The world has shifted dramatically in recent months, and it’s a great time to learn or improve skills in wilderness survival. Here are 20 survival tips that can be invaluable if you ever find yourself out in the wild. From fire-making to crafting tools from natural resources, these skills could be the key to thriving in nature.
Fire Making Hacks
Cramp Ball Fungus: The cramp ball fungus (Daldinia concentrica) found on ash trees can catch a spark and burn for hours. Use it as a mosquito repellent by placing it in a split stick with moss to create a bug torch.
Tin Can Hacks
Tin cans are versatile in survival situations:
- Fishing Hook: Break off the ring pull and shape it with a stone for a makeshift fishing hook.
- Lantern or Stove: Cut and fold a tin can to create a wind-deflecting candle lantern or stove.
Crafting Tools
Primitive Glue: Collect tree resin, melt it over a fire, and mold it into a stick for natural glue. This pitch is useful for sealing or binding and can be reheated as needed.
Wood Drinking Cup
Fashion a drinking cup by splitting a small log into four pieces and hollowing out each quarter. Reassemble and bind it with cordage to create a functional wooden cup that can hold water once the wood swells.
Fire Roll and More
- Hand Sanitizer Fire: Use alcohol-based sanitizer to ignite an invisible but effective flame.
- Tree Root Cordage: Dig shallow roots of conifer trees for natural cordage, stripping and soaking them to create durable rope.
Crafting with Nature
Feathersticks: Carve thin strips off dry inner wood to create feathersticks, which catch sparks easily for fire starting.
Basket Weaving: Use clematis vines to weave a basket for carrying gear or harvesting wild edibles.
Final Tips
- Axe Cutting Technique: Split wood by leaning it against a base log and chopping safely to avoid injury.
- Bottle Filter: Layer moss, grass, and stones in a plastic bottle to filter water, then boil for safe drinking.
Hope these tips enhance your next adventure in the wild. Remember, preparation and knowledge are key to thriving in nature.