What should I take for a Wilderness Survival Weekend

This is the recommended gear list for our California Weekend Survival School. All items on the checklist below are important for an enjoyable and comfortable wilderness survival weekend experience. 

• Tent, ground tarp, and sleeping pad. Rent a tent/pad, and a carving knife for camp
• Sleeping bag, pillow
• Eating utensils – cup for hot drinks, bowl, plate, flatware
• Water bottle – minimum one-quart or liter – NO GLASS. Because glass is a safety issue when it breaks.
• Knife – non-folding, 4-6” fixed blade preferred. Serrated edged knives are not recommended
• Flashlight or headlamp – with extra batteries
• Towels – we do not provide hand or bath towels
• Toilet kit – personal hygiene biodegradable products, toilet paper, personal medication
• medical kit – band aids, triple antibiotic cream, gauze, tape
• Bug spray
• Sunscreen
• Dark glasses
• Clothing – for warm and cool conditions
• Swimwear – for showering/bathing
• Footwear – sturdy all-terrain shoes/boots for comfort and safety
• Hat – sun/rain/warmth
• Rain gear – example poncho
• Bandanna – uses vary
• Gloves/mittens for cold/wet – leather gloves for carving.
• Day pack or backpack
• Compass – I prefer a Silva compass and recommend the Ranger series. Check REI for other good options.
• Map of the area. (We supply map)
• Notebook
• Pens/pencil
• Camera/optional

Panic. The backcountry killer

What should I take for a wilderness survival weekend?

We encourage participants to use their local thrift store for many of the items listed above. Many items may be acquired inexpensively.

Visit the FAQ’s page for links to gear and outdoor clothing.

Food for camp

You will want easily prepared snacks and meals for your weekend kit. Prepackaged meals are popular to bring; just add hot water for a quick and easy meal.  A wide variety of prepackaged foods are available online or your local outfitter.

Wilderness Survival Weekend

Get creative and cook your favorite meals at home. Freeze your pre-made meals in recycled containers and bring them in a cooler with you to camp. Much better eating and nutrition than commercially prepackaged foods. Plus you’ll enjoy great savings.

Dried Meat – jerky, salami
Canned fish – sardines
Instant Soups
MRI’s (meals ready to eat)
Crackers – cheese
Bread/tortillas
Peanut butter/jelly
Fruit – dried, fresh
Nuts/GORP (good old raisins and peanuts)

Bring your backpacking stove or camp stove with you to prepare meals and heat water.

Weekend Survival School California

Pack it in – Pack it out, Thanks!