As my boat is sinking, I am forced to swim towards a nearby desert island. I can only carry one bag with me, so I must carefully choose the essential items to bring along. After careful consideration, I have decided to choose the following four items: a first aid kit, a water bottle, a knife, and a compass.

The first aid kit is an obvious choice as it will be essential in case of any injuries. In a survival situation, even a small injury can become life-threatening if left untreated. Therefore, I must have a kit with basic supplies such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relief medication.

The water bottle is also crucial as hydration is critical in any survival situation. Without access to clean water, dehydration can set in quickly and lead to serious health issues. Having a water bottle will allow me to collect and store water, which I can purify using other methods.

The knife is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks such as building a shelter, preparing food, and even starting a fire. A sharp knife is a critical tool for survival, and I can't imagine being without one.

Finally, the compass is an essential navigation tool that will help me find my way around the island and determine the best direction to travel in case of rescue. The island may be small, but without a compass, I risk getting lost and wandering aimlessly, which would only make the situation worse.

Although it was a difficult decision to only choose four items, I believe that these items will give me the best chance of surviving and being rescued. A first aid kit, water bottle, knife, and compass are all essential items that I will need to navigate this challenging situation.