In an unpredictable world, being prepared for any situation is essential. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a prepper, or someone who values readiness, having a well-stocked tactical survival bag can make all the difference. The Eberlestock Switchblade is an ideal choice for this purpose—compact, durable, and versatile, it’s the perfect foundation for building your ultimate survival kit.
In this post, we’ll explore the key items that should be in your Eberlestock Switchblade bag, each one serving a crucial role in your tactical survival strategy.
But first, here’s a list of all the uses of this tactical backpack.
- Travel Bag: Small enough for overhead bins but big enough for clothes, gadgets, and toiletries.
- Range Bag: Perfect for carrying guns, ammo, ear protection, and shooting gear.
- Tactical Bag: Great for law enforcement or military, with space for weapons and gear.
- Everyday Carry (EDC) Bag: Holds daily essentials like electronics, tools, and first aid kits.
- Hiking or Adventure Bag: Ideal for water, snacks, navigation tools, and extra layers.
- Emergency Go-Bag: Pack it with survival gear and first aid supplies for quick use in emergencies.
- Commuter Bag: Fits your laptop, documents, and personal items, with easy access for daily travel.
- Photography Bag: Adapt it to safely carry cameras, lenses, tripods, and accessories.
- Medical Kit Bag: Organize and store medical supplies for field or professional use.
- Motorcycle or Cycling Bag: Durable enough to hold essentials while riding.
- Sports Gear Bag: Use it for carrying sports equipment, shoes, and accessories.
- Tool Bag: Keep hand tools and small power tools organized and easy to transport.
Water and Hydration
Water is the most important resource for long term survival. Staying hydrated is paramount, and having the right tools ensures you can safely and effectively manage your water supply. In any survival situation, ensuring access to clean water and maintaining hydration is non-negotiable.
Nalgene Water Bottle (32 oz)
Water is the most critical resource for survival. The Nalgene 32 oz water bottle is a must-have in any survival bag. Its durability and capacity make it ideal for carrying a substantial amount of water. Nalgene bottles are virtually indestructible, and their wide mouth makes it easy to refill from various water sources. Whether you’re hiking through rugged terrain or caught in an emergency, this water bottle ensures you stay hydrated. You can also use it to boil water over a fire in a pinch, making it a versatile tool in survival situations.
Water Filter
Clean drinking water is essential, but it’s not always easy to find. A portable water filter allows you to safely drink from streams, rivers, and other natural water sources without the risk of waterborne illnesses. It’s a lifesaving tool in any survival situation, ensuring you stay hydrated and healthy, no matter where you find yourself.
Electrolytes
Staying hydrated is not just about drinking water; it’s also about maintaining electrolyte balance. Electrolyte packets or tablets help prevent dehydration and keep your body functioning optimally. In high-stress or physically demanding survival situations, maintaining your electrolyte levels can make the difference between staying strong and succumbing to fatigue.
Cash & Shelter / Warmth
Protecting yourself from the elements is important. Whether you’re facing extreme cold, rain, or simply need to rest, having the right items in your bag ensures that you can maintain your body heat, stay dry, and sleep comfortably.
Emergency Cash
In an emergency, electronic payments might not be an option. Carrying small denominations of cash ensures you can buy supplies, pay for services, or even barter if necessary. Make sure to distribute your cash in different parts of your bag to reduce the risk of losing everything at once.
Mylar Blankets
Mylar blankets are compact and incredibly effective at retaining body heat. They can also be used as emergency shelters, signaling devices, or even waterproof covers for gear. Mylar blankets are lightweight and take up very little space, making them a practical addition to your survival bag.
Blanket
A warm blanket is essential for comfort and warmth, especially if you’re forced to sleep outdoors. It can also be used as an additional layer in a makeshift shelter or as a ground cover. In colder climates, having a blanket can mean the difference between a restful night and a dangerous drop in body temperature.
Rain Jacket
Staying dry is critical for maintaining body heat and preventing hypothermia. A rain jacket provides protection against the elements, keeping you dry in wet weather conditions. Choose one that is lightweight and packable, so it doesn’t take up much space in your bag but is readily available when needed.
Socks and Warm Leather Gloves
Maintaining body warmth and protecting your hands is crucial in survival situations. A pair of extra socks will keep your feet dry and warm, preventing blisters and frostbite. Warm leather gloves protect your hands from the elements while also offering durability for tasks like chopping wood or handling rough materials. These items are small but make a significant difference in maintaining your overall well-being in tough environments.
Fire Starting Tools
Fire is essential for warmth, cooking, and signaling in survival situations. Having multiple methods to start a fire ensures that you can always build a fire, even in challenging conditions. These tools are small but powerful assets in your survival kit.
Lighters and Firestarters
Fire is essential for warmth, cooking, and signaling in survival situations. Carrying multiple methods to start a fire, such as lighters and ferro rods, ensures you can always get a fire going, even in challenging conditions. Practice using your fire-starting tools before you need them, so you’re prepared to build a fire quickly and efficiently when the time comes.
Ferro Rod
A ferro rod is a reliable fire-starting tool that works in all weather conditions. It produces sparks when struck, igniting tinder even in wet environments. Unlike lighters, which can run out of fuel, a ferro rod can be used thousands of times, making it a dependable fire-starting method in long-term survival scenarios.
Food and Nutrition
Maintaining your energy levels is key to survival, and having a reliable source of food is essential. In addition to carrying nutrient-dense food, the ability to cook and prepare meals can significantly enhance your morale and energy in tough situations.
Bars & Freeze-Dried Meals
Food is essential for maintaining energy and morale. High-calorie energy bars and freeze-dried meals provide the nutrition you need in a compact, lightweight form. Freeze-dried meals are easy to prepare—just add hot water—and provide a satisfying, balanced diet. These food items ensure you’re prepared for short-term emergencies and longer survival scenarios.
Titanium Cook Pot, Butane Propane Gas, Mini Backpacking Stove
Being able to prepare food and boil water is crucial in survival situations. A titanium cook pot is lightweight, durable, and resistant to rust, making it perfect for outdoor cooking.
Paired with a mini backpacking stove and butane propane gas, you can efficiently cook meals and sterilize water. This setup is compact yet highly effective, ensuring you can maintain your energy levels with hot meals even in the wilderness.
Titanium Fork
A titanium fork is lightweight and durable, making it ideal for your survival bag. It’s resistant to rust and can handle high temperatures, meaning it won’t warp or degrade when used with hot foods. A simple, reliable utensil like this makes mealtime more manageable in survival scenarios, reducing your reliance on makeshift tools.
First Aid and Hygiene
Injuries and illnesses can escalate quickly in a survival situation. Proper first aid supplies and hygiene products help you manage wounds, prevent infections, and maintain your health, ensuring minor issues don’t become life-threatening.
Tourniquet
You need the ability to stop severe bleeding, particularly in emergency or survival situations. It’s designed to apply pressure to a limb, restricting blood flow and preventing life-threatening blood loss until medical help can be reached. Easy to use and quick to deploy, a tourniquet can make the difference between life and death in cases of traumatic injuries. In your survival bag, a tourniquet is essential for managing serious wounds, especially in remote areas where immediate medical assistance may not be available.
First Aid Supplies
A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for treating injuries and illnesses in the field. Include bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need. For more serious injuries, a trauma kit with items like a tourniquet and hemostatic agents is crucial. Being prepared to treat wounds, burns, and other common injuries can prevent minor issues from becoming life-threatening.
Leukotape P
Leukotape P is a high-quality, durable tape used primarily for preventing and treating blisters. It’s incredibly sticky and can be used to secure bandages, repair gear, or even create makeshift splints. In survival situations, where foot injuries can be debilitating, having Leukotape P on hand can be a lifesaver.
Body Wipes
Hygiene is often overlooked in survival situations, but it’s nice for preventing illness and maintaining morale. Body wipes allow you to clean yourself even when water is scarce, reducing the risk of infections and keeping you comfortable. They’re compact and easy to carry, making them a practical addition to your survival bag.
Tools and Equipment
Versatile tools are the backbone of any survival kit. From building shelters to repairing gear, these items ensure you can handle a wide range of tasks, making you self-sufficient in a variety of situations.
Multitool
A multitool is like having a toolbox in your pocket. It includes a variety of tools such as pliers, screwdrivers, wire cutters, and more, all in one compact device. Whether you need to repair gear, build a shelter, or perform first aid, a multitool is indispensable in a survival situation, providing the versatility you need to tackle any task.
Fixed Blade Knife
A fixed blade knife is a fundamental tool for survival. It’s more durable and reliable than a folding knife, making it ideal for heavy-duty tasks such as cutting wood, preparing food, and self-defense. A high-quality fixed blade knife can also be used for building shelters, crafting tools, and processing game, making it a cornerstone of your survival gear.
Pocket Knife
A pocket knife is a convenient tool for smaller tasks that don’t require a larger fixed blade. It’s perfect for cutting rope, opening packages, and performing delicate tasks that require precision. A high-quality pocket knife is an everyday carry essential, providing a reliable cutting tool that’s easy to access and use.
Small Hatchet
A small hatchet is a versatile tool that serves multiple purposes, from chopping wood to self-defense. Its compact size makes it easy to carry in your Eberlestock Switchblade, yet it’s powerful enough to handle significant tasks. Use it for gathering firewood, building shelters, or preparing game. The hatchet can also serve as a hammer, making it invaluable in any survival situation where tools are limited.
Duct Tape
Duct tape is one of the most versatile items you can carry in your survival bag. Use it for repairs, creating makeshift tools, or even first aid in a pinch. Its strength and adhesive properties make it invaluable in a wide range of situations. Whether you’re patching a tent, securing gear, or improvising a bandage, duct tape is a go-to solution for many problems. You don’t need a full roll, just take what you want to carry. It’ll adhere to itself and be ready to use when you need it.
Sharpie
A Sharpie can be used for marking territory, leaving notes, or identifying items. It’s a simple tool but can be incredibly useful in survival situations where communication or marking is necessary. The permanent ink is durable and can withstand exposure to water and the elements.
Polyester Rope
A polyester rope is essential for a wide range of tasks, from building shelters to securing gear. Its strength and resistance to the elements make it reliable in both urban and wilderness settings. You can use it to create makeshift clotheslines, repair gear, or even aid in rescue situations. Unlike natural fibers, polyester resists moisture and maintains its strength when wet, ensuring it holds up in challenging conditions.
Paracord
Paracord, also known as 550 cord, is a lightweight yet incredibly strong nylon rope that’s indispensable in survival scenarios. Its versatility is unmatched—you can use it to build shelters, secure gear, or even fashion a makeshift harness. The inner strands can be separated for smaller tasks, such as fishing lines or sewing thread. Paracord’s ability to handle heavy loads without snapping makes it incredibly useful.
Heavy-Duty Zip Ties
Zip ties are versatile, strong, and easy to use for securing gear, repairing equipment, or even restraining someone in a self-defense scenario. Heavy-duty zip ties can hold significant weight and withstand harsh conditions, making them an excellent multi-purpose tool in your survival arsenal.
Carabiners
Carabiners are versatile tools that can be used for a variety of tasks, from securing gear to creating makeshift pulleys. They’re lightweight, easy to carry, and incredibly useful in a survival context. Whether you’re climbing, securing your gear, or setting up a shelter, carabiners are a valuable addition to your bag.
Pry Bar
A small pry bar is useful for gaining access to locked or barricaded areas, opening crates, or breaking through debris. In urban survival scenarios, where you might need to enter buildings or vehicles, a pry bar is an invaluable tool. Its compact size makes it easy to carry, but it’s strong enough to handle tough tasks.
Trash Bag
A trash bag is a multi-purpose tool that can be used for carrying items, creating a makeshift poncho, or even building a shelter. It’s lightweight and compact but incredibly versatile, making it a valuable addition to your survival bag. You can also use it to waterproof your gear or collect rainwater in an emergency.
Navigation and Communication
Staying oriented and maintaining communication can be the difference between life and death in a survival situation. These tools help you navigate unfamiliar terrain and stay in touch with others, enhancing your chances of making it through difficult circumstances.
Compass
In a world where GPS might not always be available, a compass is a reliable tool for navigation. It helps you maintain your bearings, ensuring you can find your way even when electronic devices fail. Paired with a map, a compass is invaluable for navigating through unfamiliar territory, whether you’re lost in the wilderness or trying to avoid populated areas in a crisis.
Headlamp
Hands-free lighting is a must when navigating or working in the dark. A headlamp provides reliable illumination while leaving your hands free to perform tasks. Whether you’re setting up camp, reading maps, or signaling for help, a headlamp is indispensable in low-light conditions. Opt for one with multiple brightness settings, RED LIGHT (my favorite), and a long battery life for maximum versatility.
Flashlight
A good flashlight is essential for visibility in dark or low-light situations. It’s useful for navigation, signaling, and finding your way around camp at night. Choose a flashlight with a powerful beam and a strobe function for signaling. Durability and waterproofing are also important factors, ensuring your flashlight will work when you need it most. This is my EDC:
Kestrel Weather Meter
Understanding the weather is vital in survival scenarios, as it helps you make informed decisions about shelter, travel, and safety. A Kestrel Weather Meter provides real-time data on temperature, wind speed, humidity, and more. This information can help you avoid dangerous weather conditions, plan your movements, and ensure your shelter is sufficient for the conditions.
GMRS Radio
Communication can be a lifesaver in survival situations. A GMRS radio allows you to stay in contact with others in your group or call for help when needed. It’s particularly useful in remote areas where cell service is unavailable. With a GMRS radio, you can coordinate movements, share information, and stay connected, enhancing your chances of survival.
Monocular
In survival situations, you need to be aware of your surroundings. A monocular allows you to spot potential threats, locate resources, or find your way in unfamiliar terrain. Its compact size makes it easy to store in your bag, and it’s a valuable tool for scouting and navigation. Whether you’re watching for wildlife or surveying a landscape, a monocular enhances your ability to make informed decisions.
Rangefinder
For those who anticipate using firearms in survival scenarios, a rangefinder is an essential tool. It helps you accurately judge distances, improving your effectiveness in hunting or self-defense. A rangefinder can also be useful for estimating distances when navigating unfamiliar terrain, ensuring you stay on course and conserve energy.
Self-Defense and Security
Personal protection is vital, especially in high-risk situations. These tools and equipment provide you with the means to defend yourself and secure your environment, ensuring your safety in dangerous scenarios.
There are lot of options, this is what I like as an everyday concealed carry and to have at the ready in addition to (for the tactical bag)
9mm Mags
Carrying extra magazines ensures you have enough ammunition for extended situations. If you’re protecting yourself from threats, having a reliable firearm and sufficient ammunition is key.
9mm Hellcat (one of my preferred choices)
For self-defense, a 9mm handgun like the Hellcat is a compact, powerful option. Its small size and ease of use make it ideal for concealed carry, yet it’s potent enough to handle serious threats. Having a reliable firearm on hand can provide peace of mind and protection in high-risk scenarios.
Personal Protection and Miscellaneous
In a digital age, protecting your electronic devices and ensuring you remain undetected can be just as important as physical protection. These items help you secure your technology and maintain your privacy in survival situations.
Faraday Jacket for Mobile Phone
In an increasingly digital world, protecting your electronic devices from EMPs (Electromagnetic Pulses) or remote hacking is crucial. If you need to be untraceable… A Faraday jacket blocks signals, ensuring your phone remains secure and functional when you need it. This is particularly important in scenarios where communication is critical, and you want to avoid detection.
Conclusion
The Eberlestock Switchblade is the perfect foundation for building a tactical survival bag that can help you navigate even the most challenging situations. By carefully selecting and organizing these essential items, you can ensure you’re prepared for a wide range of scenarios, from urban emergencies to wilderness survival. Remember, the key to effective preparedness is not just having the right gear, but knowing how to use it. Practice with your tools, understand your equipment, and stay ready for anything that comes your way.