If you’re a big fan of outdoor adventures then it’s definitely worth mastering a few basic survival skills before you head out on your next mission. Whatever outdoor activities you enjoy doing, mastering the following skills will certainly help you out on your next adventure!
Building a shelter
If you’re looking to camp out overnight then being able to build a decent shelter is really important. Depending on the terrain, environment and weather, there are plenty of different options for building a shelter. Start with a basic tarp tent -Tie a rope between two trees and drape tarpaulin over it, you can keep the tarpaulin close to the ground using rocks or logs. Once you’re more practiced you can start on more challenging shelters, such as a teepee made from wood and tree branches.
Tying Knots
Having basic knot-tying skills will help you out in a range of outdoor excursions such as building shelters or making tools. Essential knots including reef, figure 8, overhand and slip knot are simple to master with a bit of practice and are bound to serve you well when you’re next out in the wilderness.
Foraging for food
In a survival situation, plants are an essential source of nutrients and energy. Identifying plants that are safe to eat can be tricky so if you’re new to food foraging it’s best to avoid fungi and mushrooms as many species are deadly. Many toxic species of plants have similar characteristics to non-toxic ones which is why it’s so important to know what you’re looking for. Always consult a guidebook before picking any plants you’re not one hundred percent confident about.
How to make a fire
Being able to light a fire is essential for providing you with warmth and the ability to cook. The process of gathering wood and creating your very own fire is also great fun if you’re an outdoor enthusiast. You can always practice in your own garden before heading out on your next adventure.
Finding & purifying water
Being able to source drinkable water is one of the most important survival skills you can learn. When it comes to sourcing water safely, the most important thing you need to remember is to avoid stagnant water as this is likely to contain parasites and bacteria. Always look for flowing water and before you drink the water make sure you purify it by boiling it or using purification tablets that you can buy from most outdoor retailers.
Using a map & compass
Knowing basic navigation is essential for any keen outdoor adventurer. If you’re in a remote location, you won’t be able to rely on your phone’s GPS and so it’s always a good idea to teach yourself how to read a map using a compass. It’s an easy skill to pick up quickly and it will definitely serve you well on your next adventure.
