Reddit mentions: The best camping emergency blankets

We actualy found a beast of a spider in our luggage one morning. Unfortunately, battle had to ensue and it was a serious duel. Obviously one of us won. keep your tent closed up tightly and you should have no issues, but keep an eye out of course. I posted a good list of tips on another thread that outlines camping at this location.

I have a few solutions to this as i myself have gone to the extremes on sleep deprivation at lib. Here are a few game changers that made a world of difference.

Your tent. We found that righ as the sun comes up sleep is almost impossible due to light and rockstar heat. We got a bunch of those emergency thermal blankets and lined the exterior of our tent almost entiely in them. This both blocks light and a huge amount of sun heat. They make it seem like air conditioning compared to not using them. Packing tape works very well on holding them together and allows you to customize their shape to fit your specific tent. Another tip is to sandwich or layer them between a fabric material to dampen the noise they make with the wind as they move. Those mitary guilly style camo covers work well too. You basically want to hold them down as well as possible to limit how much they move to eliminate the noise they make, which is like tin foil. Be creative and innovative with these as they can look really cool too! Your tent will be dramatically more comfortable all day.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01LZN0KGB/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1526521307&sr=8-1-spons&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=survival+blanket&psc=1

They come in multi packs to save money. Also if you have extra, im sure your neighbors will appreciate it greatly if you donate a few. The only drawback is the noise, so ensure you address this. Installing them on the inside of your tent is also an option.

Sound. Earpeace hd earplugs are amazing https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B076VTXWBP/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1526521562&sr=8-1-spons&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=earpeace&psc=1
I go to tons of concerts! These are exceptional not only for being FRONT ROW! but amazing for sleep as well. They are inexpensive and worth every dollar, and super comfortable!

Brain spa.
Onnit new mood!

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00AFB5U3Q/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1526521888&sr=8-1-spons&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=new+mood+onnit&psc=1

Take these before bed. Such a great balanced formula and one of the best regenerative items ive found yet!
Nuff said

Light in the morning or anytime of the day.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00GSO1D9O/ref=mp_s_a_1_5_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1526522197&sr=8-5&keywords=eye+mask+for+sleeping&dpPl=1&dpID=31eeIOXqJoL&ref=plSrc

Ill keep this short, they just work, period.

Cool as LIB! https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00XKLYWFU/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1526522342&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=cool+towels+for+neck&dpPl=1&dpID=41vWMI5EJzL&ref=plSrch
We discovered these and theyre awesome! We wet them down at the water stations which are everywhere throughout Lib. They feel amazing in the sun and in a wierd way are kinda fun, idk. Lol

Bring vitamins! I recommend D3, ZINC, B COMPLEX, AND FISH OILS.
Make sure you keep these all cool and dry.
I recommended a cooler scenario in another sub, but ill repeat it here.

Dry ice in your cooler is the best way to refrigerate all weekend that i have found, minus actually having a refrigerator.

Tip: careful with dry ice as it can burn you and mess up your cooler if not prepared properly. Wrap it in brown paper to prevent direct contact with the sides and bottom of your cooler. Also, if you put actual ice around the dry ice this works too. We got a solid 3 days of awesome cooler performance this way. Cover your cooler during the day with the above mentioned mylar blankets for even better performance.

Protein power! You need nutrition if you want to rage like a rockstar! Many flavors and its super fast and simple to prepare. I use mp combat protein, works well and tastes great!

Bed/air mattress. One oddity we found with our air mattress. At night the ground and ambient air temp drops a bunch on some occasions. So the air inside the mattress cools as well which made for an extra chilly experience one night. We insulated the bottom and sides of our air mattress with a fleece or similar blanket which helped keep our body heat inside the mattress.

Feed me! Bring good healthy food like apples, avocados, bananas, pita bread, peanut butter or almond butter. These are delicious and full of proper energy. Keep junk food to a minimum, but dont eliminate it, because well, sometimes cheese its are bomb as hell! You just dont want to be weighed down by garbage. Tip: the acai warrior bowls at the food courts are legit! And, try the poutine for breakfast! You wont regret! Also we found that Mountain house freeze dried packets are a convenient and awesome way to chow down. You'll need hot water for some and regular temp for the cereals and desserts.

I hope this helps. Unfortunately I can't be at LIB this year, so this post helps me cope with said situation.

I have many other pro tips if anyone is interested so hit me up

Love you LIB!

I buy the SOL blankets because they're only reflective on one side (so they don't reflect heat back in, just away), and they don't crinkle or tear the way regular mylar does. They fold up nice and compact so you can keep reusing them, I've had the same ones for a couple years. I keep them on my tent with binder clips. Two of these cover the entire top of my 4-person dome tent. The amazon description doesn't mention shade, but the packaging does specifically mention that as one of it's uses.

Ideally to stay cool, you want something that allows airflow between the shade and the tent, like a canopy... but for someone like me that often travels to fests, that often isn't possible, so this is kind of the next best thing since it's nice and compact. If you can bring a canopy, that's definitely better but... not always possible.

Just the shade really helps, it's like you can feel the temperature drop when the sun goes away. I've found that between this and a tent fan, I can get some sleep through the day. It's not a miracle worker by any means, but it's a big improvement over a sunny tent. I can literally put my hand up to the wall inside my tent and feel the heat radiating in where it's uncovered, while it's cool from under the shade.

Can't solve the air temperature, though.

The tops of the MLD ultralight bivies are made from the same material as their quilt liner. The material is incredibly thin and light. You can read the text of their quilt liner page, where it says "Adds about 5 degrees to any sleep system." I have the bivy liner and I don't really count on it adding 5 degrees, it's more just something to have as a layer between my bare skin and the quilt, keep body oils from soiling the quilt.

http://www.mountainlaureldesigns.com/shop/product_info.php?cPath=22&products_id=169

So I would say the MLD ultralight bivy might add a few degrees of warmth, but I wouldn't really count on it for warmth at all. It's more just a lighter alternative to buying a bug nest for use under a tarp.

The SOL Escape Bivy is a lightweight solution to add 10 degrees, maybe for some people a bit more, to your sleep system. (Some people use it on its own as a sleeping bag down to, say, 50 degrees, seems like it would be a bit too cold for me, but with clothes I'm sure I could do it.) I have this SOL bivy and it would be way better choice to add warmth than the MLD ultralight bivy. You can do a web search for a lot of reviews/tests where people have endured fairly cold temps with it. It's not super-duper light, maybe 8-9oz, and it isn't super durable either. But light enough, durable enough, cheap enough, and works well enough that it's an interesting piece of gear.

Here's one review of SOL Escape Bivy on youtube. This guy uses it on its own as a sleeping bag, and uses it in colder temps than I think most people would want to (down to 32*), but gives you a good idea of what it is:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FxFbGMjhHg4&t=104s


https://www.amazon.com/Survive-Outdoors-Longer-Escape-Bivvy/dp/B00EZEPCB4

(On Amazon link you can click to buy the orange color instead of green, which has sale price of $30, pretty darn good price for piece of equipment like this.)

A lot of this would depend on the situation, but assuming that this bucket would be all that I'd have to live on for 72 hours...

• Line the bottom with 1 liter bottles of water. I'd want minimum 6, preferably 9. Ideally I'd also like a Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System. That's a chunk of the budget right there, but it allows for refilling of water bottles from a lot of sources which could be valuable depending on the situation.
  
  
• 3 Mainstay 2400 Bars. Walmart sells them for less than $5.00 each. I'd add in a couple of gallon sized ziploc baggies to boot because they aren't individually sealed. Probably wouldn't be super pleasant to eat only these for 3 days, but there's zero prep involved and they get the job done. Maybe get an extra one to try out ahead of time to make sure they don't do anything funny to your stomach.
  
  
• Probably some mylar sleeping bags and several blankets. Then add in 100' of paracord. The blankets and paracord would allow you to provide shade or insulation as needed.
  
  
• Two lighters (one for backup) and a standard pill bottle filled with cotton balls smothered in vaseline (tinder for fire, cheap and efficient).
  
  
• Hand sanitizer (also works as a fire starter), sun glasses, chapstick, and a neck cooler (also sold for <$5.00 at walmart). Add in a handkerchief that you can soak and cover your head with. You can probably find more clothes to put on if it's cold, but it's hard to deal with heat, so that's important to take into account. Add in a small roll of duct tape as well.
  
  
• A mini-med kit. To keep it within budget I'd mostly use what I have at home. Add bandaids, gauze, lots of ibuprofen, lots of multivitamins, sinus meds, pepto tablets, sunscreen, and allergy meds. Splurge and pick up a decent sized tube of antibiotic cream. It's not comprehensive, but this is a 72 hour kit. Hopefully that would mean more being concerned with comfort than full on survival.
  
  
• A locking folding knife of some sort. Make sure it's sharp as a razor before putting it into the bucket. Doesn't have to be top notch or expensive here, but does need to be sharp. If room permits and you have one already, also toss something Ka-Bar like in. Something that has a little weight to take a branch off, but also is sturdy enough to assist in minor digging.
  
  
• If you have them, toss a pair of wool socks in. No matter the weather those are always good to have. Otherwise, just get an extra pair in there. If the weather is cold you can double up. If it's hot you can change them out to keep your feet fresh. That's important.
  
  
• A spare phone charger. Chances are there will be electricity somewhere, and phones are absolutely important. Worst case, get a $10 cheapy, test it, then toss it in.
  
  That's the necessary stuff for a 72 hour kit imo. It covers shelter, food, water, warmth (and cooling), and as much security as you can get within budget. It should keep you comfortable for a few days if you have to grab it and move toward a place where you cannot be assured of any necessary resources being present. You can fill gaps with things like gum, hard candy, a good book you don't mind re-reading, as well as anything else you might need to keep yourself occupied.

Bag - I agree. I was a bit too short with my answer above. It was more to show that I did not care if it was military or civilian style.

Food - I have no real problem with anything. I just chose the bars to link because they seemed good on weight/calories. For 3 days in a row I figure I could choke down almost anything. Freeze dried is good in theory but I would rather have something I could eat on the go.

Tools - I was afraid someone would bring up the eating tool. It was the one piece I considered "gadgety" that I really liked the idea of so I cant argue.

Light - I was already considering dropping the first light so I agree there. The crank/solar light is also more for the radio and charging ability and a back up if the head lamp broke.

Clothing - There is about a 1 in 3 chance I will be wearing very little (since I sleep in the buff or just underwear) so the spare shirt and underwear were to reflect this.

Sleeping - I had not researched bivy sacks but I will be. It seems a good choice from first glance. I assume you mean something cheap like this. I could definitely see leaving the tarp out then.

Misc tools - Maybe... I do like that the twine can double as tinder. Especially after waxed to waterproof it. I dont know that I would want to burn paracord unless I absolutely had to.

Guns - This is more of a personal choice. I have several handguns but I was looking at something light and concealable I could keep in the bag. I felt the Glock 19 was not right for me while shopping around recently. The next one I buy will probably be the Shield despite the smaller magazine size because I could not get the Glock 19 to feel comfortable in my hands. Maybe the a gen 4 would feel better. I do seem to have a problem with gen 3s.

Thanks for the feedback. Especially the bivy sack. That looks like a great addition I had not seen before. I am also glad to see someone else packed a belt. I looked at dozens of posts here(and elsewhere) before making my list and I found only 1 that had a belt.

> I live in Michigan, in an area where -40 windchill isn't uncommon, and -20F is just average winter.

Are you in the UP? I'm in lower Michigan. I grew up in Northern lower Michigan. I'm now in West Michigan. I got pink insulation board and cut it to size for each of my windows and it works great. Just cut it so it fits snugly.

> In the case that it does, what are the most efficient blankets to use?

Wool. Or put a tough emergency blanket with a mylar layer under the wool layer. Sew them together if you can. Don't use the cheap thin myler blankets, they aren't worth anything. Get wool blankets at surplus stores online. Giant wool blanket $24.

> Wool is a good choice as well, but wool is also dry clean only.

Then make a cotton shell and clean the shell in your washer.

> Are some blankets about the same as others, but better to buy in bulk/cheaper?

I haven't seen thick blankets in Michigan stores in 10-15 years. Fluffy comforters? Yes. Thick blankets? No. Everyone seems to be selling super thin "fleece" blankets.

> Are sleeping bags (individual) a better choice?

Yes. Get ones designed for weather at 0F. I used them for camping outdoors in the winter with the Boy Scouts. Then if you are still cold (in a sleeping bag in your apartment) throw in a disposable heater for $1. They last 8 hours.

> That said - anyone have a good schematic for a DIY storage bed,

Just make sliding drawers, one big one or two smaller ones, that fit under the bed. I bought one just like this at the store.

I mean no disrespect, but I also tend to be rather blunt: There is a lot of work that needs to be done to this bag. It seems really thrown together, out of an amalgamation of random stuff that's vaguely "outdoorsy".

Firstly, the bag itself. There's probably a reason it was in the trash, and my suspicion is that it wasn't because it was well built, durable, and comfortable. Good bags can be had for not much money and there are definitely used options on Craigslist and at outdoor store garage sales if you're on a shoestring budget. Your bag has to be able to take the abuse of multiple days and many miles of rucking.

FOUR knives? And they are all folders to boot? And you're trying to tell me this isn't "bloated"? Come on. Get one good multitool like a Leatherman, or keep the Gerber if you must (you don't need 87 bits for your Gerber in the woods, either). Maaaybe carry a fixed blade, too, if you really think you'll be needing it.

Mess kit: That looks bulky as hell, and aluminum has an incredibly low melting point (something like ~1200F) which is easily attainable in a mature fire. Hello melted mess kit. If you are really just bugging out you shouldn't need to cook anything. Calorie dense food bars, jerky, nuts etc. should be sufficient. Get a super small mess kit like this amazing one from GSI Outdoor and use this very cheap but decent backpacking stove and you have a lightweight, highly functional way to cook, boil water, and drink for under $25.

Blade sharpener? If you somehow manage to dull all four of your knives in a few days you're doing something wrong. Save the blade sharpener for the Zombies-Are-Attacking INCH bag or whatever.

Sunscreen and bug repellent are both great. that said, you are carrying almost as much sunscreen as you are water. Embellishing, of course, but that's a fucking lot of sunscreen.

I would also seriously work on flushing out that medical kit. If you don't have much first aid training, that's fine (though you should get some) but a basic boo-boo kit will be really functional. Gauze, small band-aids, some medium sized non-stick pads, alcohol wipes, burn cream and/or antibiotic cream, tweezers, rubber gloves, pain relievers, anti-diarrheals, generic antihistamines (for regular allergies and allergic reactions), etc. etc. Avoid pre-built medical kits and avoid things you don't know how to use.

The MSR filter is actually fantastic, can't fault you there. That said, something like a Sawyer Mini would be a fair bit lighter, and has integral water storage should you need more.

Metal water bottle: Looks like a thermos, which is great for keeping your coffee warm on the way to work but is single-use and heavy in the backwoods. I'd suggest changing it out for a widemouth single-walled metal container like those from Klean Kanteen because now not only do you have a way to store water, but you also have a way to boil it! And you can cook in it if absolutely necessary. And you can fill it up with hot water and add it to your sleeping bag to stay warm.

Wait...where is your sleeping bag? I know you mentioned having some miscellaneous camping gear in your car, but what if you need to abandon your car? Look at even a simple bivy sack like this one from SOL. Coupled with a lightweight tarp and you have a functional survival sleep system. Throw in a small inflatable pad for insulation from the ground and you can survive in all but the most inclement of weather.

Lose the rat traps and 200(!!!) fishing hooks in exchange for calorie dense food bars and other foods that need little or no preparation. Try to stay above 130 calories/gram and pay attention to things that are high in protein, fiber, and fat. You're bugging out, remember? Not sitting around camp all day with a cold one and your rod in the lake.

Substitute your few cheap (read: heavy and unreliable) flashlights for one good one. Something like a Four Sevens Quark AA2 or something from Fenix, Nitecore, or Olight. It will be reliable, well built, and powered by an efficient driver to produce multiple modes of light and provide for good run time. Get something that takes standard AA or AAA batteries. Avoid CR123As.

Noticeably lacking are things like a map and firestarters. You mentioned a ferrocerium rod. Instead of spending $7.00 on a decent one of those, get three BIC lighters and a pack of waterproof matches in a container. And save a couple bucks in the process. Ever started a fire with a ferro rod? It sucks. I've done it. I do it for fun and honing my skills occasionally. But a simple ass BIC will work 100 times better in almost any situation.

Add a high quality, water resistant topographical map of your region. Do you know how to use that compass? I'm not talking about pointing it north, but for things like triangulation or magnetic declination or navigating to a point on your map by finding a bearing. There are tons of Youtube videos out there that will help you in understanding these techniques if you don't already. A compass by itself is near useless.

How about things that you're more likely to encounter?

Throw in a charger for your phone, or maybe one of those $5 burner flip phones and a $10 minutes card in case yours dies. Take the battery out (should be removable on a cheap pay-as-you-go bog standard phone) and write important numbers on the inside.

How about wiping your ass? Go to your nearest Walmart and hit the toiletries section. You'll find bins of $1.00 miniature travel accessories. I'd recommend a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant bar, personal wet wipes (preferably biodegradable), Chapstick, and some baby powder or Gold Bond. Throw it all in a gallon Ziplock or a small pouch. Now you can survive in the woods AND survive overnight a friend's house after you get too drunk and can't drive.

I see nothing for cold weather gear. I know it's summer but depending on where you are night time can still be cold as hell. Add a beanie, wool gloves, a fleece underlayer, a poncho or rainproof hard shell jacket, and a change of GOOD wool socks.


Lose the 9 million feet of paracord. 50ft should be plenty sufficient (if that) especially considering the inner strands are strong enough for most applications.

I think that covers all my major gripes. Back to drinking and being an ass.

For the rehydration salts... I use RecoverORS. It's expensive for what it is.. but also the best I have found. More hydrating than even Pedialyte and more electrolytes than that and Gatorade or any sports drinks.

The SOL Bivvy weighs only 3.5 oz and packs pretty small. It looks bigger in pics then it is.

My favorite energy bars are Soldier Fuel - 3 year shelf life, ideal balance of protein, fat and carbs, give you TONS of energy, and also some of the best tasting out of all the energy bars (aside from maybe Clif, but those only have like a 6 month shelf life). They were designed originally for soldiers on the field that needed a quick boost (previously HOOAH bars), so you know they are loaded with nutrients, more so than the average bar.. and field tested by soldiers. They also have peanut butter flavor but I'm crazy for the chocolate. I have a problem saving them in my survival packs because I end up eating them as snacks. It's good they come by the case :). But then it's a good idea to actually LIKE the food you put in your survival kits. Nothing like food comfort in a bad situation. It's the little things.

Like I can suffer pretty bad from low blood sugar crashes. One of those things will keep me going for hours.

Some camping supplies that I found to be HIGHLY valuable.


These things are not cheap but made everything way easier and you’ll have both hands free:

Black Diamond Spot Headlamp, Octane, One Size https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06W9HPY25/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_S7C3Cb7FKT5K6



These were one of my “bring things to give out” items ... super cheap lifesavers that can tend to make people call you a “hero”.

Primacare HB-10 Emergency Foil Mylar Thermal Blanket (Pack of 10), 52" Length x 84" Width https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DZ1NFSK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_b.C3CbABFC3Q8


Another “bring things to give out” things ... you wont believe it but you will NOT NEED TO SHOWER ALL WEEKEND. These rock.

No Rinse Bathing Wipes, Microwaveable Hypoallergenic and Latex-Free (5 pack) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CBKLSF8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_HeD3Cb0XAQ5QY


I wish I had brought more breakfast food (I brought bacon, sausage, milk, coffee and pop-tarts). I kinda felt like an asshole while I was eating like a king right in front of all of my new friends, lesson learned. :)

• Arcturus Survival Blanket
  
• Single wall stainless steel water bottle.
  
• Cordage to set up shelter. Precut the cordage to make shelter setup easier.
  
• Lighter or (ferrorod and striker) *Most people don't know what a ferro rod is and as long as it stays in your backpack they are unlikely to find it and say anything.
  
• Tent stakes.
  
• 2 Heavy Duty garbage bags, 6 mil, to make a browse bed.
  
• Flashlight. LED button flashlight is better than nothing or a lighter.
  
• Small survival guide.
  
• Some snacks.
  
• Tea bags.
  
• Imodium or other antidiarrheal meds.
  
• Compass and local map. (Sometimes, going towards a known road or large waterway is the best option.)
  
• Something to signal with, if you get the survival blanket in orange, you won't have to have something else, but a signal mirror would be nice. A whistle if you're injured is better than yelling - You can get whistle compass combos pretty easily. Consider if you're in the type of place people shoot people.
  
• Handkerchief.
  
• Tinder. Petroleum jelly and cotton work great. You can pack them in a straw and heat seal the ends.
  
• Magnifying glass.
  
• Duct tape wrapped around a plastic card.
  
  The nice thing about the Arcturus is it comes with a pouch and you can put everything except the water bottle in the space of a binder. People will just see a bag that looks like it would hold pens or other school supplies.
  
  Depending on your area, watch a few videos on making primitive blades and tools out of stone. Some places really don't have the rocks you would need to make primitive stone tools.
  
  ​
  
  The water bottle can be replaced with an oven bag (a heavy duty bag capable of withstanding the temperatures required to boil water, but it isn't preferred.)
  
  ​
  
  What's your climate?

Hey bud i like your little starting set up v tidy. But, like the others have said cardboard is rather flammable .

Maybe a 35/50 gallon plastic container might suite as a better containment solution.

35 Gal. Container:
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Sterilite-Latching-35-gal-Storage-Tote-in-Lapis-Blue-19451004/202097355

50 Gal. Container:
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Sterilite-50-Gal-189-L-Tote-Box-Titanium/15940602

Also instead of tin foil you can go to the dollar store and pick up an emergency blanket which is made out of mylar it is a much more thermally efficient material and way more reflective while still cost effective.

Emergency blanket/Mylar sheets:
Primacare HB-10 Emergency Foil Mylar Thermal Blanket (Pack of 10), 52" Length x 84" Width https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DZ1NFSK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_s7UaBb7RNNG5W


When i did my first grow i used tinfoil too and i was told the emergency blanket (mylar) was the way to go. Also those reflectors for car windscreens work as well if you have one laying around. Pretty sure they’re made outta mylar too.

Good luck and happy growing 🤙🤙

I'll stick to cheap items, and skip several important but more expensive ones:

• 550lb parachute cord
  (too many uses to count)
  
  
• thick garbage bags
  (for shelter, emergency ponchos, etc)
  
  
• duct tape! (get the good stuff which is nice and sticky, as the cheap stuff doesn't work well in cold or wet. "Duck" brand comes in small rolls)
  
  
• bandannas (they can be used as a headcover, a pre-filter for cloudy water, nose-wiper, sweat-wiper, etc, etc. I usually have at least two on me and often more)
  
  
• bandaids with strong adhesive (there's nothing worse that a bandaid that won't stick to your blistered heel or banged-up thumb)
  
  
• compact insect repellent and compact sunscreen (nothing ruins a hike like being eaten alive by bugs, and I've been surprised how late in the season they can be a problem in the wilderness. If it's small, you're much more likely to actually take it. I keep it in a zip-loc though, in case it leaks a bit)
  
  
• zip ties (big and small)
  
  
• hand sanitiser (it can sanitise cuts, and also makes a great firestarter)
  
  
• whistle (you can blow on it all day long without tiring, compared to yelling for help)
  
  
• Bic lighter (a lightweight, reliable fire igniter, with many strikes compared to matches. If the flint gets wet, blow on it to dry it off)
  
  
• fast food napkins in a zip-loc bag (multi-purpose, from wiping backsides to starting fires, but useless if wet)
  
  
• tiny compass (I only take a proper one if I'm doing large amounts of off-trail hiking, as I usually prefer to use maps and the sun/stars for navigation, but it's good to have a little one as back-up in case the fog rolls in)
  
  
• emergency blanket (the heat reflecting foil type, or even better, the bag version)
  
  
• socks and more socks (they might save your toes if you get wet, and also make good emergency mittens. NEVER cotton though! "cotton kills")
  
  
• keychain flashlight (I always carry a good headlamp, but many others don't for dayhikes. Besides, your primary light might fail, or get turned-on in your pack and drain the batteries. It's happened to me more times than I'd care to admit)
  
  
• common sense, caution and ingenuity
  

To be honest, I've never heard of using a fire blanket in that way, but it would work. That's not a bad idea!

Fire blankets are great, they are the ideal way to extinguish oil fires, as well as fires on people. Just remember, if you do use a fire blanket on something like an oil fire: DO NOT REMOVE THE BLANKET WITHOUT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT TELLUNG YOU TO. The reason I put that in caps and bold is because it is really that important. Oil fires especially, retain a lot of heat. If they are extinguished with a fire blanket, they can retain enough heat for a long time to autoignite, which will then happen as soon as you remove the blanket. The fire department well need to attend regardless to make sure that there isn't any damage from the fire before you extinguished it anyway - or it hasn't made its way into the ceiling space, etc.

By the way, this is the style of fire blanket that I'm speaking of - http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00IYCE7IC/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1458284873&sr=8-1&pi=SX200_QL40&keywords=fire+blanket&dpPl=1&dpID=41tya7LswXL&ref=plSrch (whoops, forgot to actually add the link). It is the standard here in Australia. You attach them to the wall with the hole in the top, then a sharp yank down on the two tabs will remove the blanket from the cover and you will be holding it about 1/4 of the way from each end along one side.

I would thoroughly recommend watching videos on YouTube about how to safely extinguish an oil fire with a fire blanket. The basic gist of it is you grab the fire blankets two tabs and pull down, which will remove the blanket from the holder. You then wrap the blanket around your hands to protect your hands and face from the fire. Approach, gently lay the blanket over the pot and ensure you cover completely. If you haven't already done so, call the fire brigade. You can also use a fire extinguisher on any additional fires started by the oil fire, once the fire blanket has been placed. You don't want to use the fire extinguisher on the oil fire directly, unless you have one that is destined for flammable oils and you have been trained to do it, because it can cause a spray of oil to come up and then you have what is effectively a flamethrower.

I don't have anything against candles per say, what I don't like is peoples cavalier attitude to fire safety. Candles, like a lot of things, are safe if handled properly and if they have the required fire equipment - i.e. blanket and extinguisher.

I could talk about fire safety all day, so if you have any questions I'd love to answer them to the best of my abilities.

The general dangers of running at high elevation notwithstanding, just speaking from a gear perspective:

If you're willing to spend some money you can put together a really lightweight kit that'd be sufficient for an unplanned overnight in reasonably wmnf-bad conditions. You'd need more than a vest to carry it, but there are some nice fastpacks at 20-30L that would be runnable (Osprey Rev series, Six Moon Designs Flight). I'd put together something like the following, but there are many other options.

A solid, but small shelter that can withstand reasonable wind like the MLD Solomid ~1-1.5lb w/ a (trekking or otherwise) pole ~$500

An Emergency Blanket / Ground Sheet ~3oz $6

A very warm quilt like the EE Revelation 0F Short/Slim (for survival, not comfort) 950fill ~24oz $425 You could probably get away with a less warm quilt, but even at 0 degrees the 950fill will compact enough to fit in a smaller fastpack.

A light down jacket like the Mountain Hardware Ghost Whisperer ~8oz $200-$300

Now you're at around 4lbs with a shelter that can handle some wind and snow loads, a 0 degree quilt, a decent jacket, and a general purpose groundsheet/extra blanket. This isn't a complete list obviously, and I wouldn't generally suggest super ultralight gear for winter backpacking... but it can be a great addition to a winter daypack kit for unplanned nights out.

Hmm, we tried radiant heaters but found that they weren't really heating the area more efficiently than the electric floor registers that were costing us money. They were floor units though, not really something that would go above a desk. Are you talking about something like this? https://www.amazon.com/Ceiling-Radiant-Heater-Electric-Outdoor/dp/B01L76CRR4

I was considering a tarp when I was first planning it out, but they were too heavy for my original plan. (hanging it from the walls and then supporting the center from above) I guess I didn't consider it again after thinking about a PVC-based support system. Maybe something like this but a bit bigger? Or I guess I could tie two of them together... https://www.amazon.com/Arcturus-Heavy-Duty-Survival-Blanket/dp/B01H4VAKYS

I don't know much about insulation, so I apologize if I have this wrong, but I think if I'm blocking the airflow that's a good start, but the heat would still leak out over time with R1 wouldn't it? The more heat I can keep in the less I have to run the heater to keep the space warm, I just don't know how to find the most efficient balance between weight and insulation. Would that just be R2?

And yeah... I've lived in cold houses before when I couldn't afford to turn on the furnace. It's definitely doable, but it's kind of miserable. I would be warm when bundled up but I would feel claustrophobic and start to panic, so I'd take things off and then I'd be cold and it would just cycle. I would prefer to look at what can be done to improve things before telling him to just toughen up.

- Anyone seeing this in the future, my recommendation is solid. Maryshydro makes the light I have. It has a better user rating too and seems to have better light output than my friends "Maryshydro". -

This is what I'm using for my 6x4x3. Only a few days in with it though. Best I found in that range.

LightHomeTunnel

$125

Great reviews; blindingly good for the price

This covered my grow room. Maybe it'll save you money too

/r/Hammocks
/r/hammockcamping

I have 2 hammocks, a Grand Trunk Skeeter Beater for camping, and an ultralight one that stays in my backpack/bob. The Skeeter Beater is definitely more comfortable, but takes longer to set up (due to the ridgeline that holds up the bugnet).

The cheap one is good for naps or hanging out at work. I'd spend a night in it if I had to. Mostly in my bag for napping though. I also have an inflatable hiking pillow that works really well.

There are many shortcomings to hammocks though. You have to find somewhere to hang them, which sounds easy but can be hard sometimes. You get a cold butt without really warm temperatures (or an underquilt, or a sleeping bag). It takes a night or two to get used to sleeping in one, but holy hell is it better than the ground! You also need a rain-fly if it's going to be wet (which is a whole 'nother bag).

They're also useful for keeping the creepy crawlies off you.

I wouldn't use it for a primary long-term arrangement, but with proper planning they can make an effective system. 9 times out of 10 I'll reach for the hammock while loading up for a backpacking trip, and like I said I do carry one with me pretty much everywhere I go.

Another option to look into for BOB's/GHB's are simple Bivvy Bags. Smaller/lighter than a sleeping bag or hammock system, but still provide protection from the elements. Not great for sleeping in, but much better for surviving.

I live in Florida so I have very different thermal requirements than you do. My coldest winter camping only gets down to the mid 40s at night. That being said, I feel like using a quilt is closer to using a comforter in your bed than a sleeping bag is. The foot box largely keeps it in place when I change positions at night. As for the pad, odds are good that whatever pad you have now will suffice. Remember your sleeping bag is probably not providing any insulation on the bottom currently. So if the crappy foam pad you have now has a high enough R rating you would likely be fine with a quilt. The only concern is how it might feel on your skin if you don't cover it with something. Foam on skin is kinda bleh.

If you find you're cold a lot, here's a few things I've picked up over the years. To start off, the standard beginner camper stuff. Make sure you're wearing proper camping clothing in layers. Avoid cotton at all costs, you want polyester. If you don't already own UnderArmor type stuff I highly recommend getting some. I recently bought some other brand (Adidas I think?) at Ross for $20 for a pants and shirt set. I generally do not wear these during the day but wear them as pajamas at night when it's cold, adding more layers if need be. Speaking of at night when it's cold. You shouldn't be wearing the same clothes to sleep in that you wore during the day. Especially underwear and socks. Those trap lots of sweat which will keep you cold all night long. Also, invest in good wool socks if you haven't already. You probably already have one to wear during the day, but don't hesitate to get an additional thin merino wool beanie to keep your head extra warm at night (again, don't wear the one you were wearing during the day).

The next thing is check out the R-rating of your sleeping pad. Your standard cheap foam pad like this has an R value of only 1.4. An R rating of 1 is considered "minimally insulated." A better but still cheap model like this thermarest has an R value of 2.8 but is still only $20-30. An R rating of 5 is basically rated to around 0 degrees, here's an example from ThermaRest with an R rating of 5. I've seen R ratings as high as 8. I can only assume those pads set you on fire as soon as you touch them.

Don't forget, you can bring some heat with you. You may wish to invest in some of those Hot Hands products. You can get some designed to go in your gloves or your socks. I generally don't differentiate. Each one will put out a lot of heat for 8+ hours. You can either use them as recommended or just toss a couple loose in your sleeping bag. Yes, it'll cost you a buck or so per night of sleep and you have to pack them in/out, but that's not too bad compared to being miserable. I don't typically do this, but keep a few in my pack in case I get wet during the winter. If I get wet in the cold this is pretty much the only thing that really gets me warm again.

Get at least one of these SOL emergency blankets, use it as your ground cloth. It's similar to but much tougher than the standard mylar emergency blankets. It'll reflect your heat back towards you much better than the plastic sheets most people use. If you're feeling spunky, buy a 2nd, put some reinforcing duct tape or something on the corners and add rivets. Hang it above your tent or strap it in between your rain fly and tent to reflect rising heat back down to you. Fair warning, you will look like a giant dork for doing this one, but it does work surprisingly well. I personally use one for my ground cloth but never do the hanging over thing in conjunction with a tent. I have used one as a shelter though when practicing emergency survival. It kinda sucked as a shelter but it does keep in some heat.

Last but not least, you mentioned some frustration with sleeping bag liners. You could go the opposite route and get a thermal bivvy sack. I don't have much experience with them though so I don't have any real advice. I will say I tried using one of these as my only sleeping bag once and it SUCKED because it DOES NOT BREATHE AT ALL so I was soaking with sweat. I'm sure there are better options that do breathe though and you could slip your sleeping bag inside.

You and a hand warmer in a reflective bivvy bag, in a synthetic sleeping bag, under a cheap down quilt. You can probably put it together for near or under $100 (these links total $114.66), and you have options to adjust how warm you need it to be, so it works winter and summer.

I used this setup (with a different synthetic bag that was on sale at the time) for some very cold nights. The heat reflective bivvy is a little uncomfortable sometimes, but it makes things so much warmer (and it’s much more comfortable than a Mylar space blanket). I now have better down quilts and no sleeping bag at all. Synthetic bags often provide better insulation, but are also bulkier and heavier than down. I needed smaller, lighter insulation. I also now use a USB hand warmer instead. Never tried hot water in a Nalgene bottle. 🤷🏼‍♂️

This setup’s warm enough that I didn’t need to wear a lot of layers, just my base layer, wools socks, and a down jacket.

Get yourself a first aid kit. Buy some bic lighters. Buy some cordage. Get yourself a multi tool or simple knife. Get a tarp. Buy something to filter or treat water. That outta meet your immediate needs for a few survival situations.

Surviveware Small First Aid Kit for Backpacking https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HGSLB6K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_CdLnDbV6F8BD4

BIC Lighter Classic, Full Size 12 Pieces, Bulk Packaging https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IMVL206/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_viLnDbNCA2J5C

PARACORD PLANET 100' Hanks Parachute 550 Cord Type III 7 Strand Paracord Top 40 Most Popular Colors (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GG0RLJQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ijLnDbWKWWT7C

Victorinox Swiss Army Multi-Tool, Fieldmaster Pocket Knife, Red https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000IOI0NC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_9jLnDbXDQ4F0G

Arcturus Heavy Duty Survival Blanket - Insulated Thermal Reflective Tarp - 60" x 82". All-Weather, Reusable Emergency Blanket for Car or Camping (Olive Green) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01H6NC8XU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_plLnDbT9PE2Q4

PURINIZE - The Best and Only Patented Natural Water Purifying Solution - Chemical Free Camping and Survival Water Purification (8 oz) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075ZZP1VG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_6mLnDbFS98KKN

Regardless of whatever you settle on for active heating, you want to capture as much ambient heat as possible.
Mylar sheets in addition to the vapor barrier you mentioned will help. Each pack of the link I shared will cover ~315 sq ft. Of course it would be best to line ceilings and walls, if you only do one, ceiling is more important.

Shrink your living area. Shrink your sleeping area. Move to the highest comfortable spot in your house.

I actually have had some limited success (regardless of bad reviews) with the terra cotta pot style heaters you see from time to time. They're obviously more successful in smaller areas that don't bleed heat.

Where will this be? If Colorado, your setup seems way too warm for 3-season conditions. Maybe if you're up in the Wind River Range or somewhere else farther north this would make more sense. This seems too warm even for late october or april. I use the same sleeping bag and pad in January/February at those elevations (10k-12k feet). Temps dropping to 10F can certainly happen in 3-season conditions but it would be rare.

Softshell pants seem like overkill to me (way too warm). Even for full blown winter camping I've just used nylon pants and warm thermal bottoms.

For groundsheet: A mylar emergency blanket will add a bit of warmth and will protect bivy floor and inflatable pad. These are my favorite because they won't shred if they get a tiny puncture: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00266H5VI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

Tyvek would be a more durable option but you won't stay as warm.

In a mass casualty situation, I would completely ignore anyone that needed CPR and focus on the bleeders. The time you spend giving one person CPR could be used stabilizing a dozen people who are bleeding.

For extremities, the most useful thing is a tourniquet. I prefer one with a windlass like a [CAT] (https://www.amazon.com/C--Combat-Application-Tourniquet-GENERATION/dp/B018R73OWI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1468623443&sr=8-1&keywords=gen+7+cat+tourniquet) or [SOFTT] (https://www.amazon.com/Tac-Med-Solutions-SOFTT-W-Tourniquet/dp/B00E3W3BK2/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1468623620&sr=8-2&keywords=sof-t) over a [TK4] (https://www.amazon.com/H-Associates-TK4-Tourniquet/dp/B003YHGKF0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1468623679&sr=8-1&keywords=tk4+tourniquet) or [SWAT] (https://www.amazon.com/SWAT-T-Tourniquet-Black-1-Count/dp/B003IWNOVO/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1468623735&sr=8-2&keywords=swat+tourniquet).

For injuries to the abdomen, armpit, crotch, or neck; you will want a homeostatic agent. [Combat Gauze] (https://www.amazon.com/QuickClot-Combat-Gauze-Z-Fold/dp/B001E1CLTC/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1468623859&sr=8-1&keywords=combat+gauze) is the way to go here, it is much better than powdered QuickClot.

For penetrating chest trauma (also called 'sucking chest wounds'), you need a large, occlusive bandage on both the entry and exit. In clinical testing of chest seals, the [Halo] (https://www.amazon.com/Progressive-Medical-Performance-Occlusive-Dressing/dp/B003VSORKC/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1468624256&sr=8-3&keywords=chest+seal) and [Hyfin] (https://www.amazon.com/North-American-Rescue-Hyfin-Chest/dp/B00KQS2NGK/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1468624483&sr=8-1&keywords=hyfin) drastically outperformed the [Asherman] (https://www.amazon.com/Rusch-Inc-849100-Asherman-Chest/dp/B0015TE9N4/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1468624546&sr=8-2&keywords=asherman+chest+seal).

I also personally have a [decompression needle] (http://www.rescue-essentials.com/h-h-needle-decompression-kit-tpak/) to treat tension pneumothorax, but I advise you not to get it unless you have specific training on it.

For general bleeding the [Israeli bandage] (https://www.amazon.com/Israeli-Bandage-Shipped-Israel-Inches/dp/B00JKMPJBY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1468625201&sr=8-2-spons&keywords=israeli+bandage&psc=1) is way better than other bandages.

You will also want an [NPA] (https://www.amazon.com/Nasopharyngeal-Airway-Fr-9-3mm-Surgilube/dp/B003950R2E/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1468625347&sr=8-1&keywords=nasal+pharyngeal+airway) to help keep an open airway.

Edit, I forgot that you are also going to want a good pair of [trauma shears] (https://www.amazon.com/Madison-Supply-Premium-Fluoride-Scissors/dp/B00YFG1U86/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1468625730&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=trauma+shears&psc=1).

Some other things to consider are rubber gloves, [Kerlix] (https://www.amazon.com/Original-Kerlix-Sterile-Bandage-Rolls/dp/B00UAULWR0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1468626013&sr=8-1&keywords=kerlix), [cravats] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HBG726G/ref=ox_sc_mini_detail?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=AR9BYY7RS0Q08), [medical tape] (https://www.amazon.com/Durapore-Medical-Tape-Silk-yards/dp/B000C4O7GC/ref=sr_1_2_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1468626363&sr=1-2&keywords=medical+tape), a [SAM splint] (https://www.amazon.com/SAM-Rolled-Splint-Orange-Blue/dp/B001J5H92C/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1468626238&sr=1-1&keywords=sam+splint), and a [space blanket] (https://www.amazon.com/Emergency-Mylar-Blankets-84-52/dp/B004356WLY/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1468626282&sr=1-1&keywords=space+blanket).

I never give money, because I don't trust that it won't go to drugs or alcohol, and because come on, I don't carry cash anymore. It's 2014 for fuck sake. I just keep walking. People who get in my face get ignored, hard.

But in the winter months, I see a lot of people sleeping outside. It breaks my heart. My city (Boston and Cambridge, MA) has some homeless shelters but they are crowded, somewhat dangerous, and also sex-segregated. People in committed relationships often prefer to brave the cold rather than become separated in the shelters. Some people also prefer to stay in smaller groups of people they trust than in the common dorms. For this reason I always keep a supply of mylar emergency blankets and chemical hand warmers ($1 in the checkout isle at CVS) in my every-day-carry bag.

People are always appreciative of these. I used to worry that I was encouraging people to make the risky choice to stay outside, but in most cases the decision has been made.

Not to rain on your parade here but....you're talking about just carrying a high-vis piece of fabric as a signaling device? Sure, great idea. I'll do you one better. Include in your survival kit a high-vis, mylar backed tarp shelter. This can be used as a shelter, signaling device, water gathering device, all kinds of things.

I really like my gear to be as multi-use as possible.

Also there are plenty of other compact signaling ideas as well. You can spin a glow stick on a string at night to create a large, visible sign. There's signal mirrors, signal fires, flares, all kinds of options.

This has some good ideas of how to "Adulting So Hard"...

So here's my suggestions:

• This
  
• This
  
• And this
  
  
  ...and here are my actual suggestions:
  
  
• Toilet Brush
  
• Bin
  
• Chopping board
  
• Kettle
  
• Can Opener
  
• Measuring Jug
  
• Oven gloves
  
• Bottle opener (Very important for drinks and wine ;] )
  
• Smoke Alarm, Fire Extinguisher & Fire Blanket So you don't die.
  
• Torch When the lights go out.
  
• Clothesline
  
  Good luck with the house! :D
  

Thank you for that, I just went through their line I was impressed. I think I'll keep looking however, I use a very small pack that is tight on space. The reason being that most backpacks I have used snag in the types of of tight saplings I go through snowshoeing. I like your idea adding down to mylar, such a good idea.

I used to use three of these, I wish it was still 5$: http://www.amazon.com/MPI-Weather-Emergency-Survival-Blanket/dp/B000CSJWWW/ref=pd_sbs_sg_3?ie=UTF8&refRID=1K7ZHPKY000BST0MWEBE

I don't see any kind of sleeping kit here.

YouR tradeoff is between "good and comfortable" and "Small and light."

At the very least, consider the SOL Escape Bivvy. It's small and light, of good quality, not too expensive, and is well reviewed. It will help you survive, but will probably not keep you comfortable.

A used Military Sleep System is much more comfortable, and will run you between $70 and $120 bucks. It is fairly bulky however. It won't fit in the pack you listed. Typically, people buy the Molle carrier for it and strap it to the top or bottom of their pack.

If you're doing a beginning-level hike, the good news is that there aren't many things you have to do. You're basically going on a walk in the woods. That being said, here are a couple of things I learned from trial and error:

• When you're looking up a trail to hike, and there are websites and blogs everywhere that will talk about nearby hikes, check out the difficulty level. You don't want your first hike to be a steep ascent with scrambles and switchbacks, necessarily.
  
• Go with someone else. What if you twist an ankle? And tell someone where you're going.
  
• You probably only need hiking boots for longer hikes/camping where you're carrying a big pack and need the ankle support. For day hikes a pair of good sneakers/trail shoes/whatever you call them will be fine. Durable soles, good arch support.
  
• Always bring more water than you'll think you need, a few snacks, some rain gear or something else waterproof. I always bring a flashlight, in case I get caught out after dark, some kind of knife (Swiss, leatherman, etc.) and usually one of these guys -- again, in case I get lost and need shelter. A lighter or weatherproof matches is also a good idea, and a basic first aid kit. Just throw all that stuff in your backpack and forget about it until you need it.
  
• Look up weather, sunset times, and trail conditions before you go.
  
• If you're bringing a dog, check out the leash laws for the park you're hiking.
  
• Bring toilet paper or something in case you're far away from a toilet when nature calls.
  
• Ziploc baggies are good for organizing stuff.
  
• Don't be a jerk... Take only pictures, leave only footprints.

There was a guide on what to do if you get your snowmobile stuck, I can't find it but that may be useful (look for it in this subreddit).

Here's a few helpful things to get, in this order:

Water canteens

Thermal blanket

High protein food (like Nature Valley Peanut Granola bar, nuts, etc.)

Warm clothes, maybe a jacket, sleeping bag, etc.

Snow shovel

Tire chains

Battery backup for your phone

Definitely stay with the car, someone might come along and be of help (maybe not though). Don't leave work or home without a fully charged phone and battery backup. It doesn't seem like you'll be there very long, so don't worry too much, but if you are going to be there more than 24 hours, make a shelter with the solar/thermal blanket and your car doors, and make a fire if you can... might be useful to carry some fire starters and a hatchet.

I'm going to suggest something a bit more advanced than a traditional tent. Have you considered going with a flat-tarp and a bivy bag? It is certainly cheaper than a tent and significantly lighter. Take the following for example:

| Item | Weight (g) | Cost (AU$) | Notes |
|:-----------|:------------:|:------------:|:------------|
| Equinox Egret Tarp (8x10ft) | 766g| $49 | Will require either sticks or trekking pole to pitch
| SOL Escape Bivy | 156g (312g total) | $31 ($62 total) | This will actually work as a 10C sleeping bag. There is a bigger version to help accommodate a sleeping bag, if it's more appropriate. Obviously you'll each need one.
|Polycryo Groundsheet (6x8ft) | 104g | $10 | Cheap and lightweight waterproof floor.
|
| Total | 1026g (1184g)| $90 ($121) | Cheap and Light.

You will obviously need to do a little reading on how to pitch it. Here is an article to get you started. You'll probably find a better one if you google it.

I know it's been a month, but you should get something like this, which is smaller than a water bottle and acts as an emergency sleeping bag that is easier to carry than the blanket if you need to go on foot. You should also get a life straw and some other methods of getting clean water and some more food like trail mix.

• Share utilities with roomates on a pro-rata basis if you aren't already
  
• Grab these and put them on your windows when you are out during the summer. Reduces your AC bill.
  
  That's all I really got. Correct me if i'm wrong but from what I gather you are not an "official" landlord but are just renting out the rooms that you have. Nothing wrong with that but you are missing out on some tax benefits.
  
  If all else fails it seems that according to my calculations you are effectively paying around $1000/year net to live in a house. That is honestly not that bad. You and your SO could use your salary from your current job to put a downpayment on another apartment complex and kick your roomates out to there. You have the added plus of utilizing those tax benefits in this scenario.

I have placed an order with everyone's suggestions in mind for a starter BOB. Thank you everyone for your input.

Here is what it is looking like so far:

Bag: I'm just going to use a northface bag I have that still appears new after 4+ years of use. Was my college bag originally so was used everyday. Very well built.
Here it is for reference

Knife: Since I freed up some money, I went ahead and picked up the Kabar also grabbed a leather sheath. Hopefully I don't get flack for it having a USMC logo on it. It is their knife anyway after-all.

Multitool Decided I probably would need a multitool of some sort.

Nalgene bottle and cup Thanks for alerting me to the cup, I didn't know these exist and should come in handy.

First aid kit based on suggestions.

Sawyer mini water filter

Saw chain was questioned but after watching the user video of him sawing through a tree in like 5 seconds I'm sold. I've tried cutting wood with machetes and hatchets and it is a PITA.

Emergency Blankets can't be too warm I feel.

Rations I will be taking at least 6 days worth.

Emergency Tent Will need to see how big this is. I might just get a tarp for my eno.

Compass

Cordage

Water treatment tablets

Headlamp

Emergency Bivvy

I also have a Ruger LCP with ~100 rounds I will toss in. I need to make copies of all of my documents to include. I already have a tactical flashlight to put in but will need some extra batteries. I have extra glasses to include. Have some flint and steel and bic lighters to include. Considering some sort of magnifying lense. The eno hammock, some jeans, a sweatshirt, rain jacket, and cap will be included. Also some sunglasses. I need to grab some duct tape, charger/radio, some sort of ereader or survival book, and probably a dozen other things I can't think of right now.

I will also need to make one for my 100lb black lab since I realized I wouldn't be able to leave him behind. Going to start training him to hike and carry a pack etc to have him ready. Ultimately he could become a major asset.

Mylar blankets

They're small, reflective blankets that will fit easily in your glove box. If you live anywhere that it might ever snow, you should get one. It's much easier to cart around than a full size blanket, and will probably do a better job of keeping you warm.

The SOL Escape Bivy is relatively inexpensive and pretty durable. Couple with a Therm-A-Rest Z-pad and sleeping bag and it should be pretty comfortable.

I haven’t tried it yet but I’m using some of these and some paracord to make some reflective curtains. Hopefully that will keep the canopy nice and cool

Thank you so much, I really appreciate it!

as for blankets, would it be better to go with this versus this?

You might want to try something like this emergency bivvy. I have one but I've never used it in my hammock. It's amazing how warm it actually keeps you... I was sweating at about 10 F when I used it.

thats a solid idea! may i suggest a tarp/space blanket then. I found one on amazon for under $15. It has metal grommets and makes a perfect A frame that would be what you need and add to the warmth factor.

heres the link: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KWR2FMC?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00

two of these:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0007RSGQ6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1


Add a poncho for bonus points. That and a Snugpack Jungle Blanket kept me reasonably comfortable over a 40deg night. with another person to share body heat it'd be toasty probably.

If

Emergency blankets are the best! Tape them to the outside of your tent and canopy to reflect sunlight and always good to have in case someone starts overheating! Im going weekend 1!

Space blanket, thats a good idea! They don't take up any space. Or you can get an emergency bivy, like this http://www.amazon.com/Adventure-Medical-Kits-Heatsheets-Emergency/dp/B000WXX0JS They are a bit bigger and work like a sleeping bag make out of a sleeping blanket.

Also headlamp is a really good idea too. Or a small led pocket light.

I can’t find the exact product link but I use something similar to this: Insulated Thermal Reflective Tarp -https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01H6NC8XU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_BDBZCbVBCJCA4

It’s as sturdy as a tarp and has those holes so I can put them on the top of my tent, but leave a layer of air between them and my tent (v. important) by staking them in the ground.

Remember, making that pocket of air to create the shade is what turns your tent from a cool retreat into a baked potato

Spare hiking socks

• in Ziploc bag
  
  Spare underwear
  
  
• in Ziploc bag
  
  Pants/shorts
  
  web belt (2)
  
  Jacket/rain jacket
  
  Pullover sweater
  
  Bandana/shemagh
  
  OR sunbucket hat
  
  Tyvek tarp (w/grommets)
  
  50' hanks para cord (2)
  
  
• with a couple of Figure 9 tighteners
  
  50' orange 3/8" rope
  
  Titanium tent pegs (6)
  
  Mylar emergency blanket
  
  GPS & spare batteries
  
  Digital FM radio & spare batteries (with headphones)
  
  SPF 30 sunscreen
  
  Lip Balm
  
  Headlamp & spare batteries (with red light)
  
  LED flashlight & spare batteries\
  
  Small IFAK
  
  
• mole skin
  
  
• Neosporin
  
  
• lavender oil
  
  
• Band-Aids (various sizes)
  
  
• gauze pads
  
  
• Clear tape
  
  
• cloth athletic tape
  
  
• antibacterial wipes
  
  
• latex gloves
  
  
• foldable scissors
  
  
• plastic tweezers
  
  
• Advil Liqui-gels (200 mg)
  
  Fire bundle
  
  
• Old man's beard, birch bark, etc
  
  Ferro rod, Bic lighter, etc
  
  Mora knife & sharpener
  
  Pocket knife
  
  Multi-tool
  
  50" roll, duct tape
  
  Pen/Notebook
  
  USB stick with scans of important docs along with other files, like a list of Internet bookmarks, etc
  
  Tupperware container (vital records)
  
  
• Birth certificate
  
  
• Passport
  
  
• Social Insurance card
  
  
• Family photos
  
  
• Insurance policies
  
  
• Mortgage/deed
  
  
• Vehicle titles
  
  
• Vaccination record
  
  
• Cash
  
  
• Bank info
  
  
• address book
  
  Food*
  
  KFS
  
  GSI cup
  
  Aluminum water bottles (2)
  
  Sawyer Mini kit
  
  Toilet Paper!
  
  
• in Ziploc bag
  
  Hygiene kit
  
  
• toothbrush/toothpaste
  
  
• soap
  
  
• baby wipes
  
  
• dental floss
  
  
• wooden toothpicks
  
  
• Black garbage bags
  
  
• Ziploc zipper freezer bags
  
  
• Hand Sanitizer
  
  Whistle
  
  Signal Mirror
  
  6" chemlights (4)
  
  Mechanix gloves
  
  Dust masks
  
  Permanent marker
  
  Sillcock key
  
  FuBar
  
  ------------------
  Food
  
  Cereal bars
  
  Dried soup mix
  
  Trail mix
  
  Mountain House meal
  
  ------------------
  Winter
  
  Synthetic long underwear
  
  Wool toque
  
  Gloves

To start, I would recommend looking into something like a bivvy bag: www.amazon.com/Adventure-Medical-Kits-Emergency-Bivvy/dp/B000WXX0JS/

They fold pretty small and are lightweight.

• Main Weapon: a double edged, well forged Longsword. Something not too heavy that could sweep through a horde of oncoming walkers fairly easly (and while sticking in bodies as little as possible) and wouldn't break or need to be sharpened too often.
  
• Water Filtering Device (like Lifestraw but filters better and holds up better) (also comes with 4 filters, so thats 5000 bottles worth of water right there)
  
• Largest available flint firestarter that is still practical to carry
  
• Shotgun - In terms of Zombie survival, I'm a big proponent of weapons that can cover a large area. Obviously also effective against people, bears, etc.
  
• Special Forces Survival Guide (hardcover so it holds up)
  
• Survival Blanket

So I added two of these mylar blankets between two fleece blankets like [this] (http://www.amazon.com/Cozy-Fleece-Blanket-Assorted-Throw/dp/B004FOA89U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1346954093&sr=8-1&keywords=fleece+throw), though cheaper since I bought them at Ikea.

I did a regular straight stitch on the four corners to attach the mylar blanket to the fleece. Then I used a sewing machine to sew blanket stitch style pattern on the edges (hopefully you know someone who is handy with a machine or needle). I then made a small knot on the top two corners of the blanket and tie these off to the ridgeline of my hammock and that keeps the blanket secure and not moving all night.

Protip: If you are using a tent, put one of those mylar emergency blankets on top of your tent, it reflects the sun. I did this my third year, I slept in everyday. It was glorious. I just secured it to the top using clothes pins.

Could I use a good down bag like this one and over that put a and then put over that a reflective bivy?

A couple questions:

1. How much per night were the minshukus usually?
   
   
2. If you wouldn't bring a tent next time, would you bring something like a bivvy or an emergency bivvy like this (to go over a sleeping bag) in case of bad weather? I'm worried about no tent but would love to not have to carry the weight.
   
   

> Basically the only really important factors are that it weighs less than 24 oz, can go to 30 or anywhere below that(20 degrees would be preferable just in case) and I can compress it in a stuff suck to less than 12x7.

Here ya go.

Technically, it meets your criteria in spades.

On the other hand, if you want to be comfortable, listen to xixor.

I am prepper and a FIL, here are some things I can never have enough of...

• https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NGYGCH2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GH501T2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000O8OTNC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001H9N8B6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000LGPD64/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000WXX0JS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001GAOIME/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014SRY5FG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004WFXCSQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00345OMR0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
  Your FIL will be thrilled that you support his prepping no matter what you decide to give him!
  

Emergency blankets are not the fun, comfy kind of blankets ('cept for using to make an awesome cape), but they can be had for cheap pretty much anywhere that sells them.

Space All Weather Blanket Olive https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0007RSGQ6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_-h9EAb90YKPW4

That's the one I got. I use it all the time for camping. Sometimes I lay it under my tent. Sometimes I use the reflective side to protect my gear from falling embers outside. Or even just for overhead cover in the rain. I like it a lot and it hold up real well

First off, good for you.

Do any of the Reddit engineers think that it could help to line the inner walls with one of those emergency foil blankets?

A bottle of this https://www.soylent.com/product/drink/ which I usually end up drinking.

A small bag of these https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009L4VF28/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1 and I usually end up eating 3-4 of them 10 minutes before I land.

Yellow lens prescription sunglasses to switch to when clouds get heavy

Lot of stuff that I hope I never use:

An Inreach http://www.cabelas.com/product/DeLorme-InReach-Explorer-Satellite-Communicator-with-Navigation/1926518.uts?productVariantId=4039506&WT.tsrc=PPC&WT.mc_id=GoogleProductAds&WT.z_mc_id1=04052766&rid=20&gclid=CjwKCAjw3rfOBRBJEiwAam-GsKtsg5u-ch9G5ZCvazBt-k0IJKdDFfIuATcalF66r3rdYvPKvUlY4RoCZE4QAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

A SOLO escape bivvy sack https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0075ZS096/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

A whistle https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004Q17CQY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1

A signal mirror

A handheld aviation radio

A compass

A flip phone with spare battery

About eight pounds of rain and cold weather gear.

Misc survival gear.

• Emergency Blanket
  
• [Survivor Water Filter] (http://www.survivorfilter.com/)
  
• Bic Lighters
  
• Poncho
  
• Strike Anywhere Match
  
• Chapstick
  
• Flashlight
  
• Paracord
  
• Tarp
  
• Bandana
  
• Medical Kit
  
• [SOS Emergency Water Pouches] (http://www.amazon.com/SOS-Emergency-Water-Packets-Supply/dp/B006RBKP8I/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1449170132&sr=8-4&keywords=emergency+water+pouch)
  
• Knife
  
• Food Bars
  
• Gun
  
  
  For the Car
  
  
• If budget allows - Blue Can Water
  
• Good Boots
  
• Wool Socks
  
• Good Jacket, Pants
  
• Mask
  
• Goggles
  
• Weather Appropriate Extra Clothing
  
  inx: Just recently here at my work, we celebrated a Bday Party for a co worker, when its time to light the candle, all my co-workers ( 16 people) don't have a match/lighter to light the candle. I don't think we have any first aid kits, flashlights, or most of the basic emergency stuff. SO when SHTF, looks like I'm the only one carrying the basics on me and in my car. It's kinda sad.

In 2016 we bought a reflective tarp to put over our tent and it made a huge difference. We were able to sleep until 9:30-10 instead of the usual 7:30. Not only did it keep the tent cooler, it also kept the tent darker.

We used this tarp over the tent, with the silver side out: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KWR2FMC My only complaint was that the grommets in the corners were not very well attached to the material, and started to come apart when I tightened it down. So make sure you don't over-tighten it.

This year I am going to try making a swamp cooler. I've heard good things about them from people who have been to burning man.

I rent a lot of planes, so I integrated the survival bag into the flight bag. Now it just comes with me everywhere. Here's what I have:

• Yaesu FTA-550 Handheld Air Band Transciever
  
  
• CAT Tourniquet
  
  
• Emergency blanket (tin foil)
  
  
• Handheld GPS
  
  It all fits in a small pocket in my pack, and gives me everything I need. I can communicate with other airplanes or rescuers. I can treat life threatening injuries. I can remain warm and build a shelter if needed. And I can tell precisely where I am, which I can communicate to my rescuers.
  
  That's the bare minimum basics. If I owned an airplane I'm sure I'd cram more into a dedicated kit, but since I'm only doing short day trips I don't anticipate being very far from civilization.

These are cheap, easily installed and effective for lining grow areas if you are on a limited budget.

https://www.amazon.com/Emergency-Mylar-Blankets-84-52/dp/B004356WLY/ref=sr_1_4/192-8656177-1093349?ie=UTF8&qid=1467639843&sr=8-4&keywords=space+blanket

Totally not needed. You pad already has a thermostatic controller. The pads only heats up when the cat sits on it (maintains a slightly warm temperature otherwise). And the 45 degrees is way too low for a cutoff temp. Cats natural body temp is 101.5 degrees. Anyway, your pad is already low energy.

A better option is to get one of these:

https://www.amazon.com/Grabber-Outdoor-127008-Weather-Blanket/dp/B000CSJWWW

The heating element on the pad is on the bottom. A common complaint about that heating pad is that it's not warm enough. The surface the pad is on matters a lot. You need a surface that reflects the heat back up to warm the cat.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000WXX0JS/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Get this instead. Much better and you won't be fighting to cover your body with the blankets.

I use the Adventure Medical Kits Survive Outdoors Longer Escape, Bivvy Breathable Blanket https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0075ZS096/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_WKU3wbXNSJDPJ when I am camping in the middle of summer and just want something to cover me.

http://www.amazon.com/Emergency-Mylar-Blankets-84-Pack/dp/B004356WLY

These should work well. And there should be plenty for a second bucket. If you have a well stocked first aid kit you might have one of these in there.

Equipment:
Nikon D7100 w/ 70-300 VR (@300mm & f/5.6)
External Intervalometer
Manfrotto 190XB with an off brand ball head
Solar Filter (made from two sheets of mylar emergency blanket (as such) and the lid from a peanut butter jar, which was painted matte black using leftover chalkboard paint (left because of this wonderful project)

Acquisition:
I captured images at 1/80th of a second approximately every ten minutes (more in some places) starting at 1:17PM (EST) and ending at 2:35PM. I took lots of images (5+) at a time and picked the "best" ones that were suffering from the least atmospheric distortion.

Processing:
I processed (using a preset on the first image and applying it to the rest) in Lightroom. I had some difficulty with the last three images in the series, as they were significantly darker, so I had to lighten them in post to compensate. I have no idea what made them darker. Processing was pretty simple, with some changes to darkness (to get rid of the haze from the filter), saturation, white balance, and highlights, as well as my typical sharpening routine. Cropped images were then exported and composited in GIMP. Getting these lined up (both on the composite, and in orientation) was by far the most difficult part of this, as I didn't bother keeping the orientation of my camera stable while I was imaging, so it had to be done manually after the fact.

Overall, I'd say I'm rather pleased with how this came out, the weather was really nice, and the homebrew filter worked better than it had any right too (although I wouldn't recommend it over spending a couple bucks on some solar film). I think in the future (probably specifically 2024) I would be a bit more careful with timing and orientation to give a slightly more consistent result.

It is a piece of emergency blanket material. https://www.amazon.com/Arcturus-Weather-Outdoor-Survival-Blanket/dp/B01H4VAKYS

They are good to keep in the car, and I carry one in my pack as well when hiking. Can be used to make shelter if needed.

But 24" x 24" it is more like someone made something just to either sit something on top of it, maybe its just for when you want to sit on the ground but keep dry. At that size it could also be a PACK COVER made out of that material that you would use to cover your pack in the rain while you hike/backpack.

I just bought one of these - hoping it works!

I already use a sleeping bag liner, so I bought the SOL Escape Bivvy to use with it. I used it from after Damascus VA to Hanover, NH. I sleep hot, so I was fine - only a couple nights up north that I used a lightweight layer.

It was worn out by the end, so it's not a long term solution.

You could try one of these: https://www.amazon.com/Grabber-127006-P-All-Weather-Blanket/dp/B00PUHY3TC

Or maybe one of those reflective growing tarps for keeping plants cool.

> -books

ebooks

cheap air mattress or pricey Thermarest pad

emergency mylar reflective blanket(s)

A few tools, duct tape & zip ties are worth including, as well.

We got a reflective tarp for this exact reason. It helps a lot.
https://www.amazon.com/Arcturus-Weather-Outdoor-Survival-Blanket/dp/B01H6NC8XU/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=reflective+tarp&qid=1562617817&s=gateway&sr=8-3

Hope this helps

https://www.amazon.com/Hot-Headz-H-FIR-BLN100-Blanket-36-Inch/dp/B00IYCE7IC

Grabber Outdoor Space 127008 All Weather Blanket, Orange,5 X 7 Feet is a nice one.

Do yourself a favor, order one of these now before you continue
https://www.amazon.com/Emergency-Thermal-Blankets-52-10xPack/dp/B000FETSDQ/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1519844372&sr=8-6&keywords=shock+blanket

I bought these exact ones: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FETSDQ/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1. They worked really well. You'll need some duct tape or small spring clamps to attach them too!

They are very durable but I've found they are best used as ground cover; they do not breath.

As such if you wrap yourself in them, as I have several times, you'll be damn sweaty. And that can be bad in a cold environment.

We carry a few of these in our go bag/emergency kit and they are both effective and durable - but more bulky and expensive than a space blanket.

would something like this work?https://www.amazon.com/Double-Thermal-Reflective-Blanket-Stakes/dp/B00KWR2FMC

I can think of two options you might not have considered:


A) basically a space blanket


B) synthetic insulation from recycled plastics like [here] (https://www.rei.com/product/112623/big-agnes-encampment-15-sleeping-bag)

A cheap option would be a mylar emergency blanket; hopefully it would reflect a goodly amount of light. They're cheap enough that you could get a bunch and wallpaper the windows with them, almost like applying window tinting film (which would be another, more expensive option).

Hey, sorry, I forgot and my home internet situation is... challenging.
Tourniquet
Isreali bandage
Shears Nasopharyngeal Airway
Quikclot bandages
Eye Shields
Emergency blankets
Halo chest seals

This guy took his 0 degree bag and added this $50, 8 oz SOL bivy to it and it kept him warm enough at -3C that he had to take his clothes off.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWxeGddKNRo

Bivy in question

I'd like to take this opportunity to add some general fire safety advice, too.

Change the batteries in your smoke detectors and CO detectors every year. Daylight Saving Time is this weekend, and it's a good idea to make a habit of changing your detector batteries when DST changes in the winter. Amazon has an 8-pack for $10, which is about half the price of Energizers.

Replace smoke detectors every 10 years, and CO detectors every 6 years. They all have a date of manufacture on the back. Check it when you replace the battery.

If you have second-story bedrooms, get a fire escape ladder. Make sure everyone knows where it's kept and how to use it - you don't want to be trying to read directions in a panic, or in a smoke-filled room. Especially if you have kids, go over it with them at least once a year.

Don't keep your kitchen fire extinguisher near the stove! Think about it: you don't want to be reaching through the fire to get at it. Keep it near a doorway away from the fire. This is safer, and gives you a path to retreat.

Keep the fire extinguisher visible. If it's hidden in a cabinet, guests may not be able to find it, and that's the same as not having one. If you don't like a big red fire extinguisher hanging out, they make white ones.

Consider a fire blanket for the kitchen too. Stovetop fires can be snuffed out with one of these before they spread, without making a mess out of your house.

And finally, if you can't extinguish a fire with a single fire extinguisher, just get out! House fires spread terrifyingly fast. In less than a minute, a small fire can fill a room with thick, black smoke that makes it impossible to see and impossible to breathe. Get you and your loved ones away from the fire, closing doors behind you along the way, and get out.

You can pick up an emergency bivvy on amazon for $50. SOL makes what they call an escape bivvy that is 70% reflective. will keep you warm down to 30 degrees. 8.1oz I use it from late spring thru early fall.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0075ZS096/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Here are a few from me!

Nongshim veggie ramen 50-pack

Versa Flow Light-Weight Water Filter by HydroBlu

Victorinox Swiss Army Classic SD Pocket Knife

BSN Medical Leukotape P Sports Tape, 1 1/2 Inch x 15 Yard

S.O.L. Survive Outdoors Longer Escape Bivvy

While unconventional, this bivy is THE cheapest and lightest sleeping bag option. Read the reviews. Many people have slept comfortably with it in 40 degree weather. You can also use it to winterize a summer bag or as an ultralight bivy. I don't have any personal experience with it, but I'm planning on purchasing it.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0075ZS096/ref=s9_simh_gw_p121_d0_i2?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=0Y23J768NZ7RYDHTTNJ5&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1688200382&pf_rd_i=507846

Far North Bushcraft did a video on it. The conclusion was they don't reflect significant heat but they could be useful to block the wind.

My question is why not drape a $1 disposable space blanket over it if you want heat via reflection?

For a cheaper version you can slap a Mylar tarp on the east/southeast side of your tent and use eyeshades.

If you don't already have one, try an emergency bivy like this. Much better than the usual emergency blanket.

If you can handle the noise (which you can reduce by sandwiching it between two sheets), space blankets are preposterously warm.

No, seriously, I'm not fucking with you. They are hot. You will not be cold if you have one of those on your bed. You don't need an electric blanket, these are warmer than that.

I toss this over my tent...

Grabber Outdoor Space 127008 All Weather Blanket, Orange,5 X 7 Feet https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000CSJWWW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_M.JhAb3TNTRPB

This is what I use as an underquilt: http://www.amazon.com/Space-All-Weather-Blanket-Green/dp/B0007RSGQ6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1406661298&sr=8-1&keywords=space+all+weather+blanket

It's sufficient to keep in heat when paired with the mummy bag I have (30° I believe)

If you don't need 10 you can get four for $4.04. http://www.amazon.com/Emergency-Mylar-Blankets-84-Pack/dp/B004356WLY/ref=pd_sbs_indust_2

I sleep in one of these.

Non-mobile: sol thermal bivvy

^That's ^why ^I'm ^here, ^I ^don't ^judge ^you. ^PM ^/u/xl0 ^if ^I'm ^causing ^any ^trouble. ^WUT?

Sew these to your masks

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000WXX0JS/ref=mp_s_a_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1487654833&sr=8-4&keywords=survival+bivy

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IYCE7IC/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1

I'd throw a pack of these in there.

Here's a cheap light bivvy: sol thermal bivvy

The HOA for the condo I rent is persnickety about windows, so I have wooden window shades--like oversized minblinds. They still let in a lot of light, so I put blackout curtains over them. Didn't help the temperature. I live in Houston and my apt somehow seems to always face the surface of the sun.

I bought a 10 pack of foil/mylar emergency blankets and taped them up to the wall between the wooden blinds and blackout curtains. (See previous re: bitchy HOA that insists only blinds are allowed in windows.) It's made a world of difference. The 10 pack I got is about $13 and I don't remember why I chose that specific pack--size maybe. (Large windows.) But you can find them a lot cheaper. It may help. Also helps keep the warm IN, during the winter.

Most of the stoff comes from Amazon:
Shelves/wardrobe : https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07BGXD6DW
Lights : https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0761KKJGQ
Emergency blankets for lining : https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00DZ1NFSK
Space heater : https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B074MXC3PN

The rest is salvaged items

1 out of the 4 lights had the power connector not soldered. I fixed it myself but you should be able to return it if this happens to you

SE EB5982OR Thermal Reflective Emergency Blanket https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KWR2FMC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_99.EybK288T5E

These would help keep the heat in, but not all that pretty.

Totally worth the $2-5. The SOL emergency blanket is $4.95 on Amazon (linked, non-affiliate), and has grommets on it to help keep it in place (or rig it as an emergency tarp shelter / fire reflector)

Is there anyone in Tokyo that could sponsor OP one of those thermal emergency blankets?

They fold up very small, so you wouldn’t have to worry about carrying it/them. You could lie them on the ground, or over your blankets/cardboard. They reflect the heat back onto you instead of outward. Also good for keeping rain out.

like these

Don't die. Take one of these so you have a plan B.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000WXX0JS/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?qid=1458007073&sr=8-1&keywords=sol+bivy&dpPl=1&dpID=41h0%2BaRqreL&ref=plSrch&pi=SX200_QL40

No one here is Les Stroud. If we were we'd have a show as well. Don't let Internet hubris get you hurt. Take an emergency bivy as a backup plan. If you don't need it, great but if you do you'll be around to send me a Christmas card thanking me...

> fire blanket

For those wanting a link to a fire blanket:

https://www.amazon.com/Emergency-survival-Fiberglass-Blanket-fireplace/dp/B074CCDW6S/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1549219537&sr=1-2&keywords=kitchen+fire+extinguisher

https://www.amazon.com/Hot-Headz-H-FIR-BLN100-Blanket-36-Inch/dp/B00IYCE7IC

Sounds like a perfect use-case for a durable "emergency blanket." Not the cheap mylar blankets that are almost literally a dime a dozen, but something more like this*:

amazon.com/S-Survive-Outdoors-Longer-Reflective/dp/B00266H5VI

or even a bivy:

amazon.com/Mezonn-Emergency-Sleeping-Survival-Lightweight/dp/B07DW347RP

If you don't need it, great! It was cheap, packs small and you can put it in your emergency kit. But if you do need it, well…maybe a little crinkly or even sweaty but better than freezing, n'est-ce pas?

I keep an SOL blanket in my car but so far I've never needed it. (Holy shirt, I *just now* remembered a time I was camping right next to my car a couple of years ago and froze my ass off all night — I should have grabbed my emergency blanket!)

It's not a kit, but something I made. These lights in a crappy light greenhouse like this wrapped in mylar sheets and the seed level has this heating mat.

Have you seen, "Naked ane Afraid" its a crappy show, but the one thing that is the same in each show is that the people that can make a fire and boil water on the first day do just fine. Everyone else cries and bitches, and doesn't do much of anything, some even "die".

Half the men bring a blade of some sort, and in the 4 episodes I watched, one group never used the blade, and it took them 3 days to start a fire, cause all they had was a pot and a knife.

Here is what I would have before anything else:

1 - a canteen that has a cook able cup attached. (not endorsing bear grylls, just the first one Google gave)

2 - fire starting tool, Firesteel I love this product.

3 - Mylar Blankets so cheap and work so good.


With this you are set for 3 weeks, everything else you are even thinking of putting in your pack had better be eatable, if it's not it's just slowing you down.

Edit: if you have time to sit and fish you are not bugging out you are camping.

Things I haven't seen mentioned....

A 12 Volt compressor (plugs in cig outlet, fills tires with air) small, not too expensive, handy as fuck. (Bonus, they fill bike tires, air mattresses, footballs/volley balls/soccer balls etc.)

"Baby wipes"... great for cleaning. Like your hands after changing a tire for example. (I steal those little packet hand wipes from restaurants and keep them in my glove box.)

Paper towels.

"Spare" cellphone/USB charger and cable.

Small-ish umbrella and cheapo poncho.

Emergency ("space") Blanket. link I live in Florida and I carry 2 of these.

A decent (i.e. not expensive, but serviceable) first aide kit. Keep in mind high and low temps destroy band-aids and medical tape over time, rotate and restock regularly. You don't have to buy a "kit", just build your own. Google that shit!

A can of "fix-a-flat".

Duct Tape and electrical tape.

A good multi-tool. Leatherman, or Gerber. Don't skimp on money here. Buy a decent one.

Rope or paracord. A "decent" length.

And personally, I keep (in a small plastic tote, sealed up) a tee-shirt, pair of socks, and an old wind-breaker type jacket.

Edit to add :

I carry everywhere I go (in my pockets) a decent quality pocket knife, a small "cigarette" lighter (mini Bic) and a 1 AAA flashlight.

If you don't carry this stuff, you should have it in your car (with spare batteries for the light...).

Alright here we go...now what I got, I tried to price compare and review compare. Some stuff may be better elsewhere but it's what I went with regardless.

There are some products that I already have from camping so I didn't feel the need to double up. I also plan on supplementing the packs with more food and obviously water as well as medicine, change of clothes and a few other things. I also plan on adding a few things to the medkit, more aspirin, some more realistic materials as well. So all in all I felt this was a pretty solid starter survival kit for most situations. Just something to grab for a few days if shit hits the fan. It's going in my truck where some other camping gear already is (Axe, shovel, wd-40, lighters, mace, knives)

Only product I would buy differently would be the backpack. I didn't realize it ships from China, I'd only buy somewhere else due to the 1 month shipping time. (I didn't catch that initially) there's some decent similarly priced backpacks available elsewhere that will be at your door within a few days.


$13 - S.O.S. Rations Emergency 3600 Calorie Food Bar - 2 Pack - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AFOF2DG/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

$3 SE 6-in-1 Survival Whistle http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001C31AGC/ref=oh_details_o00_s01_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

$6 ER Emergency Ready Thermal Mylar Blankets, Pack of 4 http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008DEYGJQ/ref=oh_details_o00_s01_i01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

$40 Ambient Weather Emergency Solar Hand Crank AM/FM/NOAA Digital Radio, Flashlight, Cell Phone Charger http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B9HRJI4/ref=oh_details_o00_s02_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

$8 Potable Aqua Water Treatment Tablets http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001949TKS/ref=oh_details_o00_s02_i01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

$9 8' X 10' Blue Multi-Purpose 6-mil Waterproof Poly Tarp Cover 8x10 Tent Shelter Camping Tarpaulin by Grizzly Tarps http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0053QUAAG/ref=oh_details_o00_s02_i02?ie=UTF8&psc=1

$6 Survivor HK-106320 Outdoor Fixed Blade Knife 7 Overall WITH FIRE STARTER http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00178CS4K/ref=oh_details_o00_s02_i03?ie=UTF8&psc=1

$9 5038-3 PK Fix-It DUCTape 1.87-Inches x 60-Yards, 7-Mil, 3-Pack http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002KQ6682/ref=oh_details_o00_s02_i04?ie=UTF8&psc=1

$40 Outt(TM) Sport Outdoor Military Rucksacks Compact Assault Pack Camping Hiking Trekking Bag http://www.amazon.com/Outdoor-Military-Rucksacks-Compact-Trekking/dp/B00HWR37KE/ref=sr_1_4?m=A15PKGU8PFZ6QO&s=merchant-items&ie=UTF8&qid=1396882222&sr=1-4&keywords=Sport+Outdoor+Military+Rucksacks+Compact+Assault+Pack+Camping+Hiking+Trekking+Bag

$32 Fully Stocked MOLLE Tactical Trauma Kit First Aid Pouch http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003TL2NX4/ref=oh_details_o02_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

$5 550lbs. Military Paracord Type III Rope 100' Foliage Green http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001B6LFWE/ref=oh_details_o03_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1


Total price for everything: $171 Probably spend another 30 or less on food/water/extras