A true adventure in the wilderness comes with its own risks. Forgoing the safety of civilization and venturing into the wild means that you’ll have to depend on yourself for most matters. Some mistakes may be forgiving at times but some may prove to be lethal. Equipping yourself with tools is never enough when it comes to wilderness. You should have the knowledge that allows you to take advantage of the environment you’re in; whether it’s the Saharan Desert or the North Pole. Mistakes are bound to happen but try to learn from others’ to reduce your own. A wilderness trip can be smooth as long as everything is going as planned, however, not being prepared for any details or emergencies can be quite problematic. Seven survival techniques before you set off on your next wilderness adventure.You need to take a look at this list of adventure travel.
We’ve collected some of the best survival techniques you should master before heading out to the wilderness.
First Aid
It’s hard to find any actual explorer that does not know basic first aid. It’s one of the basic vital techniques for survival in the wilderness that could save your life. The wilderness isn’t really popular for its hospitals which means that you’ll be the only one taking care of you. Having a survival kit mini helps as well.
Learning how to craft a tourniquet can stop excessive bleeding and blood loss; all you’ll need is some cloth and a stick. As mentioned on BestSurvival.org, tourniquets are a crucial emergency method when it comes to explorers, service workers, EMTs, and many more. There are some professional tourniquets on the market that you can stash in your first aid kit. CPR is helpful for near-drowning experiences and other events where breathing is hard. You’ll want to bring with you some basic first aid equipment that you can use in case of an emergency happens.
Emergency contacts
Wherever you’re going, there is a possibility that you end up stranded with slim means of help. It’s advised to have a few of your friends or family gain insight on your plan. Simply knowing the name of the location you’re going and the nearest city can save your life in some cases if everything goes south. Information like the time of your departure and expected time of return is essential if you have no way to communicate with them in the wilderness.
Attitude
What differentiates a survivor from a non-survivor is the ability to remain calm and logical under stressful situations. Negativity and panicking are going to make your survival much harder. Your attitude should be proactive and reactive. You need to look at the conditions realistically and don’t mistake your emotions for facts; just because you’re distressed it doesn’t mean that it’s hopeless. Give everything it’s time instead of rushing and panicking as it will only make things worse.
Inventory
The tools and resources you take with you on a wilderness expedition are usually essential for survival. Once you find yourself lost or behind on your plan, make sure you do a thorough inventory check of what you have. Even unnecessary-looking items can sometimes prove to be extremely worthy in a dangerous survival situation. You can use various items to help you collect water or start fires, so make sure you have accurate knowledge about what you’re carrying with you.
Shelter
When you’re stranded in the wilderness, you’ll have to rest and sleep at some point. You don’t want to expose yourself to the harsh elements of nature. Shelters will depend on the type of environment you’re in and the tools you have on you. Tree limbs and leaves can be a great insulator between you and the outside. Pine needles can be collected to form a bed. You’ll want overhead to keep you warm during the nights.
Water collection
Your body can’t handle more than 3 days without water. It’s highly advisable not to try to push the limit of your body when it comes to water. If you’re fortunate you may find yourself near a supply of freshwater, like a river. Always make sure to boil the water before drinking it as unfiltered water can be very dangerous. It’s important to learn how to collect and purify water as you may have to work extra hard for it if there is no source anywhere near you.
Lighting fires
Fire is one of ancient man’s original friends. You’ll want to learn more than one technique of lighting a fire as it can be used in various settings. It can keep you safe and warm at night, cook food, deter insects, and purify water.
There are no easy ways to master the art of wilderness exploration. Experience is important and you’re bound to make some mistakes but it’s always better to minimize the number of mistakes you make by preparing for worst-case and emergency scenarios.
