Quick facts
- Container
- Milwaukee PACKOUT Deep Organizer, IP65-rated weather seal
- Water
- Grayl Titanium Water Bottle & Filter, 24oz
- Hydration extras
- Cardnl electrolytes and Redmond Real Salt in pill bottles
- Fire
- Black Beard Fire Lifeline Fire Kit; lighters and waterproof matches as backups
- Navigation
- compass
- topographic maps
- Kestrel weather meter
- Not included
- tools; keep a hatchet in your vehicle
When venturing into the outdoors, whether for camping or emergency preparedness, having a well-organized preparedness kit ensures you have everything needed to survive and stay comfortable. This guide provides a comprehensive list of essential items: excluding tools (those have their own setup),to keep you prepared for any scenario.
It’s important to note that this is NOT a tool kit: it’s a preparedness and camping essentials kit designed for survival, comfort, and adaptability in the field.
While tools are valuable, this kit focuses on critical and general non-tool items (with the exception of knives, saws and a multi-tool) that support hydration, fire-starting, navigation, first aid, and safety for outdoor adventures and emergency situations. NOT INCLUDED BUT SHOULD BE IN YOUR VEHICLE: a hatchet!
This grab-and-go setup ensures you have the necessary gear for staying warm, communicating, cooking, and handling injuries, making it an essential addition to your vehicle, camp setup, or survival loadout.
And while you're at it, you might get some good ideas from this post too:
A lot of overlap...
check it out: Building the Ultimate Bug-Out Bag: Practical Gear That Actually Works
Here is my list:
Milwaukee PACKOUT™ Deep Organizer
A solid option for keeping everything organized and in one spot:
A durable and modular storage solution, perfect for organizing gear in a grab-and-go preparedness or car camping kit.
Water and Hydration
Water is the foundation of survival. In the wilderness, access to clean drinking water is never guaranteed, making filtration and storage essential.
Grayl Titanium Water Bottle & Filter
A Grayl Titanium Water Bottle with an integrated filter allows you to purify water on the go, removing bacteria, viruses, and heavy metals. The outer titanium cup can go next to coals or a flame to boil water, but only after you pull out the inner press and filter cartridge.
A rugged, all-in-one water filtration and purification system, ideal for camping, survival, and travel.
Salt and Electrolytes
I keep Cardnl Electrolytes in a repurposed supplement pill bottle and a second bottle filled with Redmond Real Salt for quick access. Hydration isn’t just about water: electrolytes and salt are essential for maintaining energy, preventing dehydration, and supporting muscle function. Storing electrolyte tablets, powdered hydration packs, or salt in compact containers ensures they’re always on hand to replenish lost minerals and keep your body functioning optimally.
Cardnl Zero Sugar Electrolytes
A clean, no-sugar electrolyte mix designed to support hydration, energy levels, and muscle function.
Salt for Survival: Essential Uses for Health, Storage, and Emergency Readiness
Salt is one of the most vital substances for human survival, yet it is often overlooked in preparedness discussions. Whether for health, preservation, or emergency applications, salt plays a critical role in self-sufficiency.
Fire and Cooking
Fire is essential for warmth, cooking, and signaling in emergencies. A multi-fuel approach ensures you always have a way to start a fire.
Small Stove (Butane or Multi-Fuel)
A compact butane stove offers fast and efficient cooking, making meal preparation easy in any environment. Multi-fuel stoves are even more versatile, allowing you to use different fuel types if butane is unavailable.
A lightweight, titanium butane stove designed for efficient and reliable cooking in the field.
Titanium Dining Set (very lightweight)
A lightweight and durable dining set, designed for efficient eating and cooking in outdoor and survival situations.
Fire Starter (Flint & Steel, Lighters, and Matches)
A ferro rod provides a reliable, long-term way to make fire, even when wet. Lighters and waterproof matches serve as convenient backups.
Black Beard Fire Lifeline Fire Kit (formerly the Do-All Kit)
A versatile fire-starting kit designed for all-weather reliability, making it an essential addition to any preparedness or camping setup.
Navigation and Awareness
Knowing where you are and being able to navigate in unfamiliar terrain can mean the difference between safety and disaster.
Kestrel Weather Meter
A Kestrel Weather Meter provides real-time temperature, humidity, wind speed, and barometric pressure data. This information is crucial for predicting weather patterns and making smart survival decisions.
A rugged and reliable weather meter designed for real-time environmental monitoring, making it essential for outdoor adventures and preparedness.
Compass & Backup Navigation
A reliable compass and topographic maps ensure you can navigate without relying on electronics. GPS devices are useful, but having a backup map and compass prevents reliance on battery-powered tools.
A precision navigation tool designed for accurate map reading and orienteering in the field.
Monocular
A monocular provides long-distance vision, helpful for scouting, wildlife observation, and security.
A compact and high-powered monocular, perfect for scouting, navigation, and general outdoor use.
Rangefinder
A rangefinder helps gauge distances accurately, which is especially useful for hunting, scouting, and planning travel routes.
A versatile and rechargeable rangefinder, ideal for hunting, scouting, and outdoor navigation.
### Headlamp A lightweight and powerful headlamp, designed for hands-free illumination in outdoor and emergency situations.
Safety and Protection
Preparedness isn’t just about survival, it’s about staying safe and avoiding injuries.
Leather Gloves
Protect your hands from sharp objects, extreme temperatures, and rough terrain. A solid pair of leather gloves is a must-have for handling firewood, climbing, or working with gear.
Purchase Online
Durable full-grain leather gloves designed for protection and comfort in rugged environments.
- Heavy-duty cowhide leather for abrasion resistance and durability
- Reinforced palm and fingers for improved grip and longevity
- Slip-on design with elastic wrist for a secure and comfortable fit
- Ideal for outdoor work, camping, and general hand protection
Knives (Fixed Blade & Folding Knife)
A fixed-blade knife is ideal for batoning wood, processing game, and heavy-duty tasks, while a folding knife serves as a backup for everyday cutting needs.
A compact and durable fixed-blade knife, designed for everyday carry and rugged outdoor use.
Multitool
A quality multitool (like a Leatherman or Gerber) combines pliers, screwdrivers, and cutting tools, reducing the need for a full toolbox.
A versatile and durable multi-tool, perfect for everyday carry, survival, and field repairs.
First Aid Kit
A compact first aid kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and wound-closing supplies like butterfly bandages or sterile strips.
Tourniquet & Pressure Bandage
For serious injuries, a CAT tourniquet and an Israeli pressure bandage help stop life-threatening bleeding.
A critical emergency tool designed for rapid bleeding control in trauma situations.
- One-handed application for self-use or assisting others
- High-strength windlass system ensures secure and effective compression
- Durable and compact for easy storage in medical kits or on gear
- Essential for first aid, survival, and emergency preparedness
A versatile emergency dressing designed for rapid bleeding control in trauma situations.
Leukotape P & Non-Adhesive Bandages
provides strong, rigid support for stabilizing injuries, securing dressings, and preventing blisters, while non-adhesive bandages offer gentle wound coverage without sticking to the skin or wound surface. Both are essential for wound management, injury prevention, and secure dressing application in the field.
A rigid, high-strength sports tape designed for injury prevention, joint stabilization, and securing dressings in demanding conditions.
A gentle wound care solution designed to protect injuries while preventing the dressing from sticking to the wound.
- Non-adherent surface minimizes pain and damage during dressing changes
- Highly absorbent core helps manage wound exudate for faster healing
- Individually wrapped for sterile, hygienic application
- Ideal for covering cuts, burns, and abrasions in first aid and survival kits
Mylar Blankets
A mylar emergency blanket reflects body heat, keeping you warm in cold weather. It’s also useful as a makeshift shelter or signaling device.
A lightweight, heat-reflective survival blanket designed to retain body heat and provide emergency protection.
Communication and Power
Staying connected, even in remote areas, ensures you can call for help or coordinate with others.
FRS Radio (in a Faraday Jacket)
An FRS (Family Radio Service) radio provides short-range communication without needing cell service. Storing it in a Faraday jacket shields it from EMPs and electronic interference. While I keep a GMRS radio in my vehicle for greater range and reliability, I include FRS radios in this pack for camping or close-range communication when staying near my group.
A durable and long-range two-way radio, built for outdoor adventures and emergency preparedness.
- Realistic range of 1 to 5 miles in mountains and 0.5 to 3 miles in forest or hills (35 miles is line of sight only)
- Impact-resistant and weatherproof for rugged conditions
- Long-lasting battery (3+ days per charge) with a rechargeable lithium-ion pack
- Secure carabiner clip for easy attachment to gear or clothing
A powerful and rugged GMRS radio, built for long-range communication in off-grid environments.
- Blocks cellular, Wi-Fi, GPS, and Bluetooth signals for privacy and security
- RFID-blocking material prevents remote data theft and hacking
- Compact and portable design fits most smartphones and small electronics
- Essential for digital security, travel, and emergency preparedness
USB Cables & Power Bank
Carrying USB cables and a power bank ensures you can charge small electronics like radios, GPS devices, and headlamps.
A compact and foldable power bank, designed for convenient wireless charging on the go.
General and Multi-Use
Adaptability is key in any outdoor or emergency situation, and having multi-functional gear ensures you're prepared for the unexpected. Whether it’s securing gear with carabiners, making quick repairs with duct tape and paracord, cutting wood with a folding handsaw, or improvising with rubber bands, these items offer endless problem-solving potential. From rigging shelters to crafting makeshift fixes, this section is all about maximizing versatility with minimal weight.
Fishing Gear (Hooks, Line, and Small Lures)
A compact fishing kit with hooks, line, and small lures allows for food sourcing in lakes, rivers, and streams.
A compact and essential fishing kit, designed for emergency food sourcing and survival situations.
- Includes hooks, line, sinkers, and lures for versatile fishing options
- Lightweight and pocket-sized for easy carry in survival and emergency kits
- Military-approved design ensures reliability in real-world conditions
- Perfect for backpacking, bug-out bags, and long-term preparedness
Hand Saw (Folding & Pocket Chain Saw)
A folding saw and pocket chain saw help cut through wood for shelter-building or firewood processing.
A lightweight and compact manual chainsaw, ideal for cutting wood in survival, camping, and emergency situations.
A durable and efficient folding saw, designed for cutting wood, bone, and plastic in outdoor and survival situations.
Duct Tape & Paracord
Both duct tape and paracord have countless uses, from repairing gear to making emergency shelters and securing items.
A heavy-duty, multi-purpose repair tape, designed for high-strength bonding in rugged conditions.
A strong and versatile survival cord, ideal for emergency preparedness, camping, and gear repairs.
- 750lb tensile strength for added durability over standard 550 paracord
- 100% nylon construction with 11 inner strands for multi-use applications
- UV and abrasion-resistant for long-term outdoor reliability
- Essential for shelters, gear repairs, and emergency survival situations
Heavy-Duty Rubber Bands
A versatile and durable fastening solution, ideal for securing gear, organizing items, and emergency repairs.
A strong and reliable attachment solution, ideal for securing gear, organizing equipment, and creating quick fixes in the field.
Infinity ToolKit™ (Modular Straps)
The Infinity ToolKit™ from MODL is a modular strap system designed for adaptability in the field. It includes 18 Infinity Tools with 18 StudLinks, featuring black, neon orange, and glow-in-the-dark green loops in both short and long sizes, along with OmniLinks, HookStuds, StackStuds, and a dedicated ToolKit bag. Each piece connects quickly to build, attach, or secure gear in countless configurations, making it one of the most versatile systems for repairs, rigging, or organization.
This kit belongs in a bug-out or survival setup because it replaces the need for multiple straps, cords, and clips with one unified, reusable system. The silicone construction is durable, flexible, and weather resistant, capable of holding gear together, hanging tools, or securing items to a pack or vehicle. Whether you’re organizing equipment, setting up camp, or improvising in the field, the Infinity ToolKit turns creativity and preparedness into one streamlined system.
Sewing and Repairs
Gear failure in the field can be a serious problem. Carrying basic repair tools ensures you can fix broken equipment on the go.
Sewing Thread & Needles
A heavy-duty sewing kit lets you repair torn fabric, backpacks, and even footwear in an emergency.
A durable and compact sewing kit, designed for gear repairs, tactical applications, and emergency fixes.
- Includes heavy-duty needles and waxed thread for repairing tough materials
- Versatile selection of curved, straight, and upholstery needles for various repair tasks
- Compact and portable for easy storage in survival and camping kits
- Ideal for repairing backpacks, tarps, clothing, and heavy fabric in the field
A well-stocked Milwaukee Packout for preparedness and camping should be compact, durable, and tailored to your needs. With this setup, you’ll be ready for everything from weekend adventures to emergency situations.
This post contains affiliate links.
Questions this answers
Tap a question for the short answer.
What should I put in a grab and go kit?
Build it around water, fire and cooking, navigation, safety, communication and power, multi-use items, and sewing and repairs. Mine holds a Grayl titanium filter bottle, electrolytes and salt, a small butane stove, a titanium dining set, a fire kit, compass and maps, a Kestrel weather meter, monocular, rangefinder, headlamp, and leather gloves.
What is the best container for a preparedness kit?
I use the Milwaukee PACKOUT Deep Organizer. It has impact-resistant polymer construction, an IP65-rated weather seal against dust and water, and it connects with the rest of the PACKOUT system for stacking and transport, so everything stays organized in one spot.
What water filter bottle should I keep in my kit?
I keep the Grayl Titanium Water Bottle and Filter. The 24oz press-to-purify bottle removes viruses, bacteria, and heavy metals in seconds, and the outer titanium cup can go next to coals or a flame to boil water, but only after you pull out the inner press and filter cartridge.
What non-tool items belong in a vehicle emergency kit?
Gear that supports hydration, fire-starting, cooking, navigation, first aid, safety, and communication: a filter bottle, electrolytes and salt, a small stove, fire starters, a compass with topographic maps, a weather meter, headlamp, and leather gloves. Knives, saws, and a multi-tool are the only tool exceptions. Keep a hatchet in the vehicle separately.
How do I carry salt and electrolytes in a kit?
I keep Cardnl electrolytes in a repurposed supplement pill bottle and a second pill bottle filled with Redmond Real Salt for quick access. Compact containers of electrolyte tablets, powdered hydration packs, or salt keep lost minerals easy to replace.
Keep going
Related to this
Membership · $49.95 per year
There is a lot more behind the lock
Every recipe and resource from the Prepper's Chemical Survival Guide, all six field guides to read here and download, the full audit and logbook, all twelve reference charts, and no ads.
My Manual · included
Build your own field manual
The most useful thing a membership gives you. Save any page on this site, recipes, charts, and whole field guides included. Put them in your order, name it, and print one manual with a cover and contents, or keep it as a PDF that opens with no signal.
- It works when this site does not
- Only your pages
- Anyone in the house can use it
- One current copy, not a pile of printouts
- The house binder
- A copy for the bug-out bag or truck
- A copy for family
- An offline PDF
Stay Ready
New entries, updates, and useful instruction.
Stay one step ahead on your preparedness journey.