Survivor Behind-the-Scenes Secrets: Sunscreen and Bug Spray Revealed as Essential Supplies

Longtime “Survivor” host Jeff Probst recently confirmed a long-rumored production secret. Players on the hit reality competition have access to essential supplies never shown on television. This includes sunscreen and bug spray to protect them from harsh elements.

This revelation provides new context for the show’s infamous deprivation. While contestants face starvation and brutal challenges, they are not completely without basic protections.

Two Hidden Items Every Castaway Receives

Jeff Probst made the disclosure on his “On Fire” podcast. He explained that sunscreen is a crucial, behind-the-scenes provision. According to Probst, sunburns are a common and painful problem, especially in the first few days.

He noted that a bad burn can linger. It becomes a major issue during physical challenges. A sunburn on the shoulders makes it painful to carry things or have someone stand on you.

Probst’s co-host, Jeremy Collins, recalled a specific instance. He mentioned player Kelley Wentworth suffered a horrible sunburn during “Survivor: San Juan del Sur.” Bug spray is also provided to all contestants. Its effectiveness, however, varies greatly from person to person.

Probst stated that bugs either like you or they do not. For those they like, it makes for a very long 26 days. He considers himself lucky, as the bugs typically leave him alone during filming.

More Unseen Survival Aids on the Island

Beyond bug spray and sunscreen, former players have revealed other hidden supplies. These items help maintain health and safety but are kept off-camera. The current season has offered new glimpses into this support system.

Eliminated player Nicole Mazullo from “Survivor 49” shared one example. She confirmed that all contestants receive a daily dose of multivitamins and electrolytes. This supplements their extremely sparse diet.

She also explained that taking these vitamins on an empty stomach can cause nausea. This was the reason she vomited in the season’s premiere episode. The show also featured its first-ever reference to an on-site safety guide.

This guide was briefly visible during a medical evacuation. It contains information on dangerous local wildlife and poisonous plants. Players also have access to approved medications, painkillers, and basic medical supplies.

The revelation of these secret supplies adds a new layer to understanding the “Survivor” experience. While the game remains intensely difficult, these behind-the-scenes secrets show that player welfare is a key, albeit hidden, production priority.

Info at your fingertips

Do Survivor contestants get any food besides rice?

Their main food source is a small ration of rice won in challenges. They also forage and can sometimes earn other meager rewards. However, starvation is a consistent and genuine part of the experience.

Why isn’t the sunscreen and bug spray shown on TV?

The show’s editing focuses on strategy and survival struggles. Showing these comfort items would undermine the narrative of total deprivation. It is a conscious production choice to maintain the show’s tough image.

What other secret items do players have access to?

Besides sunscreen and bug spray, players get vitamins, electrolytes, and hygiene products. They also have safety guides about local dangers and access to basic medical supplies. These are considered essential for health and safety.

How does the bug spray affect the game?

It does not provide a significant game advantage. Its effectiveness is unreliable and varies by person. It simply makes the intense environment slightly more bearable for some.

Has the level of behind-the-scenes support changed over the seasons?

Yes, production has evolved to include more hidden support for player welfare. The introduction of vitamins and formal safety guides are examples from the newer seasons. The core challenge, however, remains brutally authentic.