If you're an outdoor enthusiast, one of the most important decisions you can make this summer is choosing from the endless variety of wilderness survival kits for sale. Part of the excitement of going into the wilderness is its inherent danger and unpredictability. With the proper gear, though, you can be sure that you can get out of most situations. With the advent of the Internet, you no longer need to trek around town to cobble together everything you need in your kit. There are sites to buy survival gear online but not all survival kits are created equally. Here are a few basic must-haves to look for in a survival kit: • A fire starter. A flint or waterproof matches are good, but a magnesium fire starter is preferred. • Parachute cord of at least 10 feet. It's tough, light, portable, and inexpensive. You never know when you'll need a length of rope in a survival situation. • Flash signal mirror. • Compass with magnifying glass. • Basic first aid kit that includes everything from antiseptic wipes to blister treatment to antihistamine, just to name a few key components. • A small manual or flashcard set with how-to instructions for first aid. • Basic survival knife of at least 6 inches. Remember, there are many wilderness survival kits for sale online, but it's important to make sure that they have the basics before you start looking at fancier additions to your kit...your life may depend on it. Share