Outdoor Survival Skills: How To Survive In Almost Any Outdoor Environment

By Kingston Rivers

In today's world, where most of our daily needs are met with the convenience of modern technology, it's easy to forget that we still need to be prepared for unexpected situations where those conveniences may not be available. Being able to survive in the wilderness, in a disaster or emergency situation, or even just during a power outage, can be a lifesaving skill

In this guide, we will cover the basic survival skills needed to thrive in a variety of environments and situations. Whether you're an avid hiker, a survivalist, or just looking to be more prepared, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to face unexpected challenges. From building a shelter to finding and purifying water to foraging for food, we will provide step-by-step instructions and tips to help you become more self-sufficient and better prepared for any situation.

Outdoor Survival Skills: How To Survive In Almost Any Outdoor Environment is a large and comprehensive guide to mastering the art of wilderness survival.

Whether you are an experienced hiker or a complete beginner, this book provides you with the knowledge and skills necessary to survive in the wild. Crafted by an avid outdoor enthusiast, this book covers all aspects of outdoor survival.

We start with an overview of the basic survival skills and then move to a comprehensive guide to creating fire, including the fire triangle, advanced fire-starting techniques, and how to safely put out your fire when you are finished.

We then delve into how to find a source of water, and how to purify it to make it safer to drink.

Staying warm and preventing Hypothermia (and what to do if someone gets too cold) is the next chapter. Then we get into selecting the ideal location for making camp, and how to make an A-frame, Lean-to, or a Cocoon shelter.

No survival guide would be complete without a section about navigation, we cover this in detail, both with and without a compass. Next, we look at Skills for Finding and Prepping Food - including identifying edible plants, hunting and trapping, and even fishing.

Finally, we complete this huge 85,000-word guide with extra tips and tricks and a comprehensive FAQ based on actual questions people have asked.

This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors and wants to learn how to survive in almost any outdoor environment. So, grab your backpack and get ready to learn how to become a master of outdoor survival!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Shuttle Systems
• Release date: Jul 4, 2023
• ISBN: 9781776969890

Book preview

Basic Survival Skills

Basic survival skills are the essential techniques and knowledge needed to survive in challenging environments or situations. These skills include but are not limited to finding shelter, making fire, finding water, and acquiring food.

In today's world, where most of our daily needs are met with the convenience of modern technology, it's easy to forget that we still need to be prepared for unexpected situations where those conveniences may not be available. Being able to survive in the wilderness, in a disaster or emergency situation, or even just during a power outage, can be a lifesaving skill.

In this guide, we will cover the basic survival skills needed to thrive in a variety of environments and situations. Whether you're an avid hiker, a survivalist, or just looking to be more prepared, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to face unexpected challenges. From building a shelter, to finding and purifying water, to foraging for food, we will provide step-by-step instructions and tips to help you become more self-sufficient and better prepared for any situation.

By learning and practicing these skills, you can become more environmentally friendly by reducing your reliance on modern conveniences, and become more self-sufficient and independent in your everyday life. So, let's dive in and discover the basic survival skills needed to become more prepared for whatever challenges may come your way.

Survival Rule of Threes and survival priorities

The survival rule of threes is a helpful framework for understanding priorities in a survival situation. It states that humans can survive:

3 minutes without air

3 hours without shelter in extreme conditions

3 days without water

3 weeks without food

While these timelines are not exact and can vary based on factors like age, health, and environmental conditions, they provide a helpful way to prioritize survival needs in a crisis.

The first priority in any survival situation is to ensure personal safety. This may mean avoiding danger, seeking shelter from harsh weather, or treating injuries. Once safety is secured, the next priority is to find a source of water, which is essential for survival. Without water, dehydration can occur quickly, leading to confusion, fatigue, and eventually death.

Once a source of water is secured, the next priority is to find or create shelter. Exposure to the elements can lead to hypothermia, heat exhaustion, or other conditions that can be life-threatening. Creating a shelter can help protect against extreme temperatures, wind, and precipitation.

The last priority is to find a source of food. While food is essential for long-term survival, it is not as immediately urgent as the other priorities. In many cases, people can survive for weeks without food, but finding sources of food and learning how to hunt, fish, or forage can be an important way to ensure long-term survival.

It is important to note that these priorities can change depending on the specific circumstances of a survival situation. For example, in an arid desert climate, finding water may become the most pressing concern, while in a cold, wet climate, shelter may become the top priority. Understanding the survival rule of threes and prioritizing needs accordingly can help increase the chances of survival in a crisis.

Creating fire

Creating fire is a crucial skill for survival in the wild. Fire can provide warmth, light, a means to cook food, and can even signal for help. However, creating fire can be a challenge, especially in adverse weather conditions. Knowing how to create fire using natural resources is an essential survival skill.

The most common methods of creating fire include using a lighter, matches, or a flint and steel. However, in the absence of these tools, natural resources such as dry grass, kindling, and wood can be used to create fire through friction.

The bow drill method is one way to create fire through friction. This method involves using a wooden bow to create tension on a wooden spindle, which is then rotated rapidly against a fireboard, creating heat and eventually a coal. The coal can then be transferred to a tinder bundle, which is blown on gently to create a flame.

Another friction-based method is the hand drill method. This involves using a wooden handhold and spindle, which are rapidly rubbed together to create heat and eventually a coal. Again, the coal is transferred to a tinder bundle and blown on to create a flame.

It is important to note that creating fire through friction can be physically demanding and requires proper technique to be successful. Additionally, it is important to have a backup plan and to always be prepared with fire-starting materials in case natural resources are not available.

Learning how to create fire using natural resources is an essential survival skill that can mean the difference between life and death in the wilderness. With practice and patience, anyone can learn how to create fire in a variety of situations.

The Basics of Fire Starting

Before you can start a fire, you need to understand the basic components of fire. Fire requires three things: heat, fuel, and oxygen. Without any of these components, a fire cannot start or sustain itself.

Heat can come from a variety of sources, including friction, sparks, or a lighter or matches. Fuel can be anything that will burn, such as wood, leaves, or paper. Oxygen is abundant in the air around us, but it is important to make sure that the fire has enough oxygen to keep burning.

Tools for Fire Starting

There are a variety of tools you can use to start a fire, including matches, lighters, and fire starters. It is important to make sure you have multiple methods of starting a fire in case one fails.

Waterproof matches and lighters are especially useful in wet or damp conditions. Fire starters, such as magnesium blocks or firesteel rods, can provide a reliable source of sparks even in challenging conditions.

Techniques for Fire Starting

There are several techniques you can use to start a fire, including the hand drill, bow drill, and fire plow. These techniques require practice and skill, but they can be very effective in the right conditions.

The hand drill involves rotating a stick or spindle against a wooden board to create friction and generate heat. The bow drill uses a similar technique, but with a bow to help generate the necessary friction. The fire plow involves using a stick to create friction along a groove in a wooden board.

In addition to these techniques, it is important to understand the importance of fire structure and management. Building a good fire structure can help ensure that the fire burns evenly and lasts as long as possible. Managing the fire, including adding fuel and adjusting the air flow, can help you maintain a consistent and safe flame.

Understanding the Fire Triangle:

The fire triangle is a fundamental concept in understanding how to create and maintain a fire. It consists of three elements: fuel, heat, and oxygen. Without one of these elements, a fire cannot be sustained. Understanding the fire triangle can help in choosing the right materials and methods to start a fire.

Choosing the Right Materials to Start a Fire:

There are various materials that can be used to start a fire. These include natural materials like dry leaves, twigs, and pine needles, as well as man-made materials like matches, lighters, and fire starters. When choosing materials, it is important to consider the conditions of the environment, such as the weather, wind, and humidity. It is also important to consider the type of fire that needs to be built and the materials that will be used to sustain it.

Building Different Types of Fires:

Different types of fires can be built depending on the purpose and conditions of the environment. For example, a teepee fire is a popular type of fire that is easy to build and can be used for cooking or providing warmth. A lean-to fire is another type of fire that can be built against a wall or shelter for protection against wind and rain. A reflector fire is a type of fire that uses a reflector to direct heat towards the person or object that needs warmth. Understanding the purpose of the fire and the conditions of the environment can help in choosing the right type of fire to build.

Fire Starting Techniques:

There are various techniques that can be used to start a fire. These include using a lighter or match, using a fire starter or kindling, using a flint and steel, and using friction methods like the hand drill or bow drill. Each technique has its own advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to practice and master the technique that works best in the given environment. It is also important to remember to be cautious when starting a fire, as it can be dangerous if not properly handled.

In conclusion, understanding the fire triangle, choosing the right materials, building different types of fires, and mastering fire starting techniques are all important skills to have in a survival situation. Fire can provide warmth, light, and a means to cook food and boil water, making it an essential element for survival.

Advanced Fire Starting Techniques

Using a lighter and matches, flint and steel, and a magnesium fire starter are some of the basic techniques for starting a fire. However, in some situations, advanced techniques may be necessary to get a fire started.

Beyond the basics, there are advanced techniques for starting fires in survival situations. These techniques require more skill and knowledge, but can be useful in certain situations.

Bow drill: This technique involves using a bow to rotate a spindle against a fire board, creating enough friction to ignite a coal that can then be blown into flame. This technique requires knowledge of the materials to use and a lot of practice to master.

Hand drill: Similar to the bow drill, this technique involves using your hands to rotate a spindle against a fire board to create friction and ignite a coal.

Fire plow: This technique involves using a plow-shaped stick to create friction against a fire board and generate a coal that can be blown into flame.

Fire piston: This technique involves using a piston to compress air and ignite a piece of tinder. The piston must be made of the right materials and the technique requires practice to master.

Solar: This technique involves using the sun’s rays to ignite a piece of tinder. This can be done with a magnifying glass or other focusing device.

While these advanced techniques can be useful in certain situations, it’s important to have a solid foundation in the basics of fire starting before attempting them. It’s also important to remember to practice fire safety and to only start fires in appropriate locations.

Precautions to take when building and maintaining a fire:

Choose a safe location: Make sure to choose a clear, open spot that is away from any flammable materials, such as overhanging branches or dry grass. It's also important to ensure that the fire will not spread to other areas.

Prepare the site: Clear the area of any debris or materials that can catch fire. Dig a pit or create a ring of stones to contain the fire.

Gather your materials: Collect your tinder, kindling, and fuel before starting the fire. Make sure the materials are dry and not wet.

Build your fire: Start with the tinder, add kindling, and then add fuel. Keep the fire small and manageable.

Monitor the fire: Keep an eye on the fire at all times. Make sure it does not get too big or spread beyond the designated area.

Tips for putting out a fire:

Use water: Pour water over the fire and stir the ashes until everything is cold to the touch.

Smother the fire: Use a shovel or dirt to smother the fire.

Never leave a fire unattended: Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving the area.

Check for hot spots: Run your hand over the area to check for hot spots. If you feel any heat, continue to add water or dirt until everything is cool to the touch.

Finding water

When you find yourself in a survival situation, finding water is one of the most important things you need to do to stay alive. Dehydration can quickly lead to fatigue, confusion, and other symptoms that will make it harder to survive. In fact, a person can survive without food for weeks, but only a few days without water.

The first step in finding water is to look for natural sources. Rivers, streams, and lakes are great sources of water, but you should still be cautious. Water that appears clean can still contain harmful bacteria and parasites, so you should purify it before drinking.

If natural sources of water aren't available, there are still other options. Look for water in plants, such as cacti, or in the ground. Dig a hole in a damp area, and wait for water to seep in. You can also collect dew from plants or the ground in the early morning. Another option is to use a solar still to collect water from the ground by using the sun's heat to evaporate the water and condense it on a surface.

Once you've found a water source, it's important to purify it. Boiling water for at least five minutes will kill most bacteria and parasites. You can also use water purification tablets or a water filter to make the water safe to drink. Remember, never drink saltwater, as it will dehydrate you even more.

Knowing how to find and purify water is a crucial survival skill that can save your life in a difficult situation. Always make sure to prioritize finding water, and be cautious about where you collect it from.

Sources of Water in the Wild

There are several sources of water in the wild, and knowing where to look can be the difference between life and death.

Surface Water

Surface water includes lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds. These are usually the easiest sources of water to find, and they often contain relatively clean water. However, even apparently clear water can contain dangerous bacteria or parasites, so it's important to purify the water before drinking.

Rainwater

Rainwater can be a valuable source of clean water, especially in areas with frequent rain. However, it can be difficult to collect rainwater in a survival situation, and it's important to be careful when drinking rainwater from natural sources, as it can be contaminated by bacteria or parasites.

Underground Water

Underground water can be found in springs, seeps, and wells. This water is often relatively clean, but it can be difficult to access without the right equipment. It's also important to be careful when drinking underground water, as it can be contaminated by bacteria or parasites.

Snow and Ice

In cold environments, snow and ice can be a valuable source of water. However, it's important to melt the snow or ice before drinking, as eating it can lower your body temperature and lead to hypothermia. It's also important to be careful when melting snow or ice, as it can be contaminated by bacteria or pollutants.

In conclusion, finding a source of water is crucial in a survival situation. There are several sources of water in the wild, but it's important to purify the water before drinking and be cautious when collecting water from natural sources. By knowing where to look and how to purify the water, you can ensure that you have a reliable source of clean water for survival.

Methods for Collecting Water

In a survival situation, finding a source of water is a top priority. Once you have identified potential sources of water, you will need to collect it. Here are some methods for collecting water:

Natural collection: Natural collection involves finding and utilizing sources of water in the environment. You can dig seeps or use rocks to create small wells to collect water. Some plants, such as bamboo, can be cut and used as a source of water. You can also collect dew or rainwater from leaves, grass, and other surfaces using a cloth or sponge.

Condensation: If you are unable to find any water sources, you can use a solar still or a transpiration bag to collect water through condensation. A solar still involves digging a hole in the ground and placing a container in the center. Cover the hole with plastic and put a rock in the center of the plastic, so that it dips down into the container. As the sun heats up the soil and the plant material in the hole, moisture will evaporate and collect on the underside of the plastic, eventually dripping into the container. A transpiration bag is a plastic bag placed over the branch of a plant. As the plant transpires, the water vapor will collect on the inside of the bag and can be collected.

Catchment: Catchment involves collecting rainwater or other sources of water using a container or tarp. If it is raining, you can place a container or tarp to collect the rainwater. You can also use a tarp to collect dew or moisture from the air by placing it over a branch or a bush.

It is important to remember that even if you collect water from a natural source, it may still need to be purified to ensure it is safe to drink. Boiling the water, using a water filter, or using water purification tablets are effective methods for purifying water.

Purifying water

Purifying water is a critical survival skill, especially if you are in a situation where you do not have access to clean, safe drinking water. Consuming contaminated water can lead to serious illness or even death, so knowing how to purify water is essential.

The importance of purifying water

Before delving into the methods of purifying water in the wild, it is important to understand the risks of consuming contaminated water. Water can be contaminated by bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other microorganisms. Drinking contaminated water can cause illnesses such as diarrhea, cholera, dysentery, and hepatitis A, among others. In a survival situation, it is crucial to purify all water before drinking to prevent these illnesses and avoid further complications.

Boiling water

One of the most effective ways to purify water is by boiling it. Boiling water kills most bacteria and viruses and is an inexpensive and easy method to purify water. The recommended temperature for boiling water is 212 degrees Fahrenheit or 100 degrees Celsius. However, boiling may not remove some chemicals and heavy metals from the water.

Chemical treatment: using iodine or chlorine

Another common method for purifying water in the wild is chemical treatment. Iodine and chlorine are the two most commonly used chemicals for water treatment. They kill bacteria, viruses, and some parasites. Iodine is more effective against viruses than chlorine, but both are effective at killing bacteria. It is important to follow the instructions for using these chemicals carefully as incorrect dosages can be harmful to health.

Using Bleach

Bleach can be used as a method for purifying water in a survival situation. However, it is important to use the correct type of bleach and the correct dosage.

Only unscented bleach should be used, as scented bleach may contain other chemicals that could be harmful if ingested. The bleach should also contain 6% sodium hypochlorite as its active ingredient.

To purify water with bleach, follow these steps:

Filter the water through a cloth or coffee filter to remove any sediment or debris.

Add 8 drops of bleach per gallon of clear water, or 16 drops per gallon of cloudy water.

Stir the water and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before drinking.

If the water has a strong bleach taste, pour it back and forth between two clean containers several times to help remove the taste.

It is important to note that while bleach can be effective in purifying water, it is not a foolproof method and may not be able to remove all types of bacteria, viruses, or parasites. If possible, it is recommended to use multiple methods of water purification to ensure that the water is safe to drink.

Filtration: using a filter or fabric

Filtration is a physical process that removes large particles, sediment, and some bacteria and parasites from the water. Water filters are readily available and can be used to purify water in the wild. There are various types of filters available in the market, including pump filters, gravity filters, and straw filters. In the absence of a filter, a piece of cloth or fabric can also be used to filter the water.

Purifying water in the wild is a critical survival skill. It is essential to understand the risks of drinking contaminated water and the various methods available for purifying water. Boiling, chemical treatment, and filtration are the most commonly used methods for purifying water in the wild.

Water Safety and Conservation

When it comes to survival in the wild, finding water is crucial, but it's not enough. Water must also be safe to drink to avoid the risk of waterborne illness, which can quickly worsen an already challenging situation. Therefore, it's essential to take steps to ensure the water you collect is safe to drink. Additionally, conserving water is essential in a survival situation because water is a finite resource and may not be readily available.

To ensure water is safe to drink, it's essential to avoid sources of contamination. Do not drink water that is murky or has a bad smell. Additionally, avoid drinking water from sources that may have been contaminated by animals or people, such as waterholes, streams, or rivers downstream from human settlements or campsites.

One of the easiest and most effective ways to purify water in the wild is boiling. Boiling water for at least one minute will kill most harmful bacteria and viruses. If boiling water is not possible, chemical treatment with iodine or chlorine can be used to kill harmful microorganisms. Filtration using a filter or fabric can also remove bacteria and protozoa but may not be effective against viruses.

Another option for purifying water is using bleach. Bleach can be used in an emergency situation to purify water if no other methods are available. However, it's essential to use unscented bleach that contains 6% to 8% sodium hypochlorite and does not contain any other additives or fragrances. To purify water using bleach, add eight drops of bleach to one gallon of water, stir, and let stand for 30 minutes before drinking.

Conserving water is also essential in a survival situation, as water is a finite resource. This can be achieved by avoiding unnecessary physical exertion that leads to excessive sweating, urinating, or defecating in small amounts to reduce water loss, and collecting water from dew or plants using a cloth. It's also important to drink only the amount of water necessary to prevent dehydration and not more than necessary.

Staying warm without a fire

Staying warm without a fire can be a challenging task in survival situations, especially in cold weather conditions. However, with some basic knowledge and preparation, you can increase your chances of staying warm and comfortable.

First and foremost, it's important to stay dry. Wet clothes or skin can lead to hypothermia, which can be life-threatening. If you're caught in the rain or snow, seek shelter and change into dry clothes as soon as possible.

You can also create insulating layers to help retain body heat. This can be done by wearing multiple layers of clothing, including a base layer made of synthetic or wool material that wicks moisture away from your skin. Adding an insulating layer like a fleece or down jacket and a waterproof shell can further protect you from the cold.

Another option for staying warm without a fire is to use a portable heat source, such as hand warmers or a hot water bottle. These items can be easily stored in a backpack and activated when needed.

In addition, you can create a shelter that will protect you from the elements and help trap body heat. A simple shelter can be made by using a tarp or plastic sheet and creating a tent-like structure. If possible, position your shelter out of the wind and on a slope to avoid any potential flooding.

Lastly, staying active can help generate body heat. Engage in light exercises or movements that will keep your blood flowing and help you stay warm. Just be sure not to overexert yourself, which can lead to sweating and moisture buildup.

Remember, staying warm without a fire requires planning and preparation. By following these basic tips, you can increase your chances of staying warm and comfortable in a survival situation.

Dressing for Cold Weather

Staying warm in a survival situation is crucial for your survival. Exposure to cold weather can lead to hypothermia, a potentially life-threatening condition. Dressing appropriately for the weather is essential to stay warm and avoid hypothermia. In this section, we will discuss how to dress for cold weather.

Layering clothing: Layering clothing is a key strategy for staying warm in cold weather. Multiple layers of clothing trap warm air close to your body and insulate you from the cold. The three main layers of clothing are base, insulation, and outer layers. Base layers are next to your skin and should be made of a material that wicks moisture away