End of Summer Essentials: Tactical & Survival Gear You Shouldn’t Overlook

As August rolls in and summer starts winding down, it’s the perfect time to restock, re-equip, and reassess your gear setup—whether you’re a weekend warrior, prepper, hunter, or tactical enthusiast. With cooler weather approaching, hurricane season peaking, and fall training cycles starting, now’s the time to ensure your tactical and survival gear is ready to go.

At Gear Up Surplus, we’ve put together a list of end-of-summer essentials that offer real-world utility and serious durability built to handle what’s coming next.

1. Hydration Systems for Hot Days and Bug-Out Bags

Don’t let the late summer heat catch you off guard. Whether you're training outdoors, working in the field, or assembling a 72-hour kit, water access is critical.

Recommended Gear:

• Military-style hydration bladders and carriers
• U.S. issue canteens with nesting cups
• Water purification tablets and portable filters

Pro Tip: Look for MOLLE-compatible hydration packs for seamless integration with your tactical vest or bug-out backpack.

2. Lightweight Ripstop Uniforms

As the weather begins to shift, now’s a great time to pick up ripstop pants and shirts—durable enough for summer work and breathable enough for August heat.

Recommended Gear:

• NYCO ripstop BDU pants and combat shirts
• OCP uniforms for training or range use
• Boonie hats for sun protection

Why Now: These items often go fast as fall hunting and training seasons approach. Stock up while inventory is strong.

3. Tactical Backpacks for Fall Readiness

Whether you're a student, traveler, or outdoor operator, a rugged backpack goes beyond EDC. Military surplus packs are perfect for organizing everything from survival gear to range tools.

Top Picks:

• MOLLE assault packs
• 3-day patrol packs
• ALICE packs for larger carry needs

Use Cases: Emergency kits, travel carry-ons, range days, and go-bags.

4. End-of-Season Fire Starters & Field Tools

Cooler nights are coming—and fire-starting will shift from backup skill to a primary necessity. August is the time to replenish your kits.

Stock Up On:

• Ferro rods and magnesium fire starters
• Stormproof matches
• Survival knives with fire steel holders
• Field axes and compact shovels

Tip: Bundle your tools with an IFAK or first aid pouch for a ready-made outdoor survival kit.

5. Hurricane Season Prep: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Florida and the Gulf Coast are entering peak hurricane season. Waiting until a storm hits to buy supplies is a costly mistake.

Storm-Ready Essentials:

• Tactical flashlights and headlamps
• Hand-crank radios
• Emergency food rations and MREs
• Ponchos, tarps, and waterproof dry bags
• First aid kits and trauma supplies

Bonus: Use this time to also review your home’s emergency plan and evacuation bag.

Final Thoughts: August Is a Gear Checkpoint

As summer ends, this is the perfect time to review your tactical loadout, survival kit, or weekend go-bag. From ripstop uniforms and hydration packs to emergency tools and storm-season essentials, Gear Up Surplus has you covered.

Visit our store in Titusville or browse our inventory online at gearupfl.com to get what you need before the next season—and the next emergency—hits.