Your choice of equipment can make all the difference when it comes to survival. That's why you need to prepare methodically, taking the following parameters into account: Versatility, weight, bulk and durability. It's up to you to make your list of products according to your requirements and practice. So you're ready to face any emergency in the mountains, and set off on your adventure with peace of mind!

Survie

Discover our top 10 survival products:

1 Backpack

To carry your gear, you'll need a good backpack, ergonomic and sturdy, with a volume adapted to what you plan to take with you. There is a wide range of backpacks to choose from, so your main criteria will be durability and strength. Carrying comfort is also a consideration if you're planning long expeditions.

2 Survival knife

A must-have in survival, a knife can help you in many situations. For chopping wood, preparing your meal and opening cans, opt for versatility without denigrating sturdiness. It should have a quality stainless steel blade and a comfortable handle. There are a multitude of survival knives to choose from, with different blade constructions and shapes to suit different uses. See our selection of survival knives.

3 Filtering water bottle

Extremely useful for all your outings, a filtration system becomes indispensable for staying hydrated or cooking. In particular, it helps avoid the unpleasant bleach taste of purifying tablets. There are different types of filter: Straw, gourd, pump or gravity filters. Each type of filter is designed to meet a specific need, and each model has its own advantages and disadvantages, which should be taken into account when preparing your equipment. Katadyn is our benchmark brand for this hydration universe.


4 First-aid kit

Always at hand in an emergency, this is the first aid kit you'll need. That's why it's so important to prepare for your adventure, so you're ready for the unexpected. What type of race are you planning? With whom? How long will it last? What kind of weather?

The size, weight and practicality of your first-aid kit will also be important. A well-compartmentalized first-aid kit is easier to access and organize, so you can provide quality care even under stressful conditions.

5 Compass

A compass is an indispensable tool for orientation in all circumstances. Even in the age of smartphones and GPS, if you run out of battery, it's your best ally. There are different types of compass: the compact or plate compass, which is easy to carry and use; the thumb compass, which is very ergonomic; and the sighting compass, for greater precision.

6 Survival blanket

The survival blanket is made of a waterproof, thermally insulating material designed to prevent hypothermia in an accident victim. It can be useful in many situations, as a signaling device with its reflective properties, a rain poncho or an improvised stretcher. It can also be used as a ground sheet at night to keep out the cold when bivouacking. There are two types of blanket: Non-reusable, economical, lightweight but fragile. Reusable, thicker and therefore more durable, but a little heavier.

7 Appropriate clothing

Outdoors, you're entirely dependent on the weather. You'll need adapted clothing to anticipate weather changes and stay protected. Rain, snow, cold, heat and humidity are all factors to be taken into account when preparing for your adventures. So pack a rain poncho or waterproof jacket, technical thermal clothing against the cold or fleece, accessories (gloves, neck warmer) and breathable clothing for hot weather. You'll find Carinthia clothing that lets you blend in with nature.

8 Headlamp

Aheadlamp or flashlight will come in very handy when you're setting off in the early hours of the morning, or when you need to get organized and prepare for the night. You can choose between battery-powered and battery-powered, with more or less power. You'll still need a good autonomy or extra batteries.

9 Solar charger

Compact device for recharging cell phones and other devices. Practical, robust and environmentally friendly, these solar chargers can recharge batteries up to 48 volts and with a capacity of several hundred amps per hour. The only drawback: results will be less if there's little sunshine, so it's up to you to choose the type of solar panel best suited to the weather conditions at your destination or place of residence.

10 Tarp or hammock shelter

Even if in survival conditions you have the option of building a shelter, a hanging hammock or just a tarp can give you a minimum of comfort for a minimum of weight. The biggest advantage of a hammock is that it can be set up on any type of terrain (slope, type of soil), provided you have two attachment points. Remember to use strong, lightweight paracord to secure your hammock. A tarp will keep you dry if you need to sleep on the ground while traveling light.

Many tools can be added to this list. A fire starter, fishing line, candles and a survival whistle will be very useful without taking up too much space in your bag.

With experience in the field, you'll be able to determine which essentials you'll need to take with you. The most important thing is to have reliable, sturdy equipment that won't let you down when you need it.

Check your equipment regularly (at least once a year and systematically before every outing), and take good care of it so that it lasts as long as possible!

We'll help you choose your trekking gear: trekking: our advice on equipment!