Top 10 outdoor items you need to survive the wild

As a recently converted, semi-passable hiker, I had no idea just how many products are necessary to truly survive in the great outdoors.

Simple comforts like running water, electricity, and heating suddenly vanish, leaving you to rely on the essentials.

Here's a list of everything you'll need to make it through your outdoor adventures.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.

Night Cat Backpacking Tent

Get it for $63.99

This lightweight, rainproof tent features durable 210T polyester, waterproof seams, and strong fiberglass poles for stability. Weighing only 2kg and packing down to a manageable size, it's perfect for camping, hiking, and backpacking. The mesh door and roof provide ventilation while keeping bugs out, and the rainfly is securely attached.

One reviewer said: "Took this camping and was great. Quick setup and pack up. I'm a tall dude, 6'3, and it had plenty of length and width. Fit in my home bag no worries. Would highly recommend".

Sea To Summit Camp Rectangular Mat Green Regular Wide

Was $199.99, now $99.99

This sleeping mat is both tough and durable, with an abrasion-resistant base to protect against rough surfaces. Its 3.8cm thickness ensures a comfortable sleep, while the integrated drawstring allows for simple folding and secure packing, making it easy to transport and store for your next outdoor trip.

Kathmandu Camper 3 Sleeping Bag

Grab it for $199.98

This Kathmandu Sleeping Bag features a semi-rectangular shape with a roomy foot box for added comfort. Perfect for three-season use in mild climates, it's easy to care for, dries quickly, and ensures a comfortable, warm sleep with plenty of space to move.

Osprey Talon 33 Men's Hiking Pack

From $269.95

A top choice for hikers, the Talon 33 is a lightweight, versatile pack perfect for quick overnights or intense day hikes. Featuring a breathable AirScape back panel and flexible harness, it moves with you on every adventure. With attachment points for trekking poles and ice axes, plus a reservoir sleeve, this durable pack is made from eco-friendly, recycled materials.

The North Face Terra 65 Hiking Pack

Get it for $430

For those who need more space, the North Face Terra 65 is a top choice. The full-length U-zip allows quick access, while the adjustable thoracic carriage ensures a personalised fit. With a breathable back panel, shoulder straps, and hip belt, the Terra 65 keeps you cool and comfortable.

For women, check out the North Face Terra 55 Women's Hiking Pack.

Sportneer Compass Hiking Survival Compass

Get 15% here!

This professional-grade military compass offers precise readings with its lensatic function, making it ideal for the outdoors. Built with waterproof and shakeproof properties, it's designed to endure harsh conditions. Easy to carry with a belt loop or case, and the fluorescent dial glows in the dark for night navigation.

Sawyer Products Squeeze Water Filtration System

Get it for $71.87

This lightweight, 2-ounce filter removes bacteria, protozoa, cysts, sediment, and 100 per cent of microplastics. It fits in your hand and filters water directly into your mouth or bottle. The system includes two 32oz BPA-free pouches, a drinking straw, inline hydration pack adapters, and a mesh storage bag, making it easy to pack and use.

Aquatabs Water Purification 50 Tablets

Grab it for $14.98

For a lightweight, fast solution, opt for these Aquatabs Water Purification Tablets. They provide ready-to-drink water in just 30 minutes.

Victorinox Swiss Army Pocket Knife Hiker

Get it for $39.90

Featuring 13 functions, including a Phillips screwdriver and wood saw, this versatile pocket knife is built to handle any task in the wild.

Kathmandu Men's Ridge 200 PrimaLoft Bio Jacket

Get it for $199.98

Crafted from 100 per cent recycled fibres, this full-zip fleece jacket uses PrimaLoft Bio, a material that was made to help minimise the impact of microplastics. Lightweight yet warm, it's ideal for the outdoors, offering comfort and durability.

The North Face Paramount Convertible Pants

Get it for $160

Made with FlashDry-XD fabric and a non-PFC durable water-repellent finish, these pants are designed for performance and comfort. They include a zip-fly closure, side and back pockets, and concealed zippers at the cuffs to convert the pants into shorts for adaptable wear.

Salomon Speedcross 3

Grab it for $230

Built to tackle the toughest trails, the Salomon Speedcross 3, offers exceptional grip with its Contagrip outsole and cushioned support from its EVA midsole. Its sensifit technology ensures a snug fit for added stability. It features anti-debris mesh to keep dirt out and a Quicklace system for effortless, rapid adjustments.

For women, check out the Salomon Women's X Ultra Pioneer GTX Hiking Shoe. Read our full review HERE.

Kathmandu Thermo Socks Two Pack

Grab it for $59.98

Made from a durable blend of Merino wool and synthetic fibres, these medium-weight socks are built for outdoor adventures.

Kathmandu Ridge 100 PrimaLoft Bio Fleece Neck Gaiter

Get it for $39.98

If you are looking to hike in a colder climate, opt for this Kathmandu Fleece Neck Gaiter. Made from Primaloft Biomaterial, it provides lightweight warmth, as well as breathability.

360 Degrees Furno Stove & Pot Set

Was $109.99, now $59.99

This Furno Stove & Pot Set is a lightweight, all-in-one cooking system designed for the great outdoors. It includes a hard-anodised pot, a scourer, and a canister stabiliser, all of which fit inside the pot. Perfect for hiking or camping, this stove is ideal for preparing everything from a hot coffee to a warm meal after a long day on the trail. I took it along on my latest hike, and it was a game-changer – having a warm meal, even if it was just a dehydrated curry, made all the difference.

Blukar Head Torch

Grab it for $16.99

The Blukar Head Torch features a rechargeable 1200mAh battery, providing long-lasting power with 8 versatile lighting modes, including three options for different environments. It allows you to adjust brightness down to 30 per cent, with a 45-degree adjustable base, and a comfortable, breathable headband.

Barska Blackhawk Compact Waterproof Monocular

Grab it for $91.78

This monocular combines powerful 10x magnification with a wide 60-degree field of view, ensuring sharp and clear visuals. Its multicoated lenses and BK-7 roof prisms enhance image quality. It also features a weather-sealed design, which keeps it fog-proof and water-proof.

SCAXE10 28cm Full Tang Hatchet

Get it for $60.52

One reviewer said: "This axe is really small, you see the measurements on the description but till you get it and hold it, you don't realise just how small it is. That is not a bad thing for my use, it gets tucked into my backpack so it does not take a lot of room. For doing fire prep around the camp, it is perfect. I would not spend an afternoon processing wood but for camping trips, it is fine..."

PISAU Magnesium Block & Flint Military Fire Starter

Grab it for $11.89

This magnesium fire starter kit makes it easy to spark a fire in any weather, perfect for outdoor adventures. The mag bar serves as tinder and generates hot sparks in any wind conditions. Its compact and portable design makes it easy to carry in your pocket.

READ MORE: I've hiked over 90km in one pair of Salomons and here are my honest thoughts