People pack multiple items in their survival bags depending on the environment, situation and planned activities. This is how we define adapting to the situation, which is what survival and self-reliance are all about. Even though every person may have a different preference when it comes to picking items for their survival bags, there are a few must-put items. We have been trying to figure out what are the essential items that are really needed. Through trial and error, we have managed to figure out that there are a few things that can be added while others can be subtracted. Some of these items may vary keeping in view seasonal changes, specialized tasks, etc., while others are constants.
All of this has helped us think of the 5 Cs of survival. The items that are a must for any survival situation should be considered a priority for your survival bag. The basic idea of the 5 Cs of survival is to have those items that are difficult to construct in a survival situation as they need too much energy and special materials to be constructed.
For a moment, imagine yourself stuck in a survival situation in the wilderness. What are those things that you think you would need to get through the situation even if you are low on supplies? A survival knife should be your pick as having it will help you create anything you need like a fire set, shelter, container, etc. With the right knife and skills, you will be able to get through the situation.
The 5 Cs of survival
Now, let's discuss in detail the 5 Cs of survival:
Choosing Cutting Tools And Survival Knife
Choosing a combustion device is the second C of the 5 Cs of survival. The most essential thing required from a combustion device is a sure fire. It does not mean that you need a lighter which may or may not produce a flame in a wet environment but, by sure fire, we mean an item which will work no matter how wet or dry the environment is. Items like Mini Infernos and Ferrocerium Rods can be considered as they are able to produce a sure flame for several minutes.
Choosing Cutting Tools And Survival Knife for the survival kit
Choosing Your Combustion Device
Choosing a combustion device is the second C of the 5 Cs of survival. The most essential thing required from a combustion device is a sure fire. It does not mean that you need a lighter which may or may not produce a flame in a wet environment but, by sure fire, we mean an item which will work no matter how wet or dry the environment is. Items like Mini Infernos and Ferrocerium Rods can be considered as they are able to produce a sure flame for several minutes.
Choosing Your Combustion Device for the survival kit
Choosing Your Shelter Equipment
It is essential that you take along cover and shelter items. These items should be compact, light and multi-purpose. It’s ideal that you carry an emergency reusable space blanket, a poly tarp of 8x10, along with a 6 mil 55-gal trash bag/drum liner. A space blanket will give you shelter and adaptability at a minimal cost. Since it is a multi-purpose item, it can be used in several other ways like a sleeping bag, rain catchments, rain gear, ground coverings and signaling. It is a beneficial piece of gear which is perfect for short-term rescue and survival.
Choosing Your Shelter Equipment for the survival kit
Choosing A Container
Containers may not be considered essential but they are a very important survival gear. Without water, one cannot survive for a long period of time and for this, we must make sure that the container we choose should be of good quality. The container must be watertight, capable of being used for cooking and being placed into the fire for water disinfection. It also must have thick walls so that it can withstand the shock from being banged around or dropped.
Choosing a container for the survival kit
Choosing Cordage
Cordage is a must have as it has several uses and can be extremely difficult to make in a survival situation. Whenever you choose a cordage make sure it is multi-ply so that it can be broken down into smaller fibers if need be. The 550 parachute cord is one of the most reliable and go-to cordage for survival. True cord has 7 inner standards which allows the users to break it into smaller strands for tasks like fishing, etc. The main issue with inner strands is that they fray out quickly and are difficult to use for certain tasks, like snaring and trapping, as the entire cord is large to make an effective bird snares.
Choosing Cordage for the Survival kit
Bonus Tip
Before we start discussing the 5 Cs of survival, we would like to give you an extra tip. Make sure you have a durable pair of boots placed beside your survival bag. Having a pair of boots is always a smart idea, especially in a survival situation. These boots not only make it easy for you to run and walk but also protect your feet. In case of an emergency, you will find these boots right beside your survival bag and would be able to take them along. I have the ANN CREEK Women’s Hornsby White Studded Western Boots. Made of faux leather, these boots have a fully lined synthetic fabric. They also have a cushioned bed which makes it extremely easy for me to wear them all day long. Since they are comfortable and long lasting, they have become my go-to option for different occasions. Their comfort and durability also makes them a perfect choice for a survival situation.