Cheap Survival Gear: Best You Can Buy for Under $25

Cheap Survival Gear: Best You Can Buy for Under $25

By Elise Xavier

Whether you’re working on buffing up yoursurvival gear stockpilefor cheap, or you’re just looking for some affordable survival stocking stuffersto help celebrate the Christmas season, knowing which cheap survival gear is available and actuallyworth the dollars you’ll spend on it is a huge boon. If you can save a pretty penny while not taking too much of a hit to quality, there’s a good argument to be made for going for the cheaper alternative, especially in the case where you otherwise wouldn’t have been able to afford the full-fledged, more expensive piece of gear quite yet.

The law of diminishing returns makes it so that some of these items, especially in the $15-20 and $20-25 price range, are actually some of the best you can get for your money. We all know how amazing agood ol’ Mora survival knifecan be bang-for-buck, for example. While there aremany other,moreexpensive alternatives, it’s hard to make the case that you’re better off spending your hard-earned cash on them when you haven’t got much cash to spare and the Mora will do absolutely great.

Bahco Laplander 9-Inch Blade Folding Saw – Amazon

I’ve taken the time to pull together what I think are the best value survival products currently available at the $5, $10, $15, $20, and $25 price points. While there’s plenty offered at each price range, there are quite a number of products that simply aren’t worth a second look. Many have bad reviews from people who feel they just plain don’t work out the way you’d like them to, and others,pieces of kit thatdon’t have many reviews racked up quite yet, look like they’re likely to be shoddy at best when it comes to performance.

As a result, I’ve tried to weigh into consideration personal experience, especially with regards to brand, as well as the number of product reviews a specific survival gear item has and the overall rating those reviews resulted in. My general line of thought is pretty obvious – if a piece of gear gets a large number of reviews, and has a high rating (4 stars and above), it’s probably safe to say that it’s good value for the money; and if I know and trust the brand, it’s more likely to be better quality (considering past experience with items I’ve purchased from the same brand), than no-name brands and those that are virtually unrecognizable because they make one-off products.

In terms of cheap survival gear shopping by brand, Mora (as I’ve mentioned before) is quite a good one for survival knives, Ultimate Survival Technologies (usually abbreviated “UST”) is often quitegood at very cheap survival kits and gadgets, S.O.L. (otherwise known as “Survive Outdoors Longer”) is also quite good at very cheap survival kits and gadgets, andUCO Gear seems to be quite good at cheap survival matches, candles, and other similar items. Every once in a while you’ll catch a very cheap and affordable product from an otherwise mid-range or expensive brand – such as Leatherman, Gerber Gear, Coleman, Fenix, etc. These are great deals, as while these pieces of kit are obviouslynot as good quality as the brand’s more expensive gear, they are usually better bang-for-buck in the price range and really over-deliver when you compare them to the no-name or cheaper-brand gear that’s at the same price point.

I really wouldn’t advise buying a survival knife from a brand you don’t recognize as being good and popular in the industry – even if it has a zillion and one positive reviews on Amazon. You’re much better off sticking to cheaper alternatives from known brands, or as I’ve mentioned twice now, sticking to getting a Mora. The three knives I’ve listed below in this article are all cheap and quite good, theBahco 2444 Carpenter, theMora Companion, and theHultafors Heavy Duty GK(which we’ve reviewed here). So if you’re really gunning for a cheap and affordable survival knife, I highly recommend you get one of these instead of, say, this cheap-as-hell survival knifethat’s managed to rack up quite a large number of positive reviews, likely from people who have barely even used the product. It’s not hard to make a knifelook like it would work well and not break and dull in bad situations, it’s not easy to make a knife that cheaply that will last under hard use (which is exactly what you’re going to be needing that knife for if you are serious about wanting it for survival).

Anyway, disclaimers out of the way, now it’s time to get to the good stuff!

Light My Fire Swedish Firesteel Mini – Amazon
Opinel No8 Carbon Pocket Knife – Amazon

Best Cheap Survival Gear Under $5

CRKT Eat’N Tool – Black Oxide, CLAM Pack 9100KC

Adventure Medical Kits Sol Slim Rescue Howler Whistle, 2 Count

UCO 9+ Hour Candles for Candle Lanterns (3.5 Inch)

Coleman 2000003267 Insect Head Net, 10 x 24-Inch

UST Ultimate Survival Technologies Survival Bandana, Orange

<img src="//ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41IakP0wNNL._SL75_.jpg" alt="Coleman Insect Head Net" data-jpibfi-indexer="0" /> / Coleman Insect Head Net
Average Rating: <img src="//morethanjustsurviving.com/wp-content/plugins/amzn/stars/433stars.png" alt="" data-jpibfi-indexer="1" />
323 total customer reviews…

The American Red Cross Blackout Buddy H2O water-activated, emergency light, ARCBBH2010W-SNG

Lyons Blue Emergency Survival Whistle

UST Ultimate Survival Technology5-in-1 Tool

Survival Waterproof Cigarette Flint Lighter Silver – Mini Peanut Capsule Outdoor Oil Lighter – Fire Starter Key Chain Lighter

<img src="//ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41qBxdKs%2BPL._SL75_.jpg" alt="Survival Waterproof Cigarette Flint Lighter Silver - Mini Peanut Capsule Outdoor Oil Lighter - Fire Starter Key Chain Lighter" data-jpibfi-indexer="2" /> / Survival Waterproof Cigarette Flint Lighter Silver – Mini Peanut Capsule Outdoor Oil Lighter – Fire Starter Key Chain Lighter
Average Rating: <img src="//morethanjustsurviving.com/wp-content/plugins/amzn/stars/4stars.png" alt="" />
23 total customer reviews…

P-38 Can Opener and P-51 Can Opener

Rothco Survival Tent

Zippo Waxed Tinder Sticks 8 Pack

Adventure Medical Kits SOL Emergency Blanket (1-Person)

Krazy Glue KG48448MR Instant Crazy Glue Advanced Formula Gel 0.14-Ounce

<img src="//ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41JFWNMiJdL._SL75_.jpg" alt="Krazy Glue KG48448MR Instant Crazy Glue Advanced Formula Gel 0.14-Ounce" data-jpibfi-indexer="4" /> / Krazy Glue KG48448MR Instant Crazy Glue Advanced Formula Gel 0.14-Ounce
Average Rating: <img src="//morethanjustsurviving.com/wp-content/plugins/amzn/stars/433stars.png" alt="" data-jpibfi-indexer="5" />
78 total customer reviews…

Pac-Kit 21-770 Disposable Thermometer (Box of 10)

Leegoal Commando Wire Saw Bulk, Ideal For Survival Kits

5pcs Magnesium Fire Starter Flint Stone Lighter Kit Black

SE MT908-1 11-Function Survival Pocket Tool

Portable Windproof Waterproof Survival Lighter Matches Storm Emergency Camping

<img src="//ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41OaO02PeJL._SL75_.jpg" alt="3CERA Portable Windproof Waterproof Survival Lighter Matches Storm Emergency Camping" data-jpibfi-indexer="3" /> / 3CERA Portable Windproof Waterproof Survival Lighter Matches Storm Emergency Camping
Average Rating: <img src="//morethanjustsurviving.com/wp-content/plugins/amzn/stars/333stars.png" alt="" data-jpibfi-indexer="4" />
1,043 total customer reviews…

Best Cheap Survival Gear Under $10

SE EB122OR Emergency Sleeping Bag with Drawstring Carrying Bag

Ultimate Survival Technologies WetFire Tinder Tube of 8 Cubes

iOSAT Potassium Iodide Tablets, 130 mg (14 Tablets)

CHENBO Portable Collapsible Outdoor Backpacking Camping Stove Butane Propane Burner for Gas Canisters

Emergency Mylar Thermal Blankets (Pack of 10)

<img src="//ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41IzcMTuARL._SL75_.jpg" alt="Emergency Mylar Thermal Blankets (Pack of 10)" data-jpibfi-indexer="8" /> / Emergency Mylar Thermal Blankets (Pack of 10)
Average Rating: <img src="//morethanjustsurviving.com/wp-content/plugins/amzn/stars/466stars.png" alt="" />
2,447 total customer reviews…

SAS Survival Guide 2E (Collins Gem)

UCO Stormproof Matches, Waterproof and Windproof with 15 Second Burn Time – 25 Matches

Lansky PS-MED01 BladeMedic

Survival Fishing Kit – Compact Kit For Campers/Hikers (10 Pieces)

<img src="//ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/510irt9deaL._SL75_.jpg" alt="UCO Stormproof Matches, Waterproof and Windproof with 15 Second Burn Time - 25 Matches" /> / UCO Stormproof Matches, Waterproof and Windproof with 15 Second Burn Time – 25 Matches
Average Rating: <img src="//morethanjustsurviving.com/wp-content/plugins/amzn/stars/466stars.png" alt="" data-jpibfi-indexer="7" />
220 total customer reviews…

SE FS374 Magnesium Fire Starter

Potable Aqua Water Treatment Tablets

Nexcare Waterproof Clear Bandage Assorted Sizes, 50 Count Package

SE CC4580 Military Lensatic Sighting Compass with Pouch

115 Hour Plus Emergency Candle Clear Mist

<img src="//ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51GFuGtgWGL._SL75_.jpg" alt="Potable Aqua Water Treatment Tablets" data-jpibfi-indexer="11" /> / Potable Aqua Water Treatment Tablets
Average Rating: <img src="//morethanjustsurviving.com/wp-content/plugins/amzn/stars/466stars.png" alt="" />
1,265 total customer reviews…

Sure-Pak MRE Full Meal Kit with Heater-Single Meal (Meal May Vary)

Ultimate Survival Technologies StarFlash Signal Mirror

The Friendly Swede Single Camping Bed Mosquito Net

UST Wet Fire Tinder, Pack of 5

<img src="//ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51eWD12SsHL._SL75_.jpg" alt="Sure-Pak MRE Full Meal Kit with Heater-Single Meal (Meal May Vary)" data-jpibfi-indexer="9" /> / Sure-Pak MRE Full Meal Kit with Heater-Single Meal (Meal May Vary)
Average Rating: <img src="//morethanjustsurviving.com/wp-content/plugins/amzn/stars/4stars.png" alt="" />
221 total customer reviews…

Bahco 2444 Carpenter Mora Multi Purpose Knife

UST Ultimate Survival Technologies JetScream Whistle

Lighting Ever Led Headlamp, 18 White Led And 2 Red Led, 4 Brightness Level Choice

Esbit 1300 Degree Smokeless Solid Fuel Cubes for Backpacking

<img src="//ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31tiRO3LNtL._SL75_.jpg" alt="Bahco 2444 Carpenter Mora Multi Purpose Knife" data-jpibfi-indexer="11" /> / Bahco 2444 Carpenter Mora Multi Purpose Knife
Average Rating: <img src="//morethanjustsurviving.com/wp-content/plugins/amzn/stars/5stars.png" alt="" data-jpibfi-indexer="12" />
176 total customer reviews…

Best Cheap Survival Gear Under $15

Morakniv Companion Fixed Blade Outdoor Knife with Sandvik Stainless Steel Blade, 4.1-Inch

98.6 Degrees: The Art of Keeping Your Ass Alive

Light My Fire Swedish FireSteel 2.0 Army 12,000 Strike Fire Starter with Emergency Whistle

Rothco Canvas Map Case

Fenix E01 Compact LED Flashlight – 1 x AAA Battery

<img src="//ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41UyhSqCk7L._SL75_.jpg" alt="Fenix E01 Flashlight, Black" data-jpibfi-indexer="18" /> / Fenix E01 Flashlight, Black
Average Rating: <img src="//morethanjustsurviving.com/wp-content/plugins/amzn/stars/466stars.png" alt="" data-jpibfi-indexer="19" />
233 total customer reviews…

Anker PowerCore+ mini (Premium Lipstick-Sized 3350mAh Power Bank) 3rd Generation External Battery with High Quality Panasonic Battery Cell

Esbit Ultralight Folding Pocket Stove with Six 14g Solid Fuel Tablets

ER Emergency Ration 3600+ Calorie, 5-Year Emergency Food Bar for Survival Kits and Disaster Preparedness

Hultafors 380020 Heavy Duty Knife GK Green Handle with Sheath

Pro Force Camcon Shemagh

<img src="//ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31ZdIVkJyJL._SL75_.jpg" alt="Esbit Ultralight Folding Pocket Stove with Six 14g Solid Fuel Tablets" data-jpibfi-indexer="20" /> / Esbit Ultralight Folding Pocket Stove with Six 14g Solid Fuel Tablets
Average Rating: <img src="//morethanjustsurviving.com/wp-content/plugins/amzn/stars/466stars.png" alt="" />
574 total customer reviews…

Grabber All Weather Blanket

MPOWERD Luci Inflatable Solar Lantern

OliCamp Space Saver Cup

SABRE RED Pepper Spray – Police Strength – Home & Away Protection Kit

Outop Picnic Camping Hiking Backpacking Pot Pan Cookware

survivalTOUGH- Survival Pocket Chain Saw with Pouch in 24-Inch, 36-Inch, or 48-Inch

<img src="//ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41Gx4ygWWXL._SL75_.jpg" alt="SABRE RED Pepper Spray - Police Strength - Home &amp; Away Protection Kit (Most Popular Key Chain &amp; Home Pepper Foam)" data-jpibfi-indexer="14" /> / SABRE RED Pepper Spray – Police Strength – Home & Away Protection Kit (Most Popular Key Chain & Home Pepper Foam)
Average Rating: <img src="//morethanjustsurviving.com/wp-content/plugins/amzn/stars/433stars.png" alt="" data-jpibfi-indexer="15" />
214 total customer reviews…

Best Cheap Survival Gear Under $20

QuikClot Advanced Clotting Sponge, 1.75 oz (50g)

LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

Barnett Outdoors Slingshot with Stabilizer and Brace

Texsport Reinforced Rip-Stop Polyethylene Tarp (Camouflage, 10 x 12-Feet)

Anker Astro E1 5200mAh Ultra Compact Portable Charger and External Battery Power Bank with PowerIQ Technology

<img src="//ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51ib9QDrw5L._SL75_.jpg" alt="Barnett Outdoors Cobra Slingshot with Stabilizer and Brace" data-jpibfi-indexer="7" /> / Barnett Outdoors Cobra Slingshot with Stabilizer and Brace
Average Rating: <img src="//morethanjustsurviving.com/wp-content/plugins/amzn/stars/466stars.png" alt="" />
185 total customer reviews…

Suunto A-10 Field Compass

AmazonBasics AA High-Capacity Rechargeable Batteries (8-Pack) Pre-charged

OuterEQ 8pcs Lightweight Outdoor Camping Hiking Cookware Backpacking Cooking Picnic Bowl Pot Pan Set

Leatherman Style CS Multi-tool

J.CROW’S® Lugol’s Iodine Solution(2 oz.) Twin Pack(2 bot.)

<img src="//ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41aSzAYjDUL._SL75_.jpg" alt="Leatherman 831207 Style CS Clip-On Multi-Tool with Scissors" data-jpibfi-indexer="18" /> / Leatherman 831207 Style CS Clip-On Multi-Tool with Scissors
Average Rating: <img src="//morethanjustsurviving.com/wp-content/plugins/amzn/stars/466stars.png" alt="" />
597 total customer reviews…

3M Vetbond® Tissue Adhesive, 3ml Bottles

Gerber Dime Multi-Tool

Klean Kanteen Wide Mouth Bottle with Stainless Loop Cap

Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System

Nitecore D2 smart Charger 2015 version with LCD display For Li-ion

<img src="//ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41mxGkjTflL._SL75_.jpg" alt="Sawyer Products SP101 Mini Water Filtration System, Single, Green" data-jpibfi-indexer="20" /> / Sawyer Products SP101 Mini Water Filtration System, Single, Green
Average Rating: <img src="//morethanjustsurviving.com/wp-content/plugins/amzn/stars/466stars.png" alt="" data-jpibfi-indexer="21" />
2,373 total customer reviews…

Best Cheap Survival Gear Under $25

iRonsnow IS-088 Dynamo Emergency Solar Hand Crank Self Powered AM/FM/NOAA Weather Radio, LED Flashlight, Smart Phone Charger Power Bank with Cables

Anker 2nd Gen Astro E3 Ultra Compact 10000mAh Portable Charger External Battery Power Bank with PowerIQ Technology

Rothco Hw Canvas Classic Messenger Bag

Gerber Suspension Multi-Plier [22-01471]

Fiskars Consumer Prod 78506935 14-Inch Hatchet

<img src="//ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31M8oGZFfaL._SL75_.jpg" alt="Fiskars X7 Hatchet, 14-Inch" data-jpibfi-indexer="22" /> / Fiskars X7 Hatchet, 14-Inch
Average Rating: <img src="//morethanjustsurviving.com/wp-content/plugins/amzn/stars/466stars.png" alt="" data-jpibfi-indexer="23" />
1,012 total customer reviews…

Deluxe Butane Burner Stove with Free Case

Plusinno® Telescopic Fishing Rod Retractable Fishing Pole Rods Saltwater Travel Spinning Fishing Rods Poles

Bahco 396-LAP Laplander Folding Saw, 9-Inch Blade, 7 TPI

Rebel Tactical Military Issue Combat Application Tourniquet CAT

Silva Guide 426 Compass

<img src="//ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31YTo1DFaFL._SL75_.jpg" alt="Bahco 396-LAP Laplander Folding Saw, 9-Inch Blade, 7 TPI" data-jpibfi-indexer="32" /> / Bahco 396-LAP Laplander Folding Saw, 9-Inch Blade, 7 TPI
Average Rating: <img src="//morethanjustsurviving.com/wp-content/plugins/amzn/stars/5stars.png" alt="" />
974 total customer reviews…

DuoDERM Extra Thin CGF Dressing – 4 x 4″ – Box of 10

115 Hour Plus Emergency Candles, Clear Mist – SET OF 3 Long-Burning Survival Candles

Etekcity Ultralight Portable Outdoor Backpacking Camping Stoves with Piezo Ignition

Charles River Apparel Pacific Poncho

Solar Charger, Solar Power Bank 10000mAh with Phone Dock & Flashlight Function ; Shockproof Rain-proof Dual USB Solar Panel

<img src="//ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/511VR3AC%2BvL._SL75_.jpg" alt="115 Hour Plus Emergency Candles, Clear Mist - SET OF 3 Long-Burning Survival Candles" data-jpibfi-indexer="34" /> / 115 Hour Plus Emergency Candles, Clear Mist – SET OF 3 Long-Burning Survival Candles
Average Rating: <img src="//morethanjustsurviving.com/wp-content/plugins/amzn/stars/433stars.png" alt="" />
4 total customer reviews…