Gelert Survival Bag

This is a must have piece of kit for anyone involved in outdoor activities. They are more than just a big plastic bag as some people think they are. For example, it proved its worth while walking with some friends in the Brecon Beacons we came across a group where one of the members was having heart attack. This incident was brought to our attention by the waving of the bright orange bag and blowing of whistles. These survival bags proved vital in insulating him from the ground and keeping him dry. They also aided in attracting the Search and Rescue Helicopter.

I am in charge of kit for Loughbough Students Union Hiking Club; as such I deal with the purchase and maintenance of the clubs kit. I was pleasantly surprised to discover quite how hard wearing these bags are. They are not often used for survival situations but they get used as seats on rocks and rough ground and sledges when there is enough snow. Even with these abuses they still in very good condition and not full of holes.

Is it justifiable not to carry one, whatever outdoor activity you are doing; when it costs only a few pounds, weighs next to nothing and is life saving piece of kit.