The previous articles of the series mentioned all the important items that someone should consider while building his outdoor kit. In this last chapter, I will refer to some micro-kits that have their place in any backpack.
First Aid Kit
A First Aid Kit is crucial for any outdoorsman. It is so important as is a soldier’s First Aid Kit. Having such a kit can make a difference in the wild. You can treat minor cuts, wounds, blisters, and insect bites up to serious wounds, strains, or even breaks. You can find ready-made kits available on the market, from different companies and in various sizes. These offer and very good base of medical supplies, and at reasonable prices. You can add items to these kits, like extra bandages, tourniquets, or other supplies and medicines. If you have enough knowledge, you can build your own kit, buying individual medical supplies. This has the advantage that you can tailor the kit exactly to your specific needs, but usually, it is more expensive than a premade kit. Always, place your First Aid Kit, in an easy-access area of your backpack. My encouragement to all is to attend a First Aid Class, to get the basic knowledge on that subject.
The Navigation Kit
Anyone who passes time outdoors should have a navigation kit. A GPS device, a map of the area, and a compass are very essential. A GPS device can fail to receive a signal or a battery malfunction may occur. The map and compass still is the most reliable method to use. You can carry both of course. If you have one compass, it is a good idea to have a backup too. A couple tips that I can offer here is to attend a navigation class to hone your skills. That is very important. You will learn invaluable things, that will make your outdoor trips a much more pleasant experience. You can buy books on that topic, and practice in areas like a park near your house or a t a friend’s property. Also, you should plan your route ahead of your trip and always tell your closest people about the area you are going to spend your time hiking, fishing, camping, or hunting.
The Repair Kit
A small kit for repairing and fixing our gear, either temporary or permanent while we are one the woods. A roll of duct tape and a small sewing kit that includes a sail needle can help in common repairings. A piece of duct tape can patch a tarp or tent if is made from polyester fabric. You can also use it as a bandage or fire starter. A rip on our clothing, a button failure, or a hole in our canvas gear can be sewn.
The Journal Kit
This kit will be the reminder and the storyteller of your outings. You just need a notebook, preferably waterproof, and pens or pencils. You will keep your thoughts and conclusions for your gear. Notes on how you spend a particular day, animals that might cross paths with you, drawings of them, or of plants. All in all, this will be a personal manifestation of the time and memories you created. while wandering in the great outdoors.