What is a survival bag and why would you need one? Survival kits contain supplies and tools to provide you with shelter, help keep you warm, provide basic health and first aid needs, provide you with foo, water, and signalling devices as a means of helping to get you home.
There are two reasons for requiring a survival kit – the first is if you have a disaster in the area you live in and need to escape quickly, and for this you will need an urban survival bag or a bug out bag. The second is when you are out hiking or camping in your own personal time as a leisure activity, in which case you need a wilderness survival bag.
Survival Bag
How often will you use the bag? If you are going to be out every weekend it is worth buying an expensive bag, but for once in a blue moon it’s not worth it. If you require long-term survival you will need more equipment, therefore the bag needs to be able to accommodate this. When you have worked out the size and weight of your equipment you can determine which bag is best. A good hiking backpack holds up to 50 lbs, a cheap bag would fall apart carrying this weight. If you are travelling on foot, you will need a bag with an internal framework and lumber support. Waist belts will distribute the load and give space for hanging attachments, taking the strain from your shoulders. Lastly, don’t underestimate how heavy the bag is fully loaded.
Bug Out Bag
When considering a bug out bag, basic duffle bags, travel suitcases and backpacks are all suitable. Don’t consider any with fancy designs. You want to blend in not stand out from the crowd, so any bright colours should be avoided. Any that normally carry valuable equipment and any that show what is inside are a bad choice.
A basic survival kit will carry a compass, knife, flashlight, whistle, a sewing kit, fire tinder and flint starter, a signal mirror, fishing line and hook, paracord and wire.
Most sports shops and camping shops supply good quality survival bags such as a Vanquest Messenger Bag http://www.angloforro.co.uk/product/vanquest-envoy-3-0-messenger-bag/.
Whatever your bag contains, better something than nothing – your safety is the most important thing.
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