I want to see pictures of your hiking or bug-out bag!
This water filter removes 99.9% of all bacteria from any source
An advanced water filter is CRUCIAL if you enjoy trips to remote places without access to clean water. The Sawyer Water Filtration system is the most powerful travel filter on the market. It removes 99.99999% of all bacteria, including salmonella, cholera, and E.coli. It also removes 99.9999% of all protozoa like giardia and cryptosporidium. You'll never waste money on cartridges because this single filter can purify up to 100,000 gallons. A simple flush with the included syringe will keep it clean.
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The best organic water purifying agent and natural antibiotic!
Grapefruit seed extract has long been prized as an emergency water purifying agent, but it's also commonly used to fight respiratory infections, ear infections and antibiotic resistant urinary tract infections. All over the world, GSE is used for killing salmonella, E.Coli, staph, strep, parasites, viruses and fungi, including Candida. Health enthusiasts use grapefruit seed extract as a daily supplement to kill disease causing microbes. Print this guide to learn how to use GSE for various ailments
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This compact canteen stores 12 cups of filtered water
This Zippo waterproof lighter kit rocks my world
It is often said that a proper emergency kit should contain three ways to produce fire, including lighters, matches and traditional fire starters. Lighters are for speed and convenience. Matches serve as backup when lighters run out of fuel. Fire starters are there when matches run out. Don't get stuck playing boy scout when a fire is desperately needed.
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These windproof, waterproof matches never fail
This fire starter is less annoying than most
Survivalism is all about carrying backup supplies that will always work when traditional supplies run out. This fire starter is far less annoying than most. I love the thumb shaped handle that enhances my grip as I strike. My last fire starter had a thin metal scraper that dug into my thumb and forefinger. Good thing I was only practicing! In times of true emergency, the last thing I would need is a new cut or callus to prevent me from chopping wood or cleaning fish. If you have a favorite fire starter, drop a line and tell me about it!
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This knife meets all of my criteria for an excellent survival knife
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This awesome hammer has 18 pullout tools!
I found this gem in the "As Seen on TV" aisle at Walmart. I had planned to store this nifty survival tool in my backpack with my other emergency supplies, but I kept taking it out for various reasons! My husband carries a Swiss Army knife, but he's more likely to go looking for my pullout tools than his own.
Included Tools: Axe, hammer, flat rip pliers, pipe grip pliers, wire cutter, straight knife, bottle opener, chisel, wrench (6mm, 7mm, 8mm, 10mm), serrated blade, small flathead screwdriver, nail file, saw blade, fish hook remover, Phillips screwdriver. |
This premium steel hatchet is forged in once piece
For more than a year, I was torn between ordering this 14 inch hatchet and a mini Gerber Bear Grylls. I ended up getting both of them. I can't tell you how much safer it feels to have a longer handle! The curved design allows me to hit my target more precisely. The extra length helps put more momentum behind my swing. The blade is thicker and the head feels far more secure. I don't have to worry about the head popping off because the whole thing is forged in one piece. At $34, I feel it was worth every penny.
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This durable cloth sleep sack reflects body heat like Mylar
This metallic cloth sleep sack is unique because the inner material reflects up to 90% of your body heat back to you, adding additional warmth to sleeping bags. Unlike thin disposable Mylar blankets, the hard-wearing thermal fabric resists rips and tears. I bought this item to add to my emergency survival bag. I never expected to need it! On a frigid winter morning when temperatures plummeted below zero, my furnace went out, leaving me to shiver in my own bed. Thankfully, I had this wonderful product on hand. I could feel the heat building around my body immediately. In just a few minutes, I was warm enough to go back to sleep. The effect is almost like sleeping in a sauna. I can see how this item could save a person's life on a hiking trip gone wrong. As of this writing, I've purchased two of these bags--one for my husband's hiking/survival bag and one for mine. I look forward to ordering another to keep in my SUV.
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5 reasons why I bring a Coleman Sundome instead of a hiking tent
Another great low budget option for hikers
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Watch out for blogs devoted to discussing backpacking tents! In this confusing game of endless reviews and conflicting opinions, shoppers are encouraged to spend between $300 and $1,000 just to save a couple pounds of weight.
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This emergency tube tent is far more durable than most
Let's not forget the bug-out bag enthusiasts who don't have room for hiking tents. This emergency shelter is the next best thing! Most emergency shelters are flimsy, single-use items. This tear-resistant, extra-thick HeatFlex Mylar is stronger and more flexible than ordinary Mylar. With 425-lb strength paracord & reinforced tape seams, this is a truly reusable survival tent built to withstand harsh weather conditions. I love that it comes with a convenient carry bag that I can hang outside my backpack. If you're assaulted by unseasonably cold weather conditions, you can set this tent up INSIDE of your regular tent!
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This repair tape is the absolute strongest for tents and boats
I was sold on this brand of waterproof repair tape when I saw a video made by an ordinary guy who tested seven popular brands of waterproof tape in his garage, subjecting each to trials for weight resistance, water pressure and temperature stability. If tent and boat repair are important to you, I highly recommend watching the following video before spending money on a substandard product.
Check out the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aRXpfgik9XA |
This survival paracord uses three types of live saving strands
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Don't repeat my mistakes in choosing a good hiking mattress
I couldn't bring myself to spend $200 on the top rated luxury sleep pad for hiking, so I ended up choosing the best reviewed $40 alternative. I ordered one Sleepingo pad for my husband's backpack and another for my own. The moment I inflated mine for testing, I knew it was the worst purchasing decision I've made all year. I'm confused by the number of enthusiastic reviewers who dropped by to deliver praise. As a side sleeper, I need a whole lot more cushioning to ease pressure points. On the bright side, I was able to rest a little more comfortably by stacking one Sleepingo mattresses on top of the other. Since it would cost me $400 to get two luxury sleep pads for both of our hiking bags, I decided to keep the two budget pads. As of this writing, I'm still searching for the perfect hiking mattress. I'm almost ready to bite the bullet and drop $200 on a Therm-a-Rest Neo Air XTherm mattress. I'm intrigued by reviews from older people who claim they've finally found a lightweight pad they can depend upon for a good night's sleep. I'll return to review the Therm-a-Rest when the time comes. In the meantime, let's move on to some of my better purchasing decisions.
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This tiny stainless steel cookware set gets the job done nicely!
Would you believe that all of these components fit into one master pot that's not much bigger than a cereal bowl? I love the two pots and the frying pan. I ended up removing the cups and plates so that I could store an emergency candle in their place. My emergency candle provides 120 hours of light and doubles as a backup stove.
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A wood burning backpacking stove ensures I'll never run out of fuel
I love the fact this this tiny stove can run on twigs, dried leaves, wood scraps and pine cones.The thought of carrying an emergency stove that requires fuel makes me a little nervous. First, I don't have room for propane cans or extra alcohol bottles in my backpack. Even if I did, what if an unforeseen emergency forced me to stay on the trail longer than expected? I'd be stuck in the wilderness without cooking fuel. No thanks!
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I'm in love with this lightweight frying pan with folding handle
I originally ordered this lightweight pan for car camping. I liked it so much that I ordered another for my backpack. For photos of my favorite base camp cookware, visit my Camp Chef Blog.
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An extra durable emergency fishing kit is a must
I'm no expert on fishing, but I wouldn't assemble a hiking or bug-out bag without an emergency fishing kit. I like this one because the shatterproof tube is extra durable.The manufacturer claims it can be run over by a car, but I haven't tested that claim! This is the kind of item I order hoping I'll never be desperate enough to use it. If you see me take this out of my backpack, trust that I've run out of food supplies.
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These gaming sheers can cut through bone!
You know you've purchased a crucial item when you keep removing it from your hiking bag to use in the kitchen.These titanium steel scissors will cut through bone and make easy work of cleaning fish. They're also great at cutting raw steak for fajitas! I was so impressed that I ended up buying three pairs, including one for each of our hiking bags and one for the kitchen. I don't want to imagine a deep woods survival scenario where I would be without them.
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This waterproof head lamp gives me perfect night vision
To find the best head lamp, a research lab tested more than 100 models before subjecting the best 27 to a gauntlet of side-by-side tests. Each product was lab-tested and field-tested. Industrial light meters were used to measure brightness. An automated "light coffin" with a data-logging light meter was used to measure battery life. This head lamp was one of the three top performing lamps, second only to an insanely expensive model. At $36, I knew I couldn't pass this deal by.
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This candle can cook meals or provide 120 Hours of light!
When the rain drenches your firewood, you can still produce light and cook small meals with this emergency candle. It works with my small backpacking pots to heat water for coffee and soup, but you'll need a small trivet or grill plate to lay over top of it. I can even use it to fry or scramble eggs! I love that this candle is made of organic bees wax and burns for an impressive 120 hours.
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Don't forget the baby wipes!
I can't help but laugh when guys talk about the extra weight of carrying baby wipes versus toilet paper. This is my hiking bag, and I will make room for a full sized package of baby wipes! Toilet paper just removes the bulk of the mess. It doesn't remove the bio film from discreet areas. If you don't want to end up with an itchy camp ass, heed my warning and pack like a girl!
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I keep a spray bottle filled with witch hazel for bathing
There was a time when I carried a spray bottle filled with alcohol to mist my armpits, legs, arms and torso. I now prefer witch hazel for many reasons.
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These germ killing shampoo bars can also be used as soap
Regular shampoo is fine at home, but when If I have to wash my hair in the lake, I want a nice shampoo bar loaded with germ killing oils like coconut, tea tree and peppermint. Since this product is free of sulfates, it doesn't fade my hair color! These shampoo bars also work great as body soap and shaving soap. What a way to cut down on the weight of carrying extra toiletries!
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I love this money-saving bundle of travel sized toiletries
Activated charcoal can save you from food or chemical poisoning
Activated charcoal is routinely administered in hospitals for food poisoning, chemical poisoning, alcohol poisoning and drug overdose. When possible, choose charcoal derived from coconut shells versus hardwood. The absorption power is greater. Don’t use charcoal for benzo overdose. When in doubt, call U.S. Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for guidelines. Dosages will vary according to an individual’s weight. I like to transfer my charcoal to small screw-top jars that can be stashed in first aid kits, backpacks and boating bags.
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Kaolin clay stops bleeding fast, and it's cheap
The choice is yours. Spend $13 on a wound clotting sponge impregnated with kaolin clay or buy a whole pound of kaolin clay for $10. Simply store the clay in a clean salt shaker and sprinkle it onto the affected area after cleaning and drying your wound. Apply direct pressure with a cotton pad or clean cloth. Note: Kaolin clay is normally used for facials and body purification. It's valued by salons around the world for its ability to pull toxins from skin. Since the clay has a shelf life of three years, you can use your leftover supplies for facials.
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I like to store charcoal and clay in salt shakers with labels
Super adhesive cloth bandages don't fall off when I sweat
Regular adhesive bandages don't stick very well in outdoor situations where constant sweating is a factor. You can buy a box of ten large super adhesive cloth bandages for about $6.00 in stores, but I prefer to go online and get 50 super adhesive bandages for about $7.00. This ensures that I have plenty of supplies for our main first aid kit, our boating bag and both of our survival backpacks.
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I never pay full price for antibiotic ointment
Check out this cheap alternative to the Israeli Bandage
Combat medics and emergency responders carry the Israeli Bandage to treat gunshot wounds, puncture wounds, deep cuts, and other traumatic hemorrhagic injuries. If you don't have such a bandage, you can create your own extra thick dressing with a large Maxi pad. Just add kaolin clay for wound clotting and use duct tape to secure the bandage to the wound. (If possible, you should wash and sterilize the wound before applying the clay.)
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Duct tape can be even more useful than medical tape
Duct tape can be used to close wounds, make slings or hold bandages in place. To learn more about the emergency medical uses for duct tape, check out the following blog for inspiration:
Eight Genius First Aid Uses for Duct Tape: https://www.rd.com/health/conditions/duct-tape-first-aid/ |
Ace bandages can support sprains or stabilize broken bones
In addition to supporting strains and sprains, you can stabilize a broken bone with an ace bandage. Splint material is even better, but a bulky splint roll won't fit into my backpack. I love this inexpensive bundle deal because it allowed me to distribute ace bandages among my both of our hiking bags plus our main first aid kit for base camp.
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A good waterproof pill box is a must
A LOOK INSIDE MY PILL BOX:
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This is a wonderful rain coat for emergencies
I hate flimsy rain ponchos that allow water to blow up through the sides of the garment. I always carry a decent rain coat that's thick enough to provide adequate storm protection, roomy enough to fit over a thermal sweatshirt and long enough to cover my hips. TIP: Use the keyword "cycling" when searching for the perfect survival garments that fold down tight. You won't always find the best items using the keyword "survival."
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These waterproof boot covers fold down nice and flat
My Favorite Hiking Backpack
Don't repeat my mistakes. Get it right the first time!
My quest to find the perfect hiking/ bug-out bag took longer than expected. First, I ordered a genuine waterproof bag that could be dropped into a lake without damaging the contents inside. Unfortunately, the straps cut into my shoulders because it wasn't designed for long distance hauling. Next, I ordered a rolling vacation bag that could be converted to a backpack. I loved the fact that I could wheel it from place to place, but it lacked shoulder and lumbar support pads for those times when I needed to carry it. The rolling bag also lacked waist straps to help distribute the weight of the bag evenly. Let me tell you that waist straps are magnificent. Glorious! Indispensable. Without these straps to secure a backpack to your tailbone, the weight of your bag will drag down on your shoulders. Learn from my mistakes. Waterproof bags are great for boating. Rolling backpacks are wonderful for car camping. If you plan to cover long distances or sleep overnight on the trail, look into the Teton Sports Scout Internal Frame Backpack. If the $70 Teton bag is too much for your budget, Amazon Basics makes a wonderful $50 bag that's very similar. Best of all, the Amazon hiking bag comes in larger sizes for folks who REALLY like to carry a lot of junk (like me).Both the Teton and Amazon bags feature many exterior pockets to provide immediate access to frequently used items. Above all, this type of bag accommodates more supplies than a traditional military style bug-out bag. I'm able to carry luxuries like a sleep pad and full rain coat.
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My Favorite Survival Clothing
This mosquito net suit provides 100% protection
I don't win many beauty contests in this getup, but it helps me hang out near bug infested rivers without a care. No wonder it's a staple among campers, hunters and fishermen around the world! TIP: These mosquito suits are ridiculously over sized. Get a suit that's two sizes smaller than you'd expect to wear.
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I like to tie flannel coats around my waist
These #1 bestselling hiking boots deserve the hype
These slim line crocs healed my chronic foot pain
There was a time when I avoided wearing crocs because the giant toe area reminded me of clown shoes and caused me to stumble. These slim and comfortable crocs are more streamlined and attractive than any pair I've ever owned! The soft, spongy soles have worked miracles for my chronic heel pain. I find them even more comfortable than expensive name brand gym shoes. Once you get used to wearing crocs, it's hard to feel comfortable wearing anything else. On the downside, I have to wear socks to keep me from feeling little grains of sand that come through the holes, but it's a small price to pay for deep healing and unprecedented comfort.
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These patented gel heel cups are a bona fide miracle
This is the second piece to the miraculous puzzle that put an end to my chronic plantar fasciitis pain. I like to apply a little strip of double sided tape to secure heel cups to my crocs. It's a much more stable alternative to buying inserts that slip, slide and bunch up. For proper long-term healing, the cups must be worn every moment of the day, even when I'm not planning a walk. That means rolling out of bed and finding my crocs first thing in the morning. It means never standing at the stove or sink for long periods without cushioning. Without consistent, long-term cushioning, proper healing will not take place.
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Thermo retentive pants for cold weather hikers and cyclists
Next time you're looking for specialized survival clothing, use "cycling" as a keyword. I was able to discover a whole line of merchandise I'd never seen before! These fleece lined pants prevent the loss of body heat without trapping excessive moisture. A double layer of specially engineered polyester gives the pants a unique water repellent quality without that clingy, crinkly feeling. A breathable material on the back is composed of 85% polyester 15% spandex. Zippered pockets with sturdily built zips on each side are coupled with adjustable leg openings, giving athletes superior flexibility around the knee area.
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Moisture wicking underwear will prevent chafing
Since men already understand the importance of moisture wicking underwear, I'd like to take this opportunity to warn female hikers that traditional panties aren't long enough to cover the thighs and prevent chafing. Survival isn't sexy or glamorous, so pick the floss out of your crack and order some moisture wicking yoga shorts. I'm so glad I let go of my vanity and began to think like a true survivalist.
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This moisture wicking t-shirt comes in 23 exciting colors!
These thermal gloves have an excellent grip
Extra warm thermal socks are a must
No survival bag is complete without a face shielding system
My Favorite Backpacking Foods
These high protein pancakes are delicious to the tenth power
Without deeply satisfying food choices, a weekend on the trail feels more like punishment than a vacation. These high protein pancakes require no eggs or milk. Just add water! Unlike national brand mixes sold in stores, Kodiak pancake mix packs a huge protein punch, providing more stamina and long term energy for survivalists. Because of the nutrition density, you could probably live on these pancakes alone. TIP: Transfer the mix to individual Ziplock bags before your trip.
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Bacon jerky is a real breakfast treat!
Natural chicken cuts are great for sandwiches
Flat tortilla packages are so easy to pack!
Taco Bell hot sauce needs no refrigeration
Freeze dried beef chunks are great for stew making
Yes, you can split this product into single serve bags!
Freeze dried vegetables are great for soups and stews
Mountain House chicken and dumplings - just add hot water
High protein oatmeal is the perfect survival food
Banana chips are a wonderful topping for oatmeal
Mountain House lasagna is surprisingly tasty
Stove Top stuffing mix can be transferred to Ziplock bags
Freeze dried chicken is great with stuffing!
Dried cranberries are great with chicken and stuffing
Dried vegetable variety pack
10 Mosquito Control TipsInvestigate common mosquito control myths and find out what REALLY works.
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15 Tricks to Keep your Tent CoolLearn how to block out the sun and simulate air conditioning within a tent.
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Glamping on a BudgetTips for designing the most comfortable and pleasing camp setup possible.
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