Even if they go out and buy the equipment they still need to have some skills. For instance in the town I live in there are two outdoor stores (soon to be three when REI comes in) that sell Doug’s original pocket kit. But just the folks walking in the door of those stores-- probably have a better idea of for instance how to get a sustaining fire going from a spark and tinder than the average joe. Doug’s kit does have darn good printed instructions with the kit.

So they either need knowledge and practice or well written instructions with the kits no matter what the size of the kit and how the kits supplement each other. Then they will also have to maintain the supplies and equipment. I’m sure too many go out and buy a flashlight and toss it in the trunk only to find it not working with leaking batteries a year or so later.

Next they need adequate clothing and footwear kits for the environment they are in or traveling and in cold climates that does get fairly expensive.