Outdoor essentials

What to put in my backpack?

As a survival instructor, I never stray from these basic equipments that would considerably lighten the difficulty of a night passage in our forests.

So, here are the equipment to include in your backpack, if you haven't already done so.

Cutting tool - Knife

The choice of the cutting tool remains very personal to the user. We are talking about a knife with a fixed or folding blade, a machete, a saw, a hatchet, a multipurpose tool, etc. Small, it will be versatile, light and compact. Larger, it will be heavier and bulkier, but will perform larger tasks such as cutting a tree and splitting it. Remember, the best of these is the one you will have with you.

Combustion (Fire)

Any item that can be used to start a fire will be more than desirable in a survival situation. Among these items we can mention lighters, matches, stormproof matches, firesteel, magnifying glasses, firelighters, flints, etc. It would be strongly suggested to have in your possession two types of items stored in different places.

Cover (Shelter)

The greatest danger in our forests is hypothermia. So, any equipment to keep warm. Such as extra clothing adapted to the current climate. Canvas, allowing you to shelter with a minimum of effort and energy spent as a tarp, poncho, garbage bag and polythene. And why not a wool or down blanket... The application of the principle of the "Above, inside and below" will be necessary. .

Above, the roof... like the Chlorophylle tarps.

Inside, warm clothes, sleeping bag and blanket...

Underneath, floor insulation...

Container (Water management)

I am referring to any container that can hold, collect and transport water. To melt snow and bring the liquid to a boil to make it drinkable. Why not a stainless steel gourd?

Rope

Any type of rope, of different diameters and lengths, that can be useful for tying, knotting, securing, trapping and fishing. 15 meters of 6 to 8mm rope and 15 meters of paracord would be a good choice.

Compas (Orientation)

You decide to leave the place for lack of resources or because you are too exposed to the elements. To facilitate a displacement nothing like a good means of orientation like a compass.

Candle

It can be used as a fire starter, a light or a heat source in a queenzy. 

Collar (of brass)

Yes yes, the famous hare snare. It will be very useful for tasks ranging from trapping to repairing various items of all kinds.

Adhesive tape

I'm talking about "Duck Tape". The most versatile of all! To make a hitch, a bowl, Inuit glasses, a slingshot, to mark your way, to light a fire (as an accelerant), to repair various textiles, to maintain two pieces together etc... in addition, two meters of this one is stored super well around your Bic lighter.

Calories

It is important to eat well during prolonged activities. Being prepared and having the necessary supplies with you is essential. And why not have a little more if the need arises. Energy bars, nuts, freeze-dried food, etc... those things that go well over time. It would be a wise choice.

Light

Spending a night in the dark is not easy. So, why not get a good headlamp that will free your hands, while seeing your way? Moreover, some have a flashing mode included, signaling an S.O.S. in Morse code. All this with good batteries of course...

That's enough to make you think about the basic equipment to bring with you...

Prepare your own equipment adequately before your next departure.

Be prepared!

About the author

Michel Tremblay

Forest survival specialist, explorer, adventurer, trainer, speaker and Chlorophylle ambassador

Survival in the forest holds no secrets for this outdoor enthusiast. Michel Tremblay was born with an adventurous streak. At the age of 12, he had his first solo winter camping experience and since then, he has never stopped pushing his limits.

His motto: "It is in adversity that one develops the spirit of resilience".

Website: www.survieboreale.com

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