg=kKEd2&amp;pf_rd_p=763ccc93-bfa2-47be-85ae-0cdd7e00b3da&amp;pf_rd_r=SPXKHERDDGNWHFAGDSKV&amp;refRID=SPXKHERDDGNWHFAGDSKV&amp;th=1
http://www.amazon.com/Datrex-Emergency-Water-Packet-12packets/dp/B001CS53E2/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&amp;colid=3CGAVDBZQ3D4B&amp;coliid=I29BA36GUEPPR0
:)
Garfield loves lasagna! [This please] (http://www.amazon.com/Coghlans-1005-Flint-Striker/dp/B002KV3518/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&amp;colid=26NERMJV5G0JB&amp;coliid=IOYLQIYZ9D0E9).
I sort of agree. If you are going to bring a set, why not bring something easier to make fire with like a ferro rod? Still, mullein stalks which he is using as a spindle are easy to find in most places in North America. I'd like to see him make a hearth board though.
Or just take bear spray and clip in an easily accessible area, more effective than a gun or a knife
https://www.amazon.com/d/Camping-Bear-Protection-Products/Frontiersman-Bear-Spray-Maximum-Strength/B002BMOJXE/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1549390096&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=bear+spray
With a gun, I hope you brought a large caliber and have practiced with it enough to hit a moving target while dealing with a massive adrenaline rush. A knife is a bit to close for comfort.
The nice thing about the Arcturus is it comes with a pouch and you can put everything except the water bottle in the space of a binder. People will just see a bag that looks like it would hold pens or other school supplies.
Depending on your area, watch a few videos on making primitive blades and tools out of stone. Some places really don't have the rocks you would need to make primitive stone tools.
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The water bottle can be replaced with an oven bag (a heavy duty bag capable of withstanding the temperatures required to boil water, but it isn't preferred.)
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What's your climate?
Yep that's the one I use. Huge and inexpensive - think they are still 8 dollars. I use a bit of gorilla duct tape around the end for some grip.
There is also another one that has a hole for a lanyard for a couple bucks more - but if you have a vice and a drill you can put a hole in this one easy enough to run some paracord through.
This is the firesteel
bear spray
or a laser
I carry something similar. It fits in my seat bag so I don't even notice it. I used to keep some money it it as well but after leaving it at a stop, I started putting the money in the seat bag separately.
Get bear spray.