When you are heading out for a camping trip you'll need more than just your food, water and tent. You also need to pack the proper tools for emergencies. Follow this survival tool checklist when you are packing your gear and you'll be ready for all that nature has to offer.
General, all-purpose tools
You'll want to bring a variety of general, all-purpose tools. These tools can help you deal with a wide array of emergencies. The most helpful of these will probably be a multi-purpose knife tool. The kind that includes a knife blade, can opener, screwdrivers, and scissors will be your best bet. Beyond the basic pocketknife, you will want some additional cutting tools. Scissors, if not included in your multi-tool, and razor blades will work. Other all-purpose tools to include are: a camp axe, a small shovel, and a hammer. Duct tape and electrical tape can be used to patch up your tent or cover a blistered heel. Tools for tying and binding such as a 50 foot length of rope, twine, or cord, should be packed as well. Small tools such as tweezers are helpful for removing ticks, splinters, and bee stingers. Tweezers are generally included as part of your first-aid kit, so check to make sure you aren't bringing duplicate supplies. Safety pins, nail clippers, a sewing kit, and paper and pencil will also come in handy in many situations.
Light sources
In an emergency light is a necessity. Flashlights are the easiest light sources to pack and bring with you. Bring a few small and large flashlights and their batteries. Compact headlamps are a good light source during emergencies as they leave your hands free. Bring extra bulbs and batteries for your headlamps, as well. Lanterns, gas or battery operated, are good sources of light. A variety of glow sticks are available on the market. These, along with waterproof matches and candles, can provide light sources for you if all else fails.
Signaling supplies
You will need supplies to enable you to signal for help if necessary. Bring along several road or signal flares, a small mirror, and whistles. Make sure everyone has a whistle when hiking so that you can signal to each other if you get separated. High-tech communication tools are helpful, too. Pack your cellular phone, batteries and car adapter, two-way radios, and a radio that uses batteries.
Location devices
Pack tools that will help you find your way if you get lost. If you have access to a GPS, global positioning system, you can pack that. A compass, map and binoculars will help you find your way in or out of any location.
Heating supplies
You must have the tools necessary to build and put out a fire. Bring with you lighters, waterproof matches, fire starters, and a fire extinguisher. If you are camping or hiking in cold weather have some hand warmers, also called chemical heat packs, in your gear.
Personal health and safety tools
For your health and safety always bring along a basic first aid kit. A basic first aid kit should include the following items, along with a first-aid instruction booklet. Medicines: any prescription medicine you and fellow campers are on, bug bite lotion, antihistamines, and pain medication. Wound care supplies: antiseptic wipes, sterile bandages and gauze, eye pads, and adhesive tape. In addition, the kit should include bug and snakebite kits, along with tweezers. Make sure your first aid kit has a thermometer and space blanket.
Food, water and clothing
Generally you will probably bring more food, water and clothing than necessary. However, you will always want to make certain you have a water canteen or container and either a water filter or purification tablets. Also, be sure to pack extra food, enough food for one day for each person you are camping with. Pack sunglasses and clothing appropriate for the climate and activities you will be doing while camping.
