Military Backpacks & Your Survival Stash Have Much in Common
Two weeks ago, I sent you an email on the topic of U.S. troops carrying cellphones. We went through the pros (communication and morale). As well as the cons (security risks including revealing locations).
There are different opinions on this subject. But one thing I think we can all agree on is what our troops definitely should carry while on duty.
That’s what we’ll discuss today. Some of these same things are items we should either carry or at least have stockpiled at home. Just in case of an emergency.
At the end I’ll tell you about a 4Patriots offer that solves two of the biggest challenges you’ll have during a crisis.
Troops carry own stuff
You’ve seen photos of our troops on battlefields. They almost always carry a backpack filled with items they can quickly access.
Back in the day, soldiers didn’t carry much equipment. A wagon holding those items would follow them.
But today’s troops need to access items quicker. And supply wagons are too tempting of a target for the enemy. So, soldiers now carry their own stuff.
The backpacks themselves are usually black. That makes them less visible at night. Another option is camouflage matching the soldier’s attire.
Water bladders
Now let’s get into the backpack’s contents. Keeping in mind that at any moment a soldier might require life-saving equipment.
Especially when they face dangerous and harsh conditions. And when there is no fresh water or food source near them.
Instead of bulky canteens troops once carried, they now have hydration bladders. Lighter in weight, these bladders feature a tube that reaches the soldier’s mouth.
An added convenience for military personnel is that the bladders are self-cleaning. And anti-bacterial. This rids their water of most contaminants.
Food rations
When troops are marching across a battlefield, there are very few McDonald’s in sight. So, they must carry their food.
Protein bars are a great source of energy and sustenance. But sometimes troops require food that also provides warmth.
Some of their food sources include flameless ration heaters. In 12 minutes with no visible flame, a food item can be heated to 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
One thing troops have learned – sometimes the hard way – is it’s better to have too much food than not enough. They never know when a mission might require more time than anticipated.
First-aid kit
Injuries come with the territory when a military mission is involved. These injuries range from minor to moderate to major.
A troop’s first-aid kit must be comprehensive enough to treat minor and moderate injuries. And it should contain items that will at least stabilize a major injury.
With the assistance of other troops, they can use items in a first-aid kit to patch up wounds. That carries them over to when they’re in a position to receive more treatment.
Medicines for a variety of injuries are included in military backpacks. The kits also include items such as sunscreen.
Tactical flashlight
A tactical flashlight is also a must for military personnel. That’s because it can be used for a multitude of purposes.
Shining a bright light in the darkness is an obvious one. But these flashlights can do much more.
Including cutting through a barrier and breaking glass with its hammer. They also feature different light settings.
A durable tactical flashlight can save a life. They can be charged with their solar panel and power up other devices. Most also feature a magnet and compass.
Additional items
What other items can be found in a soldier’s backpack? Here are seven…
- Ammunition for guns they carry
- Gun-cleaning kit
- Body armor they’re not currently wearing
- Folded one-person tent (or part of a larger group tent)
- Compass
- Sleeping bag
- Extra clothing (especially clean, dry socks)
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Take a quick look back at some of the items I’ve mentioned. Like food and water. Plus a tactical flashlight, first-aid, etc. Having these same types of items in your personal survival supply is important.
You may never find yourself out on a battlefield. But it might feel that way when disaster strikes. Wouldn’t you rather be over-prepared than under-prepared?
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Stock Up on Inexpensive Survival Gear
Perhaps the most common reason people give for not preparing is money.
They say that because they live paycheck to paycheck, there’s never anything left at the end of the month for stockpiling supplies.
It’s not that they don’t believe in the concept of preparing for an uncertain future. They’re fully convinced they’d be better off with survival food, water and a bunch of other items that will be essential for dealing with a crisis.
It’s just that when they finish paying for all the stuff they absolutely have to have, everything else is a luxury.
Thrift store prepping
I completely get that. And I sympathize with the plight of those who are barely scraping by.
But I also know that occasionally some unexpected money comes in. It might not be often and it might not be a lot, but it could sometimes be enough to get a survival stockpile going.
How? By purchasing items at the lowest possible price. And by doing it over time, rather than trying to gather everything at once.
So, whether you want to get started stockpiling necessary items for an emergency or you just want to economically add to your existing stash, here are some ideas for grabbing items from a Goodwill store or other low-cost venue. They might include Dollar Stores, Navy recycle stores and garage sales.
An economical goldmine
Winter clothes. Coats, gloves, hats and boots can usually be found at bargain prices at Goodwill or another thrift store.
First-aid kit. This is a kit you can form by purchasing bandages, gauze, adhesive tape, etc. You might even see a pair of crutches, a brace and a sling for sale.
Backpack. Yeah, it will be used, but so what? It will be far less expensive than a new one in a retail store. Make sure it has wide shoulder straps and a reinforced bottom.
Ponchos and other rain gear. Most of your winter clothes won’t be waterproof, so you need stuff that is. Grab an umbrella while you’re at it.
Sewing kit. Fabric, needles and thread will come in very handy when stores are not open and you have to mend clothes or a tent.
Gas can. If the grid goes down and gas stations close, a gas can filled with gasoline will be a precious commodity.
Tools. No one is going to care how shiny their tools are in a crisis. Pick up some used hammers, screwdrivers, shovels and rakes.
Blankets. Even if the inevitable disaster occurs during the warmer half of the year, nights will get cold. Wool blankets will feel like lifesavers.
Camping equipment. Look for used tents and camp stoves, which will be much cheaper at thrift stores than elsewhere.
Pots, pans and other kitchen gear. Very expensive when they’re new, these items can be found at great prices in thrift stores.
Survival items. Multi-tools, Mylar blankets and other survival gear can often be found at these types of stores. Not all of ‘em, but some.
Books/games/crayons. If you have to bug out and TV is a thing of the past, these items will provide boredom relief for you and the kids or grandkids.
Hunting gear. Even if you’ve never hunted before, grab some camouflage clothes, game bags and boots. Someday you may have to hunt for your meals.
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