SEAL Survival Guide Pt. 3: Gear

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GEAR

Most of us at some point have encountered people who look a lot like Bear Grylls carrying a huge backpack full of gear. I’m not sure about anyone else but I always find myself wondering what their bag could possibly be full of, and why it is so necessary to lug around. In Part three of SEAL Survival Guide by Cade Courtley, he discusses the importance of having the right gear and equipment, but urges it is no substitute for knowledge and training. Different situations require different types of survival equipment. The types of situations discussed in the book may be a little extreme, but I think that they can generalize into themes and ideas that would help average Joe’s like you and I. For example, in some cases it could be very helpful to have a small go bag. This is a collection of gear. It is something you can quickly grab and run with not something too heavy that will weigh you down. Courtley mentions in the book it would be helpful to prepare a go bag (or bags) for yourself and family members and leave one at home, one in your car and even one at work.

Go bags should include things like:

  • Copy of passport, driver’s license, contact list
  • Pliers, knife, or screwdriver
  • Compass
  • Marker or pen and small notebook
  • Flashlight and batteries
  • Glow-sticks
  • Lighter, water proof matches, cotton balls for tinder
  • First Aid Kit
  • Emergency/Space Blanket
  • Tape
  • Spare socks
  • Zip-ties
  • Trash bag
  • Cash in small bills

The list can vary depending on your region or environment, and can be modified accordingly.

Courtley talks about the fact that these items are the basics, and you can “take your kit to the next level” by adding things like a small sleeping bag, hand powered radio, snare wire, fishing kit, extra cellphone, GPS, Bear spray, Folding shovel, flares, and various other items.

Sure, some of these things may seem a little extreme, but I can definitely see the benefit to having a go bag. I always make sure I keep something like this in my car in case I ever break down (blanket, flashlight, spark plugs, protein bars).

References:

Courtley, C. (2012). SEAL Survival Guide. New York, NY: Gallery Books

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