How Backpacking Can Help You Build the Ultimate Emergency Kit

Backpacking is one of the best ways to enjoy the great outdoors. The fresh air, the exercise, and the immersion in nature have proven benefits to mental and physical health, but did you know that this fun outdoor pursuit is also one of the best ways to build an emergency kit?

If you’re not familiar with the term, backpacking is the act of traveling or hiking while carrying your possessions along for the ride! Whether your in the great Canadian wilderness, or cruising around the streets of Europe, it all counts!

I know what you’re thinking: “How can my vacation be a way to strengthen my emergency kit?”

WELL. One of the great things about backpacking is that you are completely self-sufficient. You carry your food, water (or water purifier), stove, fuel, sleeping supplies, etc on your back in a compact package. This requires you to put a lot of forethought into creating a super-light bag that won’t weigh you down, or keep you from being mobile, while still allowing you to survive in relative comfort.

You may have noticed that description also summarizes the perfect grab and go bag.

Working at Total Prepare, and being enthusiastic amateur backpackers, some members of our team have stocked up on emergency supplies for their summer adventures. When they’re at home, their backpacking bags and supplies stay together with their long term food and water storage as a shelter in place kit, but if they need to get out fast they know they have a complete, tried and tested, lightweight option ready for bugging out.

Tried and Chosen Gear of the TP Backpackers:

• LifeStraw Peak Gravity Filter – Chosen for it’s high filtration rate, versatility, and small size.
• Backpacker’s Pantry – A lightweight, high protein, cook in pouch food option that’s perfect for the trail. (And the Pad Thai is A.M.A.Z.I.N.G.)
• Vanpure First Fruits – A healthy, ultra-light snack or breakfast addition filled with nutrients and vitamins.
• Paracord – Just the thing for tying up gear in bear country!
• First Aid Kit – Important for any and all adventures! Don’t leave home without one, especially if you’re going off-grid.
• Hand Warmers – Even in summer nights can get pretty chilly! Throw a couple of these at the bottom of your sleeping bag to keep your toes toasty.

Bonus Recommendation: Grayl Water Purifier is favoured by backpacking extraordinaire Youtubers HikeorDie. Check out their awesome review below!