I've got a ziplock bag in my PSK. Forget to mentio it, sorry!
You also have two bic lighters and some matches but I don't see any other fire making tools. I'd add at least a ferrocium rod and maybe a fresnel lens too in case you get hopelessly wet.
I've got a firesteel on my lanyard. I'm debating adding a mag block to my PSK as well. Wet tinder in the fall makes it worth the (little) extra weight.
I'd add a small whistle since an air horn is only good for a short time.
I've got three already - one on my lanyard, one on my keychain and one in my PSK.
I'd add a pair of leather work gloves unless you're used to working with your hands all day.
Good idea!
I'd add a second compass, even if it's just a button compass or zipper pull compass. You need a backup you
There's a button compass in my PSK.
I'd add extra batteries for all the lighting devices.
Good idea!
Some foil would come in handy as a windscreen for your stove or to wrap up any food you find.
Good idea!
With a pack as big as yours (55L) I imagine you still have lots of space in there. Since we're talking about a Fall weather load-out, I'd beef up the shelter a bit. Maybe add an Exped downmat or some cheaper pad if you are trying to keep costs down. You could also upgrade to the AMK thermal bivy bags instead of just heatsheets.
I carried a lighweight, hand-knit wool blanket during the summer. I'm debating putting it back in but think a thermarest would have more value now, considering that we're both carrying extra wool clothing now. I am moving the heatsheet to My pocket and adding a 2-person bivy to my shelter kit. Great suggestions!
If you will be with your son stuck in the woods, perhaps something to pass the time like a deck of cards or dice or a mini backgammon set or a little AM/FM radio.
Good idea. He has a little deck of cards in his kit but it can't hurt to put one in mine too.
You don't have anything for food gathering like fishing kit or snare kit. Perhaps they are inappropriate for your area, but food gathering equipment might be something to add.
There's a little fishing kit and wire in my PSK. I figure I can also use my cordage for snares.
Since this is also your get home bag, I don't see anything for self-defense. I'd start with a firearm or at least have an ASP baton, or a monkey fist ball bearing key chain, or some pepper spray, or a street legal knife like a Boker Subcom, neck knife, or even a retractable box cutter razor.
I do have a monkey fist on my keychain. (forgot to mention it - sorry.)
Overall a very nice kit you have. I like that you're carrying a lot of stuff on your person, that's something that I learned only recently from this website.
Kudos to our fellow ETSers!
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