The Ultimate 10C's + 3 Pocket Survival Kit: Compact, Comprehensive, and Clever

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Unpacked gear
Preparedness and resourcefulness are paramount. That's why the concept of the "10 C's of Survival" has become a fundamental framework for outdoor enthusiasts. However, what if we told you that you could go beyond the basics and create a kit that not only covers the 10 C's but also adds three valuable elements for enhanced preparedness and comfort? In this article, we introduce the concept of the "10 C's + 3" Pocket Survival Kit and provide a detailed breakdown of its contents.

The 10 C's

The "10 C's of Survival" is a concept that was first introduced by Dave Canterbury, the author of "Bushcraft 101" and "Advanced Bushcraft" ¹. The concept was later expanded to 15 items by the emergency prep community.  Over time, the concept has been altered and expanded by various sources, and the list of items may vary depending on the source.  And that's exactly what we are doing here!  

All gear packed in the Maxpedition Micro

Let's quickly recap the original 10 C's of Survival:

  1. Cutting Tool
  2. Combustion
  3. Cover
  4. Container
  5. Cordage
  6. Cargo Tape
  7. Compass
  8. Candling Device (Light)
  9. Canvas Needle
  10. Cotton Bandana

The 10 C's + 3

The 10 C's + 3 concept is something I created to build on the original 10 C's of survival by Dave Canterbury.  I've added a "0" at the beginning and items 11 & 12 at the end.

First Aid

Note that there is no first aid or trauma kit included in this list.  Dave Canterbury didn't put that in; Les Stroud doesn't put one in; so I won't either.  First aid is a necessary kit and is a separate kit.  First Aid items can expire and need replaced or could be used throught the course of multiple trips as needed.  First Aid is seperate.

"You will not find a first aid kit in my survival kits.  You won't find any items along that line, that genre--first aid.  The reason is:  first aid is serious.  You should invest in your own first aid kit separate from your survival kit."  -- Les Stroud, who goes on to add that you should know how to use every item in that kit and be properly trained.

Here are the 10 C's + 3

0. Carrier - Something to store and carry all this stuff in.  It could be a pack, a duffel, the "container" from #4, or (perhaps ideally) distributed throughout your pockets.   This is "number zero" because it's not really required for survival, but it is practical

1. Cutting Tool - Primarily knives and saws, specifically something that can be used to process wood into kindling and fuel for maintaining a fire and creating a shelter.  This could also include drilling tools, scissors, razor blades, etc.

2. Combustion - Ignition and tinder.  You will need some way to start and sustain a fire long enough to ignite the tinder, kindling, and fuel that you processed using the cutting tool.  Matches, lighters, ferro rods+ striker, lenses, char cloth, fire starters, and even paper are some of the items in this category.

3. Cover - It is critical to maintain core body temperature. The cover can be a shelter and/or clothing that will help to keep you warm (or cool) and dry.  The cover items will likely be some of the more bulky items in your kit.

4. Container - This is a vessel that can be used to hold and boil water to make it safe to drink.  Generally these are heaver items as they are made of metal, but aluminum foil could do the trick for the short term.

5. Cordage - Tying things down and together will be the primary way of building and creating fixtures and simple machines necessary for survival:  tents, tripods, sleep systems, and more.  Line can come in all sizes, but many people today lean on bankline and kevlar cord for this while others lean on paracord.

6. Cargo Tape - Quick repairs to flat surface items such as tarps, clothing, or even emergency wound closures.  In some cases a tear must be repaired for survival and only some kind of cargo tape will do the trick.

7. Compass - The basic purpose of a compass is to be able to walk in a straight line.  It can also help determine relative location and with some basic math help with distances.  This probably is the most optional item because many times survival involves staying in one place rather than moving around.

8. Candling Device - A way to make light when it is dark.  Headlamps, flashlights, lanterns, and candles are all examples.

9. Canvas Needle - I cannot remember any time I have ever actually sewed anything on a campout, but there are times where only a needle will work and cargo tape will not.  Key wounds, torn sails for a sailboat, and possibly repairs on clothing are in this category.

10. Cotton Bandana - The versatility and applications of a cotton bandana make it a key component.  It can help with binding wounds, serve as a flame extender, cover your head, use to keep things clean, secure an item quickly, strain water before boiling, and add an extra layer of cover.  That's just for starters.

11. Communication - This isn't "required" for survival, but it can really help.  Communication includes cell phones, radio, satellite location devices, ground-to-air signals, signal mirrors, and even laser pointers to help bring attention to yourself and your situation so you can get help.

12. Comfort - Simple comfort items can go a long way for boosting morale and making less work of a chore.  Change in clothing, easy meals, hygiene, books, games, and personal mementos are in this category.  If you have capacity to carry comfort items, you should.

The Packing List

Here's a closer look at the components that make up the '10 C's + 3' Pocket Survival Kit—a carefully assembled collection of gear and essentials designed to enhance your readiness for outdoor adventures.

  1. Carrier: Maxpedition Micro pocket organizer - This reliable organizer keeps all your survival gear in one easily accessible place.
  2. Cutting Tool: Victorinox Farmer Alox - A versatile folding tool that includes a knife blade, saw, reamer, can opener, bottle opener, wire stripper, large and small flat-head screwdriver.
  3. Combustion: Multiple reliable ways to start a fire:
    • Ferro rod and striker: Generates a substantial amount of sparks.
    • Fresnel lens: Can capture and focus sunlight to create embers and start fires.
    • Stormproof matches (4) and match striker on ferro rod striker: Effective even in challenging conditions.
    • Small tuft of steel wool: Catches a spark and helps ignite other tinder.
    • Tinder quick (1): Easily ignited for quick fire building.
    • Small tuft of cotton (1): A versatile addition, compact and handy.
  4. Cover: Protection from the elements:
    • Disposable rain poncho: Keeps you dry or can be used to capture heat in a makeshift shelter.
    • Mylar blanket (52"x84"): Reflective and useful for shelter-building or reflective warmth.
  5. Container: Storage for water:
    • Produce bag in straw: Grab an extra from your local grocery store; it can hold up to a gallon for easy transport.
    • Aluminum foil sheets: Useful for creating a safe "dugout pot" in the ground for stone boiling water.
  6. Cordage: 50' Kevlar 200lb micro-cord.
  7. Cargo Tape: Orange pocket duct tape, 15'. Useful for repairs, fire starting, or signaling.
  8. Compass: Brunton EcoCompass with thermometer.
  9. Candling Device: Illumination for nighttime use:
    • Hatori mini LED with spare AAA cells (2).
    • Miniature glow stick.
  10. Canvas Needle: Small sewing needle (2).
  11. Cotton Bandana: 1 cotton bandana (wrapped in foil and compressed).
  12. Communication:
    • Vargo Titanium Emergency Whistle: Loud and effective for signaling.
    • Rite-in-the-Rain On-the-Go Notepad: Useful for recording vital information, leaving notes, or jotting down essential details.
    • Narwhal Pen: A reliable writing tool for your notepad.
    • UST StarFlash Micro Signal Mirror: Efficient for long-distance communication.
  13. Comfort:
    • Aqua Tablets: Ensure access to safe drinking water by purifying potentially contaminated sources.
    • Coffee Filter: Versatile for straining water, making improvised coffee, and as a flame extender to help start a fire.
    • Tackle Box in Mini-Tin: A compact fishing kit complete with 50 lb test on a bobbin, swivels, split shots, hooks, and even a fly




Thoughts and Considerations

  • The "10 C's + 3" concept expands the traditional survival kit to include communication and comfort elements, which can be essential for maintaining morale and increasing your chances of being rescued.
  • The Maxpedition Micro Pocket Organizer is the ideal carrier for this kit, even though it might require a bit of creativity to stuff it all in. Its durability and compact design make it worth the effort.
  • Compactness and lightweight gear are key for this kit, making it perfect for spring or autumn adventures or as a backup for more extended trips.
  • Additional considerations include finding space for a ground-to-air signal chart, exploring vacuum-sealed compression for the cotton bandana, and experimenting with multi-purpose tools like a laser pointer for communication.
  • While certain items (like snare wire and wire saws, can be beneficial) they must be used skillfully. If you include such items, please ensure you have the knowledge and experience to use them effectively.

Inspiration for this kit

The idea for the "10 C's + 3" Pocket Survival Kit is not just theoretical. It's inspired by real-world examples and videos, such as the How to fit ALL 10 C's of Survival in your pocket!! video. Learning from others' experiences and modifications can help you refine your own kit.

The UPGRADES to 10 C's Pocket Survival Kit (Viewer Suggestions + More) video offers valuable insights and suggestions from the survival community. It's a testament to the constant evolution of survival gear and techniques.

Conclusion

The "10 C's + 3" Pocket Survival Kit is a testament to the adaptability and creativity that the world of survival and bushcraft encourages. By expanding on the traditional 10 C's, we enhance our preparedness and comfort in the great outdoors. Whether you're an experienced survivalist or just getting started, this concept provides valuable insights into optimizing your gear for any adventure. Remember, in the wilderness, every item in your kit could be the key to your survival and comfort, making the "10 C's + 3" a valuable addition to your outdoor arsenal.

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