This list is based on the five C's of survival (Cutting, Combustion, Cover, Container, Cordage) as outlined by survivalist Dave Canterbury.

At a minimum, it should serve as your foundation for planning any survival kit or bug out bag.

1. Knife
2. Firestarter (Firesteel, Lighter, etc..)
3. Rifle (Firearm)
4. Stainless Steel Canteen with screw-on lid
5. Tarp
6. Hand axe
7. Paracord
8. Water filter
9. Stainless Steel Pot or Mess Kit
10. Saw (Bow, Folding)
11. Multitool (Leatherman, etc..)

This list is obviously not comprehensive, but it is a good starting point for a foundation of a survival kit or at least what you should have on your person whenever you venture off the beaten path.

For trips that it is not practical to have all this stuff, you can par it down to a bare minimum by ensuring you always have #1, 2, 4, 7, 8 and 11, which covers the five C's excepting Cover.

For more information on practical survival necessities, please visit Modern Survival Blog.