Survival Tools Reviews

Survival Gadgets

Whether you’re living an off-grid lifestyle, training for extreme conditions, or just enjoying your weekly camping and hiking trips, it’s important to be prepared for any situation. Millions of people visit and hike in national parks in the United States and around the world, but many of them get lost, seriously injured, or worse. If you want to survive and see another day, you need the best survival equipment.

In this article, I have decided to share with you the best survival gadgets and gears of the current year, so that you are prepared for every possible situation. You don’t need to be a survival expert, just know the key tools you should have when the worst happens. This way, you will never be surprised by anything, and you will definitely overcome the difficulties.

So, let’s take a look at some of the best gadgets for your survival in 2020 and understand why you need them. Most of these are available on Amazon (unless otherwise stated) and are linked from their product pages. Further in the article, I will also explain how you can choose the right survival tools and answer several related questions. If you want to jump into a gadget category that interests you, here are the quick links to the categories:

• Survival gadgets related to water and food
• Survival flashlight
• Navigational gadgets
• Shelter and safety gadgets
• Additional survival gadgets and tools
• The best survival gadgets related to water and food
• Survival Spark Magnesium Fire Starter

 A forest fire has many purposes, from keeping yourself warm to cooking to keeping animals and insects away for your own safety. This fantastic survival fire starter is wind resistant and easy to use. However, it’s not just a survival fire starter, it’s a 3-in-1 emergency tool! The Survival Fire Starter is also equipped with a compass and 150 DB SOS whistle.

Here are some more features of this great tool:

• Windproof and weather resistant
• Can be hit up to 15,000 times to start a fire.

Large scraper: Use an extra long scraper to easily and quickly ignite the flame on the tool’s magnesium rod.

Fits Anywhere: The fire starter rod is only 5.5”, which means you can easily store it in your car, camping gear, survival kit, or wherever you want.

LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

 No life without water! So, no matter what activity you choose to do, whether it’s hiking, camping, climbing, or just walking around outdoors, you should have clean water with you. The LifeStraw Water Filter is an amazing survival gadget! It uses a filter that can remove up to 99.9% of parasites, bacteria and microplastics from water, giving you clean drinking water wherever you are.

The device’s microfiltration membrane can eliminate all types of bacteria such as Salmonella, Cryptosporidium, E. coli, and Giardia. Basically, you can add water to the LifeStraw from any water source and instantly have clean water that you can drink.

This is not just any water filtration device. LifeStraw has been thoroughly tested in laboratories to ensure that it is safe and reliable. The filter provides up to 1,000 gallons of safe and filtered drinking water. This amount is more than enough because the average person drinks less than this amount in an entire year. Just watch this great video from CNET and see how the LifeStraw is saving lives around the world:

Other great features of this gadget:

• Completely BPA free
• Extremely light and easy to carry anywhere
• No batteries are required.
• Instantly filter water from rivers, lakes, and streams and safely drink directly from this device.

Biolite Camp Stove 2 – Electric wood camp stove.

 This amazing portable camping stove allows you to cook food and boil water in just minutes, while at the same time you can charge your cell phone or other electronic devices. Use the sticks and twigs around you to put out the fire, so no fuel is needed.

The BioLite Campstove 2 comes with an integrated 2600 mAh battery for charging your electronic devices, and an LED dashboard. This way, you can easily control the fan speed, and also get actual data about firepower and battery level.

So, how does this cool device work?

It captures the waste heat from the fire thanks to an attached heat probe. Then, this heat is converted into electricity using a thermoelectric generator. The fan is running and power is being sent to the USB charging port, with excess power stored in the internal battery. Finally, an internal fan draws air back into the burn chamber to improve combustion and provide an efficient and clean burn.

and what else?

• 4 different fan speed settings
• Aluminum legs that are lightweight.
• Safety barrier from the internal burn chamber
• Charge electrical devices with or without fire.

Redware Camping Cookware Mess Kit

This wonderful gadget is an FDA approved camping cookware set that combines many useful pieces to fit 1 to 5 people depending on the settings you choose. You can choose between sets of 9, 12, 13, 18, or 23 pieces. It’s light, compact, and small, yet has everything you need.

Here’s what’s in this cookware set (varies depending on the settings you choose):

The following refers to a set of 23 pieces:

• 1 pan
• 3 vessels
• 2 dishes
• 5 bowls.
• 1 bowl of soup
• 1 fork
• 2 folding spoons
• 1 tool card
• 1 loofah
• 1 nylon bag
• 1 survival bracelet

It may seem like a lot of items to carry, but don’t worry. This awesome gadget is very light and you won’t even feel it in your bag. It is made of high quality anodized aluminum and weighs only 0.96 LBS/0.43 KG!

The kit comes with an oxford bag to store all the cooking pieces. Just hang it on your bag, or put it inside. And just like that, you’re ready for lunch or dinner in the woods.

lcfun waterproof and windproof outdoor lighter

 An easy way to put out a fire is to use a lighter, but it’s not your ordinary lighter. This lighter is specially designed for outdoor activities and survival, and here it is: it has a waterproof design so water doesn’t get inside the lighter, even if it’s raining. It’s also flameless and windproof, so it’s perfect for many outdoor activities like hiking, camping, or an emergency fire to keep warm or signal your location, no matter the weather. Whatever the situation.

Other great features of this lighter are:

• USB Rechargeable (Lithium Battery)
• It requires no gas or butane to operate.
• 2 hours full charge
• Easy and convenient to carry thanks to its thick lanyard.
• High quality and durable (zinc alloy and ABS)

The best survival flashlight

Lucy Survival Solar Air Lantern

This patented survival gadget is all about providing light even in the most extreme conditions. The amazing thing about the Lucy Survival Solar Air Lantern is that it does not require batteries, an electrical outlet or any kind of fuel. You simply step out into the sun, and once it’s charged – you can inflate the lantern and enjoy hours of reliable light.

Lantern is loaded with awesome features:

• Four different modes – low light, medium light, high light and flashing light
• Completely waterproof
• Lightweight, easy to pack and carry
• Provides bright light wherever you are – in a tent, on a boat, in the woods, etc
• Ten white LEDs
• A fully charged lantern can provide light throughout the day and night.
• Can be submerged in water (up to 1 meter / 3 feet)
• Again comes with various types of protections including short circuits, over charge, and over discharge.
• Manufacturer’s warranty for 1 year
• Quality assurance as per all international standards

The Solar Air Lantern is marketed by Survival Frog, one of the world’s leading survival stores. Survival Frog offers a 50% discount on second lanterns, but that’s not all. You also get a free paracord survival kit with every two lanterns you buy. This pocket-sized kit consists of a very long piece of sturdy paracord and 10 essential survival items wrapped inside.

TC1200 PRO Tactical Flashlight

A great item from 1TAC, now offered at a significant discount. This little beast of a flashlight produces a strong light of 1200 Lumens that illuminates everything! It’s made of aircraft-grade aluminum, so you know it’s strong and extremely durable. It is also waterproof and scratch resistant and can be your trusted companion for many years to come.

Some of the features of the TC1200 include:

• Size: 5 x 1.9 inches
• Weighs 5.6 oz with batteries
• The extremely robust TC1200 lamp can last up to 100,000 hours.
• Five light modes, including SOS and strobe light
• Remembers the last selected light mode after being switched off and on.
• Patented overheat protection
• Specially designed to prevent rolling and slipping.
• The lens is anti-reflective and ultra clear.
• The torch head can be used for self defense or to break the glass.

1TAC 3-in-1 Utility Flashlight

A flashlight provides you with light in dark times and places and also allows you to signal for help in emergency situations. This 3-in-1 utility flashlight does all that and more. Using this flashlight, you get:

Flashlight: Bright 1,200 lumens with 20X zoom

Lantern: A very bright lantern that extends from the handle of the torch.

SOS Beacon: Red SOS strobe mode if you find yourself in an emergency situation.

J5 Tactical V1-PRO Flashlight

The flashlight comes with a magnetic base that works hands-free and is made of aircraft-machined aluminum that makes it very durable. It comes with 5 modes, which are High, Mid, Low, Lantern, and SOS Beacon.

This tactical flashlight is durable and very bright. You can light up an entire room or just focus on specific objects that are 600 feet away! A single AA battery is enough to power this flashlight.

It has 3 different settings. High, Low, and Strobe. It is perfect for both indoor and outdoor activities, including indoors, walking the dog, hiking, camping, fishing, and more. The J5 Tactical V1-Pro Flashing is extremely rugged, compact, water-resistant, and can survive a 9-foot drop. Even if you accidentally drop it in deep water, it can still work temporarily.

Other great features of this flashlight are:

• There is an LED bulb with 300 lumens.
• You can zoom in and out with it (spotlight and floodlight).
• Highly resistant: resistant to drops, shocks, and water
• Batteries: Compatible with regular batteries as well as rechargeable batteries

The best navigational gadgets

Garmin inReach Explorer+

 This great tool allows you to signal for help no matter where you are. Garmin inReach Explorer+ uses global Iridium satellites, enabling communication between two devices. If you want to use the Explorer+ feature to activate the SOS system or connect to the Search and Rescue Monitoring System (operates 24/7), you will need to obtain a satellite subscription feature.

The device is waterproof and comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. When you pair Garmin inReach Explorer+ with your cell phone, you can access and download color aerial photos, US NOAA charts and more. If you prefer to use the device on its own without pairing it with your cell phone, know that it comes with GPS routing and preloaded DeLorme TOPO maps.

The device is also equipped with:

• Digital compass (built-in)
• Accelerometer
• Barometric Altimeter

iSky Multi-Functional Military Lenstic Tactical Compass

 You might think you have your cell phone or GPS device, so why even have a compass? There may be times when your electronic equipment breaks or malfunctions. You may find yourself in an area without cell or satellite coverage. That’s why a compass, and specifically this iSky Multifunctional Military Lenstic Tactical Compass, Amazon’s Choice product, can be a real lifesaver.

This tactical compass has an aluminum casing, which is also waterproof. The compass comes with a floating compass dial. Orientation with the dial is very easy, as it has a 360 degree scale. It is also resistant to various shocks on the way, you can avoid many drops and other accidents. Plus, because it uses a professional-grade lens design, it’s lightweight and you can easily fold it into a compact size.

This device is military grade, which means years and years of serious use in any weather condition, even the most extreme weather conditions.

Other great features of this tactical compass are:

• Fluorescent: The fluorescent in the compass allows you to read it easily even at night.
• Pouch and lanyard included.
• No batteries or electronic devices are required to operate.
• Metal Cover: Protects the compass from drops and bumps.
• Spinning Ring: To keep you on your way.
• Conversion Chart: For easy estimation of distances, angles and gradients.

Go Tina mesh of grid pairing SMS and GPS devices

 If you find yourself in an emergency, this amazing device allows you to call for help. This GPS device tracks your location and with it, you can send your coordinates if you find yourself in an emergency or trouble. It also allows you to send text messages between GoTena devices within a 4-mile radius.

What makes this device so special? You can send SMS messages and locations without needing a network tower, router or phone service. It is an independent tool that works entirely for your survival. With Go Tina Mesh, you can use chat one-on-one, chat in groups, and even send and receive emergency broadcasts.

Want more? The goTenna app allows you to access maps for free and offline. The goTenna Mesh comes without a screen, so remember to install the app on your cell phone to use it properly.

Mesh’s encrypted networking keeps information private and the system works worldwide.

The best shelter and safety gadgets

Go Time Gear Life Tent Emergency Survival Shelter

 Just think about it. No matter where you are, no matter what the outside conditions are, you always have an emergency survival shelter with you. Is that amazing or what? With a rating of 4.7 out of 5 from over 500 votes, and being an Amazon favorite, this is a must-have gadget and gear for any survivalist!

It is an emergency tube tent designed for an engineer and 2 people. It’s light and compact (8.7 ounces), so you can take it anywhere. It’s well-built and features materials that are puncture-resistant and extra-thick tear-resistant.

Here are some more great features of this amazing gadget:

Keeps you warm and dry: The Life Tent keeps you warm and dry in any condition. It is waterproof as well as windproof. It is made of extra-thick polyethylene, which is puncture-resistant and tear-resistant, and also seals out rain, snow and wind.

Survival whistle and paracord drawstring: The tent includes a 120-decibel survival whistle that cuts through wind and trees, so you can alert rescuers up to 1 mile away. It also comes with a 550lb nylon core Para-Synch technology drawstring, which you can use to tie down or repair gear.

Not just a tent: If you can’t find anywhere to attach a paracord, you can use your 8×5-foot mylar tube tent as an improvised survival shelter, emergency sleeping bag, or emergency blanket. can.

Easy to use: You can set up the tent in no time, and when you’re done using it, simply fold it into a nylon stuff sack.

REUSABLE: All items of this amazing gadget are 100% reusable.

Go Time Gear Life Wife Emergency Sleeping Bag

 The product name says it all. It is an emergency sleeping bag to keep you warm and safe in extreme and cold weather conditions. Another Amazon’s Choice product with a score of 4.7 out of 5 from over 750 ratings. Let’s understand what makes this product such a big hit for survival.

This emergency sleeping bag keeps you warm and basically acts as a survival shelter. It comes with a 120 decibel survival whistle that can cut through trees and wind. It helps you to indicate your position while staying warm and safe, in case of an emergency or if rescue is needed.

This sleeping bag is made of 26um extra thick mylar material. It has a coating that is tear and puncture resistant. This allows the bag to withstand extreme conditions, such as rain, snow and wind. The bag is of course windproof as well as waterproof, to keep you warm no matter what weather conditions you’re up against.

More great features of this item:

• Lightweight (4.1 ounces)
• 100% reusable
• Up to 90% of body heat is returned to you.
• The bright orange color will be highly visible to rescuers.
• Folds into a waterproof stuff sack.
• Store it anywhere you want: hiking bag, car glove box, backpack, survival bag

Survival First Aid Kit

 A first aid kit is a must have whenever you go on an adventure or any other activity in the forest. You never know what might happen or what situation you might encounter, and a survival first aid kit can save your life, literally!

This amazing first aid kit is color-coded, so it’s even thought of for you in an emergency, when you’re stressed or nervous. Even if you travel alone, this kit is a real lifesaver. Here are some tools and gear that are included:

• the knife
• Hand saw
• Signaling mirror
• The multi-tool
• Poncho
• Breathing mask
• Emergency blanket
• Stripes: Triangular, Crepe, Knuckle, Square, Large, Butterfly, and more
• Whistling
• Sting Relief Wipes

Swiss Safe Emergency Mylar Thermal Blankets

The bag is suitable for any outdoor activity and adventure. It is made of 600D polyester, which means it is waterproof and keeps all the items inside the bag dry at all times. You can attach this bag to a bag or even hang it on a belt (depending on the size of the bag you want to buy).

The bag comes in 3 dimensions: (12″ x 8″ x 6″), (7.5″ x 6″ x 3.5″), (9″ x 7″ x 4″) and depending on the dimensions, weight Ranges from 1 LBS to 3.25 LBS.

This bag has compartments, so you can quickly get whatever you need from it. As I mentioned earlier, everything is labeled and color coded, and there’s even a first aid guide.

Another great Amazon’s Choice item for survival. With a score of 4.9 out of 5 from over 900 ratings, these emergency blankets will keep you warm anytime, anywhere.

These thermal blankets are specially designed for emergency use. They feature advanced double-sided aluminum to retain 90% of your body heat in emergency and survival situations. The blankets are also windproof, waterproof, and moisture proof. Thus, your body keeps warm and dry in wet, rainy, damp, and cold places and environments.

and what else?

• 52″x82″ and 2 oz
• Completely blocks out rain, moisture and snow.
• Ideal for hiking, camping, climbing, backpacking and other outdoor activities.
• Designed to prevent hypothermia as well as shock in extreme weather conditions.

Additional survival gadgets and tools

1TAC Paracord Survival Bracelet

It is an essential tool for your survival. The 1TAC Paracord Bracelet is made of military grade parachute cord and features a strong paracord, which is 9′ and can hold up to 550 LBS of tension. During an emergency, you can open it and attach the lanyard to your use. You can make tourniquets, bandages if needed and more. It is good for any type of weather.

The 1TAC Paracord Bracelet also has the following features:

• Stainless steel striker/cutter to produce a spark that ignites.
• Whistle for survival purposes.
• Compass
• Thermometer
• Metal striker for cutting paracord as well as interior wires
• Durable plastic hook
• Concealed 8-function multi-tool with scraper tools, screwdrivers and wrenches

Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Pro Knife

 Every true survivalist needs a high-quality knife with them in the wilderness. Full tang high carbon steel blade, this knife can help you gather materials for shelter building, fires, open cans, bandages, wound dressings and more.

This knife weighs 13.7 ounces and measures 10 inches in length. It is very comfortable and feels balanced in your hand. Plus, there’s a large bolster to hold your hand, so it won’t slide toward the blade when you lean into the cut.

Want more amazing features of this knife?

• Military grade
• Comes with a loud emergency whistle.
• “Survival Priorities” – Pocket Guide by Bear Girls
• Comes with fire starter rod which is built in.

Gerber Suspension Multi Pliers

 Let’s just start by saying that this amazing device has a 4.6 out of 5 rating on Amazon, with over 5,000 ratings and is definitely an Amazon Choice product. Now, let’s take a detailed look at the Gerber Suspension Multi-Plier.

It is a reliable, tough and very easy to operate and handle multiplayer. It comes to tackle and handle any situation that comes your way, indoors, outdoors and in the wilderness. The durable stainless steel multiplier includes 12 different tools, and has a butterfly design for easy and convenient grip.

Here are some more features of this great tool:

• Knife: Straight blade knife for fine tuning cutting or serrated blade.
• Phillips screwdriver
• Flat head screwdriver
• Wire cutter/striper
• Lightweight yet very strong
• Comes with a ballistic nylon sheath.

RANDY SUN 100% Waterproof Socks.

 Whether hiking, trekking, skiing or engaging in any other outdoor activity, keeping your feet dry is essential. These amazing socks do just that. They are extremely light, comfortable, and keep your feet dry and cool during walking, running, cycling and other activities. They are also suitable for standing up in harsh and tough environments like water and mud. Waterproof as well as windproof, they’re still breathable thanks to a special three-layer design. These are the socks you want on your next outdoor endeavor.

and what else?

• Waterproof and windproof, yet able to quickly wick sweat away from the feet during outward movement of the socks.
• 100% smooth to prevent irritation and threading
• Great flexibility for casual wear
• Ideal for activities like hiking, trekking, climbing, cycling, fishing, skiing, skating, wading and more.
• Three layer material

How to choose survival tools?

You should always be prepared for the activity you are going to do. But, there are various situations that may surprise you. That’s why it’s so important to be equipped with the right tools to keep you safe and get you out of trouble.

When choosing survival tools and equipment, there are six factors to consider: type, use, size and weight, practicality, durability, and versatility.

Use: You should always know how to operate the equipment and gear you bring with you. Some devices require learning, but once you use them a few times, their operation comes easily and naturally.

Weight and Size: These parameters vary from one device to another. Therefore, it is important that your survival tool is not so heavy as to slow you down, but strong enough to get the job done properly. Luckily for you, most survival tools these days are light and super lightweight, like the popular LifeStraw water filter.

Type: There are many different items in the survival category that are designed for the same functions and purposes. So, how do you choose? When it comes to survival, you have 3 essential tools: a water filter, compass, and flashlight (you might also consider a first aid kit). Then, on the second level, you can find GPS, blankets, fire starters and other survival tools. Always remember to choose the right equipment for your specific activity that is also suitable for the environment. Try to center your gear around water, heat, shelter and a beacon system to help rescue services find you. Again, always take the gear needed for your specific task and activity.

Versatility: Basically, versatility means minimizing your bag by combining several essential items into one device. Having different tools that can be used for many purposes saves space in your bag and allows it to be lighter. Don’t forget to consider the other factors I just discussed here. Good examples of versatile tools are a multi-tool, a cookware kit, and a 3-in-1 utility torch.

Durability: This is also a very important factor when choosing a survival tool. You want something that works well and lasts a long time. A survival tool that breaks or fails in the middle of its operation can be the difference between life and death. Do not try to combine multiple items and pieces into one device, as it may not work and will probably fail over time. Naturally, there are exceptions, such as the aforementioned multitool, which is designed for the purpose of combining several tools into one. If possible, try to choose items that are durable and strong enough to handle many different tasks.

Practicality: Your bag should contain only the items that are necessary for your activities and purposes. You don’t want to pack unnecessarily heavy items that will surely slow you down and tire you out. Study the area and the essence of your future activity, and bring only what you really need. The longer you are out and about in the wilderness, the better off you will be with less equipment and less weight on your shoulders.

Related Questions

How should I store my survival gear?

It is best to store your survival gear and items in a dry place. Moisture, water and humidity can damage your items, even if they are high quality items. Don’t risk water damage to your equipment! This can lead to mold, and then the gear will go bad at the moment of truth when you need it most. Of course, certain items may require different storage, so always follow the manufacturer’s guides and instructions for each item. Also, if you want your items to last a long time, remember to take good care of them according to their cleaning and care instructions (if necessary. (no cleaning required).

How should I carry my survival gear?

 It depends on the items, so some can be kept inside the bag, while others are best kept in an outer pocket for easy and quick access. For example, you should keep an emergency tent under or under your bag, while small tools can be kept in an outer pocket for quick access. You can keep some important items on you, like a knife or a water filter. This way you insure yourself in case your bag gets lost in any unforeseen circumstances. Another thing to remember is to keep heavy items in the center of your bag for balance.

An additional way to carry your gear is to use the MOLLE system that was developed by the armed forces. The system is used as a more convenient and useful way to carry combat gear. It is actually a bag or vest lined with nylon mesh. You can wear the vest under a backpack that has a modular gear arrangement.

How should I organize my survival gear?

To be honest, there is no single definitive answer to this question. Some prefer to organize their items by type, others by category or by activity. The rule of thumb here is to arrange them according to your personal preference. There are still some guidelines when it comes to organizing your survival gear. It is recommended to organize your gear at all times: when you are packing it into the bag, and when it is being stored outside the bag. That way, you’ll be able to get back on the road faster when and if necessary. Remember to store items as easily accessible as possible, such as keeping essential tools in an outer pocket.

What survival items are considered the most important?

In general, the tools you will need are different depending on your activity and situation. In short, if I had to choose a few survival items for all time, I would choose a water filter (because you can’t survive long without water), a fire starter (you need to maintain body heat), a survival whistle. Will have to play. . My location, and a flashlight. You may also consider a survival knife for self-defense or to clear obstacles in your path. My second level would definitely include a compass or GPS device and a first aid kit, so find room for those in your bag as well. Feel free to read more detailed information in my article on what to have in a survival bag.

How to prepare a useful survival kit?

As it is widely known, a recommended survival kit is one that contains only the items you really need at any given time. First things first, the most important things you need to have are water, food, shelter, and a signaling device. Of course, prepare the items needed for the activity, terrain, situation, and weather you’re about to encounter. If it’s winter or cold outside, warmth should also be a high priority (fire starter, tent/emergency tent, sleeping bag, warm clothes, survival gloves). Remember, there are no definitive answers. Always consider the activity ahead, the terrain, the situation and the weather.

What food should I store to survive?

The best types of food to store for survival, whether staying in one place, or traveling through the wilds, are those that are dry, offer natural preservation, and keep for a long time. Foods that spoil quickly are no good, especially during long journeys. With a 25-year shelf life, Wise Company’s Emergency Supply is a great example of a reliable, long-lasting food option.

What is the best shelter for survival?

Shelter keeps you dry, warm, and protected. This is why tactical survival gear and military survival gear kits always include something to create or offer a temporary shelter. In reality, a proper shelter has only 2 main components. Shelter needs to keep you dry, but it also needs to provide warmth. In most cases, heat comes from your body circulating in a confined area. A tent is a great example of a shelter, especially a temporary one like the Go Time Gear Life Tent. You can also make a quick shelter by stacking wood, leaves, and other items to create a lean-to. In a worst-case scenario, entering a shallow cave or dense tree cover may also be helpful. In cold climates, such as in the mountains or snow, a temporary shelter can also be created using a thermal sleeping bag, emergency blanket, or similar covering. By climbing inside, you can stay warm even in cold temperatures. It’s not ideal and it’s not something anyone should plan for, but it’s a survival option.