Second place in our List of Lists Contest goes to PrepperMOM who submitted this list.  A terrific selection of Pampered Chef products valued at $40-ish will be sent out next week.

12 Things You Will  Need to Live Comfortably While Houseless (or in the wild)

Having lived in the woods , and houseless, for quite a few years before I had offspring, I know what you DO need , and what you DON’T need to live happily in an off-grid, houseless situation.

Here is what you NEED -

• Bandannas (Washcloth , napkin , snot rag, TP, easy bag for berries or herbs, a quick shirt (two knotted together), loincloth , head cover, mask, to tie things together, slingshot.
• Para cord /rope – Because there is never a lack of use
• Mid-Sized pocket knife – food prep, splinter removal, fishing , making fishing lures (from twigs) balance , boredom relief
• Tarp – blanket, shelter, cover, rug, backpack (roll up all your gear in it), water collection.
• Wide mouth metal water bottle/ cup / bowl (Preferably w/ sealable top)  – obviously water, herb/fruit gathering, holding bait, transporting small animals, food prep
• Sewing kit – Clothing, tent, tarp, or human repair.  A Few peices of Duck Tape wrapped around the case can come in handy as well.
• Magnesium carbide fire starter – With this and your pocket knife, you will always have a fire source.
• 6 Carabiners – The real ones not the pocket ones.  These are invaluable and will handle rough usage, air cacheing, dog leashing, shelter construction. You could do with 5 , but 6 is better.  They also can be used for fishing (to hold the line) and creating handing bed from tarp & rope/cord.
• Tea Tree Oil – Stinks to high heaven,  but it keeps critters away. Mosquito’s, parasites, disinfects, etc.
• A sturdy hand sized candle – Because you never know when you will need to go answer nature’s call.
• A pouch of tobacco – You would be amazed by how much a person is willing to trade for a cigarette. Even if you don’t smoke, this is valuable.
• A salt shaker/bottle of hot sauce – You never know what your gonna have to eat, but be prepared for it. It’s also of great barter value.

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