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Imagine finding yourself stranded in the wilderness with nothing but your wits to rely on. The key to survival? Your shelter. In this article, I will explore five unconventional survival shelters that could be your saving grace in the great outdoors. From underground bunkers to treehouse shelters, these unique structures could be the difference between life and death in a survival situation.
Survival shelters are often overlooked in discussions about wilderness survival, but their importance cannot be overstated. In fact, having a proper shelter can be the difference between life and death in a survival situation.
When venturing into the wilderness, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the great outdoors and forget about the harsh realities that can come with it. However, seasoned survival experts know that being prepared for the worst is crucial. And that’s where survival shelters come in.
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What Are Survival Shelters?
A survival shelter is any type of structure that provides protection and shelter from the elements. In a wilderness survival scenario, this could mean anything from a simple lean-to made out of branches and leaves to a more elaborate tent or even a dugout shelter. The key is to have a shelter that will keep you safe and dry, no matter the conditions.
One of the primary reasons why survival shelters are so important is because they provide protection from the elements. In the wilderness, the weather can change in an instant. One moment it can be sunny and pleasant, and the next it can be pouring rain or even a blizzard. In these situations, a shelter can be a lifesaver, keeping you dry and warm.
Shelters, Shacks, and Shanties: The Classic Guide to Building Wilderness Shelters
The Additional Benefits of Survival Shelters
But survival shelters do more than just protect you from the weather. They also offer a sense of security and peace of mind. When you’re lost or stranded in the wilderness, having a shelter can provide a sense of comfort and control. It can give you a place to regroup, assess your situation, and make a plan for survival.
In addition to protection and peace of mind, survival shelters can also help conserve energy and resources. Building a shelter can be physically demanding, especially if you’re already in a survival situation. Having a pre-made shelter or materials on hand can save you time and energy that can be better used for other tasks, such as finding food and water.
Renowned survival expert and author, Les Stroud, also known as Survivorman, stresses the importance of having a proper shelter in any wilderness survival scenario. He says, “A well-made shelter should be your first priority in a survival situation. It will not only protect you from the elements, but it can also provide a sense of security and control.”
Survival Shelters Save Lives
In some cases, survival shelters can even be lifesaving. The statistics show that the chances of surviving a night in the wilderness without a shelter are significantly lower than with one. In fact, in one study, 90% of people who did not have a shelter did not survive the night, while 66% of those with a shelter did. These numbers speak for themselves and emphasize the importance of having a survival shelter in any wilderness excursion.
It’s clear that having a well-made shelter should be a top priority in any wilderness survival plan. Not only can it protect you from the elements and conserve valuable resources, but it can also provide a sense of security and possibly even save your life. Before you head out into the wild, make sure you have a reliable and sturdy shelter as part of your survival strategy.
5 Unconventional Types of Survival Shelters:
- Underground Bunkers
- Treehouse Shelters
- Hobbit Holes
- Snow Caves
- Tarp Tents
#1: Underground Bunkers: The Ultimate Hidden Shelter
Underground bunkers provide the ultimate hidden shelter for those seeking refuge in extreme survival situations. These subterranean structures offer protection from harsh weather conditions, natural disasters, and potential threats from predators or other dangers.
By burrowing deep beneath the earth’s surface, individuals can find a sense of security and seclusion that traditional above-ground shelters may not provide. In times of crisis, an underground bunker can be a sanctuary, offering a sense of safety and peace in the midst of chaos.
How to Build Underground Bunker Survival Shelters
Step 1: Finding the Perfect Location
How does one even begin to build an underground bunker? The first step is to find the perfect location. Ideally, the bunker should be hidden and removed from any natural or man-made hazards. Look for a spot that is flat and elevated. This will make it easier to construct and prevent water from seeping in. Once you have the location, it’s time to start digging.
Step 2: Planning and Digging the Bunker
Digging the bunker may seem like a laborious task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be a relatively simple process. It’s important to plan out the dimensions of the bunker beforehand, ensuring that it is large enough to accommodate supplies and people. As you dig, make sure to reinforce the walls with wooden beams or metal sheets to prevent collapse.
Step 3: Providing Adequate Ventilation
One of the key considerations when building an underground bunker is ventilation. Without proper ventilation, the air inside the bunker can quickly become suffocating and potentially lead to carbon dioxide poisoning. A simple solution to this is to install a ventilation pipe that extends above ground with a fan to circulate fresh air into the bunker.
Step 4: Stock Your Underground Bunker with Essentials
Just like any other shelter, an underground bunker should be well-stocked with essential supplies such as food, water, and medical kits. It should also have a reliable source of light, such as battery-powered lanterns or solar-powered lights. These supplies should be regularly checked and replenished to ensure that you are always prepared for any situation.
While building an underground bunker may seem like a drastic measure, it can be a lifesaver in dire situations. It provides a sense of security and protection in the harsh wilderness, allowing you to focus on survival instead of worrying about external threats. With the right preparation and techniques, an underground bunker can be easily built, and it could mean the difference between life and death in the wild.
#2: Treehouse Shelters: Escape to the Canopy
For those looking to escape the chaos of the ground and find solace in the heights of the treetops, treehouse shelters offer a unique alternative. These elevated structures provide a sense of security while also allowing for a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.
In times of crisis, retreating to the canopy can offer a sense of peace and protection that is unmatched by traditional shelters on the ground.
How to Build a Treehouse Survival Shelter
Building this elaborate structure may seem daunting, but it’s achievable with time and tools.
Step 1: Finding the Right Trees
The first step is to choose the right tree. Look for a sturdy and healthy tree with thick branches and a wide trunk. Additionally, consider the surroundings and any potential hazards such as dead branches or rocky ground below.
Step 2: Gather the Materials
Once you have found the perfect tree, it’s time to gather materials. You will need strong ropes or cables to secure the structure, as well as sturdy branches and twigs for the frame. The key is to use materials that are readily available in the wilderness. This will not only save you from carrying heavy supplies but also ensure that your treehouse is in harmony with nature.
Step 3: Constructing the Base of the Treehouse
Next, it’s time to start building. Begin by creating a solid base for your treehouse using the thick branches and rope or cables. This will serve as the foundation for the rest of the structure. As you build, remember to distribute the weight evenly to prevent any weak spots. You can also use smaller branches and twigs to create a lattice-like frame, which will provide stability and support for your shelter.
As you construct your treehouse shelter, you may face challenges or obstacles, but this is where the true survival skills come into play. You must adapt to the environment and be creative with your problem-solving. For example, if you encounter a branch that is too high to reach, use a long stick or tool to push it into place. Remember, this is not just about building a shelter, but it’s also about building resilience and resourcefulness.
Special Considerations for Building Treehouse Survival Shelters
It’s also essential to consider different weather conditions when building your treehouse shelter. If you are in an area with heavy rainfall, make sure to create an angled roof to allow the water to run off. Use nearby vegetation to create a thatched roof for extra protection. In colder climates, use extra branches and leaves to create a thicker and warmer shelter.
Not only is a treehouse shelter a crucial element for survival, but it can also provide a sense of comfort and security in a challenging situation. As survival expert and author, John “Lofty” Wiseman, once said, “Improvising shelters is one of the most practical and rewarding wilderness survival skills.” Take your survival skills to the next level and build a treehouse shelter for your next wilderness adventure.
#3: Hobbit Holes: Cozy and Camouflaged
Hobbit Holes, inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien’s mythical homes of the Shire, offer a cozy and camouflaged shelter option for those seeking refuge in nature. These earth-sheltered dwellings blend seamlessly into the landscape, providing a sense of security and comfort. With their rounded doors and windows, Hobbit Holes offer a whimsical and inviting space to weather out any storm.
Where to Construct a Hobbit Hole
First, it’s important to understand that a hobbit hole is not just a typical hole in the ground. It’s a carefully crafted and strategically designed shelter that can withstand the elements and provide a cozy and secure space for survival. The key to building a successful hobbit hole is to find the perfect location. Look for a spot that is sheltered from strong winds, has good drainage, and is close to a water source.
Building a Hobbit Hole
Once you’ve found the ideal spot, it’s time to dig! The size of your hobbit hole will depend on the number of people it needs to accommodate. A general guideline is around 7 feet deep, 8 feet wide, and 12 feet long. As you dig, make sure to create a slightly sloping entrance, as this will help with ventilation and prevent rainwater from flooding the shelter.
Next, line the walls and ceiling of the hobbit hole with natural materials such as logs, sticks, and leaves. These will act as insulation and provide a sturdy structure for your shelter. You can also add a layer of plastic or tarp on top of the natural materials for added protection against the elements.
To make your hobbit hole even more comfortable, consider adding a raised sleeping platform and a chimney for ventilation and cooking. Don’t forget to create a small drainage hole in the floor to prevent water accumulation. And for added security, camouflage the entrance with branches and foliage to make it blend in with the surroundings.
Why Go All Out on a Hobbit Hole?
So why build a hobbit hole instead of a conventional shelter, you may ask? The answer is simple – it’s an incredibly efficient and eco-friendly way to survive in the wilderness. As expert survivalist Bear Grylls puts it, “The hobbit hole may look like a novelty, but in reality, it’s a clever and practical solution for wilderness survival.”
There’s no denying that building a hobbit hole for wilderness survival is a laborious task. But the satisfaction and sense of accomplishment that comes with creating your own shelter in the wild is priceless. Next time you embark on an adventure in the great outdoors, consider channeling your inner hobbit and building a cozy and sustainable haven for yourself. Who knows, you may even catch the attention of a curious passerby who will undoubtedly marvel at your resourcefulness and creativity.
#4: Snow Caves: Cold Weather Survival
When it comes to surviving in cold weather conditions, one unconventional shelter option to consider is the snow cave. These natural shelters are dug into snowbanks or drifts and offer protection from the elements.
Snow caves can provide insulation from the freezing temperatures outside, keeping you warm and dry. By carving out a small space in the snow, you can create a makeshift cave that can act as a temporary home until help arrives.
Constructing Snow Cave Survival Shelters
The first step in constructing a snow cave is finding the right location. Look for a spot that is sheltered from the wind and has enough snow to work with.
Next, you’ll need to carve out a pit in the snow, big enough to fit you and your companions comfortably. It’s important to make the entrance low and narrow, as this will prevent cold air from entering and warm air from escaping. Use your hiking pole to poke the snow and check its density. If it feels solid, you’re good to go.
Once the pit is dug, use a snow saw or shovel to create a sloping roof. The roof should have a slight incline to let warm air rise and escape, preventing condensation that can make the cave wet and uncomfortable. For added ventilation, you can also create a small vent near the roof’s peak. It’s also recommended to leave a gap between the roof and the top of the cave wall. This will allow fresh air to circulate, improving air quality and reducing the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Digging the Interior of a Snow Cave
After the roof is complete, it’s time to dig out the cave’s interior. Pay extra attention to the floor, making sure it’s flat and level. You can use your snowshoes, backpacks, or any other gear to create a raised platform to sleep on. This will ensure that you’re not sleeping directly on the cold ground. You can also use your snow saw to carve a bench or shelf to keep your gear off the floor and within reach.
Building a snow cave requires patience and precision, but it’s an essential survival skill that can save your life. However, it should not be attempted without proper knowledge and training. According to wilderness survival expert Les Stroud, “A snow cave can be a lifesaver in the backcountry if you know how to build one correctly.” He also stresses the importance of practicing this skill in a safe environment before testing it out in a real survival situation.
In addition to providing shelter from the elements, a snow cave can also be a tool for signaling for help. You can use your flashlight or a piece of brightly colored fabric to make the cave’s entrance visible from afar. It’s also recommended to create a small entrance hole in the roof for light to pass through. This creates a beacon of light that can attract rescue teams.
In conclusion, building a snow cave is an effective and efficient way to survive in the wilderness during the winter. However, it requires proper planning, knowledge, and practice. Before you embark on your next winter adventure, make sure to learn and master this valuable skill.
#5: Tarp Tents: Lightweight and Versatile
Tarp tents are a fantastic option for survival shelter due to their lightweight and versatile nature. These shelters can be easily set up using a simple tarp, rope, and some stakes, making them a quick and efficient solution in emergency situations. The lightweight design of tarp tents makes them easy to carry in a backpack or emergency kit, ensuring you have a reliable shelter wherever you go.
In addition to being lightweight, tarp tents are extremely versatile. They can be configured in various ways to suit different weather conditions and terrain. By adjusting the tarp’s angle, you can create a shelter that provides protection from rain, wind, and even snow. This flexibility makes tarp tents a valuable asset for outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists alike.
When it comes to survival shelters, tarp tents are a top choice for their ease of use, portability, and adaptability. In the unpredictable wilderness, having a lightweight and versatile shelter like a tarp tent can make all the difference in ensuring your safety and survival.
Conclusion on Unconventional Survival Shelters
In the unpredictable wilderness, having the knowledge and skills to create unconventional survival shelters can truly be a game-changer. These unique shelters can be your saving grace in a survival situation.
Don’t wait until it’s too late to familiarize yourself with these innovative options. Take the time to learn how to build and utilize them effectively, so you can be prepared for any wilderness scenario that comes your way.
Remember, in the great outdoors, being prepared could mean the difference between life and death. So, explore these unconventional shelters, hone your survival skills, and be ready for whatever challenges nature throws your way. Your survival may depend on it.
