The following items can be carried in a zip lock back or a small sealable tin or plastic container.  If you do chose a tin container polish the inside of the lid to make a reflecting surface.  Pack empty space with cotton wool (for fire lighting) to keep contents from rattling.

    Check contents regularly, changing any which deteriorate.   Never leave the tin or plastic container open or lying on the ground.  Make a habit of always having it with you.

1.  Condom.  Makes good water-bag: holds 1 liter (2 pints)

2.  Plasters.  Make sure their waterproof, assorted sizes.

3.  Butterfly Sutures.  To hold edges of wounds together.

4.  Surgical Blades.  At least two scalpel blades of different sizes.

5.  Potassium Permangenate.  Add to water and mix until pink to sterilise, deeper pink to make antiseptic, full red to treat fungal diseases.

6.  Anti-Malaria Tablets.  Essential in areas where malaria is present.

7.  Water Sterilising Tablets.  Use when you cannot boil suspect water.

8.  Antihistamine.  For allergies, insect bites/stings.

9.  Antibiotic.  For general infections.  Carry enough for a full course.

10. Intestinal Sedative.  For acute/chronic diarrhoea.

11.  Analgesic.  Pain reliever for mild/moderate pain.

12.  Flexible Saw.  Remove handles and grease before storing.  To use, fit wooden toggle handles.

13.  Snare Wire.  Preferably brass 60-90cm(2-3ft).

14.  Beta Light.  A light-emitting crystal for map-reading at night and as fishing lure.

15.  Compass.  Liquid-filled type with luminous button is best.  Make sure it is in working order and that you know how to use it.   Pointer is prone to rust: check it is on its pivot and swings freely.

16.  Fish Hooks & Line.  Selection of hooks and split lead weights, plus as much line as possible.

17.  Needles & Thread.  Several needles, including at least one with a very large eye to take sinew and coarse threads.  Wrap lenght of strong thread round the needles.

18.  Magnifying Glass.  To start fire in sunglight.

19.  Flint.  Processed flint with saw striker.

20.  Candle.  Shave square for packing.  Tallow ones can be eaten in emergency or used for frying, but difficult to store in hot climates.   Other kinds inedible.

21.  Matches.  Preferably waterproof, but non-safety matches can be 'shower proofed' by dipping head in melted candle fat.  Snap off half to save space.

Note: Purchasing a commercial survival kit will ensure the kits durability & quality.