Survival Kit for Fun Outdoor Activities in South Africa
South Africans are fond of the great outdoors. We love to walk, hike, swim, camp, fish, and partake in many outdoor activities. Sitting by a fire under a starry sky is a particular favourite.
But what happens if the starry skies and fire become a swatting exercise? Bugs are part of the outdoors, and so are other events that can spoil your fun. Pack a smart survival kit and enjoy the outdoors in comfort.
Tip: Pack items with many uses in your survival kit to keep it light, and don't forget the mozzie repellent to ward off the bugs!
15 Essential Things You Need to Add to Your Survival Kit
Are you prepared for anything that can go wrong in the bush or mountains? Inclement weather, unexpected overnight stays, sprains, cramps, and bites? These are all real things that can go wrong when you find yourself far from civilisation. Build a fool proof survival kit for any outdoor event.
- Pack items that multiple uses. A bandana is a brilliant choice for keeping the rays at bay, and it can double as a bandage. Choose a bright colour. If you need to signal for help, a bandana is a great option.
- Pack food that you can open with ease. Ready-to-eat options are a perfect choice. Pack in small foods and snacks high in calories. Calorie bars of 400+ calories are a substantial source of protein, fat, and carbs. High-calorie bars are excellent in an emergency.
- Water is something nothing on Earth can survive without. Always carry a water bottle and emergency water purifying supplies. This should be your #1 standard item to pack. If your short sojourn becomes an all-day or all-night saga, you must come prepared. Carry 3+ litres in your hydration bladder. A hydration bladder is a flexible pouch. It usually has two sealed openings. The first opening is for attaching the drinking tube. They use the other opening to fill the bladder with water.
- One of the ultimate survival tips is to keep a couple of water purification tablets in your kit. Avoid water-borne diseases at all costs. You can prevent these with water purifiers and tablets.
- Invest in an insulated water bottle. This will keep your water cool and your coffee hot.
- Experienced hikers and campers usually pack a tent. If you don't have a tent, ensure you pack a space blanket. They are light and will keep you alive in bad weather. If you are outdoors for over one night, remember to turn your space blanket inside out so that it can dry.
- A lightweight, waterproof jacket that folds into a tiny pocket and weighs little is a must. The weather could turn in a flash.
- Always get a map of the area. A compass is another essential item to pack in your bag. Even better, a GPS watch is a worthwhile investment.
- Wear insect repellent when venturing outside. Enjoy your outdoor experience in comfort. Wear Mozzie Patches, loose long-sleeved sun protective clothes, socks, and excellent shoes.
- Include fire starters in your emergency kit. Your fire lighting equipment should comprise a lighter, multi tools (Swiss army knife), and fire steel. Pack in two options in case your matches get wet.
- First aid supplies are essential. Your basic first aid kit should include Hydrol, cream for burn relief, exam gloves, insect sting treatment, duct tape, safety pins, and wipes. Pack 5 adhesive bandages and ibuprofen.
- Include a headlamp for lighting. It is easy to pack, lightweight, and keeps your hands free. Be sure to pack in spare batteries for battery models.
- A para-cord is a useful item. It can hold up a shelter or strap a bandage in place. Tie it around your wrist. You might be glad you packed this item into your kit.
- Dental floss takes up no space but can prove invaluable. It is strong and light. You can lash items together with floss, plus it can prove useful to patch anything from sandals to sunglasses.
3 Frequently Asked Questions about Survival Kits
1. Can I not simply purchase my survival kit from a shop or online?
You can buy your Mozzie Patches and other items online. But each situation and event is different. There are many companies that sell entire survival kits. The negative aspect is that you cannot personalise your survival kit. If you are keen to buy a ready-made survival kit, simply add your unique items to these.
2. I am only going for a day hike. Why should I have a complete survival kit?
Even day hikers need the basics. It is often easy to get lost in the wild unexpectedly. In such cases, your kit will be invaluable. Food and water are essential, and so is your first-aid kit. Insect repellent, and the right clothing is a must for comfort. Ensure you pack something warm for weather changes.
3. I have been hiking for years and consider myself a professional. So why the kit?
Everyone has accidents. It could happen to you. A short day hike could become something completely unexpected. Frequent hikers are as vulnerable as those who are less experienced. Leave nothing to chance.
