15 Survival Items That Are Easy to Overlook

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

Have you ever gone on a trip and realized you forgot to pack something important? It happens to all of us. And packing for a short trip is nothing compared to packing for the end of the world as we know it.

There are bound to be a few survival items you didn't think about—items that could make a huge difference in an emergency. Here are 15 survival items that are often forgotten but can still come in handy.

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1. Bug Spray 

If you're planning on spending any time in the wilderness, it's important to have bug spray in your survival kit. Mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects can carry diseases that can be dangerous or even deadly. In addition, bites from these insects can be painful and cause swelling and itching. 

When choosing a bug spray, look for one that contains DEET or another approved active ingredients. Apply the bug spray generously to exposed skin, and reapply as needed throughout the day. 

2. Engine Oil 

Any good survival kit should include a supply of engine oil. While it may seem like an unlikely item to need in an emergency situation, it can actually be very useful. 

Besides its obvious and necessary uses in your engine, engine oil can be used as a lubricant for tools, as a fuel for lanterns, and even as a fire starter. In addition, it can help to protect metal surfaces from rust and corrosion. 

3. Zip Ties 

In any survival situation, it is important to be able to quickly adapt and make use of whatever materials are available. This is where zip ties come in handy. 

Zip ties are strong, yet flexible, making them ideal for a variety of tasks. For example, they can be used to secure shelter materials, repair equipment, or build a snare. They are also far easier to carry than traditional rope, and take up very little space in a survival kit.

4. Paper Plates

In any survival situation, having a reliable source of food and water is essential. However, preparing meals can be difficult if you don't have access to clean cookware. This is where paper plates come in handy. 

Because they are disposable, paper plates eliminate the need to wash dishes in dirty water. They also save space in your pack, as you can simply toss them when you're done. In addition, paper plates are sturdy enough to hold hot food, making them ideal for cooking over a campfire. 

5. Maps

Maps are an essential part of any survival kit. They can help you orient yourself in unfamiliar territory, plan your route to safety, and find resources that you may need. In a survival situation, having a map can mean the difference between life and death.

There are many different types of maps available, so it is important to choose one that is appropriate for your needs. If you are lost in the wilderness, a topographic map can be invaluable in helping you find your way back to civilization. 

If you are stranded in an urban area, a street map can help you locate essential services such as food and water. Even if you think you know the area well, it is always a good idea to have a map with you in case of emergency.

While GPS units are becoming increasingly popular, they should not be relied upon exclusively in a survival situation. GPS signals can be unreliable or nonexistent in remote areas, and batteries can quickly die. For these reasons, it is always best to have a paper map as backup.

6. Bolt Cutters 

Bolt cutters are a versatile tool that can come in handy in a variety of situations, making them an essential part of any survival kit. 

While they are most commonly used to cut through metal chains and bolts, they can also be used to break through locked doors or gates. In addition, bolt cutters can be used to create makeshift weapons or tools, such as a crude ax or hammer. 

Furthermore, the heavy-duty jaws of a bolt cutter can be used to crush cans or bottles, making them ideal for opening food or water rations in an emergency. 

7. Boots 

A good pair of boots is an essential piece of survival gear, no matter what the weather or terrain. They protect your feet from the elements and provide traction on slippery or uneven ground. In addition, they can help to insulate your feet and prevent blisters. 

When choosing a survival boot, look for one that is made from durable materials and has a thick sole with good tread. It should also be comfortable enough to wear for long periods of time and offer support for your ankles and arch. 

8. Sewing Kits 

Most people think of a sewing kit as something they might need on a long road trip or in an emergency situation. 

However, sewing kits can actually be incredibly useful in a variety of survival situations. For example, if you rip your clothing on a sharp branch, a sewing kit can help you repair the damage and prevent further injury. 

Sewing kits can also be used to create improvised shelter, fishing line, and other essential items. In addition, sewing kits are small and lightweight, making them easy to pack and transport. 

9. Rope 

A rope is one of the most versatile tools that you can carry with you in a survival situation. It can be used for everything from shelter construction to rappelling, and it can even be used as a makeshift tourniquet in an emergency. 

In addition, rope is relatively strong and lightweight, making it an ideal choice for survival kits. 

10. Duct Tape 

Duct tape is one of the most versatile tools you can have in your survival kit. Its strong adhesive properties make it ideal for repairing torn clothing, broken equipment, and leaky containers.

It can also be used to build temporary shelters, secure supplies, and make splints for injuries. In addition, duct tape can be used to deter predators and signal for help.

11. Baking Soda 

Baking soda is often overlooked as a survival essential, but it can actually be incredibly useful in a wide range of situations. Not just for cooking and baking, either!

For one, baking soda can be used to extinguish fires. Simply sprinkle baking soda on the flames and they will immediately be extinguished. Additionally, baking soda can be used to purify water. Just add a few spoonfuls of baking soda to dirty water and it will help to remove contaminants. 

Finally, baking soda can be used as a cleaning agent. Its abrasive texture makes it ideal for scrubbing away dirt and grime. 

12. Coffee

In a survival situation, coffee is more than just a luxury. It can help you stay alert and focused, giving you the energy you need to make critical decisions. It can be used for bartering as well.

In addition, coffee grounds can be used as a natural insect repellent. When it comes to surviving in the wilderness, every edge counts. So be sure to pack coffee in your survival kit.

13. Floss 

While many people think of food, water, and shelter when they think of survival, there is one other item that is just as important: floss. This might seem like an odd thing to include in a survival kit, but floss can actually be used for a variety of purposes. 

In addition to keeping your teeth clean, dental floss can be used to sew up holes in clothing, mend ripped seams, and even start a fire. 

14. Aluminum Foil

Aluminum foil is one of those household items that most people take for granted. But in a survival situation, it can be a valuable asset. 

It can be used to build a fire. If you need to start a fire but don't have any kindling, you can use aluminum foil to help get the fire going. 

It can be used as a signal mirror. If you need to signal for help but don't have a mirror, you can use a piece of aluminum foil as a makeshift mirror.

It can be used to cook food. If you're in a survival situation and need to cook food but don't have a pot or pan, you can use aluminum foil as a makeshift cooking vessel. 

15. Garbage Bags 

A survival kit should include a variety of items that can be used in a variety of situations, and one item that is often overlooked is garbage bags. 

Garbage bags can be used for everything from collecting water to storing food, and they can even be used as makeshift shelter in a pinch.

Be Prepared for Everything – Prepare Your Stockpile Now

While some of the items on this list may seem like no-brainers, it’s easy to overlook them when you’re packing for a survival situation. By taking the time to consider all of these essential items, you can make sure that you have everything you need to stay safe and comfortable in any emergency situation. 

What are your must-have survival items?

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