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Disasters rarely come with a warning, and they don’t wait until you’re safely at home. You could be at work, staying with relatives, or traveling for business when an emergency strikes. That’s why it’s important to think beyond your home preparedness plan and pack a few survival essentials anytime you hit the road.
You may not be able to bring your full bug-out bag with you, especially when traveling light, but that doesn’t mean you have to go unprepared. You can fit several critical items into a small travel pouch, purse, or shaving kit. These compact essentials could make all the difference if you find yourself facing the unexpected while away from home.
1. Hygiene Kit
Personal hygiene is important for long-term health and comfort. Toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and soap are all common things you’ll have in your suitcase already.
2. Compact Survival Kit
Consider carrying a compact survival kit pre-packed with essential items like fishing line, hooks, fire starters, and basic medical supplies. These mini kits are often stored in small tins or pouches that easily fit in a backpack, glove compartment, or even a coat pocket. One popular and practical option is to use an empty Altoids tin—small, lightweight, and surprisingly roomy for the basics you might need in a pinch.
3. First Aid Kit
A compact
Include items like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, tweezers, and gauze. All of these can fit into a small pouch or travel bag, giving you peace of mind and the ability to respond quickly in an emergency.
4. Fire Starter
Fire is crucial for warmth, cooking, and signaling in emergencies. Waterproof matches, a reliable lighter, and a magnesium stick are all options. If you have the space, pack all three. Fire is that important.
15 Fire Starting Tricks to Ignite Your Survival Skills
5. Emergency Blanket
Compact and lightweight, it retains body heat and provides warmth in cold conditions. It can also be used as a ground tarp or signaling device. In a pinch, it could be used as part of a shelter.
6. Paracord
Strong, lightweight, and useful for securing gear, building shelter, or making traps. You can save space by wearing your paracord as a bracelet, a keychain, or even a dog collar.
7. Multi-tool or Swiss Army Knife
Versatile for cutting, repairing, opening cans, or any small tasks. A leatherman or similar setup is like having several tools in one. Items such as a knife, scissors, a screwdriver, pliers, and a bottle opener are all combined into one compact tool.
8. Multi-purpose Food
Lightweight, non-perishable, and nutrient-dense food can sustain you in times of emergency. Carry protein bars, freeze-dried meals, nuts, or jerky.
9. Portable Charger/Power Bank
Keeps essential devices, such as phones, GPS, and radios, powered. These come in varying sizes, but most are fairly small, compact, and easy to stuff in a pocket.
10. Waterproof Clothing
Protection against the elements, especially in wet or unpredictable climates, is critical for survival. If you can’t pack rain gear, consider bringing small ponchos instead. If that isn’t an option, a kitchen trash bag can be worn as a poncho.
11. Portable Flashlight or Headlamp
Visibility at night or in low-light conditions is essential for safety and navigation. Carry an LED light, preferably. They require a lot less battery power. Headlamps are ideal, allowing you to free up your hands. A keychain flashlight is an option.
12. Maps and Compass
If GPS fails, paper maps and a compass are your best backup. It might not be ideal to carry around a map, but at the very least, have a compass. Even a button compass will work.
13. Cash and Small Change
You’ll need cash in case of emergencies when credit cards or electronic payments aren’t accepted. Have a mix of small bills and change for minor transactions.
14. Whistle
A loud whistle can signal for help, especially if you’re in a dense forest or urban setting.
15. Sunscreen and Bug Repellent
Protects from sunburn and insect bites in outdoor or unfamiliar environments. If a can of bug repellent isn’t an option, a pack of repellent wipes might work better.
16. Duct Tape
Multi-use for quick fixes, repairs, or even as a makeshift bandage. Tear strips of
17. Water Purification System
This is critical for survival. You need safe water to drink.
10 Reliable Ways to Purify Water
18. Backup Identification
In case you lose your ID, passport, or wallet, a backup copy helps with identification. Copies of your passport, ID, travel insurance, and important documents in a waterproof pouch.
19 Survival Items You Should Stockpile from Dollar Tree
Stockpiling can get expensive, but Dollar Tree offers affordable items that can help you stay prepared without overspending. With plenty of useful options, Dollar Tree makes it easier to stay ready for anything. Here’s a list of 15 essential items you can find at Dollar Tree to start building your stockpile today.
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For preppers, thrift stores can be a real resource. Building up a stockpile of essential supplies to support your family over an extended period can quickly become quite costly. With that in mind, thrift stores are a great place to find some key items preppers often look for. Here are 14 essential prepper finds you can pick up at a thrift store.
