I didn't (forgot) address that I always carry a 2L Stainless Steel flask of liquid with me - tea in the winter, water or juice in the summer. Because it's fresh every time, I never really think of it as a 'survival tool', but it is.
@@davidpeckham2405 I also said that the survival equipment carried is based on where I'm flying. If I'm flying in the Southern Ontario to Montreal corridor I would only need 30 minutes of water; if that. Obviously if I was flying farther away, I'd carry more. It's a 14 minute video where I just tried to cover the basics.
There’s a light perversion with these survival kits isnt there - you kind of wish you one day you could make use of all those noodles and snacks while sitting in the forrest just finally doing nothing at all. To build a shelter and make food, every childs favorite game. Cheers and all the best!
6:36 what makes aircraft survival kits (or other motorized conveyance) unique is that one need not play around with bush shelters or primitive means of anything for the sake of weight/volume reduction. IMO 2 cold weather sleeping bags and a 4 season tent are well worth the weight. Add a couple emergency puffy jackets. A 22 rifle. And huge jars of PBJ.
I added a few things you could do with on the video, but I guess the RUclips algorithm didn't like the links, so my post is gone. Anyway, here is the 2nd attempt, without the links. - a small flair launcher because you can never have too many ways to signal. - A scout sized Kelly Kettle. These use wood and will boil up a pot of water within 5 minutes. - A pair of good ponchos to go with the tarp. They will keep you dry and make good ground sheets for your tarp shelter. - A good compass. A Garmin is wonderful until the battery fails, where a compass will work even when broken. - A small axe to go with the saw. It's a lot easier to make kindling with a small axe. Knives were never made for batoning and the last thing you need is to be in the middle of nowhere with a busted knife. - a few MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) with heaters. Now, having written all that, I hope you never need to use any of this stuff.
I have been through USAF survival school and I would add a good ,rugged compass and a small container of cotton balls saturated with petrolem jelly, they make starting a fire much easier. Very good content and some of that is like what I kept in my vehicle in Alaska in winter.
Every time we fly we take fresh water in 2L steel jugs - there is bear protection always in the plane as well, I just didn't talk about it. Though in my lifetime of working / playing in the bush across Canada's North, in 'bear country' I've never really encountered one; except at the dump.
I know me too - what could it be?? A musical instrument, like I thought maybe a harmonica but it doesn't seem like it would fit right. Maybe a flute?? I might be on the wrong track altogether lol
Hi I have a lot of experience in survival training both in the Canadian Forces and privately. I guess my only advice is what happens when you can’t get the survival bag. Statistically people only have what’s on them… plane is destroyed or sinks. Also most real life scenarios indicate that if people don’t repetitively train getting the survival bag out they forget it during the critical initial moments after the accident. Also what do the passengers have for training and equipment on them… what are they to do if the pilot is injured or dead? I would suggest in a safe way you run 2 scenarios. 1. Forced landing no injuries rescue will come in 24-72hours you only have the kit on you. 2. Forced landing pilot injured/incapacitated passenger only has kit on them. *** then do scenarios with all kit in rainy fall/spring weather… and then in winter minus 20…or colder. Even doing these as mental exercises will help to challenge assumptions that have been unconsciously built in. Can you start and maintain a fire one handed… injured leg for 24-72 hours? Have you tested your emergency sleeping bags … they often don’t work that well. Your water proof match case is it actually water proof… often they are not. I would recommend if space and weight is not a problem having 2 full sized sleeping bags good to a minimum of minus 20 C plus 2 good bivy bags. I would suggest on you and if possible each passenger 1. Plb406 2. Clothes for the environment you are flying over… enough to stay outdoors for 24 Hours. 3. Pockets knife 4. Bic lighter. Ferro rod, cotton balls in PJ. 5. Whistle, ***glass signal mirror 6. Water,purification tabs 7. Head lamp 8 leather gloves 9 protein bar/cliff bar 10. Contractor garbage bag… Mylar space blanket have issues in real scenarios Also first aid training that involves the use of TQ. Anyway I would suggest that you actually test you survival plan over 24 hours and see how it works. Even if you just run the scenario in the back yard. Anyway 3main goals over 72hours 1. Manage life threats 2. Manage body temp/hydration 3. *** signal/communication /rescue
Great suggestions - I too have continuous survival training and have worked in Canada's harsh Northern environments. This was called 'basics' for a reason, and I do state that the bag changes depending on season and where I'm flying. For most of my flying If I go down, it will be in an urban area - but when we fly in more remote areas the survival contents change as does where it's located and how it's accessed. It's impossible to cover everything in a video; this was just a basic overview to get people talking and review their own emergency kit. Hopefully I did that, and maybe some people went out for training weekends.
@@GlensHangar I am not a pilot but just wondering in urban environment you fly in are there many options in an emergency to land… ? How much space does a light plane need.. would a secondary road work ? Anyway thanks a lot for you videos.
@@zefsurvival6557 I wouldn't need much space at all to land on a road, or in a farm field. This is a Cessna 150 that 'went down' two weeks ago a couple blocks from my house: ruclips.net/video/4KEUa8doS0Q/видео.htmlsi=905DsWgalbIprHKD
Something I learned 55 years ago doing Duke of Edinbugh Award Scheme, a small 2in thick piece of foam big enough for under your head & torso, say 18x36in.
Hi from across the lake near Rochester! My flying journey's been on hold a long time but you're inspiring my wife and I to get back to it. Being scout leaders, we are very familiar with survival or bug out bags. Very similar contents and thinking. Your comment on maintaining your mental health is right on. I try to keep a deck of cards or something small and portable to keep things fun. Of course, food is always a winner. 2 things I'm taking away from your kit is the cup noodles and the gloves. I hadn't considered bringing cup noodles because of the volume but I'm going to look at that. The additional containers could be worth the space. I think the gloves are really smart so I'm going to add those. Love the videos, hope to meet you one of these days. Take care!
Random things: Dehydrated stew or soup, toilet paper, tourniquet, small binoculars, mosquito nets, bear repellant device, head warming beanie, I guess it’s a where do you start and stop list. Enjoyed the video.
Many good suggestions from you and comments. I would add fire starter sticks or logs, as you can have a real fire quickly even in wet weather. Also aluminized survival blankets, they weigh nothing but keep in body heat. As well as bug juice or spray. You have been doing a very good job on your channel. We have a 1957 straight tail.
I was going to suggest a tarp, when you pulled one out of the bag! But I do recommend a small hatchet to supplement the saw. Sometimes you need to cut more than branches and twigs. I also carry a couple of LifeStraws and a Nalgene bottle, along with road flares. (Fuzees.) My list is always being modified. Thanks for the video, Glen. Now I have to watch the brownie recipe video! 😃
Like I addressed in the video, the bag is updated to reflect seasons and where I’m flying. Water supply and ground cloth are in there, and after working years in the deep bush of Northern Ontario- I’ll never wear a bug net. This just covered the basics.
I always carry 2 firearms with me. I know in Canada it may be more difficult. But with bears around, could be useful, and also to help provide a food source. In addition, compact collapsible fishing gear too. I went down with a bush pilot in AK about 40 ears ago. We broke a landing gear strut , and we were able to to jury rig one out of a spruce bow and get back into the air. Took us 2 days.
When you pulled out your container of milk, I thought it was chicken broth at first. As I watched the rest of the video I thought, “Why not chicken broth?” Since space and weight are not at a premium for you, a container of chicken broth might make a nice addition.
Fishing line is a good fit, for the North. Hard candies for energy. A book, and not something to do with aeroplanes and spending a nite in the bush, or a 'duster', but thats just because I am not partial to western's. A pack of smoke's - it might be time to take it up - and alcohol for fuel or medic-pak, not the drinking kind, but if you must a nice single malt might just fit. -cya! [ -)
Glen I think that you and Julie are amazing, talented, thoughtful, and safety minded people. I would also, without hesitation, fly with you guys anywhere! This video is fascinating and very cool. I love gear! Your comment section is very neat - lots of great suggestions.
For fire I would include a cigarette lighter such as a Bic Lighter.. Also a fire starter. Try cotton rounds dipped in melted candle wax or paraffin mixed with charcoal lighter fluid. See RUclips for info. I get almost 4 minutes of 6 inch flame which makes it easier to light a campfire.
I suggest you put all food items in one drybag, for easy hoisting in bear territory. Also put some TP in a pouch with your Toilet Trowel. And a milsurplus real wool blanket would be a good idea.
I would vacuum seal all perishables (maybe even some matches), they will last longer. Also pack the items in separate small bags based upon what they are used for, as you've shown at the end of the video. That way if you need a single item, its easier to find and not lost at the bottom of the main bag.
I was very happy to see you pull out the flint and steel. I would ALWAYS consider a low-tech, almost indestructible, nearly inexhaustible means of making fire a vital item for survival. In wet weather, the petroleum jelly-soaked cotton balls mentioned by another commenter come close to fitting the bill here too when combined with something like a fire piston. Little space required, virtually no weight.
Yes - I have prescription sunglasses that live in the plane, and Julie is one of those people who carries 2-3 spare pairs in her bag. But I probably should shove a pair in the survival bag.
I would suggest something to sharpen the knife, hand-crank radio, and food dye (for distress in water and you can use it to paint snow when dissolved in water)
Mostly good. Just a couple of things. Two or three Bic butane lighters carried in your flight vest or pocket would be good. A saw is good, but sometime you'd need a hatchet. There are some that are multipurpose. A machete would be good because sometimes you'd just want to hack stuff. As mentioned in another comment, and one that I picked up during a survival presentation; a container of petroleum jelly mixed with cotton balls. And a baggy full of dryer lint. In a survival situation, building shelter is first. Basic to begin with, then improve your shelter has time goes on. It gives you something to do. And you forgot the toilet paper....And a few things to read. Even a survival manual would be good.
Some of what you mentioned is in the bag, maybe you missed my mention of them? I guess I also didn't stress enough that this is a basic bag, that I add to based on season, and where I'm flying. 90% of the time, if there was a problem I'd be landing in someones yard. So there's no need for an actual survival bag. But if I'm flying in the North where towns are farther apart, I add extra. Of course in a plane you can't add everything and the kitchen sink because space and weight are huge considerations. Everything is a calculation.
So, very interesting kit. Some thoughts: 1. No flashlight? I would think you'd want both a headlamp and a more traditional flashlight of some kind. A 1000 lumen (or so) light with a strobe setting would be a great signaling device and a headlamp would allow you to work in the dark with light hands-free. 2. Ditch the signaling mirrors, they're pretty pointless as signaling devices. The whistle, strobe, and other items are much more effective. 3. Milk is nice but why not a couple bottles of water? Sure, you can filter water but you have to find water to filter and it takes time and energy, why not just add a couple liters of water to the bag? 4. Add a roll of toilet paper. Trust me on this one. In a plastic bag to keep it dry. 5. Bear spray. If you're in bear/cougar country this is essential. I'm guessing this is the item "we're not discussing today", also Canada has restrictions on that sort of thing so... anyways. 6. Couple black plastic garbage / contractor bags. Good for a variety of uses like emergency rain cover and something to store your trash in. 7. Bic lighter, GOAT fire starter better than anything else 99% of the time. And perhaps some fire starters. Just to beef up the fire starting kit a little bit. Altoids tin full of dryer lint mixed petroleum jelly is sufficient. Scoop some out and light it. 8. Tent pegs for the tarp, just a couple cheap ones even plastic is fine, would make setting it up as a shelter much, much easier. Just my initial thoughts since you did ask for feedback. Cool video. Thanks!
There's 4 or 5 flashlights in the airplane - I guess I should shove one in the bag, just to be safe. There's always at least 2L of fresh water in a SS tank + our travel mugs in the plane, there are also 2 flint fire starters in the bag along with some wax/oil covered cotton. But I'll probably throw a bag of dryer lint in as well - that's something I always scrounged up when we worked in the bush and take camping as well.
How about an Axe? If weight isn't an issue I would definitely have an axe added to my survival gear. All the bush pilots I've flown with have had a full size axe in their plane.
I would have a Hatchet to go your Saw. It is easier to use even as a means of escape from the Aircraft. I would a Spotlight. If you are walking through a bush at twilight. Much better that the flashlight in the Aircraft. A touque keeps you warm. A couple bottles of water means you don’t have to look for a stream right away.
I would carry a small hand axe instead of a saw, head lamp, this allows you to be hands free, neon or orange vest for visibility and a survival blanket. I always carry some toilet paper not only for comfort but can be used as a fire starter
I would add a couple of large trash bags as they can serve as part of a shelter, a rain poncho, hood water and of course carry items. Also for the electronics I would keep a usb battery bank. If you have a charger for your phone/ipad in the plane you can keep it plugged in so it charges anytime the plane is on. Modern batteries don’t suffer significantly from being plugged in as they have smart charging. That way you know you have power when you need it.
Hey Glen, have you thought about getting your Ham (Amateur) Radio license? That could also be useful in an emergency situation, and also can be fun when flying. -James
I wouldn’t worry about using my restricted operator license if I’m in an emergency on the ground even though I’m not in the plane lol. Nobody will come after you for that.
Okay this is going to sound strange. When I took survival training through air cadets one thing they mentioned that is good for a kit is ... Condoms. They are compact, strong and can hold up to 2L of water. Though you may want to use ones that don't have spermicide. Though when I was in cadets this suggestion did get a lot of laughs as we were a bunch of teenagers. When the instructor asked us what condoms could be used for. The first suggestion was "pretty dear?"
Verify your tools are of the highest quality. The snow shovel looked like a $30 model. Consider one rated for avalanche recovery like the Black Diamond Evac-7. A well rated small folding saw is the Bahco Laplander. Larger folding bow saws are made by Agawa. A good full tang carbon steel utility knife is the Mora Garberg. Several levels of Wilderness First Aid courses are available. Whatever you pack: practice, learn what works (and doesn't), and improve.
Thanks for your input Daniel - That snow shovel that looked to you like a $30 model... IS a $200 backcountry Avalanche shovel from the same company that supplied the backcountry survival company I worked for in the Canadian Rockies for a couple years in the late '80s. I worked in Kananaskis for two seasons and did back country / avalanche training. So I think the avalanche shovel in my kit is pretty good. I dare say that I have more backcountry / bush / survival training than the average bear - I stay sharp.
A well known Austrian company makes a compact folding shovel with a saw in the handle. Much more capable than the little planting tool since you can use it like a pick or a shovel.
Really well thought out aviation survival kit and video. Also, the suggestions in the comments are all good ones. As a USAF Vietnam era veteran, i know our pilots and aircrew members wore “survival vests” equipped with basic survival gear. There was also a “pan” under the ejection seat that contained additional supplemental survival gear that would deploy. Also, there was a small “last ditch” kit attached to aircrew members parachutes. In a worst case scenario, where you or your wife or passenger due to fire, couldn’t reach the survival kit because egress from the aircraft was the only option, you would at least have the basic survival gear in the vest to sustain you until rescue. There are many videos out there on you tube on how to diy using fishing vests and/or photo/adventure vests. I utilize an adventure vest as a “get home” kit that is kept in my car 24/7/365 along with a supplemental kit. Just a suggestion that other aviators utilize to enhance survivability….just in case! Thanks again for the video. Well done!
The vest is a great idea for flying in Canada's North. The basic kit I showed here is modified for the seasons and where I'll be flying. Honestly though 90% of my flying is over densely populated areas, and I'll end up in a backyard... all I really need is Tim's card in my pocket.
Spare woolen clothes to fend off hypothermia when wet. Fishing line and hook, maybe lures. First aid stuff to help ypu move and or manage broken bones and other wounds, inclunding burns. Space blanket. Smoke cartrige for cloudy weather signaling. Insect repellant, bear repellant?
First aid kit is in the plane - required at all times. Extra clothes are added when flying in winter; this survival bag is meant to be variable with the change in seasons.
A green laser pointer is a good addition for signaling in an emergency. You can shoot a beam through heavy foliage or brush straight up in the air signal SOS more so at night than daytime.
Hi Glenn! Looks like a very complete survival kit :) The only thing I would add, is a Flint. It sounds like everything you have with you to create fire (matches, cotton balls) is limited to the amount you carry.
I should have mentioned the second 'fire starter box' I held up (little green box) is a flint and some cotton balls in wax/oil. There's also a flint / strike attached to the knife.
Highly interesting to see this and also that it is in fact legally required in Canada! A survival kit is not something I have ever spared a thought about here in Germany since it is just so densely populated everywhere. But then I also remember Steve FlightChops' videos on this topic when he was over in BC and that you really can get into trouble some 15 min away from your homebase. And having flown there myself I don't doubt it one second!
What about foil blankets and a sleeping bag liner? The foil blankets are dual purpose. The first is you can pin them down in a triangle pattern to let other planes know you are in an emergency situation. The second purpose is combining it with the sleeping bag liner and sleeping bag. (Actually in between the liner and bag. It’s plastic, so it will retain and reflect body heat back in. The liner is a protective layer from the plastic and will wick away perspiration/moisture from the body.
I’d love to see you take all this stuff out to the bush and put it through it’s paces. Even maybe fly into one of those areas and do a couple nights using this gear and share your experience. Never knew you had so much experience in the back country. As a suggestion, I’d maybe add a butane torch if you’re already carrying that much gear. Super convenient at starting quick fires.
Glen, do I recall correctly that the aircraft itself has a disaster beacon? If it detects a less than optimal landing, it reports its position to the SARSAT (search and rescue satellite) constellation. If it’s there and functioning, you shouldn’t have to wait more than a few hours. Still, as you say, redundancy is good.
Yes - the 406 ELT communicates my GPS position (with other info about me and the plane) to SARSAT and the DND. Help would be on the way to the crash site within minutes / hours depending on how far I am from Trenton here in Ontario / Quebec.
For my emergency bag (not for a plane) I group items together in a smaller bags/containers. That way I don't have to dig through everything to find something specific. Then at the top of my bag I have a list of what is in the bag and specifically where it is located.
Excellent video on a vital subject. Your survival kit is as well thought out as the whole renovation of your plane. I would assume you were a Boy Scout as a youth. Certainly Baden Powell would approve of all your choices. I never gave much thought to this topic in my flying days in the ‘80s, but I never spent any time flying over wilderness.
Great video, really good ideas in the kit. I like all the foods if even just for the idea of putting a smile on your face, probably would help keep you calm and making smart decisions. About the only thing I would add if it was me would be a roll of toilet paper in a large waterproof baggie. It’s great for it’s intended role but also even as tinder? And maybe a small Bic lighter, again a cheap, small piece of redundancy for getting that fire going. You touched on it but a reminder that taking some sort of survival course is also important if you’re flying over forests and/ or mountains. A fellow Canadian flying out of Kamloops BC with the site “How I Fly” (sorry, his name escapes me at the moment)had a video with him taking a survival course put on by a local pilots group, quite interesting.
The Bic lighter was the thing I saw was missing. The TP is even more important. I understand that waterproof matches, and flints, and strikers are all cool, but why wouldn't a disposable lighter always be the default fire starter? Well, maybe a lighter can get crunched and be useless and a steal and flint broken in half are a hassle, but still workable?
I would have packed almost exactly the same kit. I'd toss in a mylar "blanket". Many uses: signaling device, tarp (although fragile), heat reflector/blanket. Devices with integral - non-replaceable batteries - should be considered a game stopper. With temperature extremes and just the normal lifespan of batteries - rechargeable or not - they can be a problem. I recommend looking for devices with rechargeable, replaceable batteries. Even better - find something that uses a mechanical generator to charge a capacitor. Be knowledgeable about such a device though. Many of these use a mechanical generator to charge a small capacity battery. The battery will be non-replaceable and prone to all the issues with batteries (temperature extremes, aging, etc) which is why I advocate a capacitor for a storage device. With the more common than not use of Lithium-based batteries, proper battery care is important to prevent catastrophic failures for which the causes are many. As a licensed amateur radio operator, I would also have an portable transceiver with me but that's not an option for everyone. I'd also have such a radio installed in the aircraft. (By "non-replaceable" I mean easily in the field or by the average person. Those with the ability to change such batteries obviously are less hindered)
The handheld radio is one that I chose specifically because it doesn't have an integrated battery - it runs off of AA's and can be run off usb battery bricks that I always have in the plane for my camera gear. The earlier handheld I had with rechargeable batteries was horrible! the battery life even when new was really short, and the cold killed it completely.
My biggest recommendation would be two mylar blankets and mylar ponchos, especially for wintertime. Look, it got so cold where I live my heat couldn't keep up and I was freezing on Christmas Eve, after two hours or so of my feet hurting from the cold I remembered I had a mylar blanket in my hurricane emergency kit, pulled it out, unfurled it's crunchy plastic, and it helped me stay warm enough to be able to sleep. Sure my pipes froze and I didn't have water for a few days but better than my foot getting frostbite. The mylar ponchos would also be good if you were down and it started raining, staying mostly dry is good for morale. Secondary suggestions, I see you mentioned dryer lint in another comment as a fire starting tool. In the vein of redundancy, I'd suggest either buying or making some char cloth as an additional source of kindling that will last longer than the lint would. Also a handfuls of untreated charcoal (1-6 lumps would likely be plenty). Maybe a second small fire extinguisher if a fire you make needs to be quickly snuffed out or starts to spread too much. In the food department a can or two of Spam or other canned food in addition to the sardines. A package of fully cooked bacon. And a small cast iron or wrought iron skillet with tongs/spatula/something. That way if you go down and it's gonna be a while, you can maybe have something hot other than tea and Mr. Noodle.
Great kit full of useful items! One thing that I have in my bag, that I didn't see in yours is bug spray. This is more of a piece of mind item, as it can get annoying really quickly having bugs swarm around you.
When I'm ski flying I keep the wing covers and engine tent in the baggage area (Piper PA12) that would make a good shelter if needed, I'm surprised I didn't see any basic tool kit! I like to keep a basic tool kit (a few wrenches, screwdrivers lock wire and such) in my bag, and I am always wearing my leatherman. I have a bag in my RV6 (and yes, weight and size is a factor) with enough gear that I could spend a night in the bush and not die, but my survival kit is amended often depending on the mission and the weather. Many folks do not have a heated hangar to keep their planes in, so often battery operated gear will be of little use after sitting in cold weather for weeks waiting for a nice flying day, so it may be best to keep a some survival equipment with your flight bag that stays inside and warm. Oh, and the polish looks amazing, you should buy my old Luscombe :)
I should have mentioned the toolkit in the bin with the oil, and tie down ropes etc - never really thought of it as survival kit, more as just stuff you carry as an owner.
Good stuff Glen..I would ad a small ax and some gorilla tape.. butane doesn't work well below freezing... two tarps and a couple of sleeping bags. Thanks for the video.
A lot depends on how long you could expect to be rescued Several different small items to add- safety wire - say 10-15 ft of 032. Small survival/1st Aid guide Assorted sizes ziplock bags Quality multitool
Im surprised you dont carry a flare gun, its far more effective at being noticed than a strobe light or signal mirror. Also id seriously consider swapping the tarp for a lightweight 1-2 man tent. they can be tiny enough to not be overly bulky. Far less cumbersome to set up and much more secure. also protects you from wildlife and more importantly insects such as mosquitos.
Like I said during the video - this was just the basics, and I change what I'm carrying depending on seasons and where I'm flying to. In reality 90% of my flying is over urban areas where I don't need a survival bag at all.
With no weight limit, may as well add a tent and a rifle. It’s Canada after all and the wildlife isn’t always nice. At least bear spray but firearms are multipurpose. And you have the weight and space, why risk having to make an improvised shelter when you may be injured
Overall very much matches my experience (US great lakes, Appalachia, some US Rockies) and looks great! Thoughts: Food - might critters/bears smell and go after the food when it's in the plane? (Your bush experience makes me think not in your area.) Water - putting the filter/tablet kit in a water bag or bottle for extra carrying/storage in addition to the 2L bottle? Cold weather - inflatable pads not for comfort, but to insulate you off the ground?
I live alone and only really use milk for making tea so I use skimmed powdered milk from the supermarket, it comes in a resealable pouch has a long shelf life and just add a teaspoon of the powder to a mug of tea. Can also be reconstituted with water of course. Might be worth adding to your bag.
1) You forgot SPAM, 2) Make and vacuum seal your own MRE's for the grab and eat so you don't have to search for what to eat. Space saver too. 3) Bic lighter, never need to worry about wet matches. 4) Practice your skills. Maybe an outdoor Glen and Friends meal using your skills and survival food for a delicious dinner. This would have to include a shelter. (maybe a sing song. May I suggest "Walkami Whailers" songs. Good Ontario folk songs from the bush)
@@davidpeckham2405 Not interested in SPAM - that's why I have the tinned fish. Every survival course I've ever taken (and that's probably 15 courses over the years) pretty much says forget the Bic lighter; they just don't work in the cold and the jam / break. Waterproof matches and a steel are better options. I keep my skills sharp - I worked in the bush, often going 2-3 weeks on my own or in a small team of 2 .
@@GlensHangarTongue in cheek on the spam. I am a forester having bush cruised etc. in the north. Cool you can get away, right now my kids keep me from going north, soon though. Love the vids, From Hanover, ont.
@@davidpeckham2405 Both Julie and I are Foresters - or were - we went to Lakehead and worked across Ontario, Quebec, and Manitoba for most of the major Pulp and Paper companies. Did a fair bit of timber cruising during University.
@@GlensHangar Wow wee! My Alma Mater. I have cruised in Northern Manitoba and did planting and research work for the Great Lakes Forest Research Center out of the Sault. I hold an H.B.Sc.Forestry 1988 from LU. Loved the work and time in the bush. Alas things change. I miss the north.
I would add a compass, a second knife (check out mora brand) other wise you will both want it at once, a couple of mylar blankets and a clear plastic sheet, watch a video on " Mors Kochanski Super shelter" He taught survival to Canadian troops for 40 years and wrote numerous books on survival in Canada. a bic lighter in your pocket. a multi tool on your belt, air flares, a survival rifle, 22lr, (Henry brand ) some snare wire, (useful for many things) extra batteries for everything, two ponchos, wool hats and salt.
@@GlensHangar I agree but sometimes its nice to climb to the top of a hill or go find water and make it back, getting turned around happens to everyone.
Thanks for the info.Bug repelant,spray or lotion.Not sure whats best would be good.I park my cessna 150 at CYYB for the winter and CYSB for the summer.
If you have the weight capablity as you have, I would add a smoke canister, possibly a mini flare kit and an axe and a water carrier (so you can collect water and go back to the wreckage).
Some solid ideas. Good video. Use a waterproof backpack instead or carry a bag in the backpack for travel on foot. 2 REAL military ponchos (rain gear and shelter) 2 REAL military "woobies" warmth and can be turned into sleeping bags with ponchos. "Bivvy bag not so good....causes sweat and doesn't breathe) 2 more ponchos/stakes and you have a tent. Compass. Cheap watch. Extra prescription glasses, supplements, and meds. Hand sanitizer. Hunter Orange hats and vests. Extra socks and gloves. Glow sticks. Extra (rechargeable) flashlight. Cell phone charger.......TOILET PAPER!!!
A lot of people suggest the backpack so you can carry the bag easier - often with the suggested purpose of walking to safety / civilisation. But all of my training has been 'stay with the aircraft' SAR is looking for the downed aircraft that is transmitting GPS signals to the SAR DND. I've also worked in the bush of Northern Ontario and Quebec; there is no walking to safety / civilisation - stay put.
Understood. It's probably easier to find a downed aircraft than a couple of people on foot. If the aircraft is in good shape, it could serve as a shelter... makes sense. I enjoyed the video... good pointers and ideas.
That looks amazing. I think you'd do well with an axe or replace your shovel with a military one which could be used as an axe as well. Also, don't you live in an area full of bears? I think bear pepper spray would definitely come in handy.
No Grizzlies, or Polar bears near where Glen usually flies. I suspect Glen has enough experience with the bears around here that he is respectful, but not afraid.
On the comment of being able to pull the yellow survival bag out of the plane and run away with, might I recommend adding a secondary first aid kit? While I don't fly, I do keep a few survival type things in my car, namely sleeping bag and pillow, first aid kit, hi-vis reflective vest. Things I want to add include some sort of emergency strobe.
Looks really complete, only things I have to suggest are: Tinder: nice to see you have at least two firestarting methods (assuming the Jet doesn't have anything integrated) but I didn't see any sort of tinder. Lots of options in this part of the world but a small container with charred cloth or some wax soaked cottonballs, or heck, a newspaper in a ziplock, would be good in case you go down and things are wet or snow-covered. A multitool: I love my leatherman wave, and it is just so darned handy to have as an every-day-carry but as backup/spare for things like your saw it wouldn't be the worst thing. A way to carry water (other than the jetboil), a couple metal water bottles (one for each of you) would be a good backup in case whatever you're using up front gets damaged or lost. The emergency bag didn't seem to have any sort of carrying strap? Hopefully you never have to walk out with the emergency kit since you've got lots of 'find me' tech, but some way to distribute the load (beyond tying up your rope which you'd want for shelter) if you need to carry the 20ish lbs seems useful, especially if you think you may end up bruised or injured when the plane goes down.
All of my survival training (aircraft or bushcraft) is to stay in situ. SAR is looking for you where you last were - not where you might have wandered off to. Plus finding a shiny silvery crash site is slightly easier in the bush than a human wandering under the trees. All that to say; I won't be carrying the bag any farther than maybe getting away from a fire at the crash site. I'll be adding a bag of dryer lint - that stuff starts a fire like you wouldn't believe. There's always a 2L SS jug in the plane, along with SS travel mugs that we carry everywhere.
@@GlensHangar I'll have to remember the dryer lint the next time I go camping. Been trying to start fires with my striker rod (for practice) and while it hasn't been too tricky anything that helps is always a win. FWIW I'd love to see a chat between you and Les Stroud on this sort of thing, your thoughts on film work, and living in the bush.
I’ve noticed in your videos you have both a garmin inreach and a PLB. Any reason why you chose garmin vs ZOLEO or Motorola Defy? If you have to put down in a forest do you plan to navigate out or send an SOS and wait for help?
Stay with the plane - always. SAR is tracking the 406 ELT signal, and looking for the aircraft so stay with the aircraft. I'm usually always on with ATC RADAR surveillance when flying in remote areas, so I'd be able to alert them when something happens. Watch this rescue from Canada's North last winter: ruclips.net/video/0mR7y-IIXdM/видео.htmlsi=H71lDtIi2v1fxz5S Stay with the plane. We have multiple PLB's as backup to the 406 ELT if the plane ends up inverted and the antenna snaps off or we can't get it out of the fuselage. We also have PLB's attached to our PFD's if we end up in the water. As for Garmin or the others - had to choose or the other, and you can drive yourself nuts watching reviews.
hald dozen small 500 ml water bottles might be worth it? incase there's no waterbody nearby? most of the foods shown will definitely make you thirsty. What about bear spray incase of bush flying? ibuprofen, sterile pads and bandages would be nice to haves as well..
The first aid kit (required by law) is really well stocked - water is taken separately in a 2L jugs, I can't leave it in the plane / survival bag most of the year.
I'm surprised you don't have a multi tool or large Swiss army knife in your bag or in the plane. I have had a Swiss Champ for something like 25 years now. I used to keep it in my pocket all the time. I've fixed plenty of things with it from my glasses (tiny screwdriver) to cars with it over the years. You may want to consider putting a couple MRE's in the bag. If I were you I would get the ones with flameless ration heaters in them. All you need to do is add water (doesn't need to be clean) to the pouch with the heating element. Water activates the chemical reaction causing it to heat up. Most MREs have about 2000 cal of food. If you aren't familiar with them check out Steve1989's channel.
I didn't (forgot) address that I always carry a 2L Stainless Steel flask of liquid with me - tea in the winter, water or juice in the summer. Because it's fresh every time, I never really think of it as a 'survival tool', but it is.
Don’t forget that the container ITSELF can be a useful survival tool (for gathering, storing, processing water).
Only 1 day of water???
@@davidpeckham2405 I also said that the survival equipment carried is based on where I'm flying. If I'm flying in the Southern Ontario to Montreal corridor I would only need 30 minutes of water; if that. Obviously if I was flying farther away, I'd carry more. It's a 14 minute video where I just tried to cover the basics.
@@GlensHangar That is true. So long as you can walk a strait line it is never far from a road and we are blessed with a lot of water here in Ontario.
Man I've been watching Glenn make soda for about a year now and I had no idea he was a pilot 😂😂 this really threw me for a loop 😂😂🤘
Same! I’d seen the Glenn’s hangar link but it didn’t click.
And I came for the gorgeous Mooney in the Dynon equipment video.
You and me both! Been watching his cooking forever and had no idea
There’s a light perversion with these survival kits isnt there - you kind of wish you one day you could make use of all those noodles and snacks while sitting in the forrest just finally doing nothing at all. To build a shelter and make food, every childs favorite game. Cheers and all the best!
6:36 what makes aircraft survival kits (or other motorized conveyance) unique is that one need not play around with bush shelters or primitive means of anything for the sake of weight/volume reduction. IMO 2 cold weather sleeping bags and a 4 season tent are well worth the weight. Add a couple emergency puffy jackets. A 22 rifle. And huge jars of PBJ.
I don’t have a plane but it’s still nice to know
I added a few things you could do with on the video, but I guess the RUclips algorithm didn't like the links, so my post is gone. Anyway, here is the 2nd attempt, without the links.
- a small flair launcher because you can never have too many ways to signal.
- A scout sized Kelly Kettle. These use wood and will boil up a pot of water within 5 minutes.
- A pair of good ponchos to go with the tarp. They will keep you dry and make good ground sheets for your tarp shelter.
- A good compass. A Garmin is wonderful until the battery fails, where a compass will work even when broken.
- A small axe to go with the saw. It's a lot easier to make kindling with a small axe. Knives were never made for batoning and
the last thing you need is to be in the middle of nowhere with a busted knife.
- a few MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) with heaters.
Now, having written all that, I hope you never need to use any of this stuff.
I have been through USAF survival school and I would add a good ,rugged compass and a small container of cotton balls saturated with petrolem jelly, they make starting a fire much easier. Very good content and some of that is like what I kept in my vehicle in Alaska in winter.
Compass going in, and the cotton balls in wax/oil are already in there, I guess I just glossed over what was in one of the fire-starter boxes.
I second the petro cotton balls. I suck at making fire when its raining, those things are a godsend.
I want to know what that “not talking” item is!
My head went right to "its a bong!" but I'm sure it isn't LOL.
Looks like a auger and flint starter. I have the same one.
Glad you have it, Glen, here's hoping you never need it!
Water bladder to hold your water. Overlooked. Bear spray could keep you off the menu.
Every time we fly we take fresh water in 2L steel jugs - there is bear protection always in the plane as well, I just didn't talk about it.
Though in my lifetime of working / playing in the bush across Canada's North, in 'bear country' I've never really encountered one; except at the dump.
I'd add a thermal blanket. Canada is cold.
Fancy seeing you here.
And I'm curious about the item you didn't want to talk about. LOL
I assume it’s something for defense (e.g. bear spray) which could potentially have complicated legality in Ontario.
My guess is brownies that are vacuum sealed.
@@hwbehrens It's in a nice little leather pouch, so I don't know. My bear spray looks like a small fire extinguisher.
Hans could be correct but my first non-survivalist thought was a marital aid.- haha
I know me too - what could it be?? A musical instrument, like I thought maybe a harmonica but it doesn't seem like it would fit right. Maybe a flute?? I might be on the wrong track altogether lol
Hi I have a lot of experience in survival training both in the Canadian Forces and privately.
I guess my only advice is what happens when you can’t get the survival bag. Statistically people only have what’s on them… plane is destroyed or sinks. Also most real life scenarios indicate that if people don’t repetitively train getting the survival bag out they forget it during the critical initial moments after the accident.
Also what do the passengers have for training and equipment on them… what are they to do if the pilot is injured or dead?
I would suggest in a safe way you run 2 scenarios.
1. Forced landing no injuries rescue will come in 24-72hours you only have the kit on you.
2. Forced landing pilot injured/incapacitated passenger only has kit on them.
*** then do scenarios with all kit in rainy fall/spring weather… and then in winter minus 20…or colder.
Even doing these as mental exercises will help to challenge assumptions that have been unconsciously built in.
Can you start and maintain a fire one handed… injured leg for 24-72 hours?
Have you tested your emergency sleeping bags … they often don’t work that well. Your water proof match case is it actually water proof… often they are not.
I would recommend if space and weight is not a problem having 2 full sized sleeping bags good to a minimum of minus 20 C plus 2 good bivy bags.
I would suggest on you and if possible each passenger
1. Plb406
2. Clothes for the environment you are flying over… enough to stay outdoors for 24 Hours.
3. Pockets knife
4. Bic lighter. Ferro rod, cotton balls in PJ.
5. Whistle, ***glass signal mirror
6. Water,purification tabs
7. Head lamp
8 leather gloves
9 protein bar/cliff bar
10. Contractor garbage bag… Mylar space blanket have issues in real scenarios
Also first aid training that involves the use of TQ.
Anyway I would suggest that you actually test you survival plan over 24 hours and see how it works. Even if you just run the scenario in the back yard.
Anyway 3main goals over 72hours
1. Manage life threats
2. Manage body temp/hydration
3. *** signal/communication /rescue
Great suggestions - I too have continuous survival training and have worked in Canada's harsh Northern environments.
This was called 'basics' for a reason, and I do state that the bag changes depending on season and where I'm flying. For most of my flying If I go down, it will be in an urban area - but when we fly in more remote areas the survival contents change as does where it's located and how it's accessed.
It's impossible to cover everything in a video; this was just a basic overview to get people talking and review their own emergency kit. Hopefully I did that, and maybe some people went out for training weekends.
@@GlensHangar I am not a pilot but just wondering in urban environment you fly in are there many options in an emergency to land… ? How much space does a light plane need.. would a secondary road work ? Anyway thanks a lot for you videos.
@@zefsurvival6557 I wouldn't need much space at all to land on a road, or in a farm field.
This is a Cessna 150 that 'went down' two weeks ago a couple blocks from my house:
ruclips.net/video/4KEUa8doS0Q/видео.htmlsi=905DsWgalbIprHKD
@@GlensHangar thanks that was very informative. Take care.
Something I learned 55 years ago doing Duke of Edinbugh Award Scheme, a small 2in thick piece of foam big enough for under your head & torso, say 18x36in.
Great video, really like the stove you put together. The whistle could be used to scare off an animal.
A wool military blanket would be a good thing to add. Can help in many situations and you'll always have a picnic blanket.
Or a Hudson's Bay blanket.
If I were flying further North, maybe a can of bear spray and mosquito repellant. Cheers.
Hi from across the lake near Rochester! My flying journey's been on hold a long time but you're inspiring my wife and I to get back to it. Being scout leaders, we are very familiar with survival or bug out bags. Very similar contents and thinking. Your comment on maintaining your mental health is right on. I try to keep a deck of cards or something small and portable to keep things fun. Of course, food is always a winner. 2 things I'm taking away from your kit is the cup noodles and the gloves. I hadn't considered bringing cup noodles because of the volume but I'm going to look at that. The additional containers could be worth the space. I think the gloves are really smart so I'm going to add those. Love the videos, hope to meet you one of these days. Take care!
Random things: Dehydrated stew or soup, toilet paper, tourniquet, small binoculars, mosquito nets, bear repellant device, head warming beanie, I guess it’s a where do you start and stop list. Enjoyed the video.
Many good suggestions from you and comments. I would add fire starter sticks or logs, as you can have a real fire quickly even in wet weather. Also aluminized survival blankets, they weigh nothing but keep in body heat. As well as bug juice or spray. You have been doing a very good job on your channel. We have a 1957 straight tail.
I was going to suggest a tarp, when you pulled one out of the bag! But I do recommend a small hatchet to supplement the saw. Sometimes you need to cut more than branches and twigs. I also carry a couple of LifeStraws and a Nalgene bottle, along with road flares. (Fuzees.) My list is always being modified. Thanks for the video, Glen. Now I have to watch the brownie recipe video! 😃
Bug dope
Yes - adding that in.
Having gone around Superior in the spring, mosquito netting. I got a fishing cap with roll down netting, amazing relief.
Bug Spray, face nets, water storage, eye protection, change of socks, water supply, ground cloth
Like I addressed in the video, the bag is updated to reflect seasons and where I’m flying. Water supply and ground cloth are in there, and after working years in the deep bush of Northern Ontario- I’ll never wear a bug net. This just covered the basics.
Possibly a pack of bbq firelighters for the sake of ease. And its pretty compact.
I always carry 2 firearms with me. I know in Canada it may be more difficult. But with bears around, could be useful, and also to help provide a food source. In addition, compact collapsible fishing gear too. I went down with a bush pilot in AK about 40 ears ago. We broke a landing gear strut , and we were able to to jury rig one out of a spruce bow and get back into the air. Took us 2 days.
When you pulled out your container of milk, I thought it was chicken broth at first. As I watched the rest of the video I thought, “Why not chicken broth?” Since space and weight are not at a premium for you, a container of chicken broth might make a nice addition.
Fishing line is a good fit, for the North. Hard candies for energy. A book, and not something to do with aeroplanes and spending a nite in the bush, or a 'duster', but thats just because I am not partial to western's. A pack of smoke's - it might be time to take it up - and alcohol for fuel or medic-pak, not the drinking kind, but if you must a nice single malt might just fit. -cya! [ -)
Glen I think that you and Julie are amazing, talented, thoughtful, and safety minded people. I would also, without hesitation, fly with you guys anywhere! This video is fascinating and very cool. I love gear!
Your comment section is very neat - lots of great suggestions.
For fire I would include a cigarette lighter such as a Bic Lighter.. Also a fire starter. Try cotton rounds dipped in melted candle wax or paraffin mixed with charcoal lighter fluid. See RUclips for info. I get almost 4 minutes of 6 inch flame which makes it easier to light a campfire.
I suggest you put all food items in one drybag, for easy hoisting in bear territory. Also put some TP in a pouch with your Toilet Trowel. And a milsurplus real wool blanket would be a good idea.
Or a US military blanket known as a woobie. They are considered a prize possession to soldiers. Warm, dry, lightweight and shade/shelter when needed.
I would vacuum seal all perishables (maybe even some matches), they will last longer.
Also pack the items in separate small bags based upon what they are used for, as you've shown at the end of the video. That way if you need a single item, its easier to find and not lost at the bottom of the main bag.
(maybe even some matches) at this point I will vacuum seal a seal pack of B.. Lighter.
Now we need a cooking video about pilots good 👍
I would add a sleeping pad. It’ll prevent the ground from sucking all your body heat when it is cold. I would also add a NOAA radio with a hand crank.
I was very happy to see you pull out the flint and steel. I would ALWAYS consider a low-tech, almost indestructible, nearly inexhaustible means of making fire a vital item for survival.
In wet weather, the petroleum jelly-soaked cotton balls mentioned by another commenter come close to fitting the bill here too when combined with something like a fire piston. Little space required, virtually no weight.
Glen, what about a backup pair of glasses in case yours or Julie's get damaged? Could be a decent idea!
Yes - I have prescription sunglasses that live in the plane, and Julie is one of those people who carries 2-3 spare pairs in her bag. But I probably should shove a pair in the survival bag.
A small caliber camp rifle for obtaining fresh meat would be a very useful addition to your kit.
Glen would do just fine in The Last of Us
I would suggest something to sharpen the knife, hand-crank radio, and food dye (for distress in water and you can use it to paint snow when dissolved in water)
Mostly good.
Just a couple of things. Two or three Bic butane lighters carried in your flight vest or pocket would be good.
A saw is good, but sometime you'd need a hatchet. There are some that are multipurpose. A machete would be good because sometimes you'd just want to hack stuff.
As mentioned in another comment, and one that I picked up during a survival presentation; a container of petroleum jelly mixed with cotton balls. And a baggy full of dryer lint.
In a survival situation, building shelter is first. Basic to begin with, then improve your shelter has time goes on. It gives you something to do.
And you forgot the toilet paper....And a few things to read. Even a survival manual would be good.
Some of what you mentioned is in the bag, maybe you missed my mention of them? I guess I also didn't stress enough that this is a basic bag, that I add to based on season, and where I'm flying. 90% of the time, if there was a problem I'd be landing in someones yard. So there's no need for an actual survival bag. But if I'm flying in the North where towns are farther apart, I add extra. Of course in a plane you can't add everything and the kitchen sink because space and weight are huge considerations. Everything is a calculation.
@@GlensHangar Thanks for your response.
Absolutely, everything is a best guess when it comes to this stuff.
So, very interesting kit. Some thoughts:
1. No flashlight? I would think you'd want both a headlamp and a more traditional flashlight of some kind. A 1000 lumen (or so) light with a strobe setting would be a great signaling device and a headlamp would allow you to work in the dark with light hands-free.
2. Ditch the signaling mirrors, they're pretty pointless as signaling devices. The whistle, strobe, and other items are much more effective.
3. Milk is nice but why not a couple bottles of water? Sure, you can filter water but you have to find water to filter and it takes time and energy, why not just add a couple liters of water to the bag?
4. Add a roll of toilet paper. Trust me on this one. In a plastic bag to keep it dry.
5. Bear spray. If you're in bear/cougar country this is essential. I'm guessing this is the item "we're not discussing today", also Canada has restrictions on that sort of thing so... anyways.
6. Couple black plastic garbage / contractor bags. Good for a variety of uses like emergency rain cover and something to store your trash in.
7. Bic lighter, GOAT fire starter better than anything else 99% of the time. And perhaps some fire starters. Just to beef up the fire starting kit a little bit. Altoids tin full of dryer lint mixed petroleum jelly is sufficient. Scoop some out and light it.
8. Tent pegs for the tarp, just a couple cheap ones even plastic is fine, would make setting it up as a shelter much, much easier.
Just my initial thoughts since you did ask for feedback. Cool video. Thanks!
There's 4 or 5 flashlights in the airplane - I guess I should shove one in the bag, just to be safe.
There's always at least 2L of fresh water in a SS tank + our travel mugs in the plane, there are also 2 flint fire starters in the bag along with some wax/oil covered cotton. But I'll probably throw a bag of dryer lint in as well - that's something I always scrounged up when we worked in the bush and take camping as well.
How about an Axe? If weight isn't an issue I would definitely have an axe added to my survival gear. All the bush pilots I've flown with have had a full size axe in their plane.
I would have a Hatchet to go your Saw. It is easier to use even as a means of escape from the Aircraft. I would a Spotlight. If you are walking through a bush at twilight. Much better that the flashlight in the Aircraft. A touque keeps you warm. A couple bottles of water means you don’t have to look for a stream right away.
I would carry a small hand axe instead of a saw, head lamp, this allows you to be hands free, neon or orange vest for visibility and a survival blanket. I always carry some toilet paper not only for comfort but can be used as a fire starter
I would add a couple of large trash bags as they can serve as part of a shelter, a rain poncho, hood water and of course carry items. Also for the electronics I would keep a usb battery bank. If you have a charger for your phone/ipad in the plane you can keep it plugged in so it charges anytime the plane is on. Modern batteries don’t suffer significantly from being plugged in as they have smart charging. That way you know you have power when you need it.
Hey Glen, have you thought about getting your Ham (Amateur) Radio license? That could also be useful in an emergency situation, and also can be fun when flying. -James
I wouldn’t worry about using my restricted operator license if I’m in an emergency on the ground even though I’m not in the plane lol. Nobody will come after you for that.
Licenses go out the window in an emergency situation (and yes, I'm a licensed ham).
@@grahamballantyne1129 You can Fine me when you Find Me !
Okay this is going to sound strange. When I took survival training through air cadets one thing they mentioned that is good for a kit is ... Condoms. They are compact, strong and can hold up to 2L of water. Though you may want to use ones that don't have spermicide. Though when I was in cadets this suggestion did get a lot of laughs as we were a bunch of teenagers. When the instructor asked us what condoms could be used for. The first suggestion was "pretty dear?"
Verify your tools are of the highest quality. The snow shovel looked like a $30 model. Consider one rated for avalanche recovery like the Black Diamond Evac-7. A well rated small folding saw is the Bahco Laplander. Larger folding bow saws are made by Agawa. A good full tang carbon steel utility knife is the Mora Garberg.
Several levels of Wilderness First Aid courses are available.
Whatever you pack: practice, learn what works (and doesn't), and improve.
Thanks for your input Daniel - That snow shovel that looked to you like a $30 model... IS a $200 backcountry Avalanche shovel from the same company that supplied the backcountry survival company I worked for in the Canadian Rockies for a couple years in the late '80s. I worked in Kananaskis for two seasons and did back country / avalanche training. So I think the avalanche shovel in my kit is pretty good.
I dare say that I have more backcountry / bush / survival training than the average bear - I stay sharp.
A well known Austrian company makes a compact folding shovel with a saw in the handle. Much more capable than the little planting tool since you can use it like a pick or a shovel.
Really well thought out aviation survival kit and video. Also, the suggestions in the comments are all good ones. As a USAF Vietnam era veteran, i know our pilots and aircrew members wore “survival vests” equipped with basic survival gear. There was also a “pan” under the ejection seat that contained additional supplemental survival gear that would deploy. Also, there was a small “last ditch” kit attached to aircrew members parachutes. In a worst case scenario, where you or your wife or passenger due to fire, couldn’t reach the survival kit because egress from the aircraft was the only option, you would at least have the basic survival gear in the vest to sustain you until rescue. There are many videos out there on you tube on how to diy using fishing vests and/or photo/adventure vests. I utilize an adventure vest as a “get home” kit that is kept in my car 24/7/365 along with a supplemental kit. Just a suggestion that other aviators utilize to enhance survivability….just in case! Thanks again for the video. Well done!
The vest is a great idea for flying in Canada's North. The basic kit I showed here is modified for the seasons and where I'll be flying.
Honestly though 90% of my flying is over densely populated areas, and I'll end up in a backyard... all I really need is Tim's card in my pocket.
Spare woolen clothes to fend off hypothermia when wet. Fishing line and hook, maybe lures. First aid stuff to help ypu move and or manage broken bones and other wounds, inclunding burns. Space blanket. Smoke cartrige for cloudy weather signaling. Insect repellant, bear repellant?
First aid kit is in the plane - required at all times. Extra clothes are added when flying in winter; this survival bag is meant to be variable with the change in seasons.
You could consider getting some IMPs for food as well!
A green laser pointer is a good addition for signaling in an emergency. You can shoot a beam through heavy foliage or brush straight up in the air signal SOS more so at night than daytime.
I've thought about putting one in - I might just do it.
Great presentation, Glen.
Hi Glenn! Looks like a very complete survival kit :) The only thing I would add, is a Flint. It sounds like everything you have with you to create fire (matches, cotton balls) is limited to the amount you carry.
I should have mentioned the second 'fire starter box' I held up (little green box) is a flint and some cotton balls in wax/oil. There's also a flint / strike attached to the knife.
Great video Glen, just now catching it, but very informative
Highly interesting to see this and also that it is in fact legally required in Canada! A survival kit is not something I have ever spared a thought about here in Germany since it is just so densely populated everywhere. But then I also remember Steve FlightChops' videos on this topic when he was over in BC and that you really can get into trouble some 15 min away from your homebase. And having flown there myself I don't doubt it one second!
What about foil blankets and a sleeping bag liner?
The foil blankets are dual purpose. The first is you can pin them down in a triangle pattern to let other planes know you are in an emergency situation.
The second purpose is combining it with the sleeping bag liner and sleeping bag. (Actually in between the liner and bag. It’s plastic, so it will retain and reflect body heat back in. The liner is a protective layer from the plastic and will wick away perspiration/moisture from the body.
I’d love to see you take all this stuff out to the bush and put it through it’s paces. Even maybe fly into one of those areas and do a couple nights using this gear and share your experience. Never knew you had so much experience in the back country.
As a suggestion, I’d maybe add a butane torch if you’re already carrying that much gear. Super convenient at starting quick fires.
Glen, do I recall correctly that the aircraft itself has a disaster beacon? If it detects a less than optimal landing, it reports its position to the SARSAT (search and rescue satellite) constellation. If it’s there and functioning, you shouldn’t have to wait more than a few hours. Still, as you say, redundancy is good.
Yes - the 406 ELT communicates my GPS position (with other info about me and the plane) to SARSAT and the DND. Help would be on the way to the crash site within minutes / hours depending on how far I am from Trenton here in Ontario / Quebec.
For my emergency bag (not for a plane) I group items together in a smaller bags/containers. That way I don't have to dig through everything to find something specific. Then at the top of my bag I have a list of what is in the bag and specifically where it is located.
Excellent video on a vital subject. Your survival kit is as well thought out as the whole renovation of your plane. I would assume you were a Boy Scout as a youth. Certainly Baden Powell would approve of all your choices. I never gave much thought to this topic in my flying days in the ‘80s, but I never spent any time flying over wilderness.
Someone here could not land because his radio was not working. Northern Ontario, after dark... We do not fly but on our boat we have 3 radios.
Great video, really good ideas in the kit.
I like all the foods if even just for the idea of putting a smile on your face, probably would help keep you calm and making smart decisions.
About the only thing I would add if it was me would be a roll of toilet paper in a large waterproof baggie. It’s great for it’s intended role but also even as tinder?
And maybe a small Bic lighter, again a cheap, small piece of redundancy for getting that fire going.
You touched on it but a reminder that taking some sort of survival course is also important if you’re flying over forests and/ or mountains. A fellow Canadian flying out of Kamloops BC with the site “How I Fly” (sorry, his name escapes me at the moment)had a video with him taking a survival course put on by a local pilots group, quite interesting.
Yes - survival training is something every pilot flying over remote / forested areas should do.
The Bic lighter was the thing I saw was missing. The TP is even more important.
I understand that waterproof matches, and flints, and strikers are all cool, but why wouldn't a disposable lighter always be the default fire starter? Well, maybe a lighter can get crunched and be useless and a steal and flint broken in half are a hassle, but still workable?
I’m of an age where TP is in the car for any longer trip, not necessarily survival gear, just something I alway want to have on hand. 😳
I would have packed almost exactly the same kit. I'd toss in a mylar "blanket". Many uses: signaling device, tarp (although fragile), heat reflector/blanket.
Devices with integral - non-replaceable batteries - should be considered a game stopper. With temperature extremes and just the normal lifespan of batteries - rechargeable or not - they can be a problem.
I recommend looking for devices with rechargeable, replaceable batteries. Even better - find something that uses a mechanical generator to charge a capacitor. Be knowledgeable about such a device though. Many of these use a mechanical generator to charge a small capacity battery. The battery will be non-replaceable and prone to all the issues with batteries (temperature extremes, aging, etc) which is why I advocate a capacitor for a storage device. With the more common than not use of Lithium-based batteries, proper battery care is important to prevent catastrophic failures for which the causes are many.
As a licensed amateur radio operator, I would also have an portable transceiver with me but that's not an option for everyone. I'd also have such a radio installed in the aircraft.
(By "non-replaceable" I mean easily in the field or by the average person. Those with the ability to change such batteries obviously are less hindered)
The handheld radio is one that I chose specifically because it doesn't have an integrated battery - it runs off of AA's and can be run off usb battery bricks that I always have in the plane for my camera gear.
The earlier handheld I had with rechargeable batteries was horrible! the battery life even when new was really short, and the cold killed it completely.
No mention of a first aid kit. Also you might need cups/mugs to put the tea in. And don't forget your towel.
First aid kit was the second thing I mentioned - It's illegal to operate a plane in Canada without it.
My biggest recommendation would be two mylar blankets and mylar ponchos, especially for wintertime.
Look, it got so cold where I live my heat couldn't keep up and I was freezing on Christmas Eve, after two hours or so of my feet hurting from the cold I remembered I had a mylar blanket in my hurricane emergency kit, pulled it out, unfurled it's crunchy plastic, and it helped me stay warm enough to be able to sleep. Sure my pipes froze and I didn't have water for a few days but better than my foot getting frostbite.
The mylar ponchos would also be good if you were down and it started raining, staying mostly dry is good for morale.
Secondary suggestions, I see you mentioned dryer lint in another comment as a fire starting tool. In the vein of redundancy, I'd suggest either buying or making some char cloth as an additional source of kindling that will last longer than the lint would. Also a handfuls of untreated charcoal (1-6 lumps would likely be plenty). Maybe a second small fire extinguisher if a fire you make needs to be quickly snuffed out or starts to spread too much.
In the food department a can or two of Spam or other canned food in addition to the sardines. A package of fully cooked bacon. And a small cast iron or wrought iron skillet with tongs/spatula/something. That way if you go down and it's gonna be a while, you can maybe have something hot other than tea and Mr. Noodle.
The two bivy sacs are essentially insulated mylar bags - really great in survival situations.
@@GlensHangar Fair enough. One other quick and easy fire starter option, steel wool and a 9 volt battery.
Great kit full of useful items! One thing that I have in my bag, that I didn't see in yours is bug spray. This is more of a piece of mind item, as it can get annoying really quickly having bugs swarm around you.
When I'm ski flying I keep the wing covers and engine tent in the baggage area (Piper PA12) that would make a good shelter if needed, I'm surprised I didn't see any basic tool kit! I like to keep a basic tool kit (a few wrenches, screwdrivers lock wire and such) in my bag, and I am always wearing my leatherman.
I have a bag in my RV6 (and yes, weight and size is a factor) with enough gear that I could spend a night in the bush and not die, but my survival kit is amended often depending on the mission and the weather.
Many folks do not have a heated hangar to keep their planes in, so often battery operated gear will be of little use after sitting in cold weather for weeks waiting for a nice flying day, so it may be best to keep a some survival equipment with your flight bag that stays inside and warm.
Oh, and the polish looks amazing, you should buy my old Luscombe :)
I should have mentioned the toolkit in the bin with the oil, and tie down ropes etc - never really thought of it as survival kit, more as just stuff you carry as an owner.
@@GlensHangar makes sense...and, as you said, those RV's have limited baggage space so I keep mine all in one bag :)
Good stuff Glen..I would ad a small ax and some gorilla tape.. butane doesn't work well below freezing... two tarps and a couple of sleeping bags. Thanks for the video.
I've toyed with a small axe / hatchet - I have the space and weight isn't a problem so I'll probably throw one in.
A lot depends on how long you could expect to be rescued Several different small items to add- safety wire - say 10-15 ft of 032.
Small survival/1st Aid guide
Assorted sizes ziplock bags
Quality multitool
The big question is what tea bags have you got? Has the be Yorkshire
Im surprised you dont carry a flare gun, its far more effective at being noticed than a strobe light or signal mirror. Also id seriously consider swapping the tarp for a lightweight 1-2 man tent. they can be tiny enough to not be overly bulky. Far less cumbersome to set up and much more secure. also protects you from wildlife and more importantly insects such as mosquitos.
Like I said during the video - this was just the basics, and I change what I'm carrying depending on seasons and where I'm flying to. In reality 90% of my flying is over urban areas where I don't need a survival bag at all.
These oldscool but timeless corduroy seats are so cool!
With no weight limit, may as well add a tent and a rifle. It’s Canada after all and the wildlife isn’t always nice. At least bear spray but firearms are multipurpose. And you have the weight and space, why risk having to make an improvised shelter when you may be injured
Overall very much matches my experience (US great lakes, Appalachia, some US Rockies) and looks great! Thoughts: Food - might critters/bears smell and go after the food when it's in the plane? (Your bush experience makes me think not in your area.) Water - putting the filter/tablet kit in a water bag or bottle for extra carrying/storage in addition to the 2L bottle? Cold weather - inflatable pads not for comfort, but to insulate you off the ground?
Very important topic, Glen. I carry similar items in the van!
What did he pull out of his bag at 8:50??
I live alone and only really use milk for making tea so I use skimmed powdered milk from the supermarket, it comes in a resealable pouch has a long shelf life and just add a teaspoon of the powder to a mug of tea. Can also be reconstituted with water of course. Might be worth adding to your bag.
I was thinking the same thing
Glen you may want to consider MREs in your kit.
Home made too
1) You forgot SPAM, 2) Make and vacuum seal your own MRE's for the grab and eat so you don't have to search for what to eat. Space saver too. 3) Bic lighter, never need to worry about wet matches. 4) Practice your skills. Maybe an outdoor Glen and Friends meal using your skills and survival food for a delicious dinner. This would have to include a shelter. (maybe a sing song. May I suggest "Walkami Whailers" songs. Good Ontario folk songs from the bush)
Oh ya one more thing... A Road Flare for starting fire. Up to 20 minutes at over 1000 deg F will get just about any wood going.
@@davidpeckham2405 Not interested in SPAM - that's why I have the tinned fish.
Every survival course I've ever taken (and that's probably 15 courses over the years) pretty much says forget the Bic lighter; they just don't work in the cold and the jam / break. Waterproof matches and a steel are better options. I keep my skills sharp - I worked in the bush, often going 2-3 weeks on my own or in a small team of 2 .
@@GlensHangarTongue in cheek on the spam. I am a forester having bush cruised etc. in the north. Cool you can get away, right now my kids keep me from going north, soon though. Love the vids, From Hanover, ont.
@@davidpeckham2405 Both Julie and I are Foresters - or were - we went to Lakehead and worked across Ontario, Quebec, and Manitoba for most of the major Pulp and Paper companies. Did a fair bit of timber cruising during University.
@@GlensHangar Wow wee! My Alma Mater. I have cruised in Northern Manitoba and did planting and research work for the Great Lakes Forest Research Center out of the Sault. I hold an H.B.Sc.Forestry 1988 from LU. Loved the work and time in the bush. Alas things change. I miss the north.
Really great video, Glen. Thanks for the insight. Made me reflect on a few key items I neglected to consider in my own kit.
8:46 - What is this?
I would add a compass, a second knife (check out mora brand) other wise you will both want it at once, a couple of mylar blankets and a clear plastic sheet, watch a video on
" Mors Kochanski Super shelter" He taught survival to Canadian troops for 40 years and wrote numerous books on survival in Canada. a bic lighter in your pocket. a multi tool on your belt, air flares, a survival rifle, 22lr, (Henry brand ) some snare wire, (useful for many things) extra batteries for everything, two ponchos, wool hats and salt.
Compass going in the bag - but all of my training is to stay at the crash site.
@@GlensHangar I agree but sometimes its nice to climb to the top of a hill or go find water and make it back, getting turned around happens to everyone.
Thanks for the info.Bug repelant,spray or lotion.Not sure whats best would be good.I park my cessna 150 at CYYB for the winter and CYSB for the summer.
If you have the weight capablity as you have, I would add a smoke canister, possibly a mini flare kit and an axe and a water carrier (so you can collect water and go back to the wreckage).
Would something like an EPIRB like they require on sailboats be useful?
Yes - I always have two of those in the cabin - and when we are flying over water, they are attached to our life jackets.
I would get rid of the Bivys and put in a regular tent and sleeping bag/blanket.
When flying over the 'North' - yes those will be in the plane. For flights in Southern Ontario probably not needed.
Some solid ideas. Good video. Use a waterproof backpack instead or carry a bag in the backpack for travel on foot. 2 REAL military ponchos (rain gear and shelter) 2 REAL military "woobies" warmth and can be turned into sleeping bags with ponchos. "Bivvy bag not so good....causes sweat and doesn't breathe) 2 more ponchos/stakes and you have a tent. Compass. Cheap watch. Extra prescription glasses, supplements, and meds. Hand sanitizer. Hunter Orange hats and vests. Extra socks and gloves. Glow sticks. Extra (rechargeable) flashlight. Cell phone charger.......TOILET PAPER!!!
A lot of people suggest the backpack so you can carry the bag easier - often with the suggested purpose of walking to safety / civilisation. But all of my training has been 'stay with the aircraft' SAR is looking for the downed aircraft that is transmitting GPS signals to the SAR DND. I've also worked in the bush of Northern Ontario and Quebec; there is no walking to safety / civilisation - stay put.
Understood. It's probably easier to find a downed aircraft than a couple of people on foot. If the aircraft is in good shape, it could serve as a shelter... makes sense. I enjoyed the video... good pointers and ideas.
A parachute (that you've already donned) to immediately jump out with at the first sight of trouble?
That looks amazing. I think you'd do well with an axe or replace your shovel with a military one which could be used as an axe as well. Also, don't you live in an area full of bears? I think bear pepper spray would definitely come in handy.
No Grizzlies, or Polar bears near where Glen usually flies. I suspect Glen has enough experience with the bears around here that he is respectful, but not afraid.
How about a comprehensive first aid kit and a small rifle?
On the comment of being able to pull the yellow survival bag out of the plane and run away with, might I recommend adding a secondary first aid kit? While I don't fly, I do keep a few survival type things in my car, namely sleeping bag and pillow, first aid kit, hi-vis reflective vest. Things I want to add include some sort of emergency strobe.
Looks really complete, only things I have to suggest are:
Tinder: nice to see you have at least two firestarting methods (assuming the Jet doesn't have anything integrated) but I didn't see any sort of tinder. Lots of options in this part of the world but a small container with charred cloth or some wax soaked cottonballs, or heck, a newspaper in a ziplock, would be good in case you go down and things are wet or snow-covered.
A multitool: I love my leatherman wave, and it is just so darned handy to have as an every-day-carry but as backup/spare for things like your saw it wouldn't be the worst thing.
A way to carry water (other than the jetboil), a couple metal water bottles (one for each of you) would be a good backup in case whatever you're using up front gets damaged or lost.
The emergency bag didn't seem to have any sort of carrying strap? Hopefully you never have to walk out with the emergency kit since you've got lots of 'find me' tech, but some way to distribute the load (beyond tying up your rope which you'd want for shelter) if you need to carry the 20ish lbs seems useful, especially if you think you may end up bruised or injured when the plane goes down.
All of my survival training (aircraft or bushcraft) is to stay in situ. SAR is looking for you where you last were - not where you might have wandered off to. Plus finding a shiny silvery crash site is slightly easier in the bush than a human wandering under the trees. All that to say; I won't be carrying the bag any farther than maybe getting away from a fire at the crash site.
I'll be adding a bag of dryer lint - that stuff starts a fire like you wouldn't believe.
There's always a 2L SS jug in the plane, along with SS travel mugs that we carry everywhere.
@@GlensHangar I'll have to remember the dryer lint the next time I go camping. Been trying to start fires with my striker rod (for practice) and while it hasn't been too tricky anything that helps is always a win. FWIW I'd love to see a chat between you and Les Stroud on this sort of thing, your thoughts on film work, and living in the bush.
Plus one for the multitool -- not the best version of any one of the tools but compact and useful in so, so many cases.
I’ve noticed in your videos you have both a garmin inreach and a PLB. Any reason why you chose garmin vs ZOLEO or Motorola Defy? If you have to put down in a forest do you plan to navigate out or send an SOS and wait for help?
Stay with the plane - always. SAR is tracking the 406 ELT signal, and looking for the aircraft so stay with the aircraft. I'm usually always on with ATC RADAR surveillance when flying in remote areas, so I'd be able to alert them when something happens.
Watch this rescue from Canada's North last winter: ruclips.net/video/0mR7y-IIXdM/видео.htmlsi=H71lDtIi2v1fxz5S Stay with the plane.
We have multiple PLB's as backup to the 406 ELT if the plane ends up inverted and the antenna snaps off or we can't get it out of the fuselage. We also have PLB's attached to our PFD's if we end up in the water.
As for Garmin or the others - had to choose or the other, and you can drive yourself nuts watching reviews.
I might add 2 aluminum mugs (for the tea). I realize you could use a noodle container but I don't want noodle residue in my tea
Yes - we always have travel mugs with us in the cabin - but I might throw a couple in the bag.
hald dozen small 500 ml water bottles might be worth it? incase there's no waterbody nearby? most of the foods shown will definitely make you thirsty. What about bear spray incase of bush flying?
ibuprofen, sterile pads and bandages would be nice to haves as well..
The first aid kit (required by law) is really well stocked - water is taken separately in a 2L jugs, I can't leave it in the plane / survival bag most of the year.
@@GlensHangar Thanks for the info Glen!!
I don't know anything about aircraft construction, but is there some way of getting out of your plane should the doors jam upon crashing?
In the event of a 'forced landing' you're supposed to unlatch the doors before you hit the ground...
I'm surprised you don't have a multi tool or large Swiss army knife in your bag or in the plane. I have had a Swiss Champ for something like 25 years now. I used to keep it in my pocket all the time. I've fixed plenty of things with it from my glasses (tiny screwdriver) to cars with it over the years.
You may want to consider putting a couple MRE's in the bag. If I were you I would get the ones with flameless ration heaters in them. All you need to do is add water (doesn't need to be clean) to the pouch with the heating element. Water activates the chemical reaction causing it to heat up. Most MREs have about 2000 cal of food. If you aren't familiar with them check out Steve1989's channel.