I hesitate to post this list as no two people would ever agree on its content. But maybe an item or two will spark an idea. My primary goal for emergency gear is to help avoid the top killers — hyperthermia and hypothermia — in the event of an unexpected night out or a breakdown. This list is in addition to the gear installed on/always available in our Jeep, as detailed here.
Like every product linked to on our website, we own 100% of the items recommend below.
- Water. 1 gallon per person per day. We typically carry an extra 2-3 day supply.
- Clothing appropriate for the conditions. Note that desert & mountain environments may experience a 40+ degree swing between high and low temperatures. If you are dry and warm you are generally in good shape.
- Food. Eh, you can go weeks without food so this one is not a big deal. We usually have some trail bars hanging around.
- Firestarter. Especially appropriate in cold weather. I personally carry UCO stormproof matches and FireSteel rod & striker.
- Water purification. If a bad situation turns worse, you need the ability to create potable water. The smallest solution is Portable Aqua Iodine tablets. You could also throw a LifeStraw Personal Water Filter into your vehicle.
- First-aid kit. This kit is fairly small and comprehensive. Karla beefed if up a little with some larger gauze pads/rolls and at least one roller bandage that can be used to immobilize an ankle/knee, etc. in case of a slip, trip or fall.
- Personal locator beacon. I carry this ACR PLB on every trip. Inexpensive insurance if you need a get out of jail card for free. There are less expensive models on the market, but be aware that many charge an ongoing monthly fees (the ACR PLB we have is a one time cost). The brands with fees use a middle man answering service who you are relying upon to forward your distress call to the national search and rescue (SAR). We prefer having that middle step eliminated. But you need to keep your contact info up-to-date and re-register it every couple of years.
- Bow saw. Not as useful for desert trips, but essential in the mountains, particularly on lesser used Forest Service roads when you come upon downed trees. This bow saw from Bhaco makes quick work of the job.
- Portable air compressor. I carry a Viair 300P because of the 35″ tires. The same company makes a range of air compressors. I carry the smaller Viair 85P in other cars.
- Battery jump starter. Given the small size of lithium-ion jump packs these days it would be pretty dumb to be stranded because of a dead battery. I use the Antigravity Batteries XP-10 Jump Starter. Refrain from using it as a portable power supply, such as charging tablets and smartphones, lest you need it for something important.
