If you’re just getting started with prepping or outdoor survival, it can feel overwhelming. There’s so much gear out there—how do you know what you really need?
Don’t worry—we’ve got your back.
At Five Star Survival, we believe in starting smart. Here’s a simple guide for beginners that breaks down the 8 essential items you should start with today to feel prepared for emergencies, outdoor trips, or unexpected situations.
🔥 1. Fire Starter
Fire gives you warmth, light, and the ability to cook or signal for help. A reliable fatwood fire starter or ferro rod is easy to use and works in wet conditions—unlike matches or cheap lighters.
👉 Start with: 40 Lbs Fatwood Fire Starter Sticks – All-natural and super easy to ignite.
💧 2. Water Filter or Purifier
You can survive weeks without food—but only a few days without water. A compact filter straw or tablets can help you safely drink from streams, lakes, or other sources.
👉 Beginner tip: Always carry backup purification tablets just in case your filter fails.
🔪 3. Reliable Knife
A knife is your best all-around tool. Whether you’re cutting cord, opening gear, or prepping food, a folding knife or fixed blade survival knife is a must.
👉 Recommended for beginners: A compact folding knife with a clip and solid grip.
🏕️ 4. Emergency Shelter
Even in warm weather, cold nights can be dangerous. A tube tent or emergency bivy protects you from rain, wind, and bugs—plus it fits right in your backpack.
👉 Try this: Life Tent Emergency Survival Shelter – lightweight, waterproof, and includes a survival whistle.
💡 5. Light Source
It gets dark fast—and when it does, you don’t want to be stuck without light. A headlamp, compact LED lantern, or hangable camping light is a must for safety and comfort.
👉 Pro tip: Choose a rechargeable option and keep a power bank in your kit.
🍲 6. Emergency Food
For beginners, start with 2–3 days of freeze-dried meals or high-calorie food bars. Lightweight, long-lasting food gives you peace of mind during storms, power outages, or travel delays.
👉 Best for prep: 60 Serving Emergency Food Supply Bucket
🧰 7. Multi-Tool or Survival Card
Instead of carrying 10 separate tools, a 22-in-1 survival card fits in your wallet and covers all the basics—cutting, opening, prying, and more.
👉 Beginner gear tip: Keep one in your wallet and another in your bug-out bag.
🎒 8. Durable Backpack or Bag
Once you’ve got your gear, you’ll need a reliable bag to carry it. Look for a water-resistant backpack with plenty of compartments. Comfort and organization matter.
👉 Extra tip: Keep it packed and ready—don't wait until an emergency to prep it.
✅ Conclusion: Start Simple, Stay Safe
You don’t need to spend thousands of dollars to get prepared. Just focus on the basics: fire, water, shelter, food, and tools.
At Five Star Survival, we specialize in reliable, beginner-friendly survival gear that’s battle-tested and affordable.
🛒 Start building your first kit today at fivestarsurvival.com — and step into survival confidence.
