Any time you venture into the wilderness, it's important to prepare for the worst possible scenario. Even experienced hikers can get lost and stranded in the forest, or suffer an injury that impedes their mobility. Surprise changes in the weather can also cause people out in the wilderness to change plans and ride out the storm. In any event, there is certain supplies and equipment that are critical to successfully surviving an emergency situation.
Food and Water
More than anything, the nourishing supplies you have on hand will be very decisive in how your survival experience plays out. Low food supplies, tapped water stores and/or distance from fresh water will determine whether you can safely ride out a situation or if more desperate and dangerous measures are needed. Always carry an extra days' supply of food, and keep a minimum of one gallon of water per person on hand at all times. Good non-perishable items include pastas, flatbreads, oatmeal and dried fruits and vegetables. Having these on hand will provide fuel to keep alive through dire sitautions.
Shelter
If you are out in the wilderness, it's recommended to carry a tent in your pack. These lightweight, collapsible shelters can protect you from wind, rain and other weather hazards in addition to holding heat inside. Tents also keep bugs and other pests off your body, which may only be a nuisance but also have the potential to make you sick. If you do not have a tent, it's important to seek shelter quickly. Caves, nooks and crevices can all be improvised into protective shelters. Lean-tos can also be constructed by propping bare tree branches up against a tree or rock wall. Moss, leaves, smaller branches and even extra clothing can help cover the top side of the shelter to provide better insulation.
Fire Starter
The ability to build a fire can be critical in your efforts to stay warm--particularly at night--while also being able to cook food, purify water and even frighten off wild animals. The old trick of rubbing two sticks together to start a fire is effective, but for easier and more reliable fires, there are other options. A flint and steel kit can create the needed spark to ignite a pile of tinder, and fire starter units are inexpensive, small and will easily produce a shower of sparks to get a fire going.
First Aid Kit
A first aid kit may not save you if you have a serious injury, but some simple medical goods can prevent small problems from becoming debilitating and life-threatening. First aid kits for the outdoors can be purchased at a wilderness supply store, and a basic kit should include bandages of varying sizes, tape, gauze, disinfectant and burn cream.
