Bug Out Bags - Go Bags - Essential

How to Build a Personal Urban Survival Kit

Creating a personal urban survival kit enhances your overall preparedness and provides flexibility in uncertain times. Recent events highlight the need to be ready for various emergencies. By assembling and maintaining a compact kit in your Everyday Carry (EDC) bag or pack, you can build a solid foundation for urban survival. Below are key components to consider when creating your kit.

Initial Considerations

Before assembling your kit, determine its size and purpose. Some people prefer a full backpack, while others may opt for something as small as an Altoids® tin. A small-to-medium-sized pouch, such as a 6x6 MOLLE pouch or a compact container like the GSI® Glacier Stainless Boiler Cup, can serve as a practical guide for keeping your kit manageable.

Cutting Tool

A cutting tool is an essential component. A fixed-blade knife, pocket knife, or multitool like the Leatherman® Rebar or Sidekick provides versatility. A Victorinox Swiss Army Knife, such as the Huntsman model, offers a variety of tools and is an excellent choice for urban environments.

Fire-Starting Device

Fire is vital in survival situations, so include a simple fire-starting tool like a Bic® lighter. It’s also wise to have a backup, such as Bayite® Survival Fire Striker or NATO weatherproof matches. Pair these with reliable tinder, like UST® WetFire™ cubes, which ignite even when wet, or cotton tinder tabs.

Food Procurement Tools

Urban food procurement requires creativity. Consider including an energy bar or trail mix in your kit. Other helpful tools might include cash or change, a small pry bar, or a lock-picking set for access to food or other resources.

Water Procurement

In an urban setting, water may not be readily available. Carry a sillcock key to access water from buildings and keep a LifeStraw® or Aquatabs® to purify water from unreliable sources.

Emergency Shelter

While your kit won’t accommodate large shelter items, think creatively. An emergency blanket or bivy sack offers compact shelter, and urban settings may provide improvised options like abandoned buildings or overpasses. Remember that clothing is your first layer of protection.

Illumination

Though cities are generally well-lit, power outages can happen. A headlamp is a great primary light source, while a micro-flashlight, like the LRI® Photon Freedom LED Keychain Micro-Light, can serve as a backup. A red light option will help preserve night vision.

Signal or Communication Device

In emergencies, signaling for help or communicating is crucial. Your headlamp or micro-flashlight can act as signaling devices. A signal mirror is an effective daytime option, and a charged smartphone is essential for communication. Keep a pen and paper handy for taking notes.

Navigation Device

Unlike wilderness survival, urban navigation may require more than just a compass. A folding, laminated map of your city is useful, and like the emergency blanket, it may need to be stored separately from your main kit.

Medical Supplies

Basic first-aid items are essential, but remember, your kit isn’t a fully stocked medical bag. Include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and a Combat Application Tourniquet (CAT). Your EDC bag or backpack should contain more comprehensive medical supplies.

Personal Security

For personal security, consider carrying pepper spray, a personal alarm, or a stun gun or even all of them in a convenient tactical walking stick . The size of your kit will dictate what you can include for self-defense, but keep in mind that the kit is meant for last-ditch scenarios.

Carrying Mechanism

Choose a carrying pouch after assembling your items. A bug-out-bag or a dry sack are good options, though each has its drawbacks. Experiment to find what works best for your needs, ensuring the kit stays small and functional.

Final Thoughts

A personal urban survival kit should be tailored to your specific needs, keeping in mind that it is a last-resort tool, not a comprehensive solution. Aim for a balance between functionality and practicality, avoiding the temptation to overfill it. Keep your kit simple, effective, and ready for any situation.