Why You Should Carry a Survival Bag & Whistle on Every Walk
When heading out on any walk, whether it's a mountain challenge like the Yorkshire Three Peaks, Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Ben Nevis, or Scafell Pike, or a lower-level walk through rolling countryside, having the right safety equipment is essential. At Large Outdoors, we require all participants on our day walks and charity challenges to carry a survival bag and whistle. These are not optional extras—they are essential pieces of safety kit that could make a crucial difference in an emergency.
What is a Survival Bag?
A survival bag is a strong, lightweight plastic bag designed to reduce heat loss and provide emergency shelter. Unlike a sleeping bag, it has no insulation—it is simply a protective layer that can be used to retain body heat and protect against wind, rain, and exposure.
Key Features of a Survival Bag:
Bright orange colour – Designed for high visibility, making it easier for rescuers to locate you in poor weather conditions or from a distance.
Waterproof and windproof – Provides an essential barrier against the elements if you are injured or forced to stop walking.
Large enough to fit you inside – The bag is designed so that you can climb inside it, offering instant protection from rain and wind.
Lightweight and compact – Easy to carry in your rucksack without taking up much space.
Why is a Survival Bag Essential?
Many people assume survival bags are only necessary for extreme mountain walks, but the truth is, you can get caught out in any environment. A simple lowland walk can turn dangerous if the weather changes unexpectedly, if you or a group member become injured, or if visibility suddenly drops. Carrying a survival bag ensures that if you need to stop or wait for assistance, you can stay protected from hypothermia and exposure.
What is a Safety Whistle and Why Do You Need One?
A safety whistle is a loud, toughened plastic whistle designed to signal for help if you are lost or in distress. In an emergency, shouting is ineffective—your voice tires quickly, and wind or distance can make it hard to hear. A whistle is loud, consistent, and carries over long distances.
How to Use a Whistle in an Emergency
The internationally recognised distress signal is six blasts on the whistle, repeated after a one-minute break.
If you hear a reply of three blasts, it means help is on the way.
Continue this pattern until help arrives.
Whistles are small, lightweight, and fit easily onto your backpack, making them an essential piece of kit that should never be left behind.
Survival Bags & Whistles: Essential for Every Walk
At Large Outdoors, we strongly recommend that every walker carries a survival bag and whistle on all walks, regardless of difficulty level. Weather conditions can change rapidly, injuries can happen anywhere, and unexpected delays can leave you exposed for longer than planned.
If an event states that these items are compulsory, you will NOT be allowed to continue without them. This is for your safety and the safety of the group.
Where to Get a Survival Bag and Whistle
Survival bags and whistles are affordable and widely available at most outdoor retailers. Many survival bags cost just a few pounds, and a good-quality whistle is a small investment for an essential safety tool.
Final Thoughts
Carrying a survival bag and whistle is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prepare for any outdoor adventure. Whether you are tackling Ben Nevis, walking in the Lake District, or exploring a National Landscape, these essential pieces of kit ensure you stay safe if something unexpected happens.
At Large Outdoors, we believe in being prepared, staying safe, and enjoying the outdoors responsibly. Always check your kit list before heading out, and make sure your survival bag and whistle are in your rucksack—you never know when they might make all the difference.
Other Essential Emergency Kit
In addition to a survival bag and whistle, we recommend carrying the following essential kit for any walk:
Head Torch
It's easy to get caught out after dark, especially in the spring and autumn when it's warm but the days are still short. No matter how short the walk is, always carry a torch. You may decide to stay out longer than planned, or encounter someone that needs your help.
Spare Food
Always take more food than you think you'll eat. Having something spare at the bottom of your bag that you can fall back on if you get lost can be a real morale-booster and could provide you with the energy you need to get out of a difficult situation.
Spare Compass
Although it sounds like an extra precaution, a spare compass is something you should definitely consider, especially if you're walking alone. A careless knock or accidentally sitting on your compass can make navigation much harder. Keep the spare somewhere safe where it's unlikely to get damaged.
Phone and Waterproof Case
A phone is essential for contacting mountain rescue or calling others in your group to let them know where you are. Make sure it's fully charged when you set out, and keep it waterproof, preferably inside a protective case designed for use in wet conditions. Aquapac makes great options.
First Aid Kit
Everyone should carry at least a simple first aid kit, including tape, wound dressings, and painkillers. Having basic first aid supplies can help manage injuries until professional assistance is available.
Being prepared with the right emergency kit ensures you can handle unexpected situations safely and confidently, no matter where your walk takes you.
