How to Make a DIY Survival Kit: The Essentials You Need

In any survival scenario, having the right gear can make all the difference. A DIY survival kit is a collection of tools and supplies that can help you stay alive and comfortable during an emergency, whether you’re lost in the wilderness, facing a natural disaster, or dealing with a power outage. While you can buy ready-made survival kits, creating your own allows you to customize it based on your needs and preferences.

In this guide, we will explore how to build a comprehensive DIY survival kit, covering the essential items you need, from shelter and food to first aid and communication tools. By building your own survival kit, you can ensure you’re fully prepared for any emergency.

1. Why You Need a DIY Survival Kit

A survival kit is crucial for handling emergencies and providing a sense of security in uncertain situations. Whether you are camping in a remote area, preparing for a natural disaster, or just want to be ready for unexpected events, a survival kit provides the tools and resources to help you survive until help arrives or conditions improve.

Unlike pre-made kits, a DIY survival kit allows you to choose specific items that suit your needs, preferences, and environment. By assembling your own kit, you can also ensure that the gear is high-quality, suitable for your skills, and up-to-date.

2. Types of Survival Kits

Different survival scenarios call for different kits. Here are a few types of survival kits that you might consider building:

Bug-Out Bag (72-Hour Kit)

A bug-out bag is designed to provide everything you need for up to 72 hours. It should be lightweight and portable so you can carry it with you if you need to evacuate quickly.

Get-Home Bag

A get-home bag is a smaller kit designed to help you get home safely during an emergency if you’re at work or away from home. It should contain essential items like water, snacks, and a basic first aid kit.

Vehicle Survival Kit

A vehicle survival kit is kept in your car in case of a breakdown or emergency while traveling. It should include items like a flashlight, blanket, water, jumper cables, and tire repair tools.

Wilderness Survival Kit

A wilderness survival kit is specifically geared towards outdoor adventures. It should include tools for fire-starting, navigation, shelter, and first aid in case you get lost or stranded.

In this guide, we’ll focus on creating a general DIY survival kit that can be customized for any of the above situations.

3. Essential Items for Your DIY Survival Kit

To create a comprehensive DIY survival kit, you need to include the following essential items:

1. Water and Water Purification Tools

Water is a top priority in any survival situation. You need to ensure you have enough water to stay hydrated and methods to purify more if needed.

Water Bottles: Pack enough water to last at least three days (one gallon per person per day).
Water Purification Tablets: Lightweight and effective for treating water from streams and lakes.
Portable Water Filter: A small, portable filter like a LifeStraw can be used to purify water on the go.
Collapsible Water Container: Useful for collecting and storing additional water.

For more detailed water purification methods, read our guide on How to Purify Water in a Survival Situation

2. Food and Cooking Supplies

You’ll need enough non-perishable food to sustain you for at least 72 hours, along with tools to prepare it.

Non-Perishable Food: Include items like energy bars, canned goods, dried fruit, and jerky.
Mess Kit: A lightweight pot, pan, or camping mess kit can be used to cook food.
Utensils: Pack a set of durable utensils or a multi-tool with utensils included.
Stove or Fire-Starting Kit: A small camping stove or fire-starting materials such as a lighter, matches, and firestarter blocks.

3. Shelter and Warmth

Having adequate shelter and warmth is essential for protection from the elements.

Emergency Blanket: A compact mylar emergency blanket is useful for retaining body heat.
Tarp or Emergency Shelter: A lightweight tarp or emergency bivvy bag can serve as a makeshift shelter.
Sleeping Bag: If space allows, include a lightweight, compact sleeping bag.
Paracord: Paracord can be used to set up a tarp shelter or as general-purpose cordage.

For tips on building shelters from natural materials, see our post on How to Build a DIY Survival Shelter from Natural Materials

4. First Aid Kit

A well-stocked first aid kit is a must-have for treating injuries until professional help is available.

Bandages and Gauze: Include a variety of sizes to handle different wounds.
Antiseptic Wipes and Ointment: To clean and disinfect wounds.
Medical Tape: Useful for securing bandages or splints.
Pain Relievers: Pack common pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Tweezers and Scissors: For removing splinters, cutting bandages, or other tasks.
Emergency Tourniquet: In case of severe bleeding.

5. Tools and Supplies

You’ll need basic tools for building shelter, repairing gear, and other survival tasks.

Multi-Tool: A multi-tool with pliers, knife, screwdriver, and other tools is a must-have.
Fixed Blade Knife: A durable, fixed-blade knife is useful for cutting, carving, and self-defense.
Duct Tape: Useful for making repairs, building shelter, or even treating injuries.
Headlamp or Flashlight: Include extra batteries or choose a solar-powered option.

6. Fire-Starting Tools

Fire is crucial for warmth, cooking, and signaling for help.

Lighter and Matches: Pack multiple fire-starting options, including waterproof matches.
Ferro Rod: A ferrocerium rod can create sparks to start a fire in any weather.
Tinder: Carry a small amount of easy-to-ignite tinder, such as cotton balls soaked in petroleum jelly.

7. Navigation and Communication

Staying oriented and being able to signal for help is key in a survival situation.

Compass and Map: A compass and a physical map of the area you’re in can help you navigate if GPS fails.
Whistle: A whistle can be used to signal for help. Three blasts is a universal distress signal.
Signal Mirror: A signal mirror can be used to reflect sunlight and signal to search and rescue teams.

8. Personal Protection and Clothing

Proper clothing and gear can help protect you from the elements.

Extra Clothing: Include socks, gloves, a hat, and a waterproof jacket.
Work Gloves: Useful for protecting your hands while gathering firewood or building shelter.
Dust Mask: A dust mask or bandana can protect you from smoke or airborne particles.

4. Packing and Storing Your DIY Survival Kit

Now that you have your essential items, it’s important to pack them properly. Here are some tips on how to store and carry your DIY survival kit:

Choosing the Right Bag

The right bag is key to carrying your survival kit. A backpack is the best choice for portability, but make sure it’s durable, comfortable, and large enough to fit your supplies. Look for a bag with multiple compartments to help organize your gear for easy access.

Waterproofing Your Gear

Waterproof your gear by using Ziploc bags or dry bags for individual items. This will keep your supplies dry, even if you’re caught in the rain or have to cross a river.

Weight Management

Keep in mind that your survival kit should be easy to carry. Avoid overpacking by focusing on essentials. Test the weight of your bag and make sure you can comfortably carry it over long distances.

5. Maintaining and Updating Your Survival Kit

Your survival kit is only effective if it’s well-maintained and up-to-date. Here’s how to ensure your kit is always ready:

Regular Inspections: Check your kit every six months to ensure everything is in good working order.
Replace Expired Items: Items like food, water, and medications have expiration dates, so replace them regularly.
Adapt for the Season: Update your clothing and gear based on the season. For example, add extra blankets in winter or sunscreen and insect repellent in summer.

Final Thoughts on Building a DIY Survival Kit

Building a DIY survival kit is a proactive step towards being prepared for any emergency. By customizing your kit to your needs and environment, you can ensure that you have the tools and supplies necessary to stay safe and comfortable. Whether you’re creating a bug-out bag, a get-home bag, or a general survival kit, the key is to include essential items that cover water, food, shelter, first aid, and navigation.