You may wonder how to choose survival gear. In fact, survival gear includes many different items, from a heavy-duty switch blade knife with serrated blade to a multi-function credit-card sized multi-tool that can double as a wrench or bottle opener. Other items may include a tungsten steel pressure-tipped tactical pen, an emergency blanket, a zoomable LED flashlight, and a military-grade compass. Before you buy any survival gear, do some research on the products.

Parachute cord is a multipurpose item

This lightweight nylon rope, commonly called paracord, has a tensile strength of 550 pounds and hundreds of uses, from lashing together poles to stringing mallet percussion instruments. Although originally used for parachutes, the lightweight cord has many more uses than just parachuting. It's also inexpensive, light, and expendable, making it a versatile survival gear item.

Insect repellent

Using insect repellent as part of your survival gear is a must. Although it can be annoying and uncomfortable, bugs can also carry diseases. Insect bites can result in the development of Lyme disease, one of the fastest-growing epidemics in the United States. Fortunately, these diseases are preventable if you follow a few simple precautions. For instance, you should wear long sleeved clothes and check your clothing frequently for ticks.

First aid kit

A first aid kit for survival gear should contain a comprehensive selection of the most common medical supplies, including bandages and gauze dressings. Advanced medical supplies may require extra training or knowledge. The following are some examples of medical kits to purchase. These items may not be necessary for every situation, but they're important to have in an emergency. For example, you may need antibiotic ointments in case of an infection or severe burn.

Tarps

Using a tarp as survival gear is a great way to get ready for a sudden emergency. It's lightweight and can easily be folded, and is a great alternative to a tent. This piece of gear is also very versatile, serving as a ground cover, sleeping bag, and alternative shelter. Depending on the size and material, a tarp can even be used for multiple purposes, from cooking to shelter.

Binoculars

Although binoculars aren't necessary for survival, they can be useful for finding each other in a crisis situation. When you're in a forest, for example, you may not be able to see anything clearly, so binoculars can help you spot things. They can also help you determine whether or not a fire is on the way. The use of binoculars is also important for identifying changes in weather, such as storms.

Portable battery pack

If you are planning a long-term trip and need to charge your phone or laptop, portable battery packs are essential survival gear. These rechargeable batteries allow you to power many low-power devices like cell phones and laptops, as well as medical equipment. Portable battery packs are lightweight and often have several charging methods, including solar panels. Whether you are hiking, camping, or backpacking, a portable battery pack is vital to your survival gear.