Prudent Prepping: More Baby Steps & Car Carry

The dust has settled and the First 72 Hours have passed. Now we concentrate  on what to do in, and how to plan for, the long term via Prudent Prepping.

This summer, I started building a small EDC assortment for a friend with what I bought first discussed here. The EDC kit has stalled, but the car kit has been accepted as a needed thing. The amount of driving done and out of town visits to friends has convinced her to carry some supplies and equipment in her car. I loaned some items to make a basic kit, but several of those have been replaced with new things that will store better.

BOB Basics

Water Filter
I had loaned a LifeStraw to start, but with two little dogs* that might need water also, the LifeStraw Bottle is a better choice.

• Filters up to 264 gallons (1,000 liters) of water down to 0.2 microns.
• Removes 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria (> LOG 6 reduction).
• Removes 99.9% of waterborne protozoan parasites (>LOG 3 reduction).
• Zero aftertaste; no chemicals or iodine.
• 23 ounce leak-proof bottle made of durable BPA-free Tritan.

* Food, water and bowls are always in the car for the dogs, but a way to provide extra water for pets and humans is needed.

Fire
I like to start my fires with the UCO Stormproof Match Kit, which I have in all my kits. 25 matches and extra strikers, all in a waterproof container. What's not to like?

• Durable, waterproof case floats and keeps contents dry and protected.
• External, integrated, and replaceable striker for easy lighting.
• Includes 25 windproof and waterproof matches and 3 strikers. Match case can hold up to 40 matches.
• Matches are easy to light and will relight after being submerged in water.
• Up to 15 second burn time.
• Extended length of match allows for added safety to keep from burning fingertips.
• Lights campfires, stoves, gas-barbecues, etc.

Stove

This was a hard choice, as people like so many different brands. What I picked was the Esbit Pocket Stove and extra fuel, due to its very small shape and light weight. In my experience, a novice can set up and use this stove with no problems and if the fuel tabs are used up, anything burnable that's small enough to fit on the tray will work.

• Simple and stable stove is constructed from durable, galvanized steel; Folds down to a small, compact size.
• Includes 6 smokeless, Esbit 14 g solid fuel tablets; Each tablet burns approximately 12 minutes; One tablet boils 500 ml of water in about 8 minutes.
• Two cooking positions suitable for cups, pots, and pans (not included).
• Dimensions-closed: 3.9 inches x 3 inches x 0.9 inches (9.8 x 7.7 x 2.3 cm); Weight, including solid fuel: 6.3 ounces (180 g).
• Made in Germany; 2-year manufacturer's warranty.

Cooking

This was a compromise, as additional pots are under review since the cook has definite ideas on pans and sizes, and I was told in no uncertain terms that I should have asked before adding what I like. (Whoops!) What is in the kit at the moment is a .5 liter stainless steel MSR Nesting Bowl. This will stay in the bag, with other pots coming later. Additions will be reviewed when they arrive.

Shelter

One of my favorite items is the SOL Survival Blanket. I really like this and have at least one in every bag I own. 

• Reflects up to 90% of radiated body heat.
• Quiet! Far quieter than traditional "space blankets".
• Tear Resistant - made from Metalized Polyethylene, this Two Person survival blanket is highly durable and will not tear like competitive products.
• This 3.2 ounce life insurance policy opens to 60" x 96", and is large enough for two people. Can also be used to construct emergency survival shelter.
• Packaged in a re-sealable Dry Flex Carry Pouch for High Visibility and Protection

All these items are going into a small, dark colored bag that will be bungee-ed to the side of the trunk.

The Takeaway

• Certain things are personal choice; others are required. 
• Size matters. Compact and light weight are always important. 

Recap
I need to remember to K.I.S.S., explain why I'm suggesting certain things and allow non-essential changes to the kit. (Double whoops!)

 As always, if you have comments, suggestions or corrections, please post them so we all can learn. And remember, Some Is Always Better Than None!

NOTE: All items tested were purchased by me. No products have been loaned in exchange for a favorable review. Any items sent to me for T&E will be listed as such. Suck it Feds.