Outdoor adventures are always fun; for some of us, the wilderness makes us feel truly at home; it makes us feel alive in the heart of a forest, amongst nature and its uncertainty. Nature is beautiful; however, nature is also unpredictable, and humans have long lost the connection they once had with the wild. Today surviving in the wild isn’t easy, especially without the proper knowledge; one needs to be well-aware of their surroundings and face any scenario. Skills such as fire-making, finding freshwater, reading maps, etc., are all skills a well-prepared individual has, and true wild enthusiasts will always prepare for the worst.
Survival Skills And Hacks For The Wild
Learn The Local Plants
Knowing the local flora is essential. Every part of the world is different; plants vary from place to place; understanding local ecosystems helps avoid harmful or poisonous plants. Every locality has a few indigenous floras, plants reserved for that area; some of these plants may be alright to touch, or the fruits may be okay to eat, but some may be harmful and poisonous.
This is why it is essential to know what plant is safe and which to avoid. Before heading out for your camping trip or hike, reading about the local plant life is advisable. In addition, it would also be wise to carry a small tri-fold plant identification guide in your backpack. Poison oak, poison ivy, and sumac are some common poisonous plants found in North America.
Carry Duct Tape
Duct tape is a highly versatile product, plus it is effortless to carry. From patching up a tent to fixing a bag strap, there is not much a piece of duct tape can’t do. However, a brand-new roll of duct tape can be a bit heavy to have, so consider packing a used roll or wrap some duct tape around a water bottle and peel off pieces when required.
Line Your Backpack
Regular hikers and campers are particular about their backpacks and pay a good number of dollars on their gear; most backpacks come with weather-resistant materials and are waterproof. Still, it never hurts to be a bit safer. While waterproof backpacks and pack covers are a great option, using a garbage bag is equally effective and budget-friendly. Simply empty your backpack and line the insides with a garbage bag; now repack your bag content, and voila! An extra layer of protection for your bag content.
