0
0
We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.
Embarking on an outdoor adventure is thrilling and exhilarating, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. From unpredictable weather to unexpected encounters with wildlife, being prepared is essential for your safety and survival in the great outdoors. In Outdoor Survival 101, I will explore the fundamental skills that every outdoor enthusiast should master in order to thrive in any environment.
Spending time outdoors in the last frontier is a humbling experience. A short hike here can lead you into a vast wilderness beyond cell reception and emergency transport. But knowing these critical skills can quite literally save your life.
Living in Alaska has taught me the importance of always being prepared. Even just a quick drive to the store in extreme temperatures can be a matter of life and death. It sounds extreme, but until you’re broken down on the side of the road in shorts and it’s -40 degrees outside.
Hell, I remember hiking the Appalachian trail when my oldest was a toddler. We were miles from the nearest trail head and had no cell reception. I can’t even tell you how close my husband was to stepping on a rattlesnake that very well could have ended his life. Had it bitten him, I’d have needed the skills to help him in that moment. I’d also have required a certain level of physical fitness to run for help with a toddler in tow. You never know on the trail. It’s best to know before you go.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner camper, these outdoor survival skills are all critical components to ensure a successful and safe outdoor experience.
Other Outdoor Survival Articles:
- Sharpening A Bushcraft Hatchet: The Best Method For Beginners
- The Best Uses of Spruce in Wilderness Survival
- Wild Medicine of the Boreal Forest: 20 Foraging Plants
- Wilderness Survival Guide
Understanding Your Environment
One of the key elements of surviving in the outdoors is understanding your environment. Before you even think about building shelter, you should take the time to assess the area you are in. Make sure to take note of the terrain, the direction of the wind, the presence of water sources, and potential hazards like steep cliffs or animal tracks.
Research Ahead of Time
Before embarking on your wilderness adventure take the time to research the area. You should be aware of any potential predators or other dangerous animals in the area. This will allow you to prepare your protection ahead of time.
Know of any potential hazardous landscapes or natural features in the area you’ll be recreating in. Here in Alaska we have mudflats that are extremely dangerous. Our rivers are highly dangerous as well because of the amount of silt. These are natural features of the landscape that are highly dangerous and are good to know about ahead of time.
By understanding your surroundings, you can make informed decisions about where to set up your shelter for maximum protection and safety.
Building Shelter
Constructing a shelter is crucial for protecting yourself from the elements and providing a safe place to rest. Look for natural materials like branches, leaves, and rocks to create a sturdy structure that can shield you from wind, rain, and sun. Consider the location of your shelter in relation to potential hazards and sources of water.
You want to make sure you build on dry ground. Temps can easily drop at night and it can be potentially dangerous to be wet and cold.
Make sure the site you build on is higher ground so that you aren’t flooded out by a surprise storm.
There are many different styles of shelters to make, but the A-frame is probably the quickest and easiest of them all.
Taking the time to build a shelter that suits your surroundings increases your chances of staying safe and comfortable during your outdoor survival experience.
Finding Food and Water for Outdoor Survival
To increase your chances of survival in the wilderness, you need to prioritize finding food and water.
In a survival situation, water is essential for hydration and should be your first priority. Look for sources of water such as rivers, streams, and lakes. Always remember to purify it before drinking to prevent waterborne illnesses.
As for food, focus on foraging for edible plants, fruits, and insects. Carry a guidebook on edible wild plants to help you identify safe options. Fishing, trapping, and hunting are also ways to procure food. Just make sure you have the necessary skills and tools before attempting them.
By securing a reliable source of food and water, you ensure your energy levels remain high and your chances of survival increase.
Navigating and Signaling for Help
Navigating and Signaling for Help requires a clear understanding of your environment and the resources available to you. In a survival situation, it’s crucial to know how to use tools like a compass, map, or GPS device to navigate your way to safety.
Land navigation was one of the most important components of my training in the Army. Mostly everyone else in the class shrugged it off, but I understand its importance. If stranded, your battery for the GPS or cell phone eventually dies. You’re left with a compass and map and knowing how to orient yourself will be crucial for survival.
Creating signals for help, such as using a mirror to reflect sunlight or building a large “HELP” sign with rocks or branches, can also increase your chances of being rescued. By mastering these navigation and signaling techniques, you can improve your odds of being found and getting the help you need. Remember, staying calm and thinking rationally are key in any survival scenario.
Preparing Your Survival Kit
As you venture into the wilderness, one of the most critical steps you can take is preparing your survival kit. This kit should contain essential items that can help you navigate, stay safe, and signal for help in the event of an emergency.
Your survival kit should include a first aid kit with basic supplies to treat injuries. An emergency shelter like a tent or space blanket to protect you from the elements. Fire starting tools such as matches or a lighter to keep warm and cook food. Also signaling devices like a whistle or flashlight to alert rescuers to your location.
By ensuring your survival kit is well-stocked and within easy reach, you increase your chances of surviving a challenging situation in the great outdoors.
Remember, being prepared is key to staying safe and increasing your chances of survival in any outdoor environment. By having a well-equipped survival kit at your disposal, you are better equipped to handle the unexpected and make it through tough situations.
Conclusion on Outdoor Survival 101
Mastering the basic outdoor survival skills outlined in this article is the key to approaching your adventures with confidence and peace of mind. Preparation is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience in the wilderness.
Practice these skills, invest in the necessary knowledge and tools, and embrace all that nature has to offer. Stay safe, stay prepared, and always be ready to survive in the great outdoors. As the saying goes, “In wilderness is the preservation of the world.” Go out there and explore, but do so with caution and preparedness.
Great survival basics!
Thanks! Hope they helped for your next adventure!
[…] The Beginner’s Guide to Wilderness Survival […]
[…] Outdoor Survival 101: The Basics You Need to Know […]
[…] Outdoor Survival 101: The Basics You Need to Know […]