CRITICAL
Water (1 liter minimum, 3L ideal)
Why: You die in 3 days without it
Water purification tabs or filter
Why: Secondary source if you need to resupply
3 days calories (bars, MRE, freeze-dried)
Why: Energy for movement under stress
CRITICAL
CAT tourniquet (x2)
Why: Single most important trauma tool
Israeli bandage (pressure dressing)
Why: Wound packing for major bleeding
Combat gauze (QuikClot or Celox)
Why: Penetrating wound hemorrhage control
Chest seals (vented x2)
Why: Tension pneumothorax prevention
NPA (nasopharyngeal airway)
Why: Airway management unconscious casualty
Nitrile gloves (x4 pairs)
Why: Protection + hygiene
HIGH
Handheld ham radio (Baofeng UV-5R)
Why: Communication when cell towers fail
NOAA weather radio
Why: Emergency alert reception
Satellite communicator (Garmin inReach)
Why: Two-way communication off-grid
MEDIUM
Headlamp (with extra batteries)
Why: Hands-free navigation in the dark
Bic lighter (x3) + waterproof matches
Why: Fire in all conditions
Tinder (cotton balls + petroleum jelly)
Why: Reliable fire ignition
MEDIUM
Emergency mylar blankets (x2)
Why: Retain 90% body heat, 2 oz each
Poncho or rain layer
Why: Hypothermia prevention
Paracord 550 (50 ft)
Why: Shelter construction, gear repair
CONTEXT-DEPENDENT
Carry pistol (daily carry gun)
Why: Threat response in transit
2–3 loaded magazines
Why: Combat reload capacity
Holster (secure retention)
Why: Safe carry while moving
Note: Check state laws when crossing state lines
Why: Legal compliance
