Survival camping requires that you prepare to live off of Mother Nature for days or even weeks at a time in an unpredictable environment. To do this, the right gear must be brought along to keep you alive and thrive within her embrace.

Are You Needing Survival Tools in the Wilderness? Having essential wilderness survival tools on hand could save your life if something goes awry on your journey. Here are 14 must-have survival tools you should include in your backpack.

Fire Starter

Fire starters are an essential survival tool that will enable you to light campfires even under difficult conditions. These devices utilize ferro rods that produce sparks to ignite tinder and other combustible materials.

These products, unlike flint and steel products, are compact and lightweight, as well as waterproof – making them suitable for backpacking adventures.

Comparative to matches and lighters, these products can rapidly light tinder or other combustible items for faster ignition in all types of weather. Their reliability also outshines traditional methods; but before using any type of fire starter it is vital that campers follow safety protocols when camping.

Tarp

Tarps are an essential piece of survival gear when camping, shielding you from the elements. Useful as shelter, cover for your backpack or for protection from rain or snow as well as ground mat.

Buy a tarp with reinforced hems and rustproof grommets positioned close together to prevent tearing; and provide plenty of attachment points.

A tarp can serve as an emergency stretcher while hiking. Simply tie one end of a length of line to one of the ridgeline tie-outs and wrap it around one or more trees before running a prussik knot halfway along it – there are videos online showing how this works). This can secure the tarp against trees for use as a stretcher.

Flashlight

Flashlights are indispensable tools for campers, hikers, survivalists and outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy spending time in dark environments. Flashlights provide illumination which is essential when exploring unfamiliar territory or signaling for help during emergency situations.

The ideal flashlights for camping offer powerful output, long run times and reliable batteries. Some models even include strobe modes which may come in handy for scaring away wildlife or signaling for help when trying to protect oneself against hazards like bears.

Hands-free flashlights can also be beneficial, allowing you to move freely without holding onto a flashlight in your hand. There are even models that charge themselves using solar energy during the day!

Paracord

Paracord may seem like just another rope, but did you know it has incredible survival uses? Paracord is one of the most versatile cordage on Earth; used for everything from building shelters to setting traps.

When purchasing paracord, be sure to opt for military-spec type III 550 cord, commonly known as parachute cord. This popular choice boasts a high-grade nylon outer mantle with seven or nine inner strands made of various yarns for optimal performance.

Unraveling inner strands will yield hundreds of feet of usable cordage that can be used for shoelaces, sewing thread, fishing line and shelter building purposes.

Compass

Compasses can be invaluable survival tools when it comes to backpacking and camping, so it is crucial that you learn to use one properly before venturing out in the wilderness. Practice in an area free from cell signals or GPS devices is highly recommended for developing skills necessary for navigation.

Magnetic objects like ferrous metals can distort the reading on a compass, so be careful around them. Also be wary of electrical fields from your vehicle or even bite valves on some hydration reservoirs which may throw your compass off course.

An accurate compass and knowledge of its use can be lifesaving in the backcountry. While purchasing an inferior quality one may save some money, learning to navigate efficiently with the appropriate tool is invaluable.

Whistle

An emergency whistle can help draw attention to yourself in a survival situation. Be sure to purchase one that can produce high-definition sound with a loud blast, and some even come equipped with Morse code messages such as three short or three long blasts that look like dots and dashes for help.

Compasses are essential wilderness survival tools. Light and analog devices, they allow users to easily navigate unfamiliar terrain by providing them with accurate directions. Take a compass course or enroll in an orienteering class to learn how to properly use one.

Medical Kit

Maintaining a first aid kit is essential camping survival gear, whether you put together it yourself or buy prepackaged kits tailored specifically to the conditions in which you’re hiking and camping.

A first aid kit designed to treat common backcountry injuries such as burns and wounds should include an array of supplies. Look for kits with high-quality components designed specifically for backcountry adventures such as the Adventure Medical Kits UltraLight/Watertight.7 or Surviveware Small. These durable cases feature watertight seals with resealable zippers.