Creating a New Generation of Altoids Tin Survival Kits

Altoids tin survival kits are a popular and practical way to carry essential survival tools in a compact, portable format. These kits, often referred to as "pocket survival kits," are small enough to fit in your pocket but often don't include items of quality. Grim Workshop believes you can carry a pocket size kit, yet pack it with items that can make a big difference in an emergency situation, especially when you create those items to be as space efficient  as possible. This ultimate guide will walk you through everything you need to know about creating, customizing, and utilizing Altoids tin survival kits to their fullest.

1. What is an Altoids Tin Survival Kit?

An Altoids tin survival kit is a collection of essential survival tools and supplies housed in a repurposed Altoids mint tin. Other tins work just fine, but a classical choice is an Altoids size tin, it's all about preference. These kits are designed to be small, lightweight, and easy to carry, making them perfect for everyday carry (EDC) or as a backup in a larger survival kit or tool kit. The idea is to pack as much functionality as possible into the limited space, ensuring you have the tools needed for basic survival in various situations without carrying a backpack of gear. Take a deeper dive into What is an Altoids Tin Survival Kit?

2. Why Use an Altoids Tin? Choosing the Right Container

The Altoids tin is a popular choice for DIY survival kits because of its durability, compact size, and availability. The metal construction protects the contents from the elements, and its small size allows it to fit easily in a pocket, backpack, or glove compartment. Additionally, the tin itself can be used for various purposes in a survival situation, such as boiling water or signaling for help, but your not limited to an Altoids tin....

Dive deeper into how to choose the right tin for a pocket survival kit. 

3. Types of Altoids Tin Survival Kits and Their Essential Components

Altoids tin survival kits can be tailored to a variety of specific needs and environments. Below are some of the most popular types of kits, along with the essential components for each:

Dive deeper into the different types of Altoids Tin Kits and their Components. 

Basic Survival Kit

A basic survival kit covers essential needs like fire-starting, cutting, and cordage. Include items such as waterproof matches, a small knife, paracord, and a mini compass. Grim Workshop’s Micro Tools and Survival Cards are perfect additions, offering multiple functions in a compact form.

Urban Escape and Evasion Kit

This kit is designed for situations where you need to evade detection or escape confinement in an urban environment. Include lock picks, a handcuff key, and small cutting tools. Grim Workshop’s Escape and Evasion Card provides essential tools for these scenarios, fitting neatly into an Altoids tin.

Urban Lock Picking Kit

An urban lock picking kit is specialized for gaining entry or access in urban settings. Include a set of lock picks, tension wrenches, and a small flashlight. Grim Workshop’s Lock Picking Card, designed for compact efficiency, is an excellent tool for this kit.

Fire Kit

A fire kit focuses solely on fire-starting tools. Include waterproof matches, a mini Bic lighter, a ferrocerium rod, and tinder such as cotton balls coated in petroleum jelly. Grim Workshop’s Fire Starting Survival Card fits perfectly into this setup, offering built-in tools for firecraft.

Fishing Kit

A fishing kit is essential for food procurement in a survival situation. Include fishing hooks, line, small weights, and lures. Grim Workshop’s Fishing Survival Card offers all these essentials in a compact, easy-to-carry format.

Cooking Kit

A cooking kit might include a small folding stove, fire-starting tools, a lightweight pot, and a spork. You can also add basic seasonings and a small cloth for cleanup. Modifications can turn an Altoids tin into a mini stove, a key feature of this kit.

Trapping Kit

A trapping kit includes snares, small animal traps, and bait. Grim Workshop’s Trapping Survival Card offers a variety of tools that can be used to set up effective traps in the wild, fitting seamlessly into your Altoids tin.

Repair Kit

A repair kit is invaluable for fixing gear on the go. Include duct tape, safety pins, a needle and thread, and a small multi-tool. Grim Workshop’s Micro Tools are perfect for precision repairs and fit easily into an Altoids tin.

Hunting Kit

A hunting kit might include a small folding knife, paracord, a sling, and snare wire. Grim Workshop’s Hunting Survival Card, which includes tools for processing game, adds extra utility to this kit.

First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is essential for treating injuries in the field. Include adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications. Grim Workshop’s First Aid Survival Card can add extra utility with tools like tweezers and a small blade.

Shelter Kit

A shelter kit provides the tools needed to build or improve a temporary shelter. Include a small tarp, paracord, and stakes. Grim Workshop’s Micro Tools can assist with cutting cordage or making quick repairs.

Water Purification Kit

A water purification kit ensures you have safe drinking water in an emergency. Include water purification tablets, a small plastic bag, and a compact water filter. The kit can be supplemented with Grim Workshop’s Micro Tools for additional utility.

Emergency Lighting Kit

An emergency lighting kit should include a small LED light, extra batteries, and a candle. Grim Workshop’s Bandit Strap, which wraps around your Altoids tin, provides extra storage and can secure your lighting tools.

Signal/Navigation Kit

A signal/navigation kit ensures you can find your way and alert rescuers. Include a whistle, a small mirror, a button compass, and a flashlight. Grim Workshop’s Signal Survival Card, equipped with reflective surfaces and other signaling tools, is ideal for this purpose.

 

4. Features and Functionality of an Altoids Survival Kit: Large Tools vs. Compact

When packing an Altoids tin survival kit, it’s essential to balance the size and functionality of each tool. Larger tools may offer more functionality but can limit the number of items you can carry. Compact tools, like those from Grim Workshop, such as our Survival Cards and Micro Tools, provide multiple functions in a small footprint, making them ideal for maximizing the limited space in an Altoids tin.

 For more information, take a deeper dive into carrying larger vs smaller tools in an Altoids tin survival kit. 

5. How to Pack an Altoids Tin Survival Kit

Packing an Altoids tin survival kit requires creativity and precision. Here are some tips:

• Use Mini and Flat Tools: Opt for miniaturized versions of essential tools. Grim Workshop’s Micro Tools are perfect for this.
• Roll, Fold, or Compress Items: Maximize space by tightly rolling or folding items like duct tape or cordage.
• Layering: Start with flat items like band-aids or Survival Cards at the bottom and build up with bulkier items.

Check out our deeper dive into how to pack an Altoids tin survival kit.

6. Why Carry an Altoids Tin Survival Kit?

Carrying an Altoids tin survival kit ensures that you’re always prepared for unexpected situations. Whether you’re hiking, traveling, or simply going about your day, having a compact kit of essential tools can make all the difference in an emergency. These kits are small enough to carry everywhere, yet versatile enough to handle a wide range of survival scenarios.

Check out why it's important to carry an Altoids tin kit in your EDC. 

7. DIY and Customization

One of the best aspects of an Altoids tin survival kit is the ability to customize it to fit your specific needs. Here are some ideas:

• Waterproofing: Use electrical tape to seal the tin’s edges.
• Additional Tools: Add Grim Workshop’s Survival Cards or Micro Tools to enhance the kit’s versatility.
• Modifications: Turn the tin into a small stove, candle, or lantern by modifying it with materials like wax or a small fuel source.

For more on Altoids Tin EDC Kit Customization

8. Tips and Tricks for an Altoids Tin Survival Kit

• Test Your Kit: Regularly check your kit to ensure everything is in working order.
• Rotate Supplies: Replace items like matches or medical supplies periodically to keep them fresh.
• Practice Using Your Tools: Familiarize yourself with each tool in your kit so you can use them effectively in an emergency.

Check here for all the tips and tricks for maintaining your altoids tin survival kit,

9. FAQs About Altoids Tin Survival Kits

What should I include in my Altoids tin survival kit?

It depends on your environment, but common items include fire starters, cutting tools, cordage, and a compass. Grim Workshop offers a range of tools specifically designed for these kits.

How can I waterproof my Altoids tin survival kit?

Use electrical tape around the edges to seal it or consider using a small, waterproof container.

Are pre-made kits worth it?

Pre-made kits can be a good starting point, but customizing your kit with tools like Grim Workshop’s Survival Cards can make it more suited to your needs.

For more, check out our Ultimate Altoids Survival Tin FAQ

10. Related Products, Pre-Made Kits, and Complementary Tools and Accessories

Grim Workshop offers a variety of pre-made survival kits, Survival Cards, Dog Tag Tools, and Micro Tools that are ideal for Altoids tin survival kits. These products are designed to maximize utility in a compact format, making them perfect for both beginners and seasoned survivalists.

For a deep dive into this subject, check out our guide to Altoids tin survival kit accessories

 

About Grim Workshop

Grim Workshop is dedicated to crafting innovative, durable, and practical survival tools that seamlessly integrate into your everyday carry (EDC). With nearly a decade of experience, Grim Workshop specializes in designing compact tools like Survival Cards, Micro Tools, and Dog Tag Tools that fit into Altoids tins, wallets, or keychains. Proudly made in the USA, our products are built to withstand the toughest conditions, ensuring that you’re always prepared, whether you're navigating urban environments or exploring the wilderness. At Grim Workshop, our mission is to empower individuals with the tools and knowledge they need to be self-reliant and ready for any situation.

For more information and to explore our range of products, visit Grim Workshop.