How to Turn A Skateboarder Backpack into the Ultimate Ultralight Survival Kit

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www.coalcrackerbushcraft.com
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and as always....
Stay in the Woods,
Dan

[@jamespotter936]

I like the orange bandana. As a hunter it is just wild how far away someone can see hunter orange.

[@wtfwhereami]

Yea, I use the same blaze orange for my climbing gear, that way If I drop anything it’s easier to spot, plus my main climbing line can be used to signal if needed.

[@cjensen1999]

I'm a big fan of the reversable stocking hats

[@thomasmusso1147]

Yep .. 'Fire Orange' .. apparently about the most visible colour out there. Unfortunately 'some' still don't see it .. 😉.

[@davidcarothers3311]

No hygeine items??

[@gummy1188]

The best pack is the one you have! No need for anything fancy, and I love how you always acknowledge that while more expensive gear is nice, it's not always necessary

[@alanrice39]

I agree

[@thomasmusso1147]

Yep .. 'Less' on one beats 'More'' sitting at home. 'Gear' is useless unless you have it with you and it's appropriate for the situation.

[@hiddenwoodsben]

true. still wouldnt want to change my frost-river for a elcheapo.

[@gonzgoesdumb]

Hey skater here. Also part of this community. I know it sounds weird and doesn’t even matter but the V in RVCA is actually a U. Pronounced rooka. Just wanted to let u know. Love ur stuff dude

[@youtubecensorspeace1874]

Is that a joke? Perhaps you heard it and took it seriously? Ruca has a lot of meanings in Spanish... girl friend, wife, whore, female gang member, a type of hut. I also doubt they would print a clear V if they officially meant it to be a U. I think you missed the joke or I missed that you were joking? Lol

[@gonzgoesdumb]

@@youtubecensorspeace1874 no I wasn’t trying to be funny. It’s just what the company chose to do for their logo. They’re Hawaiian based and prolly don’t know what that means in Spanish. You can google it instead of questioning a random person on KZbin

[@youtubecensorspeace1874]

@@gonzgoesdumb doesn't seem like a big enough deal to care about. I didn't mean to offend you by asking if you had a sense of humor or if it was someone else's humor and if they do not see a difference in a V vs a U it is not my concern. Try to have a nice day.

[@toastiesburned9929]

@@youtubecensorspeace1874 in olde english, the "U" and the "V" were both written as "V." You try to have a nice day too...?

[@Johnny_Stein]

The RVCA Name (Pronounced: REW-KA) was developed first and foremost out of the "V" and "A" = which symbolizes The Balance of Opposites and how they coexist: Nature x Industrialization, Woman x Man, Past x Present... Future. Today. Tomorrow. Life

[@marvinbrock960]

You have such a common sense approach for average people. It’s obvious you think it through. Love your channel.

[@billbucholz5125]

I made "72 hour" kits for each member of my family still at home. The contents was based on their skill level. I'm of that old school where you can improvise everything. Realized I had 3 knives and a folding saw in my bag, 7 small vials of spices. If I'm lost and they find me, I'll have built a cabin, and the aroma of spiced meat will be in the air.

[@PatrickKQ4HBD]

If I'm on the rescue crew, I'll just follow my grumbling stomach. 😁

[@lorkainenkingg8497]

While some might not like them, I use a chest pack (Helikon-Tex Numbat) for all of my frequently used small gear (fire kit, flashlight, multitool, compass, etc), which doesn't change for me from one activity to another, and then I have the rest of my loadout (water, shelter and food mostly) in a backpack. For me, this helps distribute the load a bit--even if it is pretty light--and let's me customize the rest of the kit for a particular activity without compromising or forgetting the essentials I have in the chest pack. Everything in the chest pack is organized in such a way that I have it memorized and can find what I'm after without being able to see it (such as in the dark). Also, it is readily accessible without having to remove the backpack, or dig around in pockets or belt pouches.

[@urielmartinez2161]

Awesome i might do something similar

[@QuaintAxe]

I do the same thing, Bino chest pack with a bear spray holster attached. Water filter, lighter, headlamp, fire starter and a small first aid kit. Can take the main pack off and set up camp but keep the daily gear on you at all times. Cheers

[@joshuabierle1182]

I actually just finished a bag like this! I bought a fully waterproof satchel and stuffed it with everything I need. I'd recommend really thinking about how little you could live with, and then add from there. For those that wear glasses like I do, I put a spare pair in this bag too - highly recommend.

[@GeorgeOrwell-yz6zx]

I just made the same comment on another post. I lost my glasses one time when I caught my foot on a root and tumbled about 10 feet. Never did find them

[@johndoutty9317]

A small power bank to recharge you mobile or GPS might be an idea.

[@fives645]

@@johndoutty9317 thats something very important imo. When i lived in AK i would go fly fishing for big salmon and we had to bush wack to get out to the crazy spots. We would bring mobile GPS’s and my buddy’s ended up dying. Thankfully i had a back up with me so we were good if we had gotten lost but it was a wake up call for sure.

[@commonwealthofalaska5602]

I noticed the Like/Dislike button's aren't engaging. Always try to give a thumbs up. Thanks for all the bushcraft.

[@skittlemenow]

Love it. You can always tell a real survival kit from a fake one by whether or not food is in it. Nice to see real survival gear.

[@timtrain35]

Mansfield graduate here. Haven’t heard about the PA Grand Canyon in years. Thanks for the blast from the past and the great videos.

[@riccardosartori3822]

One thing I would add is a few space blankets: they are inexpensive, they are made to keep you warm and can be used both to insulate from the ground and to use as overhead cover in case of rain. You have tarps but if you go out with your family for example having a space blanket for everyone is going to be real useful in a pinch (even if you need to sleep in your car, it gets cold at night and you don't want to keep turning the car on and off to warm up)

[@theworldwelivein482]

Get a few ultra $30 dollar emergency blankets and it a Boss.

[@riccardosartori3822]

@@theworldwelivein482 even cheaper ones would be useful 👌🏼

[@MrRourk]

Get the good one SOL Heatsheets

[@carlbernsen1290]

I should point out that reflective mylar is very conductive of heat, so space blankets can’t insulate you from cold ground. There has to be an air gap between you and the blanket to allow radiant heat reflection.

[@theworldwelivein482]

@@carlbernsen1290 I didn't know that.

[@juliewittmuss2105]

I LOVE your videos! You make learning easy and fun! You keep it short and sweet...just the facts! Keep it up and stay in the woods!

[@MrWildWales]

Really interesting to see what's in that tiny pack amazing how much survival kit that you can fit in there. I just ordered one of those olights yesterday actually!

[@TheWatcher60401]

Just discovered your channel. Love it. Such a inviting personality and SO knowledgable. Thanks for everything. 👍

[@Regularcitizen1]

That VAN!! Bug out approved! Love Coal Cracker! Best channel on the Tube!

[@davidtiner4094]

I live in South Texas and when I leave the road I have a pistol with me. Hogs are mean and numerous here and they don't necessary run when you holler at them. So I have added that to my kit. Not to mention snakes.

[@stuartb9194]

Snakes!!!

[@thewatcher611]

would a .40 cal Glock 35 loaded with hard cast lead kill a hog? just asking. I would think a high capacity auto loader, or a large revolver. What types do you consider good to carry for large dangerous critters? While still being portable enough to just grab on your way out of the vehicle?

[@davidtiner4094]

@@thewatcher611 A 22 will kill a hog but you gotta be spot on. I carry a 9 with 10 in the mag, but if the hog runs at you instead of away, 10 in the mag may need to be followed by some fast legwork!

[@thewatcher611]

@@davidtiner4094 thanks for the reply? I'll keep my .40 handy. I have a 22 round mag of 155 grain hard cast. They come out over 1200 fps. I'll work on the running part, too, lol!

[@LaurenMiddleton28]

This year im taking the Survival course in Pennsylvania. The weight killer is food and water. I recently purchased a small piece of land in Idaho. I'm gonna get a pre manufactured cabin dropped in by helicopter. No roads within 4 miles.

[@BOBOMulleinWolf]

I stumbled upon this channel. I live in Pa. How could I look into (Check out/sign up for) the survival course? Btw...my dream would be to move to Idaho! (Ever since I followed Ron & Karen Hood) Rip Ron. How awesome for you!! Ty in advance for the reply

[@dougspizman6751]

I own a hedge fund also. Its called NJ landscaping. Call me.

[@untouchablemao]

You're beautiful

[@Brettmlyons]

Great little budget kit. Love your videos dude!

[@Greg-mw5kh]

Good to see a common sense approach to the possible scenario. I would add a pvc fishing kit for extra snare line and fishing. But I love to fish at every opportunity. And anyone who wants to find me knows to look around water. Thanks for the video!!!

[@kevindblew6822]

Using a low-key bag when you are in public areas is a tremendous idea. My computer bag always has numerous survival elements inside. Even it doesn’t look like it’s a computer bag. No reason to draw attention to what’s inside. I have a 30” long piece of camping pad folded around the laptop. Ample ground barrier for sitting on wet ground. I’ll be adding a few things after seeing your video. Always great teaching, Dan!

[@toddb5259]

Dan, so solid, I love all your videos and learn something in everyone I watch!!! You are providing a service to all your viewers. Keep them coming!

[@toddb5259]

I would add some sort of antiseptic, steri strips, and sterile dressing. Key word sterile. The stress of having to "survive" could easy end up in a person making a mistake and injuring themselves. Given not knowing how long the situation would last, a clean wound has less chance of infection and the comfort of knowing it's taken care of. Plus the added weight is minimal.

[@bitcomputers]

This kit is great for a go bag as well. Great videos, thanks a lot

[@ONThree]

Good stuff! Simple, light and effective.

[@amycaroline5102]

I love this video! Very helpful for non-bushcrafters 😉👍

[@primalbiomechanics-willmon6166]

love the simplicity brother. bless

[@KalpeshPatel78]

Followed on Insta and FB. You have some awesome content my friend. Started a kids survival group with a few schools (14-18 kinda group). Just very basic training and sharing knowledge. I learn a lot from here that I can part with those kids. Especially building up that kit and doing practice runs.

[@bobswoodlandadventures5722]

Great video. Nice lightweight setup. You do look like a skateboarder, so that backpack is perfect for you. Stay safe and be well. Thanks for sharing.

[@kellywelch3]

Do you think we'll get a skateboarding video from Dan? I don't think they work very well in the woods. LOL C'mon Dan, show us your moves!

[@bobswoodlandadventures5722]

@@kellywelch3 😅. Unless he has a dirt driveway, he could do Ollies in his driveway.

[@jasontraska2616]

Ultralight Dan would approve. Bush drinking Dan would probably use one of those side pouches (if not both) for a brewski. All in all, very nice down and dirty pack that anyone could easily bring along. Thanks for another great video!

[@jonfisher9214]

Add a fleece or wool hat. Takes up minimal space and you'll burn through a lot less calories keeping your head warm, and have a better nights sleep too.

[@GeorgeOrwell-yz6zx]

I always have backup head gear and glasses. I sometimes even have goggles if it could be windy or very cold. I always have CA/superglue as it can seal small cuts that are annoying or repair gear/clothing. CA glue takes almost no space and weight. One thing I like to do is have way more water than I think I will need. It is easier to ditch water if not needed than to find and purify if needed after all

[@broadwayFan28]

Extra pair of dry socks too. Can be used as gloves or dry feet.

[@thomasmusso1147]

As a child and later .. even much later 😀, my Mom always nagged us, no matter what the season, when we were going out somewhere .. anywhere .. "take a jersey with." But then, as Baby Boomers, our Parents came from a different age.

[@carlbernsen1290]

A sensible kit. The difference between carrying a pocket kit and a 10 pound backpack all day is only 100 calories. Building natural shelter and gathering firewood can use up over 10 times that many and waste hours of light. The shelter and insulation you showed are fine for warm, mostly dry weather, and can easily be upgraded for colder, wetter conditions. I agree that a knife is unnecessary if you have proper gear for warmth, shelter and water purification, which also saves vital time in a real emergency. Anyone carrying a knife, and especially a chopping tool should understand the increased risk of injury and carry both a cut proof glove and a 1st aid kit that’s useable one-handed. I would suggest a foldable ccf mat, for ground insulation, wearable insulation and fire starting. Bright, reflective tape or cordage is valuable for trail marking and visible with a flashlight after dark, making it possible to retrace your steps and avoid getting lost when the hopes for a ‘shortcut’ leads you astray. Not getting lost is perhaps the first skill to learn.

[@johnleonard4261]

I was just reading thru the comments guys and feel a need to say, consider the source and context of the intended use or possible need. Dan has a thick skin for all of the critique comments. He has the hands on experience to offer real, solid suggestions. IT'S NOT JUST ACADEMIC!!!!!

[@ethanwrede3162]

Great video. I had chance to use my Tzero- its very nice, i have most of your shelter components the original oil cloth tarp has seen some extensive use- then i got the Hutchin's roll which i absolutely love- in conjunction with the large tarp. Got the trekker love that too. But that T zero really is an game changer. Waiting on an new bag- i blew my old one out on my last hike. Harpers ferry to Ma Pa line. Thank you guys for all yah do. Maybe one day ill meet y'all- enjoy yourselves. -much love

[@myrthryn]

I bought one of those double down blades. quite nice!

[@Rooster1964]

Im in central texas. Always have a hand fishing reel with me. But l like these types of videos. Thanks

[@charlesringo569]

I'm with you I always at least keep fishing line Hooks and maybe a couple of fake worms in any survival pack. But I've only ever lived in one place where fishing wasn't an extremely viable option.

[@larryfath2673]

As always, I loved your gear video. I have come to love my cheap ($20) Walley world daypack. It has an internal pocket for a water bladder, 2 side pockets, lots of Molle attachment points and has held up to a couple dozen hikes with gear. My kit is very similar, but I add ibuprofen, wet wipes, and GU for energy along with 3-4 protein bars. I have space blankets in place of the plastic drop cloth, but am rethinking that as the 8 mil drop cloth is stronger and won't rip like the space blankets.

[@markcheswick6344]

That all sounds good. What is the "GU for energy" referring to? Thanks

[@danielcotts8673]

@@markcheswick6344 Look on Amazon for "GU Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel"

[@markcheswick6344]

@@danielcotts8673 Thanks kindly!

[@alanrice39]

I carry to packs and haversack in my truck. One pack is setup more for woodsman and the other more for hiking. Some items are the same, such as a fire kit, but for my hiking I don’t carry a saw. My pack for hiking is a lighter pack. Great video. Alan R.

[@atxjaphotos4217]

Great video. I particularly loved the part where you said you don't necessarily need a knife and then you pulled out the biggest butterfly knife I've ever seen in my entire life. Haha keep the content coming!

[@boonedog1457]

Great job! You've got the essentials!!!

[@outdoorwithdeen]

It’s always nice to keep one light backpack ready to go.

[@TheScoundrel70]

I think this is the sort of kit that is more likely to actually be carried by the hobby, and weekend warrior type crowd. It's not tacticool, it's not re-enactor/period piece, it's compact, and fairly light and unobtrusive. For me, the main trick is to not over-stuff it and take away those qualities. Not a dedicated 72h, BOB, ultra-environment sustainment pack, but more like an "oops" pack for inconvenience situations rather than a full on catastrophe. I have a couple small packs that I did not follow the "go-lite" philosophy and outgrew due to the strange breeding habits of gear that might be just the thing to make one of these out of. Thanks Dan! Don't forget to restock the protein bars!

[@MrFlyrod7]

Pretty simplistic, however checks all the blocks and lightweight. Great kit!

[@BillHinson]

Great kit thanks for sharing

[@briangaldamez8070]

All I need is a shelter, I really like how small that T6 break down too. Really tempting.

[@Oldsparkey]

Nice pack and well thought out. I have a implanted Defibrillator/pacer below the right collar bone so I tend to stay away from shoulder straps. My choice is either a Mountainsmith Day ( 13L ) Lumber Pack or the Mountainsmith Drift ( 5 L ) lumber pack. Can't go wrong with either one of them.

[@discorollerblade6107]

Nice kit man!

[@mtnbound2764]

the thing i like about you/ this channel is they actually mean survival. you dont really need much but shelter, water, fire food. and that pack has it all( after throwing some granola & protien bars in there). alot of the "survival" type of stuff is basically just crappy camping.

[@Biggrizz777]

Awsome vids love your stuff

[@larryfregin2859]

I really really like your intro music. Stays with you

[@PenntuckytheCrag]

Thx Dan great video. Inspiring !

[@smittyforge5127]

Hey Dan, Thank You Very Much. I never knew that it was there ...^5's man.

[@sheilablake7913]

Can’t wait to be getting out into the beautiful spring weather here in the U.K. we’re still in lockdown a year later! It’s driving me crazy, it’s so lovely out there when you see life come back around. Much love to all 💕

[@thewatcher611]

What is "Lockdown"? I'm from South Dakota, where our governor trusts us to make our own decisions. No stay at home orders, no mask mandates. Maintained the right to peacefully assemble. We didn't defund our police force. All that, AND low Covid case numbers. Sorry if I'm not familiar with the term.... I don't mean to sound snarky...but I hope things get better for the whole world out there.

[@sheilablake7913]

@@thewatcher611 Thank you, it doesn’t sound snarky. We are in lockdown which means, in our home, only allowed to the grocery store & only 1 person from a household wearing masks & encouraged to shop online though. No schools open, nothing else open. No meeting people you don’t live with family/friends etc. 1 hour of exercise per day (wearing a mask) at your closest area. And others encouraged to call the police if they see you breaking the rules! It’s been hard, but harder still on the children, especially those not old enough to understand but to understand they haven’t seen their family for a year.

[@melissamcdonley6598]

Great video!

[@joeluevano9366]

Interesting, making me rethink all the first aid items in my quick get home pack.

[@TheDTAnderson]

“Sorry Rambo” 😆 good stuff keep up the good work and great content!!!

[@Dreoilin]

I'd add a 55gl Barrel liner and maybe a power bank for your cell and flashlight.

[@bobscar327]

Good stuff, again.

[@MiscMitz]

Great stuff

[@spareamintz8708]

Bustin out of that van like the A TEAM!!! YEAH!

[@gordontyree9858]

First aid kit? TP and wipes? Not much added weight. I know you said you could use the Gorilla tape and bandana, and that’s ok, but I would add a little more comprehensive FAK....nothing crazy tho! TP and wipes are necessities for me. Just my thoughts. Great video bro! Thanks!

[@rickkerans8485]

Good Loudoun. Seems like a nice oh no this day trip is now an overnight trip.

[@nateg2934]

I like your content.

[@irfanahmed9112]

Buddy u look passionate about outdoor.I felt ecstacy yo see ur van

[@thomasmusso1147]

👍👍👍. I just add a little 'Hygiene Kit' to mine .. fits into my pocket also. Takes up almost no space. Wet Wipes, some TP, those little compressed 'add water' towels and a small bottle of disinfectant gel. For if I'm 'caught short' somewhere (and it has happened), I like to feel 'fresh' afterwards. Perhaps not essential but then, that's me. Take care ..

[@yizhuolin3906]

huh, never thought of a flashlight clamp to the hat trick, awesome! now I've learned a thing

[@melvinhowell5469]

Great video, and much appreciated. The T6Zero looks like a great piece of kit. I might be interested in purchasing it, but I just visited the store and it is unavailable in any version. Any idea when it will be available?

[@charlesmccrea834]

Great video. Carry a whistle and bring back Q&A. 🙏

[@nilsschenkel7149]

I´d add a signaling whistle to the pack if you´re not already carrying one on your person. They require less breath than shouting or whistling on your fingers, and their sound is noticed easier over background noise (a storm, whitewater etc). Apparently the worst conditions to conducting a successfull search are in places with a lot of said background noise, or in terrain that prohibits any sound from traveling a great distance (boulder fields, thickets, or an area with a lot of canyons). A proper signalling whistle definitely would increase your chances of being found in these scenarios.

[@rickecheverria8052]

I would have a whistle also...

[@gregcrowe8885]

Thank You

[@concretecowboy4212]

Thnxs 4 sharing

[@edgarfriendly7571]

Nice video - like your thinking. But if it’s for purely survival/ being found, I probably would choose a backpack in a very bright color.

[@titanpreparedness]

Well its a interesting day pack or summer kit

[@smittyforge5127]

2nd comment... Everytime I watch a video of yours I learn something ... Its great!

[@JimKernix]

How about a good ole Jansport as a day pack? I used to carry books in college that were as heavy as large bricks. Anu multi-tools in your pocket or on your belt?

[@herbsmith6871]

Very cool 🤠

[@theshanester338]

Good stuff

[@woodsmoke1411]

I include a basic first aid kit and a compact water filter ( Sawyer squeeze or Katadyn B-Free ), a sil-nylon poncho / tarp, spare socks, woolly hat, plastic bags, a foam sit pad for back padding.

[@richardcanfield2741]

Love gear, thanx

[@1Darmbr]

When he dropped all the plastic tent pegs I about lost it, lol. 🤣

[@OzMan9989]

In my car trunk. Small backpack, old pair sneakers, Katydyne BeFree, Pathfinder steel bottle, bahco Laplander, mora black, compass, bandana, gorilla tape, ferro rod, Swot tourniquet, fire kit with two 6-inch Orion flares (guaranteed fire anywhere), whistle, poncho, tyvek sheet, Mylar blanket, contractor bag, bank line, plastic sheeting, beanie and an old junkie fleece.

[@CastleBricks]

Hey 👋🏻 Great video 😊 What brand is the small knife ? 🤔

[@HEKTIKTHESHUFLLER]

I like the idea of what you

[@peachsncream5808]

I’m always surprised to note that most people only carry one torch. Just like knives, I don’t leave out without 3 various sizes ,placed separately -but within reach .

[@MrRourk]

I carry a mini super torch thingy and ul headlamp. Then I always have a keychain mini torch as well.

[@jasholden9741]

The best way to carry a spare battery is to carry it in the smallest flashlight that it fits.

[@zacharypool]

Can we get a video about that sick van?

[@adamgrimes820]

Thoughts on snugpak jungle blanket compared to standard military poncho?

[@glenthomas6306]

Ever time I watch one of your videos , after becoming a subscriber, and get asked to either like, subscribe or share you owe me a dollar

[@Pygar2]

He'd rather owe it to you a lifetime than try and beat you out of it!

[@mr.wildernessoutdoors1281]

Thanks for the video vary good

[@thomasdeebel6695]

Dan, what was the total cost, bag included minus the knife?

[@willrudasill3014]

What brand back pack is the canvas bag

[@spartan68w68]

Will the orange T6 ZERO be restocked soon? @coalcrackerbuahcraft

[@holts9596]

You need to add a leatherman signal there a nice edc

[@FgtRtd]

This might sound ridiculous but have you thought about a smaller dyneema pack for an ultralight survival bag? I’m using the hyperlite mountain gear summit pack , 30 liter roll top and it weighs around 12 oz. and completely waterproof

[@roddinandracin1153]

Ha I got a similar style backpack with everything but blanket plus 2 plastic water bottles for bike rides with the boy

[@shawnashley4938]

So many videos out there with great gear and very few have a simple first-aid kit. Coleman makes a small family essential first-aid tin. Bandaids dont take up a lot of room. A small first aid kit will be extremely useful especially if you have kids or others you have to keep safe too. Collectively we have to stop thinking gorilla tape for wounds is fine.

[@adamgrimes820]

Can you do any cool balisong tricks with that big boy?

[@thelast0102]

What do you think about personal locator beacons for solo adventures?

[@coalcracker]

Great idea. Worth having one

[@wmcholt8796]

That knife should at least be part of the fire kit if you don’t think it’s number one as a stand alone tool. Just my opinion (I’d add a silky pocket boy also) good Vid as always Dan!!

[@downunderprepparedness]

expensive; but I now run the Grayl Titanium for edc/hiking etc to get the benefits/backup of metal and cooking etc

[@donwilson9939]

All the ladies love checking out Dan's KIT! Don't they Dan? 😜😜

[@sheilablake7913]

Yes. Haha! - Lucky wife 😉

[@stcstwwlove]

What r the best ways to repair gear?