Add MudGear to Your Survival Tote

If 2020 has taught us anything, it is to expect the unexpected. We’ve been reminded that everything goes as planned… until it doesn’t. That’s when we’re forced to ask the hard questions like: “Do I have plenty of toilet paper?” 

Steve Rinella hosts the MeatEater podcast and Netflix series. He also wrote The MeatEater Guide to Wilderness Skills and Survival. We were inspired by Steve's recent appearance on The Tim Ferriss Show (podcast) where he spoke about the value of preparing a survival tote to keep in the back of your vehicle. To be clear, Steve isn’t an “end of the world” prepper. He does, however, believe preparing for catastrophes only seems dumb until catastrophe actually strikes. Then, you’re the wisest person in the world.

So, what should we keep in that tote, and where does MudGear fit in the picture? First, what is the “worst case scenario” for which we’re preparing? We won’t get carried away. No alien invasion or nuclear fallout. Let’s consider the real life possibility of being stranded on a deserted road. Maybe you got lost or broke down traveling to some race in the middle of nowhere (it happens). Your phone isn’t getting a signal, and the battery is almost dead anyway. It looks like you’re in for a long night and maybe longer depending how far away you are from civilization. Fortunately, you’re prepared.

What to Pack in Your Survival Tote

Based on Steve’s advice, here is our handful of suggestions that would be good for most survival totes:

• First-Aid Kit
• Wound care
• Mild painkillers: Tylenol, ibuprofen, etc. 
• Flashlight
• Change batteries throughout the year.
• Consider alternative powered
• Blanket
• Wool for warmth
• Maybe even an emergency rescue blanket (the ones that look like aluminum foil)
• Freeze Dried Food
• Tastier options than you’d think.
• It’s not cheap, but it has a super long shelf life.
• Bottled Water
• One bottle isn’t enough. Have several.
• Multi-Tool
• Definitely a pocket-sized tool that includes a knife, screwdriver, and plyers.
• Maybe even a mid-sized tool that includes an axe and shovel.
• Firestarter
• Survival bushcrafters will insist on a ferro rod.
• Matches or lighter are easier and should be fine in a sealed tote.
• MudGear Socks
• An extra pair of socks are important in case you accidently get yours wet, need to trek back to civilization, or need to keep your feet warm while stranded overnight.
• Good circulation (promoted by compression socks) is especially important during long treks or when facing potential dehydration.

Many of us pay to insure against floods, fires, break-ins, accidents, and cancer in hopes that we’ll never need it. Survival totes are the same. A well stocked and maintained tote may seem silly to some, but it could prove to be a lifesaver when the unexpected happens.

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