As far a safty gear I have to agree with Desperado about the parchute. Though I should add that I have never sky dived nor used a parachute, so that may be more harm than good.

I did live in Alaska (didn't grow up there) I was on a Volenteer SAR team. My bags were always packed with gear that you would NEVER get on a plane (even more so post 9-11). But if you are flying ins small aircraft I would sugest the following

PSK (keep this one light and be aware of flair and matches issues. there is a TSA aproved butain lighter capsual for flying)

Small light AX
Saw

Packing synthetic clothing (dont' wear it, see above)

Also I would not be afraid to polightly ask if they have necessary safty gear. and take a moment to know where that gear is.

But that is just my thought