First Aid
It is important that you carry a first-aid kit every time you set foot in the wilderness. The kit should contain gauze, bandages, painkillers, prescriptions you require, tape, small scissors, tweezers and a sterilizing agent such as hydrogen peroxide. These simple items will allow you to sterilize and dress wounds in the wilderness. You will also have the ability to maintain any prescriptions that are important for your health and you can help others with injuries if you are in a group.
Fire
Starting a fire is necessary in many survival situations. Carry waterproof matches and a magnesium striker for starting the fire. You can also carry some tinder or a few fire squares to make the fire starting process much easier. The fire can be used to signal for help and will keep you warm and dry.
Knife
Carry a good survival knife every time you enter the wilderness. The knife can be used for cutting wood, processing animals, shaving tinder material and more. The survival knife should have a durable handle that is not hollow and a sharp fixed blade. According to Wilderness Survival.com, the blade should have "full tang," which is a portion of the blade that extends into the handle. The tang means the knife will remain functional if the handle breaks.
Clothing
Dress in layers and carry a jacket into the wilderness. Cloths should be constructed by materials with high insulating value and quick drying qualities. Also carry some lightweight rain gear to keep you dry in wet conditions.
Food and Water
Carry a water bottle or bladder and a water purification device. You can use a pump style water purifier or carry iodine tablets for emergency use. Also pack a few extra food items with high caloric content. Peanut butter, energy bars, nuts, bread and fruit are all easy to carry.
Navigation
Carry a map of the area and a compass. Learn how to read the map and use the compass to walk out if help is not on the way. You can also use an electronic GPS system, but be sure the batteries are fresh and the devise is functional.
