50 Survival Items to Have

When Far From Home

by Chad Nabors, and Dan F. Sullivan (coordinating author)

https://www.thesurvivalistblog.net/
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Most readers will be well acquainted with the term EDC; Every Day Carry, the
things you take with you to navigate your day, solve your problems, and as a
hedge against crisis. For many of us, placing these items in our pockets or in our
pack or briefcase is as automatic as getting dressed and tying our shoes. This is
our well-planned and default level of equipment taken when leaving our home.

You have probably already placed a larger kit in your vehicle for more serious
situations, and still more elaborate packs and kits back at home. But one instance
you might have neglected to plan for is that of simply traveling far from your
home, leaving behind all your all your well-planned preps.

In this report, I will address some areas of readiness that you may have
overlooked, and give you examples of what preps you might want to add to your
EDC, whether traveling by road or air. I’ll also touch on some itinerary items for
international travelers near the end.

Not in Kansas Anymore

For the purposes of this article, we will assume you are travelling voluntarily for
work or pleasure, by road or air, and you have at least a little time to gather your
things and pack properly. Maybe it is a business trip, perhaps you might work over
the road in sales or trucking, or hopefully you are heading off to a far away
training class. Whatever your reason is, the preparations are the same.

I will explain considerations that you should address before you depart, and
equipment you may take with you. The items and equipment discussed will be for
contingencies, with a few convenience and comfort items. Those items will be
from my personal equipage, and are particular to my needs and wants; yours may
be different.

Most of them will be universal, that is to say helpful in most situations no matter
who you are. Some are items I carry constantly whether close to home or not. I
have included them here for completeness. Keep in mind that I do not even hope
to anticipate every single individual’s unique, situation, ability, limitations,
worries, wants and fears. Foremost they should serve to get your mind working to
address shortcomings in your “long-distance” plan.

Local Considerations when Staying or

Passing Through
Know the laws on weapons at your destination, both for knives, guns and anything
else you are taking backwards and forwards. Driving in or flying, ignorance will not
save you from legal trouble.

 Is your concealed weapons permit valid in the state?

 What locations can I have a gun or knife stored in a vehicle?
 What buildings and places are off limits for weapons?

If you have concealed carry insurance, check in with your provider to ensure you
are protected while traveling.

 Are you familiar with the city or area you are traveling to/through?
 Do you know the major roadways and interstates?
 Will you be traveling through or staying in a bad area?
 What are the most likely criminal threats?
 What is the weather forecast?
 If going in a personal vehicle, is your vehicle equipped to handle normal
and inclement weather conditions at the locale?
 Any long stretches of lesser traveled or desolate road you’ll be passing
through?

If you are staying any length of time, know where your life-saving services are:
hospitals, police and fire departments, clinics. Source phone numbers for the ones
near your lodging ahead of time. The efficiency of 911 varies place to place.
Make your planning a mental exercise: take yourself through several away -from-
home scenarios, and go step-by-step through your response for each of them. If
you hit a snag, that points the way towards a prep or fix you should implement, or
at least be aware of.

Equipment Considerations
If traveling by car, any of these items are in addition to what you should already
have stocked the vehicle with, things like water, recovery gear, spare parts, tool
kit, first aid, gas can, blow-out kit, etc. If traveling by air, the majority of these
items will be checked luggage approved, but you must verify with your airline, and
know the laws at your destination before you depart to avoid an embarrassing,
not to mention costly, faux pas.

For airline travelers: SANITIZE YOUR LUGGAGE, CARRY-ON AND WALLET. This is a
crucial preparatory step. When I say sanitize, I mean gather every bag you are
taking, and you empty every item, open every zipper and inspect every pouch,
pocket and seam.

People who prep typically have knives and multi-tools with sharp edges, and
probably at some point had them in the very same bags they’re getting ready to
fly with.

If a knife, cartridge (or even empty casing), or can of pepper spray is discovered in
your carry-on at the TSA checkpoint, you are going to have a Bad-Frickin’-Day™.
Maybe you carry one of those sweet credit card-sized multi-tools or knives
stashed in your wallet? Same thing; guess how well that conversation is going to
go…

One more reminder, this is my personal kit; some items may not be applicable to
your needs. Start thinking about which ones are, and which ones you need that I
haven’t listed.

The List-On Body

Items below are what are in my pockets or on my person if permissible.

First-Aid Kit- For trauma. This should include a quality tourniquet, compression
bandages, hemostatic gauze or pads and sterile gloves at the minimum. More
inclusive kits will include chest seals and decompression needles. Keep this on
your body if at all possible and know how to use it. Ankle rigs are great for keeping
it handy when dressed spiffy.

Flashlight- Pick the best one you can afford. Size is a factor; too small or too large
is undesirable. Pick a model with a good throw and high output. This will be used
for a hundred mundane tasks, signaling and in conjunction with your handgun for
positive identification in low light.

Knife- A good, sturdy fixed blade or folding knife. I only use this for serious
purposes, nothing else. That could be slashing a seat belt or puncturing a bad guy.
Keep this one razor sharp, no exceptions. For less critical tasks I will instead use
the blade on my…

Multi-tool- Too useful to not have. A small model is fine for most, and you are
more likely to carry it. I use the classic Tinker Swiss Army knife by Victorinox.
Smartphone- aka The Witch Brick. Nothing shy of a miraculous device. Camera,
GPS, maps, encyclopedia, translation, notes, communications, ballistics computer,
drone controller... I could go on. If you get the willies worrying about being
tracked or spied on, look into how to mitigate those concerns or go analog.

Lighter- For starting fires. Ten times better and faster than other methods in
nearly every situation. You may certainly want to have a redundant method and
tinder, but you are being foolish if you don’t have a lighter. I carry a classic Zippo.
Easy there! Before you remind me of how they leak fuel, stink, and generally suck
compared to modern butane lighters, read on.

Pistol- Whenever possible, you should be carrying. If you are able to carry, and
choose not to, you need to have a sincere heart-to-heart with yourself. This
includes support gear, such as the holster, mag carriers, and the like.
Spare Ammo- However much makes sense. I have a spare magazine on my
person, and two in my bag. Additional mags or boxed ammo is either in the car or
luggage. It’s easy to go overboard here, plan well.

Handkerchief/Bandana- A large, clean one. Serves innumerable purposes.

Impromptu first aid, sun covering, can be used to catch small parts, tied into a
sack or bindle, extra padding, or signaling.

The List-In Bag

These items are what are stashed in my backpack, carry-on or luggage as
applicable or permissible.

Boo-Boo Kit- For lesser injuries. Band-Aids, tape, gauze pad, tweezers, alcohol
pads, pain relievers and medications, and moleskin. I like the individual dose
powdered medications by Urgent Rx; you can take one with no water and they
pack down tiny, allowing me to fit all this and then some in a mint tin.

Phone Chargers and cables- Both wall outlet and car adapters. Don’t get suckered
into using those free or pay-to-play USB chargers anywhere. I have heard reliable
sources on the tech side of the house warn of them putting things in, or taking
things out, of your device’s memory. Get a longer cord than you think you’ll need
for convenience, and a spare.
Power Cell or Back-up Battery- For all their wondrous functions, smart phones are
power hungry. Keep them charged when possible, but when it isn’t possible, use a
power cell to keep streaming, or swap batteries. For some, portable solar charging
arrays are a great option, and more affordable than ever.

Gun Cleaning Kit- A tiny oil bottle and the bare minimum to keep your pistol
clean. This needs to be small.

Headlamp- For hands-free lighting.

Batteries- For flashlight and headlamp. Don’t go overboard here.

Maps- Paper maps of your destination, a general atlas, and topographic maps of
the countryside. I feel much better having backup paper maps. I remember a time
I was standing behind a young lady in line at a fancy, all-natural grocery store. She
made an idle comment looking at a picture of a globe on a magazine, “I wonder
how people got around before Google Maps?” I replied, “We used, well, maps.
Real maps.” She turned with an exasperated, pained expression, “No, before
Google Maps!” I weep for our culture.

GPS- Kept up to date. Don’t forget the charger!

Compass- A good field compass or a small button compass. Another great item to
have if you get lost and don’t have phone signal or a GPS.

Hatchet- A small, one-handed camper’s hatchet. Useful for busting out car
windows, chopping trees and saplings, or as a close range weapon. One with a
hammer poll makes a fine hammer, used with care.
Pocket Ref & Auto Ref Books- Tiny, lightweight guides that between them have,
literally, about any bit of need-to-know info imaginable. Miniature encyclopedias
full of maps, and extensive general info. Invaluable, never lose power, and
entertaining when you have to wait around for a while. Seriously, pretty tiny, so
bring your reading glasses if you need them.

Water Bottle- User choice, the debate rages among people which is best and why.
I carry a large Nalgene. Easy to refill, and bomb proof. Some may want a quality
steel one to allow the boiling of water within.

Note Pad- I like Rite-in-the-Rain products for durability, and they don’t dissolve in
my pocket if I get wet or sweaty.

Pen/Pencil- Some special pens by Fisher, like the space pen, and other companies
can write in nearly any condition, never dry out and last a long time. Work great
with the Rite-in-the-Rain paper above.

Playing Cards- Good to stave off boredom, and making friends. Don’t dismiss the
social value of teaching, or learning, a card game.

Spare Socks- Take care of your feet. You may get wet or muddy, or just need extra
insulation.

Spare Underwear- Same idea as above. Also great to have just to freshen up after
being stranded and having to hike for help, or a too-long layover.
Shirt- You are starting to get the idea. Fresh clothes after you have gotten dirty or
wet can be a huge morale booster, to say nothing of the value of having extra
layers handy.

Coat- If you are anywhere where the temperature, day or night, could put you at
risk of exposure, keep an insulating garment with you.

Toiletry Kit- Tiny sizes of all your usual bathroom and grooming products to save
room and weight.

Book- Your choice. Handy for passing the time in cramped conditions, or looking
distracted.

Dry Bag, compressible / Heavy Contractor Bag- Sometimes things get wet,
muddy, or nasty and you cannot leave it behind. Pack it up neatly with this. Also
handy for compartmentalizing your other items.

Zip-Loc Freezer Bags, gallon size- Not the slider type. Great for stashing smaller
items, holding water in a pinch, trash control and sanitation.

Chemlights- I use Cyalume brand, and bring 2 or 3. Terrific for signaling, safe and
heatless emergency lighting, or cheering up a kid.

Cordage- Paracord is the Prepper Standard, but for most folks accessory cord is
more than adequate and packs down smaller. Take a small shank, you’ll find
plenty of uses for it.

Ear Buds or Ear Plugs- Great for tuning-out noisy environments, or looking like
you are tuned out. Ear plugs are great in very noisy places or for impromptu
shooting sessions.

Tea Bags or Instant Coffee- Great for a pick-me-up. Don’t count on finding some
when you really want it. I’m a tea drinker, so it turns out good even cold if I can
steep it long enough.

Snacks- Calorie dense and plastic sealed is what I go for here. Don’t waste room or
weight on canned items. A variety of energy gels are very convenient, or the
dense, jerky-like meat bars. My current favorite is by Epic. Super clean, a variety of
great meats and tasty.
Gloves- Think heavier here. Lots to argue about, but protection and insulation, if
applicable, are key.

Beanie/Warm Hat- Same reason I want a coat. Also keeps sun and wind off my
bald head.

Pocket Blanket- Insulation, padding. Good ones pack down smaller than a can of
soda and weigh almost nothing.

Pocket Pack- A secondary, smaller day or half-day pack that will stuff down into
itself for easy stowage. Many good ones exist on the market. Used for overflow,
or to hand off to a friend or partner. Check out the ZZZ Custom Works Czech Pack
or Matador packable series.

Hand Sanitizer- For sanitation. When you need it, you need it.

Toilet Paper- Same as above. Keep a stash folded up in a baggie.

Tarp- Folded up and compressed, weighs almost nothing and takes next to no
space. Great for improvised shelter, shade or ground cover.

Carabiner- Locking model preferred. Useful for hanging and attaching.

Vice Grips- Good quality, larger ones. I am perpetually disappointed in multi-tool

pliers; these can act as pliers, clamps, wire cutters and a wrench. Accept no
substitutes.

Flash Drive- This is a big one, and commonly omitted. Keep copies of your
important ID, insurance, medical and legal documents on it. Encrypt them for
security. Priceless if you lose your wallet or there is a major disaster.
Pre-Paid Debit Card- I like to have one that I can hand out with impunity and not
risk having my credit card companies flag the card, or a shady merchant try to rip
me off if I am made as a traveler.

Quantity of Silver or Gold- This will be a contentious one. A small quantity of pure
silver or gold is valuable anywhere in a pinch, and can be traded for cash or goods
in a hurry when all other means fail. You have to decide if the risk is worth it, but
it is always highly valued, even in emergencies.

Talisman- A bauble, trinket or good-luck charm. Everybody has that one little
thing, usually superfluous, that they are just not happy heading out without. If it
helps you focus, stay calm, or toughen up, it is worth taking, assuming it isn’t your
lucky bowling ball. Mine is a Zippo lighter. I keep a cheap Bic in my bag just in
case, but the Zippo stays on me. The design, warm brass and strangely addictive
function make me feel good.
All of the above, including the coat, fit into my one-day size backpack with room
to spare.

Considerations for International Travelers

I rarely travel outside the borders of the US, but have been advised by travel
agents and globetrotting friends of the following instances you should be very well
prepared for. Being stranded far from home in a place experiencing unrest or
getting shaken down by foreign customs agents is an experience you will not soon
forget.

Know Embassy Location and Contact Number- This should go without saying.
Have that number on your person besides just stored in your phone.

Prescription Medications- Know your destination country’s laws and regulations

on declaring and having medication. What is the procedure at customs? Be sure to
have documentation from your doctor and pharmacist in triplicate.

How, and can you obtain more of your medication if you should lose your supply
while in country? Double check to make sure your daily prescription meds won’t
have any adverse reactions with vaccines you may need before traveling.

Local Friends or Guide- Take pains to make a genuine friend before arrival. Having
a local on your elbow in a crisis will be of great comfort, and can hopefully offer
safe harbor in case of unrest, legal issues or injury.

Weapons- In a word, DON’T. Outside the US, various countries laws on self-
defense and weapons vary wildly, but you can depend on them being more
restrictive, and draconian, than the US.

Don’t assume even a tiny knife or pepper spray is ok. You cannot afford to be
wrong here. Only exceptions would be if you are traveling abroad with guns for
hunting or competition, and you’d better have your I’s dotted and T’s crossed.

Another idea would be to purchase a knife once you are in country and be
prepared to ditch it before flying home, but again, you must know the laws
governing defense and carry of a weapon. If you are concerned about legal hassle,
make improvised weapon and empty hand training a priority.
Conclusion
Traveling presents more opportunities for disaster to strike, and requires a
modicum more thought and planning. But as you can see from the list above, a
small amount of additional equipment can enable you to get back home or wait
out a crisis in relative comfort.

Anything you think I overlooked or wasted space on? What are your must-haves
or special requirement items? I’d really enjoy seeing what you readers carry for
your personal items. Let me know in the comments!

Chad Nabors, Dan F. Sullivan (coordinating author)

https://www.thesurvivalistblog.net/