What 3 Things Would You Want With You If You Were Stranded On An Island?
Have you ever pondered what you would bring along to a deserted island? It’s the kind of thought exercise that reveals much about our priorities and practical skills—or perhaps our glaring lack of them. We might fantasize about lounging under a palm tree with nothing but the sun and sea for company, but deep down, we all know that survival takes priority over leisure. So, let’s unpack this idea together and figure out our top three essentials.
Considerations for Survival
Before we jump into the specifics of what would be most useful, let’s think about the basic needs we would need to address. Our goal isn’t just to survive but to do so with a bit of comfort and maybe even some hope for rescue.
Water: The Quintessential Element
When it comes to human survival, water is non-negotiable. Our bodies are made up of about 60% water, and going without it for just three days can be fatal. An average human needs about two liters of water daily to stay hydrated. So, any island endeavor would have to start with securing a reliable source of drinking water.
Shelter: Protection from the Elements
Beyond water, we also need shelter to protect us from the elements. Whether it’s harsh sunlight, torrential rain, or pesky mosquitoes, some fine form of shelter can make a significant difference to our comfort and health. Of course, building a shelter requires tools and materials, and that brings us to our next point: tools and fire.
Food: Sustenance for the Long Haul
Food is another major concern. While we can survive without it for weeks if necessary, a diet of fruits (if they’re even available) and occasional foraged items would get old very quickly. Additionally, nutritional deficiencies could become a concern over time. Having a way to hunt, fish, or gather food would be critical.
So, our deserted island essentials need to handle these primary concerns: water, shelter, and food.
The Top Three Essentials
All right, given these needs, let’s boil it down to three items.
1. A Water Filtration System
It’s hard to overstate the importance of clean drinking water. Assuming the island isn’t blessed with a fresh spring or a reliable rainwater collection system, a portable water filtration device can be the difference between life and death. There are numerous options on the market, from simple straw filters to more elaborate pump systems and UV purifiers.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Straw Filter | Lightweight, easy to use | Limited water intake |
| Pump Filter | Can filter larger quantities of water | Bulkier, requires physical effort |
| UV Purifiers | Kills bacteria and viruses effectively | Requires batteries or a power source |
Why a water filtration system? Because sipping coconut water and hoping for the best isn’t a sustainable strategy. Plus, dehydration can cloud our thinking, making it harder to figure out our next steps for survival.
2. A Multi-Tool
Imagine trying to build a shelter or start a fire without any tools. A multi-tool is like the Swiss Army knife of survival. It’s compact but versatile, offering us everything from a knife and a saw to pliers and sometimes even a fire starter.
Here’s what a high-quality multi-tool might include:
| Tool | Uses |
|---|---|
| Knife | Cutting, preparing food |
| Saw | Cutting small branches, building shelters |
| Pliers | Handling tasks requiring precision |
| Screwdrivers | Repairing equipment, creating makeshift items |
| Can/Bottle Opener | Opening canned food or beverages |
| Scissors | Cutting bandages, small tasks |
| Fire Starter | Essential for cooking and warmth |
Why a multi-tool? Because rummaging for sharp rocks or pointy sticks to accomplish basic tasks sounds like a recipe for frustration and inefficiency. Plus, the psychological comfort of having a reliable tool at hand shouldn’t be underestimated.
3. A Sturdy, Large Tarp
James Bond and Indiana Jones always seemed to find themselves in comfort, thanks to unexpected luxury items or local hospitality. But let’s get real; we won’t have tiki huts waiting for us. A large, durable tarp could be our best bet for immediate shelter. We can use it to build a makeshift tent or lean-to shelter, keep dry during rainstorms, and even collect rainwater.
| Tarp Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Durability | Long-lasting, reliable under tough conditions |
| Waterproof | Keeps us dry, can collect rainwater |
| Large Size | Versatile – can be used for shelter, ground cover |
Why a tarp? Because coconuts and palm leaves might have worked for Swiss Family Robinson, but real-world survival needs a bit more practicality and reliability. A tarp buys us time and protection, allowing us to focus on other survival tasks.
But What About Fire?
It’s a fair concern. Fire is as vital as water and shelter, providing warmth, a way to cook food, and a signal for rescuers. This is where the multi-tool’s fire starter comes into play, but what if we want a foolproof method?
Let’s consider a couple of options to enhance our chances:
- Waterproof Matches: Easy to use but finite.
- Ferro Rod: Reliable even when wet, but requires skill to use effectively.
The fire-starter in a multi-tool is a good compromise between reliability and space-saving, but if we feel particularly insecure about our fire-making skills, a box of waterproof matches or a high-quality ferro rod wouldn’t go amiss.
Alternatives and Close Contenders
While the above three items strike a perfect balance for most situations, there are a few other contenders that are worth considering, depending on our specific needs or preferences.
Paracord
Strong, lightweight rope can be useful in countless ways: building a shelter, making snares for fishing or trapping, or even as a makeshift tool for climbing. Paracord is essentially the duct tape of the survival world – incredibly versatile and often indispensable.
Fishing Kit
A basic fishing kit, including some lines, hooks, and weights, offers us a sustainable food source. It doesn’t take up much room and can prove invaluable in securing regular meals.
Solar Charger
While more of a luxury and additional to the essentials, a solar charger can keep electronic devices operational. It extends the life of tools like GPS locators, emergency beacons, or even a smartphone, provided we have access to any of these items in the first place.
The Psychology of Survival
Practical needs aside, maintaining our mental health in such an extreme situation is also crucial. That’s why items that might seem superfluous at first glance could be significant for long-term psychological well-being.
Entertainment
A book or a journal can be a lifeline for mental health, providing distraction, intellectual stimulation, or just a way to keep track of our thoughts. Another option could be a compact game set like a deck of cards.
Signal Tools
Tools like a mirror, whistle, or even a flare gun can dramatically improve our chances of being found. These might seem luxurious initially but could make the ultimate difference in a rescue mission’s success.
Companionship
This is a bit of a cheat, but imagine having a dog or a loyal pet for company. The emotional support, companionship, and even practical help could make that deserted island just a little bit less isolating. Of course, one must consider the ethical implications and responsibilities of caring for an animal in such dire conditions.
Practical Tips for Using Our Essentials
Survival isn’t just about having the right tools; it’s about using them wisely. Here are some practical tips that can help us make the most of our essentials.
Water Filtration Tips
- Regular Maintenance: Clean the filter regularly to maintain its efficiency.
- Multiple Sources: Don’t rely on a single water source. Collect and filter rainwater, stream water, and even morning dew.
- Storage: Store extra filtered water in makeshift containers for emergencies.
Multi-Tool Tips
- Prioritize Tasks: Use the saw and knife for crucial shelter-building efforts first.
- Fire Safety: Be mindful of fire safety, clearing an area before starting a fire to avoid wildfires.
- Tool Care: Keep the tool clean and dry to prevent rusting, ensuring it stays functional.
Tarp Utilization Tips
- Shelter First: Set up a shelter as soon as possible. Prioritize its sturdiness and waterproof ability.
- Water Collection: Lay out the tarp during rain to create a water collection system.
- Signal Use: If brightly colored, use part of the tarp to create a signal for rescue parties.
Conclusion
So, what three things would we want with us if stranded on an island? It’s a deeply personal question, but our choices reveal a mix of immediate survival needs and long-term comfort considerations. A water filtration system ensures we stay hydrated, a multi-tool enables resourcefulness, and a sturdy tarp provides essential shelter and water collection capabilities.
While the thought of being stranded can be daunting, being prepared with these essential items can make the prospect a bit less terrifying, and maybe even an opportunity for an extraordinary adventure. So, let’s pack our hypothetical survival kit thoughtfully—our lives might one day depend on it.
