Perhaps if they would have been prepared, and followed some of the advice on this page, they would have been better off. In some areas, a survival kit would've helped. However, Stanley and Zero were good problem solvers because they seemed to know how to share food evenly and take turns digging holes for water. That's something you don't learn, and a survival kit wouldn't have helped. Unfortunately, many people face deserts in a hostile environment that is against human life.
Deserts are at the top of the wilderness list for danger and death.
However, if you have the right skills and supplies, it is definitely possible to survive in a desert. Classes are available to teach desert survival, if you are willing to give time and effort. Being prepared is an obvious benefit for desert survival. Preparation starts with how you dress. By adding a proper hat, with a wide brim, the head and body are further protected.