Originally Posted by
Dave Cutter
Interesting! You seem to be a bit of what we call in America (what they call themselves) "
preppers". Preppers
prepare for the worse... or unexpected.
I've often thought of my bicycles saddle bag as a survival kit of sorts. Mostly.... I only carry basic cycling tools. Mostly standard fare stuff but also a mini pliers, and a tube of Lip Baum (Vaseline). I do throw one of those little one-size-fits-all disposable ponchos in my jersey if there is even a remote chance of rain (I take a jacket if the odds are in favor of rain). And I carry a little cash in a money-clip (that is also a knife). I could get by on an extended ride... even overnight (although not comfortably).
I do have a backpack that is stocked with the normal EDC (Every Day Carry) items like you mentioned. But I am so hooked on cycling... I rarely spare anytime for hiking.
Different country, different definitions. I am a survivalist and I teach them in Malaysia. Preppers to us means, those who prepare their homes and family for the worst in cases of floods, disasters, wars. They usually have a bomb shelter, or fortify their homes and hope to ride the war or a nuke fallout. They stock, firearms, food, water and medicine in their shelter. No offense to people who preps. I am just giving the definition that I know. They usually have Bug Out Bags prepared by their doors.
As I stated, I usually hike/kayak/camp and MTB alone. Its only when I ride the trails and in the jungle that I bring a Survival Kit with me. When I go cycling on paved roads for my inter city cycling, commute or road bike, I only carry a first aid kit and a lighter (a zippo) and my maze. That's about all the survival kit I carry when I on paved road. Of course some money and my android phone.
A Survival kit is just an assortment of items, to help keep you comfortable, boost your confidence and help to get you home or out of a tight spot in the jungle.
We only prepare to have :
1. Fire
2. Shelter
3. Water
and then try to navigate out of the situation.
Just sharing...no other intention.
By the way, carrying a knife (regardless of its size)is illegal in Malaysia. We might be able to get away with a swiss army knife like Wenger, Victorinox or Leather man, but it should be with a multi tool set.
If you carry a parang or a knife, you will have got some explaining to do.
However if you are with your camping equipment, you will be okay, they will allow you to carry one.