Essential Tools for Wilderness Survival: Must-Haves?

[ChamomileCraze]

Just been thinkin' on what tools are truly essential for wilderness survival. Obviously, a good multi-tool and sturdy fixed-blade knife are a given. But what other must-haves would you suggest, especially from a nature-based perspective? Thoughts on herbal kit contents or that portable solar still I've been eyeing up? What's proved indispensable in your experience?

 

[BlueHarborTea]

Always found a good compass and map indispensable, can't tell you how many times they've saved my bacon when technology failed. A compact first aid kit with some knowledge of medicinal plants never hurts either. As for that solar still, sounds like a solid investment to me - clean water is a survival staple, after all.

Don't forget a quality fire starter kit, either. Ferro rods are more reliable than matches and less prone to damage from the elements. Oh, and speaking of nature-based solutions, a good field guide on edible plants is worth its weight in gold, trust me, not everything that looks tasty is actually safe to eat. How about fishing gear? Ever think about adding a simple fishing line and hooks to your kit? The ability to fish could mean the difference between a full belly and going hungry in a pinch.