Off-grid emergency kit
An emergency kit, also called survival kit, is a kit filled with essential tools to save yourself during an emergency situation. During a power outage, for instance. An emergency survival kit ensures you are prepared and remain self-reliant when emergency services are not readily available. An off-grid emergency kit is a more extensive, outdoor kit, to survive during a multi-day stay in a remote location, without access to modern amenities. This makes it much different from a basic emergency kit and a professional emergency kit.
Please note: An emergency kit helps you be better prepared, but does not guarantee complete safety. Each emergency situation is also different, so keep in mind that it is still key to carefully assess the situation at hand and follow the advice of local authorities.
What does a basic emergency kit contain?
The exact contents depend on the situation you are preparing for. The basic contents remain the same, though. We made an overview.
Backpack
A sturdy backpack forms the basis of any emergency pack. Your gear, after all, should be stored somewhere. A large pouch or organizer is also a great option, as long as you have sufficient room for your essential gear.
Water filter
A water filter provides you with clean drinking water and helps prevent diseases. They come in different shapes and sizes: from compact straws and integrated filters in water bottles, to larger systems in jerry cans for cars.
Pocket knife or multi-tool
A pocket knife or multi-tool is incredibly versatile and therefore a must-have in an emergency kit. A pocket knife can quickly be put to work to cut through some rope or help prepare food, while a multi-tool offers additional tools such as pliers or a screwdriver for small repairs. Ideal for quick and practical solutions.
Tip: select a knife or multi-tool based on the intended use. For example, there are pocket knives with a glass breaker or a seatbelt cutter to save yourself from a car. There are also multi-tools for rescue and survival purposes. For an all-in-one option, we recommend a comprehensive Swiss army knife!
Fixed-blade knife
In an off-grid situation, a fixed knife is stronger and more reliable than a pocket knife. Great for heavy-duty use! Whether you're splitting wood for the fire, preparing food or building yourself a shelter, the strength and versatility of a fixed knife make it an essential survival tool.
Tip: choose a survival knife if you're looking for a robust, reliable knife that can handle the toughest of circumstances.
Power bank
A power bank is indispensable during a power outage. From compact portable models to powerful power stations that will supply you with power for days. There is always an option that will suit your emergency survival kit best.
Emergency whistle
An emergency whistle is a simple but effective tool to raise the alarm. Whether you are stranded somewhere or want to attract attention, with a loud whistle you will reach further than with your voice alone.
Flashlight
Whether you need to find your way at night, signal or are simply looking for your gear in your home, a reliable flashlight ensures you will never be left in the dark. It is truly an essential part of your emergency kit. Do you prefer to keep both your hands free? If so, a headlight would be a great option!
Tip: Flashlights have special functions for specific situations. Choose a model with a strobe mode, or choose a torch with an SOS or beacon mode to send signals when you are stranded. A set of extra [batteries](/ product) wouldn't hurt either!
First-aid kit
During an emergency situation you don't always have immediate access to medical aid. Whether it is a cut, burn or sprain, with a first-aid kit you can treat minor injuries and prevent more serious complications.
What does an off-grid emergency kit contain?
Besides the basics, an off-grid emergency kit contains essential items that will help you stay self-reliant for several days in a remote location.
Survival accessories
Survival accessories such as assembled survival kits, compasses and map readers help you stay prepared in unpredictable situations. Think compact navigation maps for orientation, an emergency repair kit for quick fixes or a book with survival information. They are compact and super useful, so must-haves for your kit!
Paracord
Paracord always comes in handy. To build shelter, to repair gear, as simple shoelaces, fishing line or even as an emergency tourniquet. Thanks to the strong, but lightweight construction it won't take up much room and will come in handy during many different situations.
Axe
An axe is a powerful tool for splitting wood, building shelter and other tough tasks that are difficult to perform with a knife or multi-tool. In emergency situations, an axe gives you extra self-reliance, especially in the wilderness.
Tip: choose a survival axe if you are looking for a versatile model specifically suited to emergency situations.
Lighter, fire steel and tinder
Making fire is essential for heat, light and food preparation. A lighter is a quick and easy solution, a fire steel works even in the wettest conditions and tinder helps you light your fire faster. With either of these you will always be prepared, regardless of the situation.
Outdoor cooking
These outdoor cooking products are ideal during an emergency situation when you don't have access to a kitchen or electricity. With a compact cooker, lightweight pans and fuel, you can boil water, prepare meals and keep yourself warm.
Camping lanterns
A camping lantern is a reliable source of light during power failures or in remote areas. Unlike a torch, a camping lantern illuminates an entire room, allowing you to better navigate or create a safe hiding place.
Tip: On the lowest setting, an average camping lantern can last up to 100 hours! This also makes a camping lantern suitable as a beacon to make your location visible in the dark.
Solar charges
A solar charger ensures you have power anywhere in the world. After all, the sun is everywhere. That makes a solar charger ideal to keep on you. Use it to charge your phone, torch, smartwatch, tablet and other electronics.
Tip: use a solar charger in combination with a powerbank to store the generated power.
Large water filters
With a large water filter, such as a jerrycan model, you will have enough clean drinking water for several days. Ideal for remote locations where water is scarce and you need to be completely self-sufficient.
What else should an off-grid emergency kit contain?
The products mentioned above are a valuable addition to any emergency survival kit. Knowing this, no situation is the same and many other essentials items you might need you probably already own or are readily available at supermarkets. Think of common products such as toilet paper, non-perishables and cash. In the checklist below we made a clear overview.
Checklist for an off-grid emergency kit:
- Emergency blanket: compact and lightweight, helps with hypothermia and retains body heat.
- Candles: a reliable light source when batteries or power is not available. Also help with heat.
- Multi-functional handkerchief or buff: usable as a scarf, face protection, filter or bandage.
- Poncho or raincoat: protects against rain and keeps you warm and dry.
- Duct tape: versatile for emergency repairs to gear, clothing or shelter.
- Bottled water: a water filter is great, but it cannot hurt to keep a couple bottles of water at hand.
- Non-perishables, snacks or emergency rations: compact and long-lasting energy source during emergency situations. Make sure you have enough food for a 72 hours at least.
- Personal hygiene products: such as toilet paper, sanitary napkins and/or tampons, wet wipes, soap, toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Note pad and pen: useful for jotting down important information or leaving messages.
- Compass: helps you get your bearings when gps or phone are not available.
- Map of surroundings: when gps or phone fails, a physical map is indispensable.
- Cash: in case of power failure, ATMs and digital payments may not work.
- Personal documents (copy of your ID, insurance information, emergency contacts): in a waterproof case for identification and emergencies.
Conclusion
With an off-grid emergency kit, you are prepared to spend several days away from civilisation. The right gear helps you remain self-reliant when help is not readily available. Make sure your government emergency kit remains up-to-date and adjust it to meet your specific needs. You will hopefully never have to use it, but when it comes down to it, you'll be glad you're prepared!
Looking for a more affordable or compact emergency kit? Check out the basic emergency kit or the professional emergency kit.
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