10 Basic Tips for Surviving in the Wilderness

You need to be informed to survive in the wilderness or to travel in outdoor regions where there is potentially dangerous wildlife. While in terms of actual danger, natural elements are probably the greatest threat to survival and it is essential to know how to prepare for each situation in this regard. Simply put, you cannot assume anything in nature and without proper equipment or outdoor survival skills, it would not be wise to consider making such a trip in the first place.

Here are 10 basic tips for surviving in the wilderness

1. Bring a map and compass

This should go without saying, but unfortunately, in an age where we increasingly rely on technology for our assistance, it is important to remember that technology will often fail. For this reason, every survivalist will insist on the importance of learning to navigate using a map and knowing how to read a compass. More importantly, it should be noted that these are tangible items that do not depend on battery, electricity or any other means so they can be used at any time and anywhere.

2. Although you should bring a GPS

At the same time, a GPS tracking system can make all the difference, especially when time is of the essence or when it is imperative not to travel in the wrong direction. GPS uses satellites to determine where you are, so they are generally reliable almost anywhere in the world, although remember to download the relevant maps before your departure in order to read them in the first place.

3. Have a backup cell phone

Nothing replaces a working cell phone in an emergency and everyone knows how quickly a smartphone battery can drain. It doesn't need to be sophisticated, it doesn't even need to be smart; bring a backup phone just in case and, if possible, a fully charged spare battery. This phone should not be used under any circumstances other than emergencies.

4. Chargers and power banks

With the growing number of power banks and solar chargers on the market, the cost of these gadgets has reached record lows in recent years, making them more than affordable. Not only will these provide a backup charge for your cell phone, but most often, they can also be used to recharge camera batteries or a laptop that is then used to back up information such as photos.

5. Water filtration

Many different types of water filters have reached the online market and these are an essential part of any survival kit list. Obviously, survival is impossible without water, but you must also keep in mind that the water you encounter will not always be drinkable for various reasons. A water filter can transform even the worst quality water into something worthy of drinking and, while it doesn't entirely quench thirst, in wilderness regions, it often makes the difference between good health and serious illness or condition.

5. Emergency blanket

When everything is wet, when everything is blocked outside or when the weather is particularly cold, an emergency blanket will be the only item you'll be happy to have packed. Not only is it one of the lightest items you can carry with you, but it's also the best of all insulators. Even in the absence of clothing, an emergency blanket is likely to retain heat in a way that no other item on your survival kit list can retain.

6. Waterproof matches and fire starter

Waterproof matches are essential for wilderness survival. While water-resistant, these matches should be kept in a safe place, but they are still more reliable than a lighter which is another item likely to fail. That said, there are also humid conditions where matches are not enough to start a fire and, in this case, it is sometimes beneficial to have a real fire starter in your survival kit list.

7. Proper footwear

Gloves and proper outdoor clothing are all necessary for wilderness survival, but enthusiasts often forget the importance of footwear. Feet are inevitably what will take you from one place to another and without movement you may find yourself facing an insurmountable challenge.

Hiking boots are also designed specifically for a reason and should at the very least be waterproof and strong enough to withstand extreme weather conditions. When buying shoes for wilderness survival, it is always best to ask for advice from an on-site store representative, as most often, salespeople are trained according to the advantages or disadvantages of each shoe.

8. Swiss Army knife

Ideally, this will be a Swiss Army brand, but regardless, you will need a knife when traveling in the wilderness. Whether it's cutting ropes or bandages, grating powders or opening a can of beans, a knife has so many different uses outdoors and is an integral part of any survival kit list. You will need to know how to use this knife safely and it is very important to store it in a place where it poses no risk to yourself in case of a fall or any accident.

9. Know your environment and wildlife

You simply should not go to a wildlife reserve without knowing what animals are present and what to do (or not do) in these regions. For example, having food in a tent is a disaster waiting to happen, as is trekking after nightfall where there are nocturnal predators. It is essential to know what to expect in terms of environment or landscape, but it is equally important to know what potential situations may arise and what to do if they actually occur.

10. Pepper spray and air horn

There is a reason why pepper spray is called bear spray in North America; this simple device can be the last resort in the event of the worst-case scenario. Pepper spray can travel a good distance and inflict intense pain that can not only deter an animal, but also give you time to escape. An air horn, on the other hand, is a last resort that can sometimes startle an animal and deter it from approaching.