Since you're going to be exerting energy in the woods, you want to keep your pack as light and slim and possible. These items are small and portable so you can add them to your survival stash without packing on the pounds. Some of them might be on your list already while others may have slipped your mind.

1. A knife or other cutting tool. While a fixed blade made of high carbon steel would be preferred, a sturdy folding knife made from quality steel will certainly fit most needs in a basic survival situation or other emergency.

2. A fire starter/waterproof matches. The ability to keep warm or start a fire to cook, boil water, or dry wet clothes, can be the difference between life and death. Having something that will reliably give you a spark/flame to ignite kindling, especially if you don’t know how to start a fire with sticks or using a lens can be essential.

3. Water purification tablets. Of course there are more advanced water filtration systems that are portable, but the tablets are cheaper, and can be used as a backup.

4. Space blanket. In case you can’t manage to find kindling or can’t get a spark to catch, a space blanket will keep you warm in an emergency. They can also be used to create a solar still to collect drinking water.

5. Paracord. It can be used simply to secure sticks, branches, etc for a more sturdy emergency shelter. It can be used to help make a splint if you happen to break a bone. It can be used to help climb or descend rougher terrain. You can even pull it apart and use the inner threading for stitches, a snare trap, and much more.

Are there any other essential tools you would recommend carrying with you in the wild?

Article Source: Off Grid World