8 Multi-Purpose Survival Tools That Will Lighten Your Load

multipurpose survival tool sitting on a wooden table

You’ve done your research and have everything you need in your survival kit. But could you have overpacked? Thanks to multi-purpose tools, you can reduce the number of items you need and save big on space and weight. Check out these eight multi-purpose survival tools everyone should have on hand.

Benefits of Multi-Purpose Tools

When building your bug-out bag, you want to be efficient and practical. Multi-purpose tools help you accomplish both. By packing items that have multiple uses, you’ll enjoy these perks: 

Lighter Loads

Stockpiling multi-purpose tools reduces the number of items you need to carry. The result—a lighter load. We all know that you can go stronger for longer with less weight on your back. 

More Space for Other Essentials

Having a tool that can be used for multiple things can free up space in your bug-out bag. Added space can make carrying other essential survival tools easier. After all, why bring five items when you can make do with one?

More Efficiency

Multifunctional tools can help keep your bag clutter-free. The more tools and items you pack, the harder it’ll be to find what you’re looking for in a pinch. Efficiency is the name of the game. 

Multi-Purpose Survival Tools

1. Multi-Purpose Shovel 

Whether you’re stocking a bug-out bag or you enjoy a good outdoor adventure, you’ll want to add a survival shovel to your gear list. Choose a lightweight option like the 4Patriots Ready Shovel to save space and get the most benefit. Not only can you use it as an entrenching tool for building firepits and digging defensive positions, but you can also enjoy its other perks too. 

The Ready Shovel is made of strong carbon steel and comes with a saw edge, hex wrench, and nail remover. It also has a mini survival kit discreetly located inside the handle. This highly portable shovel will make a world of difference in a crisis.

2. Tarp 

A tarp should already be in your survival kit, but did you know that it helps with more than just shelter building? This waterproof cover can also be used to signal for help, catch fish, and keep essential items dry. Tarps can even double as a stretcher when carrying injured members. 

3. Paracord

Paracord has many practical benefits, and it can make carrying other items like extra rope unnecessary. These small, strong, and lightweight cords can be used in shelter building, medical emergencies, and more. 

Here are a few other great uses for paracord in a survival situation: 

  • Connecting gear to a vehicle or bug out bag
  • Fastening a splint
  • Making a tourniquet
  • Restraining an animal or threat
  • Tripwire
  • Building a snare to catch animals
  • Making a fish trap
  • Building hammocks
  • Making a clothesline
  • Lowering or raising equipment
  • Climbing or hiking

4. Tactical Flashlight

Tactical flashlights come equipped with various functions. The 4Patriots HaloXT, for example, has nine different features. It includes a seatbelt cutter, compass, hammer, power bank for charging accessories, and more. It’s also solar-powered, so you can skip adding extra batteries to your bug-out bag. 

5. Duct Tape 

Duct Tape is useful in day-to-day life, but it can also be helpful in survival and camping situations. Whether you’re using it to repair shelter roofing or as an emergency bandage, you’ll definitely find it useful. 

Other survival uses for duct tape are: 

  • Making cord or string
  • Mending broken items
  • Forming dishware
  • Marking trails
  • Making a first-aid sling
  • Patching holes

6. Zip Ties

Zip ties are another multi-use tool you’ll want to keep under your belt. They can come in handy in daily life, but they’re definitely worth their weight in outdoor adventures and crises. Pack them along and use them to: 

  • Organize gear
  • Compress bulky items
  • Restrain animals or threats
  • Attach gear to your vehicle, bag, or a tree
  • Repurpose or repair items and shelter
  • Mark trails when exploring unfamiliar territory

7. Car Escape Tool

A Car Escape Tool is easy to overlook. But in the event of a car wreck or other dangerous situation, you’ll want to have everything you need to reach safety. 

Use the whistle to signal for help. Escape jammed seat belts with the cutter. Smash through sealed car windows with the breaker. Put this powerful, compact tool on your keychain, and achieving safety will definitely be within reach.

8. Plastic Bags

Plastic bags are another versatile tool you’ll want to keep handy. They can be used to carry water, keep food, clothes, and fire kits dry, catch fish, store food, and keep important items organized. Not to mention, you can pick up after yourself to keep lurkers from tracking your location.


Creating a good survival kit with the right tools is an essential first step toward emergency preparedness. Whether you need quality survival gear or delicious survival food, 4Patriots has you covered. Order solar gadgets, meal kits, and multi-purpose tools like the Tactical Arc Lighter and Flashlight, and your family will be prepared for any emergency.