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Be prepared. That's the motto of almost any prepper, bushcraft enthusiast, or aspiring survivalist. Even general outdoor enthusiasts can benefit from a more comprehensive survival kit. If you're shopping for one of the above types of people, we've got you covered. From hand crank radios and rugged knives to water filters and emergency food supplies, we’ve rounded up the best survival gifts that fit any price range and interest. More importantly, almost all of the ideas on this list have been tested by our resident wilderness survival experts.
We've included both comprehensive, fully stocked kits from the likes of Uncharted Supply Co. and 4Patriots, along with individual survival items that you can piece together for your own bug-out bag. Some of our top picks include the versatile Gerber Gear Pack hatchet, the ultra durable 5.11 Rush tactical backpack, and the highly rated Goal Zero Yeti 500 portable power station. Read on for more.
Montana Knife Company Fieldcraft
You really can't go wrong with gifting any Montana Knife Company blade, but when it comes to survival uses, the Fieldcraft is a standout. It's small enough to carry as an EDC knife yet large enough to tackle even the toughest tasks. Designed by master bladesmith Josh Smith, it features a high quality Magnacut stainless steel blade and is made right here in the USA.
Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System
Clean water is essential in any scenario, whether you're out in the middle of the wilderness or traveling somewhere without access to a good water source. And for that reason, your giftee will be thrilled to receive this mini water filtration system. It removes 99.99999 percent of bacteria—along with all microplastics—from water, and can easily attach to a water bottle or be used on its own as a straw. Small enough to fit in the palm of your hand and weighing just 2 ounces, it's easy to toss in a pack without adding any extra weight.
Coast Rechargeable Headlamp
Coast is one of our favorite brands of headlamps—and the XPH30R is proof of why. It has an incredibly bright max output of 1,200 lumens, and the rechargeable battery can last up to 28 hours on low. We especially like the twist focus feature (which allows you to adjust the beam for close or far viewing), and how comfortable the band is for long periods of wear.
5.11 Tactical Rush 24 Backpack
Every survival expert wants (or even needs) a comfortable and durable pack. Of all the survival backpacks we've tested, the 5.11 Tactical Rush 24 is by far our favorite. It has a ton of pockets and storage space for all of their gear, including an eyewear pocket, a hydration compartment, and even a CCW pocket for easy access. The Rush is made of rugged, water-resistant fabric and has MOLLE for convenient customization.
Goal Zero Yeti Portable Power Station
Whether they're going off grid or want to be prepared in event of a power outage or weather emergency, a portable power station is a fantastic thing to have on hand. We love the Goal Zero Yeti for its durability, portability, and versatility. It has a ton of different ports to plug in all your essentials (and keep them powered for days) and it charges super fast, so it's always ready to go.
If you want to splurge, we've tested the larger Goal Zero Yeti Pro 4000 and can attest that it is a total game-changer. It's easily the best power station we've used, with a capacity that can power almost anything you'd need and an impressive multiple-days-long battery life.
Uncharted Supply Co. x Yeti The Basecamp
Uncharted Supply Co. is one of the survival brands—and now it's partnered with Yeti to create the ultimate emergency preparedness kit. The Basecamp contains everything you need for a family of four, including a Mylar survival tent, first aid kit, water filtration system, flashlight, and 3-in-1 radio (along with a lot more!). Everything is stored in the extremely durable, impact-resistant, and waterproof Yeti LoadOut GoBox.
Garmin GPSMAP 66i
A handheld GPS device and a topographic map can be beneficial in any survival situation. The Garmin GPSMAP 66i is a rugged and durable handheld satellite device featuring Garmin TopoApp mapping and inReach technology. The larger display screen makes sending and reading messages easier and navigating as you travel. Even if they’re on a long expedition, they can trust this device will last thanks to 35 hours of battery life in tracking mode and up to 200 hours in expedition mode. It is an investment, but if you are gifting someone that goes into the backcountry often (especially alone), having a device to help with communication, navigation, and SOS rescue capabilities is priceless.
4Patriots Emergency Food Supply
One of the most important things you need when preparing for an emergency is a stash of food that won't spoil. Enter 4Patriots, one of the biggest names in the industry (and one that's made in the USA!). When we tested survival food, we were thoroughly impressed with the quality, flavor, and variety of the brand's meals. This specific kit includes enough rations for two weeks, and all of the meals have a shelf life of up to 25 years.
Surviveware First Aid Kit
Whether they’re into backpacking, bushcraft, or need a better emergency kit for car travel, the Surviveware First Aid Kit is an excellent addition. There are a variety of first aid kits that you can buy or make, but we like the Surviveware brand for its durable carrying case and comprehensive options. This particular kit is easy to use, with exceptional organization inside and a few options for carrying. If this one isn’t the right fit, check out smaller and even fully waterproof kit options from Surviveware.
Solo Stove Lite
Having a camp stove and fuel of any kind is ideal for survival, but what happens when you run out of propane? The Solo Stove Lite runs off organic materials, meaning your giftee can move from camp to camp while collecting sticks, pinecones, leaves, and other organic materials to cook your meals. It tends to be more efficient for boiling water than traditional fires and allows for a more contained, smokeless flame. It is lightweight, durable, and can boil water in 8-10 minutes.
Leatherman Surge 21-in-1 Multi-Tool
A multi-tool comes in handy during everyday situations, but especially when they’re in the backcountry. Leatherman is a classic, trustworthy option for a multi-tool. The Leatherman Surge Heavy Duty is their largest multi-tool with the longest blades and replaceable tools. All Leatherman tools have a 25-year warranty, but these tools are well-known to last a lifetime or more. The Surge contains 21 tools and is available in two color options.
LifeStraw Filter Water Bottle
Yes, there's a water bottle with LifeStraw's popular water filter straw already built in. And yes, it's definitely worth giving to any outdoors enthusiast or survival expert. It automatically cleans contaminants, bacteria, dirt, and other debris from their water as they drink, and it can last up to five years with regular use before you have to replace the filter.
Zippo 12-Hour Refillable Hand Warmer
If they’re a fan of hand warmers, the Zippo Refillable Hand Warmer is a must-have. Available in both a 6-hour and 12-hour size, these refillable warmers are effective and far more efficient than the single-use variety (plus they create less waste). They come with a device to make adding fuel to the canister easy and use a flameless heat source (catalytic burner). Pair with a Zippo premium hand warmer fluid for the perfect winter gift.
Gerber Gear Pack Hatchet
The best survival hatchet is durable, portable, and versatile. The Gerber Pack Hatchet is all of those things while still being affordable. It retains sharpness really well and has a full tang construction with a stonewall finish. The rubber-wrapped handle is comfortable to hold and it comes with a nylon sheath for safety while carrying. The size makes it easy to carry on the outside of a pack, on their belt, or inside of a pack. We chose this hatchet for the performance and because the size makes it one of the best backpacking options.
"Bushcraft 101: A Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival"
This year, give the gift of knowledge and help the aspiring survivalist learn the ins and outs of bushcraft. This classic field guide is written by Dave Canterbury, a well-known survival instructor. Even if your giftee isn’t interested in being a prepper or strictly a survivalist, this guide gives them the knowledge they need to thrive in a backcountry setting. Plus, if they ever end up in a survival situation, they’ll know what to do and how to survive with what they have. The book covers making tools, protecting yourself from the elements, and safely collecting/cooking food.
Spot Gen 4 Satellite GPS Messenger
If you’re shopping for more of a paper map person or if they already have a subscription to something like OnX or AllTrails and don’t need the functions of a handheld GPS, the Spot Gent 4 Satellite Messenger is a great option. Although this device has no mapping capabilities, it will use their satellite location to send messages and their location. They can preprogram check-in messages to send to loved ones, so they know where they’re are camping. Then, in case of an emergency, it can notify emergency personnel that they need assistance and send them their exact location. A subscription is required to access messaging and SOS capabilities.
Instant Fire Starters
Consumables like fire starters are useful in and out of emergencies. The FireFlame Quick Instant Fire Starters are some of our favorites because they are entirely waterproof. Your giftee can keep them in a survival pack or use them the next time they’re camping to light a fire. The packaging appears to be plastic, but it is a compressed vegetable oil that makes it waterproof and ensures there are no toxic chemicals or odors when burning. Each pouch should burn for around 8 to 10 minutes.
Suunto MC-2 Compass
A survival kit is only complete with a quality compass. Suunto has a variety of excellent compass designs, and we recommend the Suunto MC-2. Designed with precise directional measurement and balanced for global use with Metric UTM scales, it includes a sighting hole and notch to ensure accurate bearings along with a clinometer and a declination adjustment tool. Other more minimalistic varieties exist if you are shopping for a beginner, but this compass is one of the best in terms of functionality and ease of use.
Kaito KA500 Emergency Radio
A proper survival kit needs a quality radio. The Kaito Ka500 has a hand crank generator, solar plane, and several other power options. It is made from durable impact- and water-resistant materials. The versatility of powering the radio is ideal for emergencies, along with the comprehensive coverage of AM and FM stations. There are pre-programmed NOAA weather channels for real-time updates in emergency situations (USA and Canada only). Some other features include charging ports for other devices, an LED flashlight, an SOS beacon light, and a reading lamp.
Goal Zero Torch 500
Reliable flashlights are essential for survival, or at least they make it a lot easier. The Goal Zero Torch 500 is a versatile light source that can be used for camping, working at home, and as a trusted light source in a survival kit. It can function both as a flashlight and a floodlight, both with three light settings. The built-in clip gives your giftee space to hang the light when needed, and the solar panel on the back gives them the option to recharge it with the sun.
BigBlue 3 Solar Panel
With all the power bank options on the market, solar-powered is the clear winner for any survival kit. The BigBlue 3 is a solar panel and charger that converts up to 24% solar power into energy. It is a lightweight and compact option compatible with small electronic devices. The only downside to this product is that it can’t store electricity or large electronics like laptops. It can charge both Apple and Android phones and small battery packs, speakers, watches, GPS devices, and tablets.
All Weather Outdoor Survival Blanket
The Arcturus All Weather Outdoor Survival Blanket is more than just a blanket. The versatility makes it stand out from the rest—your giftee can use it as a tarp, shelter, or blanket—and its reflective Mylar side is very effective at creating a radiant heat barrier. Weighing around 3 pounds, it isn’t as small or compact as the emergency space blankets we are used to seeing, but the overall size and functionality of the blanket make it worth it. It is made from waterproof materials and is equipped with ten reinforced grommets to make shelter building a breeze.
Good To-Go Food Kit
Dehydrated meals are suitable for backpacking and survival prep. The Good To-Go Food Kit contains assorted delicious dehydrated meals handmade in the USA. They are lightweight and easy to store, and come in various flavors to meet dietary needs. All their meals are gluten-free, and they have vegan options. They’re excellent for building a survival food storage or for folks who backpack often.
Ka-Bar Folding Saw
Just like a quality camping knife, another solid tool for survival enthusiasts is a compact folding saw. We recently tested Ka-Bar’s folding saw and absolutely loved it. The design of the teeth creates some surprisingly smooth cuts not normally seen with this saw type. That makes it a great help on advanced precision bushcraft and survival techniques. Throw on an ergonomic handle and a highly affordable $35 price tag, and you’ve got a great gift option for the survivalist, thru-hiker, or backpacker in your life.
Stormproof Matches
There are plenty of very affordable stocking stuffers that fit the survival category. An emergency whistle, a camp stove, and stormproof matches are a few options. While all of those are excellent choices, we always recommend stormproof matches for a survival kit of any kind. These matches come in a waterproof case and are guaranteed to stay lit even after being submerged in water. Your giftee can carry these when backpacking, so even if their lighter runs out of fuel, they’ll have a reliable backup on hand.
Why Trust Us
For more than 125 years, Field & Stream has been providing readers with honest and authentic coverage of outdoor gear. Our writers and editors eat, sleep, and breathe the outdoors, and that passion comes through in our product reviews. You can count on F&S to keep you up to date on the best new gear. And when we write about a product—whether it’s a bass lure or a backpack—we cover the good and the bad, so you know exactly what to expect before you decide to make a purchase.
