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 camp 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.

Get Creative

You can also 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.