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The post about uncommon items in your BOB was very interesting and I appreciate everyone's input. As a result of that post, I started to look at every item in Wal-Mart a little differently.
More important, however, is this list I compiled based on the best suggestions of the post referred to above. Some of these items I added myself and some are so common as to be found in every bag.
BTW, this is for a SHTF scenario since that is what I am gearing up for.
LIST OF BOB ITEMS
Important Information on USB Drive
Copies of Important IDs
Foot Powder
Nail Clippers
Cash/ Coins
Broadhead Arrows- Used for gigging and spearing. Undoubtedly, the best recommendation of the entire post. I would add that buying an arrow to attach the head to when in use is probably a good idea. These are lightweight and can be thrown into your fishing rod PVC container.
Toilet Paper
Bug Repellent
Sunscreen
Lip Balm- I prefer Carmex. Amazing stuff.
Tea Tree Oil
Pipe Cleaners
Paracord
Hand held Mirror
Multi-purpose Tool- Gerber or what have you.
Swim Goggles- The second best tip, I thought.
Small Fish Net (Aquarium size)
Tube and Drill Bit- This is for making a water tap in a plant/ tree. I must investigate this a little closer.
Insulated Pliers- Great idea for working with electrical devices/ structures.
Small file- I would add an emory board and a metal file as both are needed.
Awl- For making quick and accurate holes. I thought this was a great suggestion.
Clear Aid- For nylon repair.
Razor- Straight or otherwise.
Roll of quarters- Bundled together and wrapped in a bandanna provides you with an ad hoc weapon. Not to mention you can use them in a vending machine.
Sling- David slew a giant with one- I think I should have one too.
Diamond Stone- I bought one the size of a pencil at Wal-Mart.
Expandable Baton- Another great idea. I would suggest the expandable hiking poles sold at Wal Mart as an addition to this thought. Attaching the arrow to the pole would give you a long, effective and durable spear.
Deodorant
Small wood board- Something shaped lie a door stop. Gives your a source of dry tinder when whittled.
Balloons
Fly fishing lures- Great idea.
Safety Pins
Candles
Paper Clips
Dried Goji Berries- Dried Food in general is precious.
Electrical Tape- They make small rolls in a five pack at Wal Mart. Check the automotive section. Very handy and lightweight.
Duct Tape- See above.
Dental Floss
Fishing Line
Super Glue
Collapsible/ Disassembled Fishing Pole- I bought the wife one for Christmas. (It's the Zebco "December to Remember" event- sorry Lexus.) The second half of this is a PVC capsule that carries the pole and other stuff. Take a piece of 1.5" or 2" pipe, cut it to size and get two end caps for it. Take the reel off the pole and put it in your pack. Put the two halves of the pole in the cannister. Also, you can put your arrow in it, as well as your tackle and even food, like Ramen or oatmeal packets. Strap this to your backpack frame and thank yourself later when you need it.
Mess Kit
Small Hammer- I found the perfect item at Wal Mart. It is a Stanley Claw Bar, 10". This device is small and light and features a split-toed pry bar on one end and a small claw hammer on the other. It's only $8. Once you see it you'll know it is a must have. In addition to this, I bought an Ozark Trail camp ax/ hammer for $7 in the camping section. This is much heavier and larger than the claw bar, but it can be hung from a belt. More important, however, is when you combine the two- you have a nice hammer and wedge/pry system that will undoubtedly save you hours of time for numerous tasks. My wife's gear has these two items as well.
Small Mouse Trap- The most interesting post on this item is using this device to trigger a larger trap or snare for larger game.
Heavy duty Zip Lock Bags- Quick, ad hoc waterproof bags/ storage.
Rubber Bands- All sizes. They are so small and lightweight.
Reusable Zip Ties
Upholstery Needle
Spiderwire- Not sure what this is, but someone suggested it along with the upholstery needle.
JB Weld- Fantastic idea.
Bactine
Band-aids
Ace bandage
Bandannas
Gauze Pads
Athletic Tape- Optional. Great for wound dressings but I already have duct tape so it may be redundant.
Surveyor's colored tape- Superb idea for marking trails. Remember, a simple daily excursion of foraging and hunting can get you lost. I also bought reflective hunter tacks to attach these to trees with. The tacks will shine up at nighttime.
LED headlamp- Sometimes you will need two hands and see in the dark. This solves that problem.
Extra large condoms instead of balloons- Lots of discussion for this item. Personally, these are not high on my list. The large Ziplocs seem to fill most purposes a condom would, although a condom is much smaller.
Survival Playing Cards- Another great idea.
Dice
Book of local foliage- Indispensable.
Mini Sewing Kit
Mini tampons- For kindling.
Canteen Cups- The number one survival item in my mind. So versatile and durable.
Small Solar Panel- Wired to a USB connector for recharging USB-based devices.
MP3 Player and Headphones/ Mini Speakers- If you have room. How priceless would music be during an extended stay in the woods? How much more priceless if you could constantly recharge it with the solar panel.
Bobby Pins
Socks- At least two extra pair.
Pencil Sharpener- Fabulous idea. Makes great tinder.
Sling Shot- Foldable. Good for noise discipline situations.
Foldback Binder Clips- Even Staples has something you can use. A few different sizes would be useful.
Ramen Packets- Instant meal, especially if you are Korean.
Fresnel Lens- The best firestarter you can have when the sun is out. It captures a ton of light and focuses to a HOT beam. Instant fire.
Picture Frame Wire/ Clothes Hanger wire
Sling Shot Ammo- Cheap, light and reusable (if you can find it).
Arrow- Install the broadhead and attach to a pole, or use alone, as a spear.
Guitar Strings- Another great suggestion. It already has a loop at the end, so it is perfect for setting snares, etc.
Large tampons- For wound dressings.
Butcher Knife
Gut Hook Knife
Gun Cleaning Kit- Put this in your PVC fishing container.
Monocular- More compact than binoculars.
Hand Sanitizer
Sharpies
Whistle
Hand Towel
Towel
Nyquil and Dayquil Liquicaps
Asprin/Ibuprofen
Crusader Cooker- Look them up online. A great suggestion.
Wrap frame with paracord- You can never have too much paracord. This helps you carry extra. Also, making fobs from paracord for your keys and flashlights is a great way to have spare cord.
Vaseline- It burns well, among other uses.
Cotton Balls
Travel toothbrush and paste
Alcohol Prep Pads
Skittles- A much suggested item.
Map(s)
Swim Trunks- One of the best suggestions.
Small bottle of tabasco sauce
Vials of Salt and Pepper
Expedition Hammock
Silk Socks- To go under your cotton socks. Reduces agitation.
Bar of soap- Put in portable soap box.
Small jar of honey- A great idea. You can use it for instant energy or for bait as well.
Emergency Dental Repair Kit
6' section of .5" ID Tubing- This is for syphoning. 6' may be a bit much. Just pack as much as you can.
Blowgun with blow darts- Silent, portable, effective, I like it.
Rubber Gloves
Tiny Tape Measure
Squirrel Distress Call
Fawn Distress Call
Nails- Even a minimum amount of hardware may go a long way for so many situations.
Cheap Sunglasses- In case you forget or can't retrieve your real pair. I live in Florida where sunglasses are a must.
Emergency Compact Splint
Quickclot
Water Purifier Straw/ Water Bottle
Suture Kit
Wax Pencils- Another great idea. You can write on anything with it and even burn them for an ad hoc candle.
1 yard cotton cloth- For patching
1 yard treated duck cloth- For patching
Crown Royal Bag- For foraging, etc. May be redundant.
Flask of liquor- For so many reasons, most of them selfish.
Waterproof wrist watches- Cheap and solar powered, if digital. An analog watch face can double as a compass, so digital may not be the best answer here.
Boonie Hat- You must have this. To go along with it, I bought everyone personal mosquito nets to go over the hat. The net can also help with fishing.
Padded Work Gloves- Blisters suck and can slow you down.
ECW Sleeping Bag- In waterproof bag.
Underwear- At least 2 pair.
Trashbags
Poncho
Poncho Liner- Military issue. The best, most comfortable outdoor blanket ever made.
Sleeping Mat- This will feel like a Sealy Serta if you only have the ground for a mattress. You can also put foliage under your tent for padding. Still, if you have room, a sleeping mat is awesome.
Inflatable Pillow- A must for me.
Notebook(s) with pens
Small Bible/ Other Books
Pencils
Wet Weather Gear- Military issue is extraordinary here.
LED Flashlight (Shake to light, Solar powered)
Mag Lite- A battery hog but has many uses when the batteries die.
Two way radios- Try to find some that can be charged via USB with your small solar panel.
MREs (at least three per pack)
Collapsible Water Container with handle- Ozark Trail makes one that holds 5 gallons. If you have room, this may prove to be very valuable and time-saving.
3-in-one Oil- I bought these because of their shape and weight.
Magnesium Fire Starter
4-1/8" long Screw Hooks- I bought these at Wal Mart. These will screw into any tree and will provide a deep and secure anchor for anything you want to tie to them or hang from them. The wife and I each have 4 in our bag.
Step Up Tree Steps by Ameristep- One of the most useful items I found at Wal Mart. These will allow you to get you and your stuff off of the ground. They are somewhat heavy but they pack well. The ability to securely get off of the jungle floor and into the trees may be just what you need to survive. Hunters use these to get into their tree stands. The wife and I each have a pack of 6, so together we can make quite a ladder.
Waterproof Match Container- When everything is wet, these matches could be the difference between a fire or no fire.
Tarp Clips- These are useful for so many reasons. Combine these with some paracord or bungees and you can suspend nearly anything. They are light and pack well. We have 8 between the two bags.
Crank weather radio
FM 21-76- US Army Survival Manual- You'll last a lot longer with this book.
FM 21-26- US Army Land Navigation Manual. Both manuals are light and small. Pack in Ziplocs.
Extra change of clothes- We each have an extra set of BDUs along with undershirts.
Other considerations include your setup. You should definitely get the belt and suspenders issued by the military. You can hang your canteens and canteen cups, your ax or other tools, a small fanny pack and your ammo pouches from the belt.
You may want to get a tactical vest as well for small excursions through the woods once you set up camp.
A military issue, OD green rucksack is what I use for a backpack. My sleeping bag, wet weather bag, poncho, poncho liner and wet weather gear are all military issue.
This is not a comprehensive list, but it should give everyone a great template from which to get started.
Now, go survive and God Bless America!
Utah
More important, however, is this list I compiled based on the best suggestions of the post referred to above. Some of these items I added myself and some are so common as to be found in every bag.
BTW, this is for a SHTF scenario since that is what I am gearing up for.
LIST OF BOB ITEMS
Important Information on USB Drive
Copies of Important IDs
Foot Powder
Nail Clippers
Cash/ Coins
Broadhead Arrows- Used for gigging and spearing. Undoubtedly, the best recommendation of the entire post. I would add that buying an arrow to attach the head to when in use is probably a good idea. These are lightweight and can be thrown into your fishing rod PVC container.
Toilet Paper
Bug Repellent
Sunscreen
Lip Balm- I prefer Carmex. Amazing stuff.
Tea Tree Oil
Pipe Cleaners
Paracord
Hand held Mirror
Multi-purpose Tool- Gerber or what have you.
Swim Goggles- The second best tip, I thought.
Small Fish Net (Aquarium size)
Tube and Drill Bit- This is for making a water tap in a plant/ tree. I must investigate this a little closer.
Insulated Pliers- Great idea for working with electrical devices/ structures.
Small file- I would add an emory board and a metal file as both are needed.
Awl- For making quick and accurate holes. I thought this was a great suggestion.
Clear Aid- For nylon repair.
Razor- Straight or otherwise.
Roll of quarters- Bundled together and wrapped in a bandanna provides you with an ad hoc weapon. Not to mention you can use them in a vending machine.
Sling- David slew a giant with one- I think I should have one too.
Diamond Stone- I bought one the size of a pencil at Wal-Mart.
Expandable Baton- Another great idea. I would suggest the expandable hiking poles sold at Wal Mart as an addition to this thought. Attaching the arrow to the pole would give you a long, effective and durable spear.
Deodorant
Small wood board- Something shaped lie a door stop. Gives your a source of dry tinder when whittled.
Balloons
Fly fishing lures- Great idea.
Safety Pins
Candles
Paper Clips
Dried Goji Berries- Dried Food in general is precious.
Electrical Tape- They make small rolls in a five pack at Wal Mart. Check the automotive section. Very handy and lightweight.
Duct Tape- See above.
Dental Floss
Fishing Line
Super Glue
Collapsible/ Disassembled Fishing Pole- I bought the wife one for Christmas. (It's the Zebco "December to Remember" event- sorry Lexus.) The second half of this is a PVC capsule that carries the pole and other stuff. Take a piece of 1.5" or 2" pipe, cut it to size and get two end caps for it. Take the reel off the pole and put it in your pack. Put the two halves of the pole in the cannister. Also, you can put your arrow in it, as well as your tackle and even food, like Ramen or oatmeal packets. Strap this to your backpack frame and thank yourself later when you need it.
Mess Kit
Small Hammer- I found the perfect item at Wal Mart. It is a Stanley Claw Bar, 10". This device is small and light and features a split-toed pry bar on one end and a small claw hammer on the other. It's only $8. Once you see it you'll know it is a must have. In addition to this, I bought an Ozark Trail camp ax/ hammer for $7 in the camping section. This is much heavier and larger than the claw bar, but it can be hung from a belt. More important, however, is when you combine the two- you have a nice hammer and wedge/pry system that will undoubtedly save you hours of time for numerous tasks. My wife's gear has these two items as well.
Small Mouse Trap- The most interesting post on this item is using this device to trigger a larger trap or snare for larger game.
Heavy duty Zip Lock Bags- Quick, ad hoc waterproof bags/ storage.
Rubber Bands- All sizes. They are so small and lightweight.
Reusable Zip Ties
Upholstery Needle
Spiderwire- Not sure what this is, but someone suggested it along with the upholstery needle.
JB Weld- Fantastic idea.
Bactine
Band-aids
Ace bandage
Bandannas
Gauze Pads
Athletic Tape- Optional. Great for wound dressings but I already have duct tape so it may be redundant.
Surveyor's colored tape- Superb idea for marking trails. Remember, a simple daily excursion of foraging and hunting can get you lost. I also bought reflective hunter tacks to attach these to trees with. The tacks will shine up at nighttime.
LED headlamp- Sometimes you will need two hands and see in the dark. This solves that problem.
Extra large condoms instead of balloons- Lots of discussion for this item. Personally, these are not high on my list. The large Ziplocs seem to fill most purposes a condom would, although a condom is much smaller.
Survival Playing Cards- Another great idea.
Dice
Book of local foliage- Indispensable.
Mini Sewing Kit
Mini tampons- For kindling.
Canteen Cups- The number one survival item in my mind. So versatile and durable.
Small Solar Panel- Wired to a USB connector for recharging USB-based devices.
MP3 Player and Headphones/ Mini Speakers- If you have room. How priceless would music be during an extended stay in the woods? How much more priceless if you could constantly recharge it with the solar panel.
Bobby Pins
Socks- At least two extra pair.
Pencil Sharpener- Fabulous idea. Makes great tinder.
Sling Shot- Foldable. Good for noise discipline situations.
Foldback Binder Clips- Even Staples has something you can use. A few different sizes would be useful.
Ramen Packets- Instant meal, especially if you are Korean.
Fresnel Lens- The best firestarter you can have when the sun is out. It captures a ton of light and focuses to a HOT beam. Instant fire.
Picture Frame Wire/ Clothes Hanger wire
Sling Shot Ammo- Cheap, light and reusable (if you can find it).
Arrow- Install the broadhead and attach to a pole, or use alone, as a spear.
Guitar Strings- Another great suggestion. It already has a loop at the end, so it is perfect for setting snares, etc.
Large tampons- For wound dressings.
Butcher Knife
Gut Hook Knife
Gun Cleaning Kit- Put this in your PVC fishing container.
Monocular- More compact than binoculars.
Hand Sanitizer
Sharpies
Whistle
Hand Towel
Towel
Nyquil and Dayquil Liquicaps
Asprin/Ibuprofen
Crusader Cooker- Look them up online. A great suggestion.
Wrap frame with paracord- You can never have too much paracord. This helps you carry extra. Also, making fobs from paracord for your keys and flashlights is a great way to have spare cord.
Vaseline- It burns well, among other uses.
Cotton Balls
Travel toothbrush and paste
Alcohol Prep Pads
Skittles- A much suggested item.
Map(s)
Swim Trunks- One of the best suggestions.
Small bottle of tabasco sauce
Vials of Salt and Pepper
Expedition Hammock
Silk Socks- To go under your cotton socks. Reduces agitation.
Bar of soap- Put in portable soap box.
Small jar of honey- A great idea. You can use it for instant energy or for bait as well.
Emergency Dental Repair Kit
6' section of .5" ID Tubing- This is for syphoning. 6' may be a bit much. Just pack as much as you can.
Blowgun with blow darts- Silent, portable, effective, I like it.
Rubber Gloves
Tiny Tape Measure
Squirrel Distress Call
Fawn Distress Call
Nails- Even a minimum amount of hardware may go a long way for so many situations.
Cheap Sunglasses- In case you forget or can't retrieve your real pair. I live in Florida where sunglasses are a must.
Emergency Compact Splint
Quickclot
Water Purifier Straw/ Water Bottle
Suture Kit
Wax Pencils- Another great idea. You can write on anything with it and even burn them for an ad hoc candle.
1 yard cotton cloth- For patching
1 yard treated duck cloth- For patching
Crown Royal Bag- For foraging, etc. May be redundant.
Flask of liquor- For so many reasons, most of them selfish.
Waterproof wrist watches- Cheap and solar powered, if digital. An analog watch face can double as a compass, so digital may not be the best answer here.
Boonie Hat- You must have this. To go along with it, I bought everyone personal mosquito nets to go over the hat. The net can also help with fishing.
Padded Work Gloves- Blisters suck and can slow you down.
ECW Sleeping Bag- In waterproof bag.
Underwear- At least 2 pair.
Trashbags
Poncho
Poncho Liner- Military issue. The best, most comfortable outdoor blanket ever made.
Sleeping Mat- This will feel like a Sealy Serta if you only have the ground for a mattress. You can also put foliage under your tent for padding. Still, if you have room, a sleeping mat is awesome.
Inflatable Pillow- A must for me.
Notebook(s) with pens
Small Bible/ Other Books
Pencils
Wet Weather Gear- Military issue is extraordinary here.
LED Flashlight (Shake to light, Solar powered)
Mag Lite- A battery hog but has many uses when the batteries die.
Two way radios- Try to find some that can be charged via USB with your small solar panel.
MREs (at least three per pack)
Collapsible Water Container with handle- Ozark Trail makes one that holds 5 gallons. If you have room, this may prove to be very valuable and time-saving.
3-in-one Oil- I bought these because of their shape and weight.
Magnesium Fire Starter
4-1/8" long Screw Hooks- I bought these at Wal Mart. These will screw into any tree and will provide a deep and secure anchor for anything you want to tie to them or hang from them. The wife and I each have 4 in our bag.
Step Up Tree Steps by Ameristep- One of the most useful items I found at Wal Mart. These will allow you to get you and your stuff off of the ground. They are somewhat heavy but they pack well. The ability to securely get off of the jungle floor and into the trees may be just what you need to survive. Hunters use these to get into their tree stands. The wife and I each have a pack of 6, so together we can make quite a ladder.
Waterproof Match Container- When everything is wet, these matches could be the difference between a fire or no fire.
Tarp Clips- These are useful for so many reasons. Combine these with some paracord or bungees and you can suspend nearly anything. They are light and pack well. We have 8 between the two bags.
Crank weather radio
FM 21-76- US Army Survival Manual- You'll last a lot longer with this book.
FM 21-26- US Army Land Navigation Manual. Both manuals are light and small. Pack in Ziplocs.
Extra change of clothes- We each have an extra set of BDUs along with undershirts.
Other considerations include your setup. You should definitely get the belt and suspenders issued by the military. You can hang your canteens and canteen cups, your ax or other tools, a small fanny pack and your ammo pouches from the belt.
You may want to get a tactical vest as well for small excursions through the woods once you set up camp.
A military issue, OD green rucksack is what I use for a backpack. My sleeping bag, wet weather bag, poncho, poncho liner and wet weather gear are all military issue.
This is not a comprehensive list, but it should give everyone a great template from which to get started.
Now, go survive and God Bless America!
Utah
