When you’re out in the wild—or even just stuck at home with no power—the gear you carry matters. You want tools that do more than one thing. Space is limited. Time is precious. The right tool can mean the difference between comfort and chaos. Or survival and something worse.
Multipurpose tools give you the biggest bang for your buck. They’re compact, efficient, and reliable when everything else goes wrong. Here are 15 survival tools worth keeping close.
1. Survival Multi-Tool (Pliers, Knife, Screwdrivers, More)
This is the king of survival gear. A good multi-tool gives you pliers, blades, wire cutters, screwdrivers, scissors, and more—right in your pocket. Look for one made with stainless steel and locking tools.
Whether you’re fixing gear, prepping food, or pulling a splinter, this tool gets it done. It’s a must-have for bug-out bags, glove boxes, and emergency kits.
2. Survival Shovel
Don’t let the name fool you—it’s more than a shovel. Survival models often include a saw edge, pick, firestarter, and even a compass in the handle. They fold down small and stow easily.
Great for digging latrines, clearing snow, chopping branches, or defending yourself if it comes to that. It’s a heavy-duty problem solver.
3. Paracord Bracelet
It looks like a wristband, but it’s 8–10 feet of survival cord ready to be unraveled. You can use it for shelter building, fishing line, tying gear, or even as a tourniquet in a pinch.
Some versions also include a firestarter, whistle, and tiny compass. Lightweight, wearable, and endlessly useful.
4. Tactical Pen
Looks like a pen, writes like a pen—until you need it to be more. A tactical pen is made from aircraft-grade aluminum and doubles as a striking weapon or glass breaker.
Keep it in your pocket or on your nightstand. It’s discreet, practical, and just might save your life.
5. Firestarter (Ferro Rod and Striker)
Fire means warmth, safety, cooking, and signaling. A ferrocerium rod throws sparks even when wet. Strike it against steel, and you’ve got fire potential without matches or lighters.
Many firestarters are small and come with built-in whistles, scrapers, or rulers. Clip one to your gear and never be without a flame.
6. Credit Card Survival Tool
This flat piece of steel fits in your wallet but acts like a mini multi-tool. It usually includes a blade edge, can opener, wrench, screwdriver, saw blade, and bottle opener.
You won’t build a shelter with it, but it could get you out of a jam. For something that weighs next to nothing, it pulls more than its weight.
7. Solar-Powered Charger with Flashlight
It keeps your phone, flashlight, or GPS running when outlets are long gone. Many models also include an LED flashlight and compass.
Charge it ahead of time, or leave it in the sun during the day. It’s perfect for extended outages or off-grid adventures.
8. Duct Tape
Fix a tent, patch clothing, splint a limb, seal a leak—duct tape does it all. It’s strong, waterproof, and sticks to just about anything.
Wrap some around a lighter, water bottle, or trekking pole to save space. You’ll never regret having it in your kit.
9. Headlamp with Red Light Option
Hands-free lighting is a game changer. Whether you’re cooking, navigating, or working in the dark, a headlamp gives you freedom to move.
The red light setting preserves night vision and draws less attention. It’s a small tool that makes a big difference.
10. Folding Knife with Serrated Edge
Every survival kit needs a good knife. A folding version is safer and more portable than a fixed blade. Look for one with a partially serrated edge for sawing rope or wood.
Use it to prep food, cut cordage, or defend yourself. A sharp, reliable blade is non-negotiable in an emergency.
11. Compass with Ruler and Sighting Mirror
GPS can fail. Batteries can die. A real compass helps you navigate using the sun, stars, or terrain. Models with mirrors let you signal or check for injuries.
Pair it with a map, and you’re never truly lost. It’s a low-tech backup that doesn’t quit.
12. Emergency Bivvy Sack
It’s like a sleeping bag made of heat-reflective material. Tiny when packed, but life-saving when used. It keeps body heat in and protects against wind and rain.
Perfect for car kits, bug-out bags, or stashing in your hiking pack. In cold weather, it can mean the difference between survival and hypothermia.
13. Compact Fishing Kit
Food gets scarce fast. A mini fishing kit—line, hooks, sinkers—can help you feed yourself if you’re near water. Wrap the kit into a small tin or tube for easy carry.
Add some artificial bait or learn how to use what’s around you. It’s one more way to stay self-reliant when grocery stores aren’t an option.
Read More: Top 15 Ways to Prep Your House for Long-Term Isolation
14. Emergency Whistle
Your voice fades. A whistle cuts through wind, trees, and panic. Use it to signal rescuers, warn others, or call for help.
Get one that’s loud, lightweight, and made from durable plastic or aluminum. Attach it to your backpack, paracord bracelet, or keys.
Read More: Top 15 Skills You’ll Be Glad You Learned Before the Power Went Out
15. Collapsible Water Bottle with Built-In Filter
It packs down tiny but expands to carry vital water. Filters built into the straw let you drink straight from lakes, streams, or questionable taps.
Clean water is survival 101. A collapsible bottle with a built-in filter gives you mobility, safety, and peace of mind in one compact package.
The best survival tools are the ones you’ll actually use—and carry. Build your kit around versatility, durability, and space-saving gear. When things go sideways, you’ll be glad you did.
Read More: Top 15 Must-Have Tools When the Power Grid Goes Down
