Top 14 emergency kits every camper should have in their backpack

Here’s a guide to the top 10 items that every camper should pack to stay prepared and safe. Each of these tools can be lifesavers if things go sideways in the great outdoors.

We kick things off with the absolute must-have for any camper – a basic first aid kit for small medical situations. You never know when you might need to patch up a scrape or deal with a more serious injury. A good first aid kit should include:

• Bandages of various sizes
• Antiseptic wipes
• Gauze pads
• Medical tape
• Tweezers (for those pesky splinters!)
• Pain relievers
• Antihistamines (in case of allergic reactions)
• Small scissors

Pro tip: Make sure to include a first aid manual in your kit. It’ll come in handy if you’re not sure how to treat something specific.

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Next up on our list is a trusty survival knife and shovel. These essential tools can help you:

• Cut rope or cordage
• Prepare food
• Build shelter
• Start a fire (when used with a flint)
• Dig fire pits or latrine holes. 

Look for a full tang knife with a sturdy blade – you want something that can handle tough tasks without breaking.

When you’re out in the wild, clean water is absolutely crucial. A water purification system should be high on your list of emergency supplies. This could be:

• Water purification tablets
• A portable water filter
• A UV water purifier

Remember, even if that mountain stream looks crystal clear, it could still harbor nasty bacteria. Better safe than sorry!

Being able to start a fire in any condition is a key survival skill. A fire starter kit is essential for keeping you warm, cooking food, and signaling for help if needed. Your kit should include:

• Tinder (like dryer lint or cotton balls soaked in petroleum jelly)
• Waterproof matches
• A lighter
• Flint and steel

Mother Nature can turn on a dime, so having an emergency shelter in your pack is a smart move. This could be:

• A lightweight tarp
• An emergency blanket (those shiny, foil-like ones)
• A bivy sack

These items are incredibly useful for keeping you dry and warm in unexpected situations.

We love our smartphones, but what happens when you’re in areas without cell service or your battery dies? That’s why traditional navigation tools are still crucial. Pack:

• A compass
• A detailed topographic map of the area
• A whistle (for signaling)

Brush up on your orienteering skills before your trip!

A good multi-tool is like the Swiss Army knife of camping gear. It’s compact but packs a punch when it comes to usefulness. Look for one that includes:

• Pliers
• A can opener
• A small saw
• Screwdrivers
• Small pair of scissors
• Hand warmers
• Cotton balls with lint as tinder for starting fires

Brands like Leatherman are popular among campers for their durability and versatility.

Even if you’re just planning a day hike, it’s always smart to pack some emergency food. You never know when a short trip might turn into an overnight stay. Good options include:

• Energy bars
• Trail mix
• Dried fruits and nuts
• Freeze-dried meals (if you have a camping stove)

Aim for high-calorie, nutrient-dense foods that won’t spoil quickly.

When cooking over an open fire isn’t possible, a compact camping stove is invaluable. These stoves vary in size, from foldable pocket-sized options to more bigger setups for longer trips. A stove is especially useful in areas without cell service, where finding dry firewood might be challenging.

If you find yourself lost in the woods or stuck in a roadside emergency, being able to signal for help is important. Include these in your emergency kit:

• A whistle (yep, it’s worth mentioning again!)
• A signal mirror
• Brightly colored fabric or bandana
• Glow sticks

Camping gear can take a beating, so a repair kit is essential. Your kit should include: 

• a small sewing kit
• duct tape
• super glue to fix rips in tents
• heavy-duty patches for repairing sleeping bags and tarps

Pro Tip: Include a variety of sizes in needles and thread.

Staying dry is crucial for comfort and safety. A rain poncho is lightweight, hands-free, and easily fits into your backpack without taking up much room. It’s one of the most versatile items to pack, as it can be used as a makeshift shelter in a pinch.

Additionally, a hammock provides an option for sleeping above wet or uneven ground, and it’s an excellent addition to your camping gear for rest stops.

Don’t forget to pack some good old fashioned cordage. Paracord is a favorite among campers because you can use it for:

• Building shelters
• Repairing gear
• Creating a clothesline
• As a makeshift shoelace

Aim for at least 50 feet of paracord in your emergency kit.

Being able to see in the dark is essential for any camper.

• Pack a reliable flashlight, extra batteries, and glow sticks for hands-free illumination.
• A small lighter can make starting a fire easier than traditional firestarters, providing light and heat in emergencies.
• Glow sticks are also helpful for marking trails around your campsite, keeping everyone safe and oriented.

In summary, bringing along these essential emergency kits and supplies is critical for safe, enjoyable camping. Whether you’re preparing for a roadside emergency, medical needs, or weather-related challenges, each of these kits is designed to cover the essential areas of outdoor preparedness. So, before setting out, make sure you have these kits packed and ready. Remember, emergency preparedness is key to ensuring a successful camping experience!

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