Good basic starting point, David. Should give people food for thought. Here in the PNW I carry full sized axe & shovel in winter, along with a chainsaw. Tow strap and jumpers are mostly to help others. But tree in the road or even a piece of highway washed away, definitely does happen. Final thought: whether it’s putting on tire chains or using that Esbit stove, practice using the gear you carry, so you are familiar with it and confident.
It is important to note, that some of those fire starter fuel tabs produce cyanide, and should not be used in enclosed spaces such as a car. Always check with the manufacturer, or the instruction manual to see if that particular tab is safe to do so.
This is true. As someone retired from the healthcare field, I can tell you it doesn't take much CN (cyanide) to be hazardous. You won't smell it, it doesn't take much to do damage, it's cumulative (more CN fumes make it worse), and it's irreversible (they can't just find you unconscious in the car and move you into fresh air to fix it, like they might with carbon monoxide poisoning). CN paralyzes your ability to absorb oxygen even away from the CN source. So, burning fuel tabs inside a closed space can be hazardous. Proceed with caution. CN fumes are the same reason firefighters won't let you run back into your burning house to save someone. As soon as you get in there, CN drops you like a stone, and they'll have to rescue both of you. Another low dose CN source is aquatic tabs that may be hawked as water purification tabs. The packages even clearly warn emergency treatment may be necessary if inhaled. If you swallowed water treated with these already you are likely fine, but CN is cumulative. Probably your safer water purification tabs are not "cyano-" composition, but those based on peroxide or chlorine. Recycle the remaining -cyano- tabs for your rodent kill bucket.
Great kit and suggestions. I've had a a seasonal emergency bag in the trunk for years and the wife has always complained about it. "It takes up space" "What kind of incident do you think will happen for us to need it", so I explained it as having insurance and that we've had our car for 5 years and never had an accident, that doesn't mean we should have accident insurance. She stopped complaining after we were stuck on a highway for 14h during a winter storm after a rather large accident blocked all traffic. Winter kit has all the basics including a MSR Pocket Rocket and packs of soups, tea, water, MRE meals and few wool blankets. I even managed to make some tea and soups and lend a blanket to people in another car who had a small kid and a baby with them. I also alway make sure my tank is topped up and on some longer trips I'll have a 5l cannister of gas, which helped in this instance as I could lend some gas to 2 others to keep their engines running. Now for every long term the wife always asks if the bag is stocked and up to date 😁
@@georgezimmerman3334 hangry people will make for a miserable existence for all. I think a few dry goods like bars and fruit chews is plenty, but I don’t get winter, I’m in Texas.
George Zimmerman, you seem to be of the opinion that avoiding death is the ideal measure of preparedness and navigating the world. Weird opinion, and I doubt you’ll find many people that share it.
@@brawndothethirstmutilator9848 nothing is ideal. But wasting your life prepping is dumb. Have some water and good shoes and you will be fine. Or I'm sure you could lend me a strand from your paracord thong for snares and let me borrow your ferrocium rod.
For a deck of cards, I've got the "Don't Die Out There! Deck," where every card has a survival tip on it. Now THAT will make for a useful game of Solitaire!
I’ll add two points: 1) Cost. Some survival items can be pricey, but consider this: this is for YOUR survival. Why would you want to choose inferior products that could fail you in your time of need? of course, expensive does not mean best, and cheap does not mean worst. But in general, the rule of thumb is you get what you pay for. Do research on each item. For example, for a headlamp I selected the Princeton Tec Sync. Why? - It’s one of the few lamps that use an actual switch lever for on/off/light modes. Even a small child can pick it up and understand how to use it immediately. Most headlamps use a series of over-complicated button presses, combinations and sequences, etc that require memorizing and having the user manual handy. It’s nonsense and no one is going to remember, least in emergency situations. - uses AA batteries - red light mode - waterproof - made in USA 2) Food. Keep snacks and other long-expiration food in the car. You’ll be hungry if you’re stuck for long hours. Other stuff no one thinks about: Keep a roll of toilet paper 🧻 in the car too!
Price is often dictated by weight, which is far less of a concern in your car (e.g. that pricey titanium cup, when a steel one would be just as good and a whole lot cheaper). Paper kitchen towel is better than toilet paper; it may not be as comfortable, but it'll do the job and much more besides.
Yeah and plastic bags to throw away the mess. Maybe even a tarp to put up for privacy!! My sister has a thing she uses to pee standing up lol. They make all that stuff lol. Better think of all the small things lol.
Great list. I have a lot of that. Mora, pump, multi-tool/wrenches, jumper cables, spare fuses, gorilla tape,shop towels and wool blankets/moving pad blankets in the hatch trunk. Two liters of water, a space blanket, headlamp, bic lighter, and a razorblade knife directly in my console within reach to cut seatbelt if necessary. In my Glove box I have ACTUAL GLOVES, LOL, great for changing a tire or if you have to dig or repair something when it is cold out, an umbrella, and Poncho/Tarp with Amsteel cordage. One thing I have had in the past and need to add is a heavy-duty ratchet strap/tow strap. Has gotten me out of a bind before in my old SUV and used for tie-down. I have a hatchback now so haven't put one in there, but now that I think about it I should. . . I thought I was the only person who has playing cards in my car. I also have an Aesop's Fables kids book to keep youngins somewhat entertained for a while waiting in a situation if necessary. One thing that was not mentioned is a Fire Extinguisher. This can be critical!
Exotac also makes beeswax candles that are contained in a tin with a removable cap. The 16-hour candle can actually boil water when all three wicks are lit, it will heat up the inside of a car relatively well, and I would recommend having an ammo can, or a metal coffee can to place the candle in, for an added measure of protection
First aid kit. So many times I've needed those for just minor things that they always stay in the car. Often small scrapes and dings of people around me but most of my camping buddies trained with the red cross at one point in time that when someone gets hurt, we head to any of our vehicles and there will be a first aid kit in any of them.
@@Vicandiers I'm not from the US so I'm not sure if it's mandatory there. It isn't required where I live but old habits from Red Cross training back in high school stayed so first aid kits every where. One in the car, one at the desk at work, and one at home.
@@Vicandiers How do they check / verify that you are keeping a 1st aid kit in your vehicle? Do they have those annual car inspections there to check for it?
This may be my Albertan experience coming through but just in case it helps anyone, here are some of my thoughts. A full set of winter gear kept in your car is always a good idea. A get home bag to go with you between the car and home, mostly to avoid the temperature extremes damaging your gear and food. 2 winters ago it was -45 to -50 at my house for over a week, and nearly a month straight it was below -30. All before the wind chill. Driving in the cold is as bad as it gets. I keep 2 emergency blankets/tarps, a wool blanket, some winter gear, 1 change of clothes, and extra socks and underwear just incase they're soiled ;) lol. A few tools to do some repairs on your car, oils/fluids, reflectors, a shovel and a tire inflator/battery booster. It's somewhat expensive to keep your car stocked and your home stocked for emergencies too but it's better safe than sorry. If possible too, gets some animal skins and clothing made from animal. It's better in every way than synthetics for the winter. Plus they look great 👍
Thank you for some very good ideas. Let me add that your engine is a good source of heat. You can melt some snow in a cup set on your engine. You can even cook a meal wrapped in aluminum foil set on your engine while idling or even driving. Also, a dry sweat suit is great.
Thanks for this. We've got a daughter heading to college in the fall and the 8 hour drive from there to here is not the most populated. There are a lot of things here that so be useful to get her vehicle ready.
I did a vid a few weeks back on that topic. I even spent the night out in my vehicle to show people what to do. I wish more people would have seen it before the current situation.
Hey DCA! Todays EDC Benchmade 940blk, Olight i5t, EDC Crazy challenge coin, Recycled Firefighter wallet, iPhone, iwatch, and car keys of course! Have a wonderful day! 🤙🏻
note: silky saws are the best saws on the market, but id go with a bacho laplander for people who dont know how to use a Japanese style saw that only cuts on the pull. silky will snap if you use it wrong, a bacho laplander will just bend and it will still be relatively usable when you bend it back into place.
The saw is essential on forested roads. I remember traveling the Poconos in winter to find a tree across the road. This was before cell phones and in a fairly remote area, but thanks to a small bow saw we were back on our way in less than an hour. A small saw can cut a much larger tree if needed, roughly about twice the diameter of the saws length.
During my time a a soldier, I did a lot of training and real world survival, including winter in the Arctic and summer in the desert. Any environment has its own challenges and equipment is important. I just want to highlight that my survival depended a lot on training, fitness and experience. Ultimately, survival will depend on what you do and whether you are alone.
Mine is a cooking kit using the Stanley Cook Kit to keep in different vehicles since 2003. Using a Condor H20 pouch. Starting at the bottom of the pouch there is a Oilcamp Stainless Steel Space Saver Cup. Then the Stanley Adventure Cook Camp System which fits ( sits ) inside the cup. The tapered sides of the Stanley Camp Cook kit fits inside the cup like it was made for it. Along the outside of the Stanley is a long handled Titanium spoon. Inside the Stanley is the Gen2 Folding Firebox Nano Ultralight Backpacking 3" Stove. On top of the Stanley is a Trangia Alcohol burner so I can cook with either alcohol or wood. The outside pocket of the Condor has a plastic ( Flask shaped ) 8 oz bottle which has the Denatured Alcohol for the Trangia. Next to the bottle is a Swiss Army Knife with assorted attachments including a blade that's a wood saw. Next to that is a ferro rod for lighting the burner or starting a fire. Folded next to the ferro rod is a bandana which can be used if the handles of either pot gets too hot for a bare hand to touch. A few months later I added two canteen pouches, one on each side of the Condor H20 pouch. One pouch has a Nalgene canteen in it and the other pouch has a couple dehydrated meals. Thanks to using a wood fire the Stanley has a nice blackened bottom and sides which I think helps it to heat up quicker.
Good kit. I have a similar setup in that same Condor pouch that I use camping or on long trips in the woods where I’ll want to stop and have coffee, tea, or rehydrate a hot meal. I took the green cups that come with the Stanley kit out and replaced with collapsible silicone cups. This leaves room for other things inside.
Awesome stuff, thanks. A couple of thoughts as part of sharing experience. Good you mentioned playing cards or any other group game. Keeps one sane and eats time. This little shovel might be an issue though. Digging dirt might be ok, but that little blade and short handle... Man, had to dig out a stuck L200 once with the Russian small army shovel (yeah, bad planning and preparation for sure but make the best of what you have, right). It takes so much time and effort. Good to keep an infantry soldier busy but in a situation when you have to conserve you energy - no. So I opted for a Swedish army shovel. It has a similar size blade as the infantry shovel but also a longer handle (steel, though, so cold) and it has a wide square stainless steel detacheable snow blade which is awesome. That L200 is gone but I still keep that that shovel in my Kia SW and actually use it quite frequently. The winter in central Russia is quite snowy this year. Another thing missing is that electric engine starter that you can also use to charge whatever else you have although I'd advise to keep it fully charged. Stuck in cold you will have to start your car from time to time anyway, use lights, radio. In freezing conditions the car battery may soon fail to start your car. So that starter-charger will come in handy. Season's greetings and all the best from Russia.
If you throw a small power bank in your kit, you can recharge your flashlight, as well as your phone. You can pick them up reasonably inexpensive nowadays. I have one that can jump start my car several times on a charge, and also has the ability to recharge my phone or flashlight, or any other rechargeable electronic device, but you can get one that is just for charging your phone and other small electronics for much less money if you don't want to spend the money that one capable of jumping your car costs. I feel it is well worth the cost however that can indeed jump start your car should your battery go dead.
I have YET.....to hear anyone say something bad about the Cold Steel S.R.K !! I think it's the ultimate BEST all around go to knife !! No matter who you are or where you go. 💯👍
Few things I always keep in my cars trunk: Half roll of papertowels, 2 flashlights with spare batteries, jumper cables, WD40, wool blanket, roll of duct tape, heavy mil garbage bags (6), myriad of fire starters, home made tinder (just dryer lint in a toilet paper tube dipped in old candle wax), a small candle, packets of emergency boat rations, PB, and tuna packets, a single wall water bottle with fish hook to use as a bail handle and leather gloves and a heavy duty knife. Edited to add a few things I forgot the first time around.
Luci light. Crushes flat, charges on the dashboard even when overcast, no batteries, weighs a feather, plenty of illumination. What about bathroom stuff? Who doesn't need to 'go' over 36 hours of drinking tea and bottled water, or getting stuck out there after tacos?
Other items for the CAR KIT... 1) Walking SHOES or Hiking/Winter BOOTS (depending on the season). If you are in your loafers, saddles, pumps or high heels when Murphy strikes you're SOL. 2) OUTDOOR CLOTHING. Same reason as above.
For cold weather pack a 0 degree sleeping bag. Walmart sells them pretty cheap, and it will keep you warm, and let you sleep properly even in frigid conditions without any external heat. Also pack a couple of survival ration bars. Each bar provides about 2200 calories, and unlike many other foods, these bars have an almost indefinite shelf life.
That was an interesting and thought provoking video. I could add a couple of thoughts, firstly something I've been thinking about for a while is insulating my cooking container so that I can cook or heat with minimal fuel. That mess tin looks ideal because it is rectangular which means there is a smaller outside surface area compared to a circular container of the same volume which means less heat loss. Just by simply wrapping gorilla tap over the sides and lid will further reduce heat loss and greatly speed up the heating process with a candle. It might be an interesting experiment for you to do and if it proves to work well then maybe you could demonstrate the difference on your next video. Also it could be mentioned if you have a larger vehicle like what you call a pick up, we call them Utes here in Australia you would have room for a shovel with a long handle as you know is better to work with and prevents a saw back. Also a larger silky saw in this case.
I would add: a puzzle book and pencil, coloring book or pad of paper and colored pencils, a couple of magazines and children's books. Hygiene items like wet wipes and paper towels. Some food, like cookies, peanut butter, crackers, jerky, single packs of lemonade drink mix, and if you can heat water - single packets of instant coffee, sugar packets. Some plastic spoons & forks and cups. All these things would keep well and most will nest together to store in a small space.
to have a somewhat comprehensive kit in the car it's useful to also have: - first aid kit - essential medication, painkillers for the whole family - toilet paper - tissues - baby wipes - ration bars - adventure dry food - snacks like Snickers, etc - water - 550 paracord (min 10ft) - compressed towels (also can be used as toilet paper) - HotHands Hand Warmers - Extra gloves - glow sticks - extra pair of socks - all-weather pen - waterproof paper - construction bags if you have pets - petfood - medication if they are on any - towels to keep them dry - poo bag - water/food bowl to eat and drink from - a toy
Excellent vid ! I was almost stuck in the mess you speak of - actually spent 4 hours in traffic when I was diverted on to Rt 1, but finally gave up and turned around - hundreds of folks didn't have that option. Anyway, I "amused" myself mentally reviewing my emergency bag and decidedI needed to augment a few small items - your video coincides with my "adjustments" and should be taken seriously by the "I'll never need that..." folks. On side note - off the knife theme but important. A lot of folks ran out of gas, and even on the diverted route there were gas station without any gas. A couple or three gallons of spare gas in the car is cheap insurance BUT DO NOT USE CHEAP CHINESE MADE PLASTIC OR METAL CONTAINERS ( sorry, WlaMart ). They are not safe and WILL fail. There are good specially made containers available - not cheap, but what's your life worth ? An older MILITARY jerry can is fine, but most of the new ones commercially available are crap, especially for use in a vehicle. At least for the moment, Harbor Freight ( for one ) has good quality NATO spec cans with modern spouts. Do your homework carefully !
I HATE that section of I-95 between Richmond and DC... really between Fredricksburg and DC... its the perfect example of WHY we need to improve our infrastructure! widen that Be-itch to 6 lanes each way!
Carrying extra gasoline in your vehicle can be problematic. Unless you have a pickup or SUV where gas can be stored in the truck bed, roof rack or on the back of the vehicle...it might just be better to make sure that your auto's gas tank never goes below 1/2 full (especially in winter). If you are going to carry an extra emergency gas can...make certain that the gas can is of the highest quality and legal in your area to have inside your car (trunk).
@@blueeyeswhitedragon9839 Absolutely agree - there are pros and cons to extra gas. If you elect to do so, consider your options carefully and do not cheap out or get careless in how to secure the gas.
Remember to have something in the car for the kids, to keep them busy, like puzzles, coloring books, mini-chess/checker sets, etc. For myself, l keep an unready magazine or book ... comes in handy even in short traffic jams or while waiting for the wife. Edit:- Upon reflection, l also have nails and steel wire in my auto emergency kit. Both have come in handy on several occasions while camping. The nails for attaching bags, lines etc. to trees and the wire for various repairs and for constructing "Swedish Candle" type fires.
As a hunter, camper, hiker, and generally cautious about the uncertainty of the future, I have far more than all of this between my toolbox and under the rear seat. The only problem with food and batteries - The Florida heat. I have a flashlight and lantern in there, but just in case the batteries are dead, I also have glow sticks and a solar powered light.
@@c62west kept the entire cabin of his truck warn for the entire night in sub freezing temperatures. I know they do well inside of gloves and shoes ect. but I did not expect them to do as well as they did. the video on RUclips is worth a watch
I like the folding Sven saw and a a hatchet for clearing blow-downs. I like a US Army E-tool for my shovel, also very compact, has a "sharp" edge for use as an an ad-hoc hatchet and putting it in the "L" configuration makes a great scraper for digging out around your tires.
We added portable urinals (for males & females) to our car emergency kit, as well as a hygiene kit. We all have our personal survival/emergency kits with us everywhere we go which includes many of the items you mentioned and more. The only differences are the shovel, multitool (Gerber Truss) for the car emergency kit, and the Gerber LMF 2 Infantry.
The UCO candle lantern works well with the 9 hour candle for cold environments, however the beeswax candles hold up better in more temperate environments, and will not melt when they are in your trunk. They also last 13 hours and put off a bit more heat
I was in the Georgia snowpocalypse about 8 or 9 years ago. 27 hours getting home on a normal under a hour drive. I was lucky. Got stuck in traffic about half way. Was able to wait til around 4 am when most people had abandoned their cars walking or were trying to get some sleep before dawn. I was able to drop tire pressure and get moving through the abandoned cars. It took about a hour and a half but I slept in my bed.(like a rock)
@@charlessalmond7076 That is stupid. It gives you little bit more surface area to the road, but if you have wintertires you will abolish the funtion of the tire studs and whole tire and actually making everything worse. Lowering the pressure is only useful if you drive in mud with tractor.
Very hard to beat Leatherman un most cases. My go to has been the Wave because I've been a production mechanic for 30 yrs and it has most of what I needed and tough and fits the hand like most mechanic tools.
Good to know the Wave is comprehensive like that. There are so many out there to choose from, it's hard to narrow down. I keep hearing that Leatherman has an amazing guarantee they actually stand by, so that really offsets the price factor. Thanks for the recommendation.
My father taught me to keep a flashlight, road flares, basic wrenches and mechanics tools in the car along with a few spare parts; and he gave me the knowledge to use them. He’d be 93 if he was still around.
Those new UCO candle lanterns have a real problem. The spring that pushes the candle up is too weak. I bought 3 of the new ones and they are now made in China with cheap springs.
Dav most people are oblivious and it won't happen to me, are the same people that think Fire Extinguishers are too expensive.... but when you need one it just paid for it's self. Maybe these items could be used to save someone else's life. Boy Scout Motto, Always be Prepared. And that Cold Steel SRK ... has soooo many possibilities.
Thanks DCA this is a very well thought kit. Needing to update mine and put a new one in my wife's car. I don't remember hearing you mention one but a small first-aid kit would be the first on the list.
I can't drive because of my eyesight, but keeping some of this stuff around my apartment is a good idea. Especially winters in NY can get very cold and all over the place. Having some of this stuff incase of long term power outage would be helpful for sure.
Yes DCA throwing some love to the Silky Gomboy!! I am one to keep the trucks w/these in the door pockets. Use them constantly. They are great love the adjustable handle lock.
Thx DCA, very interesting subject. The only one thing I'll change is the shovel. I think the Cold Steel Special Force Shovel is very much usable and versatile than a folding one.
When the weather man is right, it's usually bad here in Virginia lol. I always keep a seasonal kit in truck regardless, but as much as you can prepare for yourself, it's the other guy that hasn't and drives like a idiot ruining everyone else's day. In my opinion VDOT got cought with their pants down in underestimating the snow/ ice combo and there's the folks that over estimated their vehicles winter performance and was left stranded.
If you carry some sort of stove also carry a CO detector. An added benefit to that large blanket is that you can huddle under it with someone else. That makes a HUGE difference, when it's really cold.
Walmart is a good source: Products need to work randomly if ever. Windshield shade and painters plastic about $10, Ozark shovel $12, Stanley cook kit, duct tape, extra blankets or sleeping bag from the house etc. Point is... You don't have to spend a lot of money to be "prepared" for a road trip gone south. Just an option. Spend what you can afford.
Seconded on the sikly saw. That's a great recommendation I would also recommend storing water upside down ( ice forms at the top first because it floats. This way the opening won't be frozen over), and I would add in a dedicated snow shovel ( get one of the folding hiking avalanche shovels) ... if you slide off the road into a snow bank you will be glad to have it... and some traction strips to put under your tires. For food I use life raft rations ( they last a long time and don't cause thirst like most food does... and they are OK tasting by not great so you won't be tempted to eat them before that emergency) For batteries, I like the the AAA batteries with built in USB chargers ( port built into the battery itself) ... that way you get the best of both worlds. You have a long lasting battery that you can keep charged in your car and swap them out for normal Batts should the need arise. Throw a roll of toilet paper in the car too and you'll be happy you have that space blanket to give you some extra privacy in crowded traffic stopped scenarios... ( not ideal, but after 24 hours you may be glad you have it ...)
Couple of things: 1. If you're going to include a stove and mess tin, you should probably also have a utensil - I got a titanium spork for about $2.50 that sits nicely in my Trangia mess tin, which is a bit smaller than the Esee. 2. A roll or two of paper kitchen towel, which does what it's meant to and can also serve as toilet paper.
Always carry a Get Home Bag or EDC type. I use stuff out of mine so frequently its mind boggling imagining life before it. Inventory the bag monthly or weekly. Food and water save you a lot of money too.
Durable logs shaved and whole,fatwood, Fanwood, mylar blankets zippo fuel mini pots Ramen canned chicken gloves blood clotter antibiotics I use a red rock assault pack water and I have 4 fixed blades and about 12 folders and a leatherman surge
This Is a great list, and my truck has pretty much all of those things in some variation. In regards to the metal pot, Olicamp makes a little aluminum pot that fits a nalgene and it should be cheaper than the titanium pot. I'd also add a map and compass and some cordage.
I’ll take a good machete over a saw any day. A 24” Martindale from Allen Precision in a leather sheath is the way to go. I’ve taken down more than saplings in a manner of seconds or minutes. Of course there’s a method for properly swinging one but once you get that down you can really clear some stuff out of your way.
Hi DCA, thanks again for the content. In the future, can you please go into more detail on headlamp features (different intensities, illumination duration, red/green light, strobe, etc.)? Cheers!
Great points but do disagree on some areas of flashlight that's not rechargeable... yes both sides have advantages but our vehicles can charge while car is off but if battery is down then you're obviously screwed. Some lights are rechargeable but also take disposable battery. Another option is something like an Olight baton 3 with charger station that will fully charge the light up to 3.5 times. Very great options and ideas for people to get started and have some form of survival options at all times. I need to get me some of the candle lanterns soon for the vehicles
In the snowpiclypse years ago cold steel war hammer was useful to break up patches of ice when cars were stuck. For areas around the tires just take it apart and use the pick end against the ice and baton with the wooden handle
@@georgezimmerman3334 yeah but it isn't as easy as the pick or hammer. Also the folding car shovel isn't as robust and a regular shovel isn't as compact as the hammer when taken apart
I have a Gerber Bear Grylls "survival" knife in my wife's car... It's gimmicky AF, but I got it as a present several years ago and will work for what my wife would use it for (and tucked away in her car I don't have to look at the stupid thing). I keep a Full size Cold Steel Recon Tanto (30 y.o.) and a Khukri in my SUV. And a cheap (very cheap) Gerber folding saw...
Nice cheap wool army blanket, an axe, some dehydrated calorie source like space ice cream, a karaoke machine, those little hand warmer things, and a drone to get footage to sell to the news.
Easily one of my favorite videos and now that I know you guys are local to the Washington DC metro area I’m going to have to break down and make my first purchase not sure what it’ll be either a pin or a small pocket knife. But once again really enjoyed the video
Very nice video. I have many similar items used for bushcraft and keep a number of them in my car for emergencies. Please do more videos like this of items you have at the knife center. Thanks and always appreciated your videos.
Great job. Great info. Wishing I had put a kit together for my wife who is currently an hour North of me getting some snow. She has our 4x4 atleast but very unfamiliar with driving in 4H.
14:32 Personally, I'd never recommend using aluminium for boiling water or cooking food... Always use stainless steel or shell out some extra $ for titanium
Instead of levering with a knife, get a utility bar. They’re dirt cheap and have more uses than just levering, they’re wide and shaped enough to shift snow from awkward places around wheels, etc. where the entrenching tool won’t fit.
These have been mentioned elsewhere, but l also keep the following items in my auto, as well as the gear that you mentioned:- Candy for the kids (peanut brittle lasts for years and gives some protein as well as the sugar boost). A Swiss Army knife with scissors Water...several disposable bottles, can be easily replaced every few months. Candles...don't completely depend on battery power A battery powered radio (AM/FM & Multiband) Two fleese blankets ( one for the front seat, one for the back seat) NEVER let your gas/diesel tank go below 1/2 full...especially in winter. You might have to run your engine for the heater for hours (one of the great flaws of electric cars) Flares, fire extinguisher, first aide kit, & extra clothing just in case you and the kids have to walk out...most people never think about winter boots, gloves, etc. And let's hope you never need any of these things, but every day, someone, somewhere does need this type of emergency kit.
@@sparrowflying864 Or even a large red handkerchief/bandanna helps. Tie on your antenna tight for emergency crews or snow plows to spot you. Also, a pack of Ramen noodles last forever and are filling if you can heat up a little water.
DCA I think he capability to boil coupe if cups of water and a mountain house freeze dried meal or 2 makes sense , of course you’ll have to be outside your car for a few minutes
A baofeng UV-5R and a screw on propane cannister stove would definitely be on the list for me. Radio communications and the ability to have a water boiling flame at -30 with no firewood will deal with like 95% of your issues.
I created what I call a Hurri-can stove. That is a metal coffee can filled 3/4 with wax and 3 large wicks placed equidistant in the can. It has holes for air flow and holes for wire to make a pot stand . inside I have bullion cubes, tea bags, coffee pouches, a lighter and sugar inside a metal container that fits inside along with some tin foil. Seal that with the lid and you are good to go.
Seems to me that if it's small enough that you can saw it with a pruning saw like that, you could probably just move it by hand, where as if it's big enough that it needs to be sawed up to move, you're really going to want something bigger, like a bow saw, chainsaw, and/or an axe.
Hot hands!! Get some hot hands or you can make your own ( recipe online ) carry 4-6pkgs ( 2 in a pack ) in your bag! That way you have extras to give out to family and other people.. They also make powerbank slash handwarmers. But they need to be charged up and ready to go.. they last 6 hrs on low setting. Have a few tea lights get some good ones they burn for four hours. The uco is nice but remember the housing on the uco gets extremely hot and can burn you if it falls. Keep you a thermos with instant coffee, sugar and creamer in it.. and some dry food like granola, energy bars, and instant backpackers meals. Carry multiple bottles of water in your trunk.. Try to keep a full tank of gas in your car.. remember to top off.. Keep two small food cans in your trunk one to put the tea light candles in and the other turn upside down and sit the can with the candle in it, on so you don't burn your dash. Be sure to have have a box matches and lighter handy. Put blankets, sleeping bags, pillows, heat sheets, extra coats and jackets, long johns and rubber waterproof snow boots in the trunk of your car. Also keep a coffee can and some firewood in your trunk if you have the room. And a metal pot that allows you to boil water.. Keep a seat belt cutter, glass breaker, gloves and warm socks and sock hats and first aid kit in your glove box. Also have some type of red emergency strobe light so you can be spotted in a blizzard. Carry a few of your favorite books or magazines to pass the time if you get stranded. Carry a phone charger with full charge.
Throw in something for human waste. The recent I-95 snow storm had a helicopter camera crew film a guy relieving himself. Even if it's just some plastic bags and a roll of toilet paper. Be ready.
Good basic starting point, David. Should give people food for thought. Here in the PNW I carry full sized axe & shovel in winter, along with a chainsaw. Tow strap and jumpers are mostly to help others. But tree in the road or even a piece of highway washed away, definitely does happen. Final thought: whether it’s putting on tire chains or using that Esbit stove, practice using the gear you carry, so you are familiar with it and confident.
What is pnw sir?
@@dolguldur4706 Pacific Northwest probably
@@dolguldur4706 pnw usually refers to Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. As a stretch, also Vancouver Island in Canada.
The axe, silky saw and shovel were items that l forgot to mention in my comment.
@@dolguldur4706 the home of the Karen’s of the world
It is important to note, that some of those fire starter fuel tabs produce cyanide, and should not be used in enclosed spaces such as a car. Always check with the manufacturer, or the instruction manual to see if that particular tab is safe to do so.
Great info - something Idid not know. THX!
This is true. As someone retired from the healthcare field, I can tell you it doesn't take much CN (cyanide) to be hazardous. You won't smell it, it doesn't take much to do damage, it's cumulative (more CN fumes make it worse), and it's irreversible (they can't just find you unconscious in the car and move you into fresh air to fix it, like they might with carbon monoxide poisoning). CN paralyzes your ability to absorb oxygen even away from the CN source. So, burning fuel tabs inside a closed space can be hazardous. Proceed with caution. CN fumes are the same reason firefighters won't let you run back into your burning house to save someone. As soon as you get in there, CN drops you like a stone, and they'll have to rescue both of you.
Another low dose CN source is aquatic tabs that may be hawked as water purification tabs. The packages even clearly warn emergency treatment may be necessary if inhaled. If you swallowed water treated with these already you are likely fine, but CN is cumulative. Probably your safer water purification tabs are not "cyano-" composition, but those based on peroxide or chlorine. Recycle the remaining -cyano- tabs for your rodent kill bucket.
Great kit and suggestions. I've had a a seasonal emergency bag in the trunk for years and the wife has always complained about it. "It takes up space" "What kind of incident do you think will happen for us to need it", so I explained it as having insurance and that we've had our car for 5 years and never had an accident, that doesn't mean we should have accident insurance.
She stopped complaining after we were stuck on a highway for 14h during a winter storm after a rather large accident blocked all traffic.
Winter kit has all the basics including a MSR Pocket Rocket and packs of soups, tea, water, MRE meals and few wool blankets.
I even managed to make some tea and soups and lend a blanket to people in another car who had a small kid and a baby with them.
I also alway make sure my tank is topped up and on some longer trips I'll have a 5l cannister of gas, which helped in this instance as I could lend some gas to 2 others to keep their engines running.
Now for every long term the wife always asks if the bag is stocked and up to date 😁
Ya you're gonna starve to death on the side of a major highway in america
@@georgezimmerman3334 hangry people will make for a miserable existence for all. I think a few dry goods like bars and fruit chews is plenty, but I don’t get winter, I’m in Texas.
@@kurticeberg4566 maybe you're the one who jinxed Texas last year 😂
George Zimmerman, you seem to be of the opinion that avoiding death is the ideal measure of preparedness and navigating the world. Weird opinion, and I doubt you’ll find many people that share it.
@@brawndothethirstmutilator9848 nothing is ideal. But wasting your life prepping is dumb. Have some water and good shoes and you will be fine. Or I'm sure you could lend me a strand from your paracord thong for snares and let me borrow your ferrocium rod.
For a deck of cards, I've got the "Don't Die Out There! Deck," where every card has a survival tip on it. Now THAT will make for a useful game of Solitaire!
I’ll add two points:
1) Cost. Some survival items can be pricey, but consider this: this is for YOUR survival. Why would you want to choose inferior products that could fail you in your time of need? of course, expensive does not mean best, and cheap does not mean worst. But in general, the rule of thumb is you get what you pay for. Do research on each item.
For example, for a headlamp I selected the Princeton Tec Sync. Why?
- It’s one of the few lamps that use an actual switch lever for on/off/light modes. Even a small child can pick it up and understand how to use it immediately.
Most headlamps use a series of over-complicated button presses, combinations and sequences, etc that require memorizing and having the user manual handy. It’s nonsense and no one is going to remember, least in emergency situations.
- uses AA batteries
- red light mode
- waterproof
- made in USA
2) Food. Keep snacks and other long-expiration food in the car. You’ll be hungry if you’re stuck for long hours.
Other stuff no one thinks about:
Keep a roll of toilet paper 🧻 in the car too!
In many parts of the country (USA), there's a high chance anything inside your car will be stolen. So I'd take the pricey stuff out when it's parked.
Price is often dictated by weight, which is far less of a concern in your car (e.g. that pricey titanium cup, when a steel one would be just as good and a whole lot cheaper).
Paper kitchen towel is better than toilet paper; it may not be as comfortable, but it'll do the job and much more besides.
Toilet paper has one use.
Paper towels have many, and you should have some anyway.
@@lordgarion514 or a pack of napkins
Yeah and plastic bags to throw away the mess. Maybe even a tarp to put up for privacy!! My sister has a thing she uses to pee standing up lol. They make all that stuff lol. Better think of all the small things lol.
I recommend keeping a small fire extinguisher readily accessible in your vehicle as well
Great list. I have a lot of that. Mora, pump, multi-tool/wrenches, jumper cables, spare fuses, gorilla tape,shop towels and wool blankets/moving pad blankets in the hatch trunk. Two liters of water, a space blanket, headlamp, bic lighter, and a razorblade knife directly in my console within reach to cut seatbelt if necessary.
In my Glove box I have ACTUAL GLOVES, LOL, great for changing a tire or if you have to dig or repair something when it is cold out, an umbrella, and Poncho/Tarp with Amsteel cordage.
One thing I have had in the past and need to add is a heavy-duty ratchet strap/tow strap. Has gotten me out of a bind before in my old SUV and used for tie-down. I have a hatchback now so haven't put one in there, but now that I think about it I should. . .
I thought I was the only person who has playing cards in my car. I also have an Aesop's Fables kids book to keep youngins somewhat entertained for a while waiting in a situation if necessary.
One thing that was not mentioned is a Fire Extinguisher. This can be critical!
No gun.
Exotac also makes beeswax candles that are contained in a tin with a removable cap. The 16-hour candle can actually boil water when all three wicks are lit, it will heat up the inside of a car relatively well, and I would recommend having an ammo can, or a metal coffee can to place the candle in, for an added measure of protection
First aid kit. So many times I've needed those for just minor things that they always stay in the car. Often small scrapes and dings of people around me but most of my camping buddies trained with the red cross at one point in time that when someone gets hurt, we head to any of our vehicles and there will be a first aid kit in any of them.
Where I'm from (Belgium) a first aid kit is mandatory to have in any car. Is this not the case in the US?
@@Vicandiers I'm not from the US so I'm not sure if it's mandatory there. It isn't required where I live but old habits from Red Cross training back in high school stayed so first aid kits every where. One in the car, one at the desk at work, and one at home.
@@Vicandiers It is highly encouraged, but it is not mandated by law.
@@Vicandiers How do they check / verify that you are keeping a 1st aid kit in your vehicle? Do they have those annual car inspections there to check for it?
Didn't expect a Knife Salesman to give such a good advice on emergency kit.
This may be my Albertan experience coming through but just in case it helps anyone, here are some of my thoughts.
A full set of winter gear kept in your car is always a good idea. A get home bag to go with you between the car and home, mostly to avoid the temperature extremes damaging your gear and food.
2 winters ago it was -45 to -50 at my house for over a week, and nearly a month straight it was below -30. All before the wind chill. Driving in the cold is as bad as it gets. I keep 2 emergency blankets/tarps, a wool blanket, some winter gear, 1 change of clothes, and extra socks and underwear just incase they're soiled ;) lol. A few tools to do some repairs on your car, oils/fluids, reflectors, a shovel and a tire inflator/battery booster. It's somewhat expensive to keep your car stocked and your home stocked for emergencies too but it's better safe than sorry. If possible too, gets some animal skins and clothing made from animal. It's better in every way than synthetics for the winter. Plus they look great 👍
Thank you for some very good ideas.
Let me add that your engine is a good source of heat. You can melt some snow in a cup set on your engine. You can even cook a meal wrapped in aluminum foil set on your engine while idling or even driving. Also, a dry sweat suit is great.
Thanks for this. We've got a daughter heading to college in the fall and the 8 hour drive from there to here is not the most populated. There are a lot of things here that so be useful to get her vehicle ready.
Warm coat and water. Maybe a rubber
Everyone has a get home bag in their car, right? And keeps up with seasonal changes? Rotates food and water? Right?
I did a vid a few weeks back on that topic. I even spent the night out in my vehicle to show people what to do. I wish more people would have seen it before the current situation.
Hey DCA! Todays EDC Benchmade 940blk, Olight i5t, EDC Crazy challenge coin, Recycled Firefighter wallet, iPhone, iwatch, and car keys of course! Have a wonderful day! 🤙🏻
note: silky saws are the best saws on the market, but id go with a bacho laplander for people who dont know how to use a Japanese style saw that only cuts on the pull. silky will snap if you use it wrong, a bacho laplander will just bend and it will still be relatively usable when you bend it back into place.
i wold never trust my life to a folding shovel. you can get a spetsnaz sapper shovel pretty cheap
as far as having an open flame in your car for heat you should mention that BEES wax burns much cleaner and even purifies the air.
The saw is essential on forested roads. I remember traveling the Poconos in winter to find a tree across the road. This was before cell phones and in a fairly remote area, but thanks to a small bow saw we were back on our way in less than an hour. A small saw can cut a much larger tree if needed, roughly about twice the diameter of the saws length.
During my time a a soldier, I did a lot of training and real world survival, including winter in the Arctic and summer in the desert. Any environment has its own challenges and equipment is important. I just want to highlight that my survival depended a lot on training, fitness and experience. Ultimately, survival will depend on what you do and whether you are alone.
This mentality is why russia and china are screwing us. Their non soldiers live harder and dont think its special
Mine is a cooking kit using the Stanley Cook Kit to keep in different vehicles since 2003. Using a Condor H20 pouch. Starting at the bottom of the pouch there is a Oilcamp Stainless Steel Space Saver Cup. Then the Stanley Adventure Cook Camp System which fits ( sits ) inside the cup. The tapered sides of the Stanley Camp Cook kit fits inside the cup like it was made for it. Along the outside of the Stanley is a long handled Titanium spoon. Inside the Stanley is the Gen2 Folding Firebox Nano Ultralight Backpacking 3" Stove. On top of the Stanley is a Trangia Alcohol burner so I can cook with either alcohol or wood. The outside pocket of the Condor has a plastic ( Flask shaped ) 8 oz bottle which has the Denatured Alcohol for the Trangia. Next to the bottle is a Swiss Army Knife with assorted attachments including a blade that's a wood saw. Next to that is a ferro rod for lighting the burner or starting a fire. Folded next to the ferro rod is a bandana which can be used if the handles of either pot gets too hot for a bare hand to touch. A few months later I added two canteen pouches, one on each side of the Condor H20 pouch. One pouch has a Nalgene canteen in it and the other pouch has a couple dehydrated meals. Thanks to using a wood fire the Stanley has a nice blackened bottom and sides which I think helps it to heat up quicker.
Good kit. I have a similar setup in that same Condor pouch that I use camping or on long trips in the woods where I’ll want to stop and have coffee, tea, or rehydrate a hot meal. I took the green cups that come with the Stanley kit out and replaced with collapsible silicone cups. This leaves room for other things inside.
Awesome stuff, thanks. A couple of thoughts as part of sharing experience. Good you mentioned playing cards or any other group game. Keeps one sane and eats time.
This little shovel might be an issue though. Digging dirt might be ok, but that little blade and short handle... Man, had to dig out a stuck L200 once with the Russian small army shovel (yeah, bad planning and preparation for sure but make the best of what you have, right). It takes so much time and effort. Good to keep an infantry soldier busy but in a situation when you have to conserve you energy - no. So I opted for a Swedish army shovel. It has a similar size blade as the infantry shovel but also a longer handle (steel, though, so cold) and it has a wide square stainless steel detacheable snow blade which is awesome. That L200 is gone but I still keep that that shovel in my Kia SW and actually use it quite frequently. The winter in central Russia is quite snowy this year.
Another thing missing is that electric engine starter that you can also use to charge whatever else you have although I'd advise to keep it fully charged. Stuck in cold you will have to start your car from time to time anyway, use lights, radio. In freezing conditions the car battery may soon fail to start your car. So that starter-charger will come in handy.
Season's greetings and all the best from Russia.
If you throw a small power bank in your kit, you can recharge your flashlight, as well as your phone. You can pick them up reasonably inexpensive nowadays. I have one that can jump start my car several times on a charge, and also has the ability to recharge my phone or flashlight, or any other rechargeable electronic device, but you can get one that is just for charging your phone and other small electronics for much less money if you don't want to spend the money that one capable of jumping your car costs. I feel it is well worth the cost however that can indeed jump start your car should your battery go dead.
I have YET.....to hear anyone say something bad about the Cold Steel S.R.K !!
I think it's the ultimate BEST all around go to knife !!
No matter who you are or where you go.
💯👍
Few things I always keep in my cars trunk:
Half roll of papertowels, 2 flashlights with spare batteries, jumper cables, WD40, wool blanket, roll of duct tape, heavy mil garbage bags (6), myriad of fire starters, home made tinder (just dryer lint in a toilet paper tube dipped in old candle wax), a small candle, packets of emergency boat rations, PB, and tuna packets, a single wall water bottle with fish hook to use as a bail handle and leather gloves and a heavy duty knife.
Edited to add a few things I forgot the first time around.
This looks like a much more practical emergency kit for the car!
Luci light. Crushes flat, charges on the dashboard even when overcast, no batteries, weighs a feather, plenty of illumination.
What about bathroom stuff? Who doesn't need to 'go' over 36 hours of drinking tea and bottled water, or getting stuck out there after tacos?
Other items for the CAR KIT...
1) Walking SHOES or Hiking/Winter BOOTS (depending on the season). If you are in your loafers, saddles, pumps or high heels when Murphy strikes you're SOL.
2) OUTDOOR CLOTHING. Same reason as above.
For cold weather pack a 0 degree sleeping bag. Walmart sells them pretty cheap, and it will keep you warm, and let you sleep properly even in frigid conditions without any external heat. Also pack a couple of survival ration bars. Each bar provides about 2200 calories, and unlike many other foods, these bars have an almost indefinite shelf life.
That was an interesting and thought provoking video.
I could add a couple of thoughts, firstly something I've been thinking about for a while is insulating my cooking container so that I can cook or heat with minimal fuel. That mess tin looks ideal because it is rectangular which means there is a smaller outside surface area compared to a circular container of the same volume which means less heat loss. Just by simply wrapping gorilla tap over the sides and lid will further reduce heat loss and greatly speed up the heating process with a candle. It might be an interesting experiment for you to do and if it proves to work well then maybe you could demonstrate the difference on your next video.
Also it could be mentioned if you have a larger vehicle like what you call a pick up, we call them Utes here in Australia you would have room for a shovel with a long handle as you know is better to work with and prevents a saw back. Also a larger silky saw in this case.
I would add: a puzzle book and pencil, coloring book or pad of paper and colored pencils, a couple of magazines and children's books. Hygiene items like wet wipes and paper towels. Some food, like cookies, peanut butter, crackers, jerky, single packs of lemonade drink mix, and if you can heat water - single packets of instant coffee, sugar packets. Some plastic spoons & forks and cups. All these things would keep well and most will nest together to store in a small space.
to have a somewhat comprehensive kit in the car it's useful to also have:
- first aid kit
- essential medication, painkillers for the whole family
- toilet paper
- tissues
- baby wipes
- ration bars
- adventure dry food
- snacks like Snickers, etc
- water
- 550 paracord (min 10ft)
- compressed towels (also can be used as toilet paper)
- HotHands Hand Warmers
- Extra gloves
- glow sticks
- extra pair of socks
- all-weather pen
- waterproof paper
- construction bags
if you have pets
- petfood
- medication if they are on any
- towels to keep them dry
- poo bag
- water/food bowl to eat and drink from
- a toy
What are "construction bags"?
Excellent vid ! I was almost stuck in the mess you speak of - actually spent 4 hours in traffic when I was diverted on to Rt 1, but finally gave up and turned around - hundreds of folks didn't have that option. Anyway, I "amused" myself mentally reviewing my emergency bag and decidedI needed to augment a few small items - your video coincides with my "adjustments" and should be taken seriously by the "I'll never need that..." folks.
On side note - off the knife theme but important. A lot of folks ran out of gas, and even on the diverted route there were gas station without any gas. A couple or three gallons of spare gas in the car is cheap insurance BUT DO NOT USE CHEAP CHINESE MADE PLASTIC OR METAL CONTAINERS ( sorry, WlaMart ). They are not safe and WILL fail. There are good specially made containers available - not cheap, but what's your life worth ? An older MILITARY jerry can is fine, but most of the new ones commercially available are crap, especially for use in a vehicle. At least for the moment, Harbor Freight ( for one ) has good quality NATO spec cans with modern spouts. Do your homework carefully !
Thanks for the tip!
I HATE that section of I-95 between Richmond and DC... really between Fredricksburg and DC... its the perfect example of WHY we need to improve our infrastructure! widen that Be-itch to 6 lanes each way!
Carrying extra gasoline in your vehicle can be problematic. Unless you have a pickup or SUV where gas can be stored in the truck bed, roof rack or on the back of the vehicle...it might just be better to make sure that your auto's gas tank never goes below 1/2 full (especially in winter).
If you are going to carry an extra emergency gas can...make certain that the gas can is of the highest quality and legal in your area to have inside your car (trunk).
@@blueeyeswhitedragon9839 Absolutely agree - there are pros and cons to extra gas. If you elect to do so, consider your options carefully and do not cheap out or get careless in how to secure the gas.
Didn't hear it mentioned nor in the comments but a small hygiene kit. Being able to go to the restroom and be clean help with moral.
Things I would add:
1) Wind up radio/flashlight
2) charged battery packs
3) contractor trash bags
4) tarp
5) duct tape
6) 550 cord
Consider the cold steel shovel. I broke several folding shovels in the Army.
They can break? 😵💫
@@kenjifox4264 only if you use them.
Remember to have something in the car for the kids, to keep them busy, like puzzles, coloring books, mini-chess/checker sets, etc.
For myself, l keep an unready magazine or book ... comes in handy even in short traffic jams or while waiting for the wife.
Edit:- Upon reflection, l also have nails and steel wire in my auto emergency kit. Both have come in handy on several occasions while camping. The nails for attaching bags, lines etc. to trees and the wire for various repairs and for constructing "Swedish Candle" type fires.
Best breakdown of survival equip for vehicle I have seen, and all products I was familiar with and they were all excellent quality.
As a hunter, camper, hiker, and generally cautious about the uncertainty of the future, I have far more than all of this between my toolbox and under the rear seat. The only problem with food and batteries - The Florida heat. I have a flashlight and lantern in there, but just in case the batteries are dead, I also have glow sticks and a solar powered light.
saw a guy use a couple dozen hand warmers to keep his truck warm overnight (20 degrees). Worked like a charm, I was shocked. Video is on RUclips.
YES! I've had hand-warmers inside gloves last a little over 8 hours while working outside. They can go in pockets and boots too.
@@c62west kept the entire cabin of his truck warn for the entire night in sub freezing temperatures. I know they do well inside of gloves and shoes ect. but I did not expect them to do as well as they did. the video on RUclips is worth a watch
I like the folding Sven saw and a a hatchet for clearing blow-downs. I like a US Army E-tool for my shovel, also very compact, has a "sharp" edge for use as an an ad-hoc hatchet and putting it in the "L" configuration makes a great scraper for digging out around your tires.
We added portable urinals (for males & females) to our car emergency kit, as well as a hygiene kit. We all have our personal survival/emergency kits with us everywhere we go which includes many of the items you mentioned and more. The only differences are the shovel, multitool (Gerber Truss) for the car emergency kit, and the Gerber LMF 2 Infantry.
The UCO candle lantern works well with the 9 hour candle for cold environments, however the beeswax candles hold up better in more temperate environments, and will not melt when they are in your trunk. They also last 13 hours and put off a bit more heat
I was in the Georgia snowpocalypse about 8 or 9 years ago. 27 hours getting home on a normal under a hour drive. I was lucky. Got stuck in traffic about half way. Was able to wait til around 4 am when most people had abandoned their cars walking or were trying to get some sleep before dawn. I was able to drop tire pressure and get moving through the abandoned cars. It took about a hour and a half but I slept in my bed.(like a rock)
So are you saying letting the air pressure out of your tires gives you more traction?
@@sparrowflying864 yes
@@charlessalmond7076 That is stupid. It gives you little bit more surface area to the road, but if you have wintertires you will abolish the funtion of the tire studs and whole tire and actually making everything worse. Lowering the pressure is only useful if you drive in mud with tractor.
@@TearTox i run the cheap tires. It helps. I made it off the side of the road. I watched others fail earlier.
@@TearTox i live in Georgia. No one i know has "snow tires".
This is a great video! Ever think about building some kits and selling them as complete units on the website?
Very hard to beat Leatherman un most cases. My go to has been the Wave because I've been a production mechanic for 30 yrs and it has most of what I needed and tough and fits the hand like most mechanic tools.
Good to know the Wave is comprehensive like that. There are so many out there to choose from, it's hard to narrow down. I keep hearing that Leatherman has an amazing guarantee they actually stand by, so that really offsets the price factor. Thanks for the recommendation.
Glad to see Knife Center expand their vision. Cheers mate.
My father taught me to keep a flashlight, road flares, basic wrenches and mechanics tools in the car along with a few spare parts; and he gave me the knowledge to use them. He’d be 93 if he was still around.
Your dad had good advice.
Those new UCO candle lanterns have a real problem. The spring that pushes the candle up is too weak. I bought 3 of the new ones and they are now made in China with cheap springs.
Dav most people are oblivious and it won't happen to me, are the same people that think Fire Extinguishers are too expensive.... but when you need one it just paid for it's self. Maybe these items could be used to save someone else's life. Boy Scout Motto, Always be Prepared. And that Cold Steel SRK ... has soooo many possibilities.
I live in my vehicle and I think that a MUST HAVE is a bug net for your car windows, trust me its worth the 20 bucks you'll spend
David, your content and delivery is great. When I get notified of new content, I stop and watch 👍
Thanks DCA this is a very well thought kit. Needing to update mine and put a new one in my wife's car. I don't remember hearing you mention one but a small first-aid kit would be the first on the list.
I can't drive because of my eyesight, but keeping some of this stuff around my apartment is a good idea. Especially winters in NY can get very cold and all over the place. Having some of this stuff incase of long term power outage would be helpful for sure.
Thanks for this video. It has given me some food for thought. I have a first aid kit already and I'd suggest adding that as well.
Yes DCA throwing some love to the Silky Gomboy!! I am one to keep the trucks w/these in the door pockets. Use them constantly. They are great love the adjustable handle lock.
Tea bags! Great idea, thank you!!
Thx DCA, very interesting subject. The only one thing I'll change is the shovel. I think the Cold Steel Special Force Shovel is very much usable and versatile than a folding one.
The Cold Steel is my personal choice as well :) -DCA
candle with a metal coffee tin is what i was always told. if you get the big one you can fit most of your stuff in the tin
Only things I would add is some mountain house freeze dried food or canned soups and a thick wool blanket
Really cool video DCA. I’m an Eagle Scout and I could tell that a lot of your scouting knowledge came into play with this video. Always be prepared!
When the weather man is right, it's usually bad here in Virginia lol. I always keep a seasonal kit in truck regardless, but as much as you can prepare for yourself, it's the other guy that hasn't and drives like a idiot ruining everyone else's day. In my opinion VDOT got cought with their pants down in underestimating the snow/ ice combo and there's the folks that over estimated their vehicles winter performance and was left stranded.
If you carry some sort of stove also carry a CO detector. An added benefit to that large blanket is that you can huddle under it with someone else. That makes a HUGE difference, when it's really cold.
Walmart is a good source: Products need to work randomly if ever. Windshield shade and painters plastic about $10, Ozark shovel $12, Stanley cook kit, duct tape, extra blankets or sleeping bag from the house etc. Point is... You don't have to spend a lot of money to be "prepared" for a road trip gone south. Just an option. Spend what you can afford.
And when/if you can upgrade, you then have a backup. That's what I have been doing.
One is none...
Seconded on the sikly saw. That's a great recommendation
I would also recommend storing water upside down ( ice forms at the top first because it floats. This way the opening won't be frozen over), and I would add in a dedicated snow shovel ( get one of the folding hiking avalanche shovels) ... if you slide off the road into a snow bank you will be glad to have it... and some traction strips to put under your tires.
For food I use life raft rations ( they last a long time and don't cause thirst like most food does... and they are OK tasting by not great so you won't be tempted to eat them before that emergency)
For batteries, I like the the AAA batteries with built in USB chargers ( port built into the battery itself) ... that way you get the best of both worlds. You have a long lasting battery that you can keep charged in your car and swap them out for normal Batts should the need arise.
Throw a roll of toilet paper in the car too and you'll be happy you have that space blanket to give you some extra privacy in crowded traffic stopped scenarios... ( not ideal, but after 24 hours you may be glad you have it ...)
I've never seen those USB rechargeable batteries. Just looked them up. Thanks for the suggestion!
Yukon knife is the best , got me through 2 yrs. In viet nam.
Couple of things:
1. If you're going to include a stove and mess tin, you should probably also have a utensil - I got a titanium spork for about $2.50 that sits nicely in my Trangia mess tin, which is a bit smaller than the Esee.
2. A roll or two of paper kitchen towel, which does what it's meant to and can also serve as toilet paper.
That's a good idea. That would probably be the thing I would forget lol.
Always carry a Get Home Bag or EDC type. I use stuff out of mine so frequently its mind boggling imagining life before it. Inventory the bag monthly or weekly. Food and water save you a lot of money too.
Durable logs shaved and whole,fatwood, Fanwood, mylar blankets zippo fuel mini pots Ramen canned chicken gloves blood clotter antibiotics I use a red rock assault pack water and I have 4 fixed blades and about 12 folders and a leatherman surge
This Is a great list, and my truck has pretty much all of those things in some variation. In regards to the metal pot, Olicamp makes a little aluminum pot that fits a nalgene and it should be cheaper than the titanium pot. I'd also add a map and compass and some cordage.
Stanly also makes a nice little cook pot for like 20 bucks comes with two insulated cups. Wont fit a nalgene but good enough for some hot water
Nice video. Some solid options
I’ll take a good machete over a saw any day. A 24” Martindale from Allen Precision in a leather sheath is the way to go. I’ve taken down more than saplings in a manner of seconds or minutes. Of course there’s a method for properly swinging one but once you get that down you can really clear some stuff out of your way.
I have a couple of kick scooters in the back, also have two winter versions with skis instead of wheels.
Good to know I'm not the only one that avoids a serrated edge in my EDC.
Hi DCA, thanks again for the content. In the future, can you please go into more detail on headlamp features (different intensities, illumination duration, red/green light, strobe, etc.)? Cheers!
Awesome topic we just had a snow storm here in Massachusetts
Great points but do disagree on some areas of flashlight that's not rechargeable... yes both sides have advantages but our vehicles can charge while car is off but if battery is down then you're obviously screwed. Some lights are rechargeable but also take disposable battery. Another option is something like an Olight baton 3 with charger station that will fully charge the light up to 3.5 times. Very great options and ideas for people to get started and have some form of survival options at all times. I need to get me some of the candle lanterns soon for the vehicles
In the snowpiclypse years ago cold steel war hammer was useful to break up patches of ice when cars were stuck. For areas around the tires just take it apart and use the pick end against the ice and baton with the wooden handle
Ya a shovel couldn't break ice brother
@@georgezimmerman3334 yeah but it isn't as easy as the pick or hammer. Also the folding car shovel isn't as robust and a regular shovel isn't as compact as the hammer when taken apart
@@The_AntiVillain ok mr Asian chipmunk
@@georgezimmerman3334 🐿️ just stay away from my nuts 🌰
@@The_AntiVillain if you crush the shells with your war hammer they would provide excellent traction for stranded motorists
For a moment I thought I tuned into a Pathfinder School. Good job David C (Canterbury) Anderson..
I have a Gerber Bear Grylls "survival" knife in my wife's car... It's gimmicky AF, but I got it as a present several years ago and will work for what my wife would use it for (and tucked away in her car I don't have to look at the stupid thing). I keep a Full size Cold Steel Recon Tanto (30 y.o.) and a Khukri in my SUV. And a cheap (very cheap) Gerber folding saw...
Nice cheap wool army blanket, an axe, some dehydrated calorie source like space ice cream, a karaoke machine, those little hand warmer things, and a drone to get footage to sell to the news.
Easily one of my favorite videos and now that I know you guys are local to the Washington DC metro area I’m going to have to break down and make my first purchase not sure what it’ll be either a pin or a small pocket knife. But once again really enjoyed the video
Very nice video. I have many similar items used for bushcraft and keep a number of them in my car for emergencies. Please do more videos like this of items you have at the knife center. Thanks and always appreciated your videos.
Great job. Great info. Wishing I had put a kit together for my wife who is currently an hour North of me getting some snow. She has our 4x4 atleast but very unfamiliar with driving in 4H.
David, is the Mangrove from CJRB considered a folding nessmuck?
I set up my wife's car and used a tote, cheap and neat everything is in one place. My truck has a ton of stuff because of being a First Responder.
14:32 Personally, I'd never recommend using aluminium for boiling water or cooking food... Always use stainless steel or shell out some extra $ for titanium
Why do you say that?
@@johnstack5008 personal preference!
Instead of levering with a knife, get a utility bar. They’re dirt cheap and have more uses than just levering, they’re wide and shaped enough to shift snow from awkward places around wheels, etc. where the entrenching tool won’t fit.
Thank you for uploading your video, brushing up on my jump gear.
These have been mentioned elsewhere, but l also keep the following items in my auto, as well as the gear that you mentioned:-
Candy for the kids (peanut brittle lasts for years and gives some protein as well as the sugar boost).
A Swiss Army knife with scissors
Water...several disposable bottles, can be easily replaced every few months.
Candles...don't completely depend on battery power
A battery powered radio (AM/FM & Multiband)
Two fleese blankets ( one for the front seat, one for the back seat)
NEVER let your gas/diesel tank go below 1/2 full...especially in winter. You might have to run your engine for the heater for hours (one of the great flaws of electric cars)
Flares, fire extinguisher, first aide kit, & extra clothing just in case you and the kids have to walk out...most people never think about winter boots, gloves, etc.
And let's hope you never need any of these things, but every day, someone, somewhere does need this type of emergency kit.
Yes fares and red strobe lights!
@@sparrowflying864 :- Yes... great idea...l have an LED flashlight in the car that has several settings on white light and also a flashing red.
And Kleenex
@@sparrowflying864 Or even a large red handkerchief/bandanna helps. Tie on your antenna tight for emergency crews or snow plows to spot you. Also, a pack of Ramen noodles last forever and are filling if you can heat up a little water.
Excellent video, hopefully y’all will make a series of these! 👍🏻👍🏻
DCA I think he capability to boil coupe if cups of water and a mountain house freeze dried meal or 2 makes sense , of course you’ll have to be outside your car for a few minutes
LOVE this topic!! Gonna have to pick up a few of these items! Thanks DCA! 👊🏼
A baofeng UV-5R and a screw on propane cannister stove would definitely be on the list for me. Radio communications and the ability to have a water boiling flame at -30 with no firewood will deal with like 95% of your issues.
I have all that stuff for the winter but opt for a better aluminum telescopic snow shovel.
Like the survival blanket
How about a pair of bolt cutters? Do you guys sell those? In many survival situations, you need to get in or out of places that might be locked up.
I created what I call a Hurri-can stove. That is a metal coffee can filled 3/4 with wax and 3 large wicks placed equidistant in the can. It has holes for air flow and holes for wire to make a pot stand . inside I have bullion cubes, tea bags, coffee pouches, a lighter and sugar inside a metal container that fits inside along with some tin foil. Seal that with the lid and you are good to go.
Seems to me that if it's small enough that you can saw it with a pruning saw like that, you could probably just move it by hand, where as if it's big enough that it needs to be sawed up to move, you're really going to want something bigger, like a bow saw, chainsaw, and/or an axe.
Hello, Are you going to do some particular content for the shot show? Thank
Hot hands!! Get some hot hands or you can make your own ( recipe online ) carry 4-6pkgs ( 2 in a pack ) in your bag! That way you have extras to give out to family and other people.. They also make powerbank slash handwarmers. But they need to be charged up and ready to go.. they last 6 hrs on low setting. Have a few tea lights get some good ones they burn for four hours. The uco is nice but remember the housing on the uco gets extremely hot and can burn you if it falls. Keep you a thermos with instant coffee, sugar and creamer in it.. and some dry food like granola, energy bars, and instant backpackers meals. Carry multiple bottles of water in your trunk.. Try to keep a full tank of gas in your car.. remember to top off.. Keep two small food cans in your trunk one to put the tea light candles in and the other turn upside down and sit the can with the candle in it, on so you don't burn your dash. Be sure to have have a box matches and lighter handy. Put blankets, sleeping bags, pillows, heat sheets, extra coats and jackets, long johns and rubber waterproof snow boots in the trunk of your car. Also keep a coffee can and some firewood in your trunk if you have the room. And a metal pot that allows you to boil water.. Keep a seat belt cutter, glass breaker, gloves and warm socks and sock hats and first aid kit in your glove box. Also have some type of red emergency strobe light so you can be spotted in a blizzard. Carry a few of your favorite books or magazines to pass the time if you get stranded. Carry a phone charger with full charge.
Throw in something for human waste. The recent I-95 snow storm had a helicopter camera crew film a guy relieving himself. Even if it's just some plastic bags and a roll of toilet paper. Be ready.
The IKEA shopping bag,is a very VERY good firstaid toilet🥴😳😎