OK let’s talk about equipment in a little more detail.
AGAIN THIS IS JUST A GUIDE
Water: A good Refillable bottle is a must have, but you need to make Sure you have a way of filtering and / or purifying the water you put in it, because tap water may not be available. A bottle that does both is great, but you should at least some have water purification tablets or drops with you. A metal water bottle is nice because if need to and have the time, you could use it to boil water in to purify it, (make sure to leave the cap off, and any plastic or rubber parts.) If you have the room a couple extra bottle of store bought water could be useful for fast refill if needed.
Shoes: We all have our shoes, you know the ones we always wear to work or to run errands, those good comfy ones. But are they the shoes you want to walk 25 miles in? If not, you will definitely want to have a good pair of walking/hiking, shoes/boots with your bag. And if they’re water resistant or water proof that’s even better, but make sure you break them in, before you put them with your GHB. taking a 25 mile walk in new shoes could be painful.
Medications: If you take prescription medications you will want to have some in your GHB. 3 days worth would be the minimum i would recommend, but 2 weeks to a months worth would be better just in case you get stuck some where, for and extended time. it is also recommended to have a list of the medications you take along with the dosages.
Food: If you’re walking, you’re going to want some kind of nourishment, and depending on how far your going to have to walk, you may want enough for a couple of snacks and or meals. Food packaged for long term storage it the best for your bag. You could also include and electrolyte additive for your water.
First Aid Kit: you will want some basic first aid supplies. At least some band aids, tape, disinfectant, hand sanitizer, gauze, moleskin or tape for blisters, matches, Aspirin, Kleenex, razor blade or scalpel, etc.. depending on your skill level you can ad as you see fit.
Clothes: its always a good idea to have a at least 1 change of clothes. Especially if you typically wear a suit, or other higher end clothes. And if you have to walk though a less than desirable neighborhood, you don’t want to standout. And women should try to “dress down”, Baggie clothes rather than form fitting. You’ll also want some type of hat/head covering to protect you from the sun, rain, weather, etc.., As well as bit of camouflage. Coats depending on the climate you may need an extra layer at night.
Rain Gear: depending on the climate you will want some type of rain gear, maybe something that can be used as a shelter if needed. like a poncho or militarily style “woobie”, or maybe a Rain coat and a Tarp. There are 2 schools of thought on color here, one is keep it low key don’t stand out try to blend in (camouflage), the other is something bright so people can see you better, (this may be better suited if your lost or stranded)
Flash light: There’s a good chance you will be out after dark, and you will want to be able to see what’s around you. But beware your light also make you visible to others. So I recommend 2 different lights, one bright enough to light up good size area, that could also be used for signaling and a second small light to use for map reading and other tasks without drawing to much unwanted attention. Small candles, they can also provide heat and help boil water.
Fire started: If you have to spend the night outside, or its cold/ bad weather you may want a fire for warmth, or cooking. so having a way to start a fire only makes sense. Waterproof Matches, lighter, ferro rod, chemical starters, etc.. Have a couple options is never a bad idea.. Also some type of fuel to get the fire going. Wax coated twine, cotton balls, Kleenex, etc.. Fire can also be used for Emergency Signaling.
Communications: This could be your cell phone, but if your having to walk its likely that cell phone may not work or be reliable. (system overloaded) So consider a two way radio, GMRS, Ham Radio, CB, satellite phone. Also a good portable AM/FM radio. To hear local broadcast news and info. Also make sure you have extra batteries for everything. and maybe a way to charge everything that does not require the grid.
Maps: Paper maps of the area you’re in, maybe in water proof form. mark your routes home, give your self options. You may know your normal route home, but is that the same way you would walk. there are companies that will custom print map of specific areas. you can also highlight Predetermined routes. Learn how to read and use your maps. Your also going to want a compass, telling your direction at night with no lights is more difficult than you think. also letting Family and / or friends know your planned routes could be useful if they know where to look for you if needed.
Protection: Don’t just think 2-legged evil, but also other animals, Dog, snakes, etc. or groups thereof. Pepper/ bear spray, club/ stick, knife, walking stick, cane, firearm. These are all choices you have to decide what one or combination is best for you. what ever your choice make sure you know how to use it, there’s are few things worse than getting a face full of your own pepper spray. If you care a firearm make sure you carry extra ammo.
Duct tape: for minor bag repairs, blisters, torn clothing, shoe repair, location marking, etc..
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Rope/ para cord: Could have many uses, including helping support a shelter, replace a broke belt or backpack strap, to help bundle up extra gear, ?? you name it.
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Small Tarp or Survival tent: A small tarp can be used as a mark shift tent, a poncho can be used the same way.
Personal Items: toothbrush, razor, hand lotion, sun screen, etc
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Additional items:
Fishing line some of the same uses as rope, also mending clothes, trip wires, wound sutures, etc..
Small mirror to use for signaling, seeing around corners, or over fences, etc..
REMEMBER don’t just buy the items and stick them in your bag. Make sure you know how to use them, and make sure they work!
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Note: Camouflage does not just mean the green military pattern. It means to help you blend in to your surroundings. Become a Gray man
The USCCA Defines the Gray man as:
The gray man is a concept of personal security that involves blending into your environment and not drawing attention to yourself, especially from potential threats. It is a way of hiding in plain sight by using your appearance, behavior and actions to avoid being noticed or remembered. A gray man doesn’t have to be boring or dull but is discreet and inconspicuous. Being a gray man can help you survive in a variety of situations, such as urban disasters… more....
More to come…