The invention—or discovery—of fire is considered one of the pivotal points in human evolution. In the Arctic, a ferro rod like this one, which is scraped on rough surfaces to produce sparks upwards of 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit, might mean the difference between winning and losing the competition. Watch the first episode to find out why not bringing one of these proved to be a big deal for one participant.
Camping out in the frigid temperatures of the Arctic without a proper sleeping bag would be asking for trouble. If the wild life doesn't get you, the frostbite might.
Many participants choose to bring a long folding saw with them. The tool will help them to build shelter and gather wood for fires, which both of which could prove vital to their chances of winning the grand prize.
Food is a major concern for participants as they try to survive life in the Arctic. Hunting for squirrels and other small wildlife is one major way to keep your strength up. Participants are allowed one primitive bow with nine arrows. Do they have the skills to strike down their prey? Watch the first episode now to see the incredible feat Barry accomplished with his bow and arrows.
A pocket knife can prove very useful when you're stranded in the wild. It can be used for protection, food preparation and shelter or tool-making. That's why seven of the ten participants chose to bring one with them to the Arctic.
The Leatherman multi-tool will help participants achieve many things as they look to build shelter and find food: A mini-saw for cutting wood, pliers for bending trap wire and different blades with which to cut food and other items.
Fishing line and hooks—the participants are allowed 300 yards worth of line and 25 barbless hooks—are a key tool participants will use to procure food in the Arctic. If a participant wants to win the $500,000 prize, he or she is going to have to eat.
With the Arctic's frigid temperatures, a safe place to sleep and face the elements is very important. Paracord and/or rope will help when building shelter because it helps keep tarps suspended in the air, wood bundles together and food in trees and away from bears.
This large pot is not only good for cooking, but also for purifying water—two essential elements to surviving alone in the wild.
With all that gear in tow, the participants are going to need a heavy-duty pack.
