Being fairly new... and not having had the time to look over ALL the previous posts.. <img src="images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> I was looking at putting together some type of urban/suburban/outdoors kit that can be easily modified as needed... I'm sure there has been discussion on this, but was wondering if anyone had thought of using individual pouches that would attach to a belt... kind of like these: http://www.drifterbag.com/battery.htm

Not sure if these are actually of a useful size, but the idea is there I think.

As a start you might look over the lists of suggested contents that Doug has put up as what is in his kit. From there you could assemble on paper lists of what you think your modules should contain. This process will also help you think through what scenarios you wish to prepare for. Thinking about what you can live without in a given scenario will help you to determine what your different modules might need to be. Once you have lists of modules you might consider reducing redundancy in the modules where they will overlap because you will be carrying two or more modules at a time. Having pared it down to smallish module lists then see what size they will take up by going to REI or some other out-doors store which will have most of the items and see what you can stuff in what size pouch or box. Then if you have something that is reasonable in carry comfort and provides you with the correct "warm & fuzzy" prepared feeling leave the store without buying anything and assemble it at 1/2 or less the cost through the suggested links provided through this forum and web-site.

But first post your list of suggested modules here so we can let you know what you missed and completely destroy any warm and secure fuzzy feelings you might have developed. <img src="images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

I like your idea of the modularity, and I really like the size of the pouches you are considering. I toyed with the modular concept for a while, and at the time considered using U.S. military surplus first aid/compass pouches. I have not pursued that configuration because I didn't want to look like Batman with his utility belt, and also the first aid/compass pouches were too large for some of my modules. These pouches you have selected are another matter, and I think you will be more successful with the idea than I was.

I agree with miniMe about building your kit(s). There is no substitute for advance planning. Daydream (but not while you're driving!), mull things over, doodle and write things down. Check out other people's kits, and don't be afraid to build on them and/or improve on them.

You could probably do a search on PSK to find most of the kits here. Also, there is a dropdown menu at the upper right of most screens, and on it you will find a number of options that will lead you to more good info. At Gear and Equipment, for example, there are discussions about Gear and Equipment (!) and also Doug's evaluations of several other kits. Doug also lists several of his own kits at Doug's Kits. Skills & Technique is good reading, as well. As you read, you will probably get all kinds of ideas of things you may or may not want to include in your own kits.

Let us know how things go and what you come up with! Go for it!