25 Survival Supplies Every Beginner Should Start With

Estimated reading time: 11 minutes

If you're new to the world of survival, it can be tough to know where to start. There are so many different products and gear out there, and it's hard to know which ones are actually worth your money. 

That's why we've put together this list of 25 survival supplies that every beginner should have in their arsenal. From tents and sleeping bags to fire starters and multi-tools, these are the items that will help you stay alive in the event of an emergency.

If you're new to the world of survivalism, it can be a bit overwhelming to know where to start. There are so many different supplies and skills that you need to be aware of, and it's easy to get lost in the sea of information. However, there are a few essential supplies that every beginner should start with. 

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1. Water

When it comes to survival, water is key. Without it, you will quickly become dehydrated and your body will start to shut down. That's why, if you're new to the survival game, one of the best supplies you can have on hand is water. 

Here is our guide to emergency water storage.

2. A Stockpile of Food 

We all know that food is an essential part of survival. But when it comes to stockpiling supplies, many people overlook the importance of having a food stockpile. After all, if you're stuck in a survival situation, the last thing you want to worry about is whether or not you have enough food to last. 

So what are the best foods to stockpile for a survival situation? Here are a few ideas:

• Canned goods: Canned goods are a great option for stockpiling because they have a long shelf life and can be easily transported. Just make sure to stock up on canned goods that you actually like to eat – there's nothing worse than being stuck in a survival situation eating canned peas!
• Dried fruit and nuts: Dried fruit and nuts are another great option for stockpiling. They're lightweight, nutritious, and easy to transport. Plus, they have a long shelf life so you don't have to worry about them going bad.
• Jerky: Jerky is another great option for stockpiling because it's high in protein and can be stored for a long time without going bad. Plus, it's easy to transport and doesn't require any cooking, so it's perfect for a survival situation.

Here is our ultimate guide to emergency food storage.

3. First Aid Kit 

From minor scrapes and bruises to more serious injuries, a well-stocked first aid kit can help you get through any situation. Of course, as with any survival gear, it's important to know how to use the items in your kit. 

Some good items to include in your first aid kit include:

• Bandages
• Antiseptic
• Pain relievers
• Tweezers
• Scissors

…and so on. 

4. A Bug Out Bag 

A bug out bag is one of the best survival supplies you can have, especially if you're a beginner. It's packed with everything you need to survive in the event of an emergency, including food, water, and shelter. 

Plus, it's easy to carry, so you can take it with you wherever you go. So if you're ever in a situation where you need to bug out, make sure you have a bug out bag handy. It could just save your life.

Here's how to build the perfect bug out bag.

5. Tarps and Tents

In the event of an emergency, you may need to bug out in a hurry. That's why it's important to have a tent that can be set up quickly and easily. Look for a model that can accommodate all the people in your family or group, as well as any pets. And make sure it has enough ventilation to keep everyone comfortable in hot weather. 

Don't stop with just the tent, either. While a tent is a great idea, a tarp can be an even better item to have on hand in many situations. 

For one, a tarp is much lighter and easier to carry than a tent. It can also be used for a variety of purposes such as shelter, collecting rainwater, or creating shade. Additionally, a tarp can be set up quickly and easily, even in adverse conditions. 

And if you do happen to have a tent, a tarp can be used to create an extra layer of protection against the elements.

6. Solar Oven 

As any experienced survivor will tell you, one of the best survival supplies you can have is a solar oven. Not only does it allow you to cook food without having to build a fire, but it also provides a source of warmth on cold nights.

Furthermore, a solar oven can be used to purify water and sanitize medical supplies. In short, it is a true all-purpose survival tool.  

7. Multipurpose Knife 

A knife is one of the most versatile tools you can carry with you in the wild. It can be used for everything from chopping wood to skinning game. When choosing a knife, look for one with a full-tang blade made from high-carbon steel. The blade should be at least four inches long so it can handle all sorts of tasks.

8. Batteries 

As any survival expert will tell you, batteries are an essential part of any beginner's survival kit. After all, what good is a flashlight if the batteries are dead? Or a radio for that matter?

Having a few batteries on hand can mean the difference between life and death in a survival situation. Of course, there are other survival supplies that are also important, but batteries should definitely be near the top of the list. 

9. Flashlight 

One of the most essential survival supplies is a flashlight. Not only does it provide light in the dark, but it can also be used to signal for help if you become lost. 

10. Rope 

Rope can be used for everything from building shelter to catching food. It's also useful for making repairs, climbing cliffs, and even fashioning a makeshift raft. In short, rope is an essential item for any survival kit. 

However, if you're just starting out, you may be wondering how much rope you need or what kind of rope is best for survival situations. 

The good news is that any rope will do in a pinch, so long as it's strong and durable. In general, it's best to choose a rope made from natural fibers like hemp or jute. These materials are not only strong, but they're also resistant to rot and mold. 

As far as length goes, a good rule of thumb is to choose a rope that's at least 50 feet long. This will give you plenty of material to work with in a variety of situations.

11. Duct Tape 

Any seasoned survivalist will tell you that one of the best supplies to have on hand is duct tape. This versatile material can be used for everything from repairing gear to fashioning a shelter. And while duct tape is an essential item for anyone looking to be prepared for the worst, it's also worth noting that it has a number of other uses. 

For instance, duct tape can be used to make a splint in the event of a broken bone, or to secure a bandage in place. It can also be used to repair ripped clothing.

12. Lighter and Matches 

While there are many ways to start a fire, having a lighter and matches on hand is the easiest and quickest way to get the job done. In addition, lighters and matches are essential for lighting stoves and campfires. As a result, they are an essential part of any survival kit.

13. One-Way NOAA Radio or Two-Way HAM Radio 

A one-way NOAA radio is great for receiving emergency notifications, while a two-way HAM radio can be used for both sending and receiving messages. Either way, having a radio will help you stay informed and connected in an emergency situation.

14. Solar Charger 

A solar charger can provide you with a much-needed source of power when the grid goes down. In addition, it can be used to charge your cell phone or other electronic devices. 

15. Axe 

While there are many different items that can come in handy in a survival situation, one of the best is an axe. An axe can be used for a variety of tasks, including chopping wood for a fire, building shelter, and self-defense.

16. Important Documents

This one is common overlooked. When fleeing a disaster that destroys your home or forces you to relocate, you want to have copies of every important document: birth certificates, marriage certificates, social security cards, property deeds, auto titles, financial documents, medical records, and so forth.

I made copies of everything, put them in plastic sheet protectors, and organized them in a grab-and-go binder that I can take with me when it's time to bug out.

17. Cash

In today's world, it's essential to have cash on hand as a survival supply. While you may never find yourself in a wilderness survival situation, there are plenty of other emergency situations where having cash can make a big difference. 

For example, if you're ever stranded on the side of the road, having some cash can help you to flag down a passing motorist for help. Or if there's a power outage and businesses are closed, having cash can help you buy essentials like food and water from businesses that are still able to accept cash payments. 

18. Water Purification Device

While there are many different items that could be considered essential, one of the most important is a water purification device. Whether you're faced with a natural disaster or an unexpected power outage, having a way to purify water is crucial.

There are a variety of water purification devices on the market, so it's important to choose one that's right for your needs. 

19. Rocket Stove 

A rocket stove is a small, portable stove that can be used to cook meals and boil water, even in the most challenging conditions. The best part is that it doesn't require any expensive fuel – just some twigs and leaves. 

20. Multi-Tool 

A multi-tool is another versatile piece of gear that every beginner should have in their survival kit. It can come in handy for all sorts of tasks, from tightening screws to cutting rope. Choose one with a variety of tools that will be useful in an emergency situation. Leatherman makes some great models for beginners. 

21. Seeds 

If you're a beginner when it comes to survival supplies, one of the best things you can have on hand is seeds. That way, if the worst happens and you find yourself in a situation where you need to grow your own food, you'll have everything you need to get started.

Of course, it's important to make sure that you have the right kind of seeds – and that you know how to store them properly so they don't go bad. The solution is a seed vault.

22. Camping Gear 

One of the best survival supplies you can have is extra camping gear. A tent, sleeping bag, and camp stove will come in handy in a variety of situations. And if you're really lucky, you might even find a use for that tent pole that's been sitting in your garage for years.

23. Paracord

If you're new to the world of survival, there's one piece of gear you need to make sure you have: paracord. Also known as parachute cord, this strong, lightweight rope has a variety of uses, making it an essential part of any survival kit.

Here are just a few of the ways you can use paracord:

• Make a shelter: Paracord can be used to construct a variety of shelters, including pup tents and lean-tos.
• Build a fire: Use paracord to make a fire bow or create a tripwire alarm.
• Collect water: Use paracord to build a solar still or set up a water catchment system.
• Signal for help: Create a signal flag or use paracord to rig up a reflector distress signal.

24. Compass

A compass is one of the most essential survival supplies a beginner can have. It is small, lightweight, and easy to use. Plus, it can help you find your way if you get lost. 

25. Sleeping Bag

A good sleeping bag is essential for surviving a night outdoors. Make sure to choose one that's appropriate for the climate you live in. In general, three-season bags are good for most places, but if you live in a place with very cold winters, you'll need a winter bag that's rated for below-zero temperatures.

Final Thoughts

If you’re just getting started with your prepping journey, remember to keep it simple. Begin by gradually building up your supplies and skills so that you can be prepared for anything. And most importantly, don’t forget the basics. The 25 survival supplies on this list are a great place to start. 

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