Stranded on a desert island: Which 4 would you choose?

[Binkie The Clown]

101. Some of it would depend on the flora and fauna of the island.

I'd choose tarp over tent, because a tarp can be used as a tent, and has more other uses (cathcing rainwater, for example) that the tent doesn't have.

Knife is obvious. If, that is, there is anything on the island besides sand. Given palm trees, bamboo, or whatever, you will want to cut it. Knife over saw again because the knife has more uses than the saw.

What is the water situation? Is there a freshwater stream? Does it rain often enough to capture rainwater? Does the water purifier desalinate, or does it just remove germs, which can be done with boiling. So the water purifier is a maybe, depending...

Matches is a short term solution to fire. If you are in a situation that might lead to your being stranded on a desert island then you should have learned how to make a fire without matches before you even set out on your adventure. I'd skip the matches.

Where is the island with respect to normal shipping lanes and air traffic corridors? A signalling mirror is a waste of time and effort if not planes or ships are ever likely to happen by. Again, it depends.

A first aid kit, might be good depending on how hazardous the island is. It might also just be a waste of space. I'd take the hiking boots over the first aid kit. If I protect my feet I won't need to treat the boo-boos.

Sunscreen would be very important if you couldn't find shelter from the sun. If there's trees then you'd better have the sense to stay in the shade during the heat of the day.

Compass is a waste. If you can't find west by watching the setting sun then you are doomed anyway.

Rope? Are their mountains on the island that you want to climb? Better idea is don't climb mountains alone. Ever. Rope might be useful to make a tarp tent, but paracord would be better.

Everything else on the list is just a joke to trip up the really stupid people. ipod? Really? If that's your choice then you will deserve your untimely demise. Listening to tunes while you die of thirst. What a way to go.