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Old 10-07-2009, 09:02 PM   #1 (permalink)
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Default Survival Kit

I am looking for recommendations for reasonably-priced survival kits for one person. I won't be flying over large bodies of water so no need for that type of equipment. Thanks in advance for your feedback.
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Old 10-08-2009, 09:19 AM   #2 (permalink)
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You can build your own on the cheap, you just need to know the survival priorities so you can allocate your weight/volume accordingly. Everything you need is at REI or a drugstore. Pilots stores have aviation specific kits also. The advantage of building your own kit is that you know how to use everything, and are not wasting weight/volume on things not applicable to your skills or climate.

Shelter: In a harsh environment, you have mere hours. Cold water, sub-freezing conditions, extreme sun exposure are all concerns but it depends on where you fly. Raft/dry suit, tent, blanket, sleeping bag depending on climate. Don't forget waterproof matches and a tool to cut wood for fire/shelter. Assume the airplane fuselage will be unusable.

Water: 2-3 days before you are incapacitated/dead . Carry some in a container, plus some means of purification. Pure water or gatorade, not beer, soda, etc. Carry plastic sheet for solar stills in a desert environment.

Food: You have up to thirty days. The first few days will suck but then you get used to it. You can function OK for a few weeks, but I would bring some high-energy snack bars. The more you eat, the more water you need so if water is the problem don't eat much. However, in a cold climate you will need a constant food supply. In some climates you can find food (fishing line is light weight can also be used to snare small animals).

Mental stimulus: This will actually become critical after a day or two if you are alone. Bring a puzzle like a rubics cube or something along those lines. Also a small survival book might be good (specific to your climate and vegetation).

Medical: Pack according to your medical skill level. At least bandages, ointment, and something for a tourniquet.

Rescue: If there are injuries, the first 24 hours are critical. There are a variety of communications/signaling tools, select appropriately. Might want to invest in a new 406MHz ELT, since they don't monitor 121.5 by satellite any more.
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Old 10-08-2009, 03:38 PM   #3 (permalink)
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Thanks Rick for the excellent post. I've always wondered what is the best way to go about getting a kit. I remember a while ago, I cut my finger on the control wheel lock and did not realize it until I was in the air. I couldn't stop the bleed and got blood all over the yoke. A small survival kit is probably a good idea for even a small flight. I learned this the hard way.
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Old 10-08-2009, 04:14 PM   #4 (permalink)
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EQUIPPED TO SURVIVE - Outdoors Gear, Survival Equipment Review & Survival Information

I like their pocket survival pack (sold at REI), although I had to remove the fishing hooks for TSA whining purposes.
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Old 10-20-2009, 03:57 PM   #5 (permalink)
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an old compact disc as a signaling device
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Old 10-22-2009, 07:31 PM   #6 (permalink)
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one good piece of advice: make sure you can operate everything in the kit one-handed. a broken arm or smashed hand can make a lot of nifty gadgets useless. also buy extras and practice using things like firestarters one handed, so you know the tricks before you truly need to use the gear.
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