Building A Shelter: Survival Camping Basics

iwasthinkingnatural
Written By iwasthinkingnatural

Passionate about nature and sustainability, and attracting people away from technology and into nature. 

Get Your Shelter Game On!

Building a shelter while camping is essential for survival. Whether you are stranded or just out for an adventure, a shelter gives you a place to rest and protect yourself from the elements. Before you start building, survey the area to find a suitable spot. Look for an area with flat ground, natural cover, and a source of water nearby. Next, gather materials such as branches, leaves, and vines. A lean-to shelter is one of the easiest to build. Simply lean branches against a tree trunk and cover them with leaves or brush. Use vines to tie the branches together for added stability.

Tried and Tested Survival Tips!

In addition to building a shelter, there are some tried and tested survival tips to follow. First, start a fire for warmth, cooking, and signaling for help. Collect dry branches, leaves, and tinder. Use a ferro rod or matches to ignite the tinder and gradually add larger branches to the fire. Second, find a source of drinking water. Filter out debris using a cloth and boil the water for at least one minute to kill bacteria and viruses. Third, stay visible by signaling for help using a whistle, flashlight, or mirror. Three short whistles or flashes are the universal distress signal.

Be a Pro at Camping!

To be a pro at camping, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, pack light and bring only the essentials. A tent, sleeping bag, and cooking gear are must-haves. Second, dress in layers to adjust to changing temperatures. Wear moisture-wicking clothing to stay dry and avoid hypothermia. Third, plan your meals and bring non-perishable food items. Granola bars, trail mix, and instant noodles are easy to prepare and provide energy. Finally, leave no trace by packing out all trash and minimizing your impact on the environment. Follow these tips, and you’ll soon be a pro at camping!

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