Introduction
What is the ‘ideal’ Survival Backpack & Contents ? Without knowing for sure how long a particular crisis is going to last, it will be very difficult and mind-bendng to accurately decide the contents of our survival backpack.
The following comprehensive list guide will go some way to helping the reader discover what he/she requires or is missing from their own list.
The way the world is at the moment, natural disasters, supply bottlenecks due to economic embargo and terror attacks – the news is full of disasters -anything could happen on our own doorstep tomorrow. Seasoned Preppers plan early for the worst of scenarios.
How to pack the optimal survival rucksack is a hot topic, even among experts.
The focus is on the intensity of the state of emergency, where the survival backpack covers different periods of self-sufficiency:
- The Get Home Bag / Every Day Carrier bag (EDC) bridges a day or two until you come home again.
- The Bug Out Bag (BOB) backpack ensures survival for three days or 72 hours in the event of an evacuation (bug out bag German
- The Survival Backpack is also refered to as the ‘INCH’ Bag – I‘m Never Coming Home bag.
Before continuing on the subject of survival backpack contents, let’s first consider the backpack itself and ideally what its characteristics and properties should be.
The following illustrations will not only help you to understand but go a long way to ensuring you buy a model that is suitable for yourself.
Please include attribution to coolofthewild.com with this graphic.
Remember never to compare a backpack for leisure with that constructed to help you survive. A backpack for leisure time is by no means as robust and comfortable as a survival/military type backpack. With the latter, you are preparing for an emergency of long duration.
Recommended size/volume of a survival backpack ? As you can imagine this depends on the prepper – (a person who prefers ultra minimalist equipment and only packs the bare essentials, whilst another may need more items/supplies to get through difficult times).
Generally speaking, the minimal size/volume is in the range 40-60 Litres. That being said :
- A large, high-quality backpack is hardly heavier than a smaller model.
- A large backpack offers valuable volume reserves half packed.
- Weight is distributed more evenly in a large interior space than in a small backpack
- You may be able to pick up provisions and equipment with you during the evacuation or escape but that’s not something to rely on 100%.
It must be stressed that the survival backpack is not a 72-Hour BOB bag. Hence your survival budget must take into account the fact that you are going to have to purchase something that is quality assured but still represents value for money. In addition, requirements of a good survival backpack include ….
Durability: They need to hold up against whatever conditions nature throws at you.
Suited for Your Body Size: You need to be able to comfortable hold gear while tromping through the wilderness. Packs that are too large or wide will get snagged on branches or upset your center of gravity.
Have Adequate Storage: It is a good idea to make a survival backpack checklist before buying a pack. Then you can see how much space you really do need.
We shall now review a series of Backpacks for men and start with a model which would ideally be used for daytime activities but however could ALSO be used as a backpack – The Osprey Talon 22.
This fully equipped backpack is known for its excellent wearing comfort and can be used for a variety of activities.
- Weight = 810g ;
- Volume / Capacity = 22 Litres ;
- Material Specifications = Synthetic fibre ; 100D x 210D Bluesign Recycled Robic Nylon ; Recycled material, PFC-free.
Equipment : signal whistle, key holder, reflective elements, preparation for a drinking / hydration system.
Inside : pocket for glasses
Outside : pockets, side pockets, front pocket ;
Additional attachments : for a helmet, for hiking poles, for a flashing light, for ice tools ;
Bag straps : Compression straps, ergonomically shaped and padded shoulder straps, padded hip belt ;
Carrying comfort : Chest strap, waist strap, AirScape carrying system, Zipper closure.
PROS:
- Has received several awards ;
- Size: 2 sizes available ;
- Adjustable back panel ;
- Excellent ventilating back panel
- Attachment for walking sticks/pickel ;
- Suitable for hydration systems ;
- Despite its modest dimensions, the Talon 22 easily fits rain gear, camera, packed lunch plus water and much more.
CON/S :
< Small mesh pockets.
OVERALL RATING = B++
| Name | Tasmanian Tiger TT Raid MK III | Brandit US Cooper Backpack | Sak Gear BackSak | BLACKHAWK Diversion Wax Canvas Rucksack |
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| Description. | The TT Raid Pack MK III is a robust, comfortable, and slimline rucksack which is ideal for all types of outdoor activities and thru hikes and, of course, survival situations. The TT Raid Pack MK III is a 52-liter capacity ‘short-back’ rucksack, which weighs a total of 6 lbs empty and has a maximum load weight of 88 lbs. | This Brandit backpack is very rugged and has a padded back and padded ergonomically-shaped shoulder straps which make it very comfortable to wear. A large number of interior compartments, front pockets, luggage strapping system and compression strap adds to this good impression. The backpack is therefore the first choice of many preppers,survivalists as well as hikers & travelers. - Height 50 x width 30 x depth 32 cm - Weight: approx. 1250 g - Capacity: approx. 40 litres - Material: rugged textile material. | Here’s the survival backpack you want ESPECIALLY if you will have to go through severe weather conditions. The 500 denier PVC with welded seams is completely waterproof. You could even put it completely underwater briefly and still keep your gear dry. Oh, and it floats! | This survival backpack looks like a schoolbag, but don’t let that fool you. The pack is really sturdy and has a lot of integrated features which make it suitable for a survival backpack. Waxed canvas is a great material, but this is even better because you do not need to reapply the wax. So it has great water resistant properties and looks nice too. It doesn't scream for attention or give off the tactical vibe but it is packed with features and is made for hard use. |
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| Features / Characteristics | - V2 Plus Carrying System - Chest belt with signal whistle - Removable, padded hip belt - Compression around perimeter of base - Volume compression for the main and the bottom compartment - Handles at sides - Easy-access pocket on top of lid - Hydration system compatible - Stitched bellow pocket with water drain - Gear loops; Document storage pocket on the inside of the lid - Hip belt can be used separately as a warrior belt - Side pockets with external MOLLE. - MOLLE system on all the important attachment areas | - MOLLE (Modular Lightweight - -- Load-carrying Equipment) system - Padded shoulder straps - Front pocket with organizer - Adjustable hip belt - Side compression straps | - This is a type of Dry Bag - Capacity = 35L - Material = 500D PVC with welded seams - Waterproof: Yes; can be submerged underwater, briefly - Attachments = D-rings - Compared to other dry bag packs, the BackSak is much more comfortable and has more pockets for organization. | - This is a 'Tactical' type of backpack - Capacity = 25 L - Material: 10.10 oz wax canvas - Waterproof: Lid and side zippers; - Attachments: Loops provided. - The key feature is the handgun storage compartment along the back. It takes some practice to reach there but, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to access your handgun very quickly. |
| Pros | - V2 Plus carry system is adjustable so that it can be fitted to all body types. - The base of the rucksack also has two 1.5-inch-thick pads, which provide extra lumbar support to your back. - The bottom of the rucksack also has a sleeping bag compartment. | - is available in four sizes and in four models. - the bag is a good size, handy pouches, feels durable and solid and once the straps are taped up it feels like a normal day sack. - the straps have great padding - strong stitching and plenty of storage room in the compartments - Great value for money ! | - Waterproof - Large size for dry pack - Comfortable. | - Very discreet - Quality construction - Handgun compartment - Lots of pockets for organization |
| Cons | - the straps that connect to the buckles to be quite long.Not a big issue. | - the waist clip is not great and there is no chest strap (Older Models). Not a major issue! - durability of the pockets questionable especially with increasing loads. | - Exterior pockets not completely waterproof - A reflective trim which can be viewed as an advantage if you are drowning BUT as a disadvantage in a riot/civil unrest situation. | - A bit small for a survival backpack - No hip or sternum straps - No side pockets for water bottle |
| Conclusion | The Raid Pack MK III from Tasmanian Tiger is the latest version of the popular military backpack. It has more than enough compartments and a modern, comfortable carrying system. The backpack is suitable for military use as well as for long term emergency evacuations. | A quality backpack but in my opinion well-suited for 3-5 day excursions / evacuations. | The BackSak is the perfect piece of equipment if your going to the beach, heading out in the rain or uncertain of the forecast. This drybag with backpack design will protect your gear. | A Really awesome backpack. Laptop sleeve is accessible multiple ways which is nice. The top load is great for packing up a full load of gear. The front pouch has some organizational pouches/dividers built in and the available water bottle carrier is excellent. |
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What to include in your Survival backpack & How to pack it correctly
Packing your backpack correctly involves the division and organization to volume and weight, so that you can travel comfortably especially on long/extended trips or evacuations. However, first we must know exactly what we are going to put inside it.
BACKPACK CONTENTS :
The survival equipment is divided into groups, because a survival scenario is more complex than the bug out bag packing list which is set up to last at least for 72 hours.
| ITEM | Comments |
| 1. Fire Starters – Cold, rain, heat and wind represent the greatest danger for a refugee. The elements consume energy reserves and mental strength very quickly. A shelter and a fire are therefore essential for survival in the wild. Pack a variety of fire starters to keep warm near the fireplace and cook a warm meal: waterproof matches, a fire steel, magnesium sticks, lighters, and a work knife with a serrated back as a marking surface – the more options, the better. Remember to bring enough tinder material with you to be able to start a fire even when it is raining or snowing : cotton wool soaked with petroleum jelly, granulated tinder, wood chips soaked with paraffin. | Storm lighter, Firesteel, Water-proof matches, Magnifying glass, Scale. |
| 2.Water : Whether you live in the country or are an urban prepper, you need ways to collect and purify water. The Rule of 3 survival is three days until a person dies of thirst. Even before that, the fluid deficit weakens the body, hallucinations, kidney failure and mental strength plummet. Depending on the exertion and climate, this can happen faster. You need foldable bottles (if there are several people, a folding canister) or a hydration bladder , a metal bottle to boil water if necessary, possibly packaged emergency rations of drinking water and cleaning agents in tablet form in your survival equipment. You can drink and collect safe water immediately through a filter. | Hydration bladder, Folding canisters, Water Filter, Purification tablets. |
| 3.Shelter : You will sleep more peacefully in a tent , as it offers some protection against thieves and attackers. You need a sleeping bag especially in winter. In warmer temperatures, a space-saving hammock with a mosquito net protects against nocturnal nuisances. An inflatable sleeping mat blocks the cold from the floor and increases sleeping comfort, and I recommend a nylon tarpaulin as a tarp or waterproof pad for the sleeping bag. A foil rescue blanket in survival equipment is a good backup, here in a pack with an emergency tent. | Refer to ‘Shelter’ menu. |
| 4. Food & Cooking : The third priority is nutrition and food preparation. The Rule of three, survival, starts with three weeks without food, but if you are continuously active all day on the run, you use more energy than in normal life. The food for the escape backpack must be light, take up little space and fill you up for a long time. Emergency rations in biscuit form , such as those used by the military, are suitable for this. You can eat this either directly from the pack or dissolved in hot water as a porridge or consume it even more diluted as an energy drink. Of course, you should also like the food: A vegetarian is unlikely to pack dried meat in his survival kit, which is an excellent source of protein. Protein bars, energy bars, grape sugar with magnesium provide quick power and raise morale with delicious flavors. There is a large selection of dried ready meals in stores , from pasta in tomato sauce to beef stroganoff, which you can take with you if you like. Calculate extra water for preparation & washing up afterwards. | Refer to ‘Food & Water’ menu. |
| 5. First Aid & Hygiene : If you injure yourself along the way, you are on your own. A basic first aid kit and some standard drugs (painkillers, charcoal tablets, antibiotics) takes you usually through a variety of difficult situations. Caring for even small wounds is important in order to avoid inflammation, parasite infestation or even blood poisoning. If necessary, expand the set with sterile sewing kit, alcoholic swabs and iodine. Sanitary paper, camping soap, and insect repellent for the skin must be sufficient with a microfiber towel for minimal personal hygiene. | 1st aid kit, anti-mosquito spray, toilet paper, trekking soap, dental floss, microfibre towels. |
| 6. Communication & Navigation : Stay up to date with what’s happening in the area with a walkie-talkie so you can react immediately. Generate electricity yourself with a crank radio to charge your cell phone, GPS sat nav and flashlights. If the electronics do not work, you can use paper maps and a compass to find alternative routes to your destination. If you want to make rescue teams aware of you, give light signals with a mirror over a long distance or blow into a loud signal whistle. You can effectively show your location to a rescue team with smoke cartridges or a distress torch in the wilderness. Or place a cartridge to lure potential enemies and pursuers on the wrong track. With a space-saving monocular , you can observe the surroundings further than the eye can see. | Compass, map, GPS navigation system, crank radio, Emergency Whistle. |
| 7. Survival Tools : In every bug out bag and especially in the survival backpack belong high quality tools that enable you to collect resources, build shelter and hunt in the landscape (mountains, forest, open land). A work knife, paracord, sturdy carabiners and a good multi-tool. The alternative to individual purchase is a survival kit with an assortment of useful survival equipment. Sturdy work gloves prevent blisters on the hands and injuries. | Multi-tool ; Folding Spade ; Paracord; Knife ; Axe ; Torch and/or Headlight; Work Gloves. |
| 8. Personal Defence : Dress inconspicuously , but expect crooks at any time who are after your rucksack full to the brim . Use a handgun to keep attackers at bay. If you’re a hunter or a marksman, the rifle comes in handy. Note that a license is required for firearms. Your flashlight should have a strobe mode. Pepper spray works effectively, but watch the wind direction so that the spray does not come back. | Firearm & ammo; Pepper spray. |
| 9. Clothing : Choose a jacket, pants and hat in neutral, inconspicuous colors . In this way, progress in the wild is better camouflaged and potential attackers find it difficult to assess what can be obtained from you. It is best to pack something for all temperatures and weather conditions and dress in several layers according to the ‘onion’ system. Comfortable and waterproof hiking boots that are already” worn in” are very important. A rain poncho keeps clothing dry and can be used as a shelter. Protect the airways and eyes from smoke, chemicals and dust to get orientation and get out of the danger zone quickly. | Refer to ‘Survival Clothing & Accessories’ menu. |
| 10. Other survival equipment, barter goods and documents : The items listed here don’t fit into any category, but they are very important. Make copies of : – Credit cards, passport, identity card, vaccination certificate, – Social security number, driver’s license, birth certificates of your children. – Write a note about medication and allergies, add important telephone numbers. Pack them separately from the originals in a waterproof case and wear everything on your body. | Personal documents ; Cash ; Duct tape ; Candles ; Packing Straps. |
SURVIVAL BACKPACKING :
Packing your backpack properly not only includes distributing the load , but also managing its weight and volume . The following Steps & Tips considerations will help you to do this in the right manner :
| 10 Tips for packing your backpack properly 1-The volume of the backpack should match the tour 2-Question your equipment: What do you (really) need? 3-Light, voluminous equipment belongs in the bottom compartment 4-Medium weight equipment to the outside 5-Transport heavy items as close to the body as possible 6-Use the lid compartment for what you often need. 7-Load weight: a maximum of 25% of your body weight 8-Pay attention to a balanced load distribution 9-Pack sacks make things easier 10-Additional tip: Do specific exercises regularly to strengthen your back muscles! |
In the next sub-section we’ll discuss a selection of DEVICES (for preppers and survivalists). When it comes, emergency situations usually arise in the worst conditions and that is when having equipment for outdoor survival is important. Being prepared for all or nearly all situations and ensuring you have the right kit /tools should the first step of preparation for any person.
CLICK HERE to go to our Devices sub-section.
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