The 10 Cs of Survival: Building a Smarter Bug-Out Bag | Episode 420
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The 10 Cs of Survival: Building a Smarter Bug-Out Bag | Episode 420
In this episode of the Survival Punk Podcast, we’re going back to basics — and that’s a good thing. Whether you’re building your first bug-out bag or refining your tenth, the 10 Cs of survival are your foundation. Made popular by survival expert Dave Canterbury, the 10 Cs are ten categories of gear that cover everything you truly need — without the fluff or fantasy.
If your bug-out bag isn’t built around the 10 Cs, it’s probably full of dead weight.
Why the 10 Cs Matter
In a real emergency, gear isn’t about cool factor — it’s about function. The 10 Cs focus on items that provide multiple uses, support your core needs, and won’t fail when you need them most.
They’re your checklist, your packing guide, and your sanity check before the world goes sideways.
The 10 Cs of Survival Gear
1. Cutting Tool
A strong knife is non-negotiable. Full tang, fixed blade preferred. For processing wood, food prep, defense, and general utility.
2. Combustion Device
Fire means heat, cooking, morale, and purification. Lighters, ferro rods, matches — carry redundancy.
3. Cover
Shelter materials: tarp, poncho, space blanket, bivvy. Anything to block wind, rain, or sun and retain heat.
4. Container
Metal water bottle or canteen. Must be boil-safe. Hydration is survival, and so is the ability to purify on the go.
5. Cordage
550 paracord, bank line, or heavy-duty string. For building shelter, securing loads, traps, or even medical use.
6. Cotton Bandana
Wipe, filter, sling, carry pouch, or signal flag. Lightweight but versatile. A 100% cotton bandana does more than people realize.
7. Compass
For navigation when GPS fails. Get one that actually works, and know how to use it.
8. Candling Device (Light)
Headlamp, flashlight, or lantern. Hands-free lighting is a game changer in emergencies.
9. Cargo Tape
Duct tape fixes gear, patches clothes, closes wounds, and creates tools. Wrap some around your water bottle.
10. Canvas Needle
For gear repair, clothes mending, or even first aid. Tiny tool, big value.
Final Thought: Stop Guessing, Start Packing Smart
A bug-out bag is not a dump pouch of cool stuff. It’s your mobile lifeline. Build it on the 10 Cs, and you’ll carry what matters — not what weighs you down.
Listen to Episode 420 and rebuild your bag with purpose, not panic.
Links
LHKNL Headlamp Flashlight, Lumen Ultra-Light Bright LED Rechargeable Headlight with White Red Light, 2-Pack Waterproof Motion Sensor Head Lamp,8 Modes for Outdoor Camping Running Hiking Fishing
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