When packing for camping, chances are pretty good that many of the items on your list will be useful in a survival situation. From your kitchenware to your habitat, most everything you bring is designed to withstand the elements and nature, able to be packed up and used again and again. However, survival situations have a habit of creeping up when you least expect them, and you may not be prepared with your cache of camping gear. While it is a good idea to have an EDC (every day carry) kit or a bug-out bag in your home or car where you can grab it quickly when necessary, there are a few accessories out there that are easy to wear or carry on your person, whether you’re headed into the office or into the outdoors. Here are a few of our favorite survival accessories that will serve a variety of purposes, should you find yourself in an emergency situation.
Ultimate Survival Paracord 550 Compass Bracelet – $9.95
There are virtually endless ways to utilize 550 paracord, so named for its capacity to hold 550 lbs. Building shelter, lacing your boots, tending to injuries, and making snares are just a few ways that paracord can be used in a survival situation. Because paracord is comprised of more than one layer of strings, the extent to which you can stretch your paracord supply is longer than with traditional twine or rope. This paracord compass bracelet from Ultimate Survival makes sure that you have the necessary tools to not only find your heading if you’re lost, but be able to enhance your available resources. It’s comprised of 7 feet of strong paracord, and clasps securely around your wrist with a durable, quick-release buckle. Forget about fashion — it’s all about survival! Available in 3 colors.
Coghlan’s Six-Function Whistle – $10.95
Small enough to use as a keychain or simply put in your pocket, this six-function whistle from Coghlan’s contains some of the most important tools for getting out of a survival situation. For search and rescue, the high pitched whistle and signal mirror will help lock down your location, while the integrated compass can help you find a direction. A thermometer lets you know when temperatures dip to a point that you’ll probably want to take shelter, while the magnifier can assist with creating a fire. Finally, a powerful LED light will illuminate your path and surroundings when natural light fades. A lanyard and attached clip make sure it won’t slip out of your pocket unnoticed.
SOL Scout Survival Pack – $21.49
If you would like a more substantial survival accessory, consider the Scout survival pack from SOL. Complete with a liquid-filled compass, signal mirror, howler whistle, weatherproof matches, fishing kit, small roll of duct tape, fire starting tinder, and a 96″ x 60″ mylar survival blanket, this pack is full of options for survival as well as increasing your chances of rescue. The whole kit comes in a pliable, waterproof dry bag that will float if dropped in water, and slips easily into your pocket for instant access when you need it. For its small size, this survival kit packs a lot of punch.
