8 Survival Items You Can Fit in a Backpack
Don’t get caught in a sticky situation without this bombproof bug-out bag
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It seems that every day there are more natural—and unnatural—disasters to be worried about. Whether the threat is nuclear war or rising sea levels, creating a proper bug-out bag can give you peace of mind. We combed through Adventure Frog, an online retailer that specializes in survival gear, and put together the ultimate bug-out bag for just $240.
Tact 9-in-1 Multi-Tool Shovel ($30)
To save on space in your bag, look for tools that have multiple uses, like this shovel. A unique design lets you attach the handle to different tools, including a hacking blade, bottle opener, saw, ax, pickax, and nail puller.
Tact Bivvy Emergency Sleeping Bag ($20)
Made out of a reflective polyester film, this bivy sleeping bag is bright orange to help rescuers find you. Use this alone or inside a sleeping bag to boost the temperature rating by 20 degrees.
Backpacking Solo Bivvy Tent with Rain Fly ($80)
This three-season tent is great as a backup shelter or even for a lightweight through-hike option. Weighing just 2.9 pounds, the tent is fully waterproof and packs down small enough to store in a backpack.
Folding Pocket Camping Stove ($15)
This 3.8-ounce backpacking stove is incredibly easy to use—simply unfold it, insert a fuel tablet, light it up, and then place your cooking pot on top. You’ll have a hot meal in no time and you won’t have to carry the weight of traditional stove fuel.
Stormproof Firestarter Kit with Flint & Steel ($20)
This kit will help you start a fire, no matter the conditions. A waterproof case holds the magnesium slab, a compass, a 150-decibel whistle, gel fire starter, 20 weatherproof matches, and a tin of tinder.
Easy Power AA Rechargeable USB Batteries ($25)
Invest in these USB-rechargeable AA batteries, which can be recharged up to 500 times. Simply plug their USB ends into your computer, solar panel, or wall outlet, and pop them into your electronic device once they’re done charging.
Solar Lantern Pocket Light ($25)
This collapsible lantern packs down small enough to fit in your pocket or store easily in your bag. Using the integrated solar panels and USB ports, you can charge the lantern and any electronic device.
QuickHeat Electric Hand Warmer ($25)
This electric hand warmer gives off between 104 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit of heat depending on which setting it’s on. It also doubles as an external battery pack to power your devices.