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How to Survive in the Wilderness

By Adam Long, published Feb 26, 2007
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Wilderness survival is an essential skill set if one becomes stranded in nature with nothing but the clothes on your back and a few objects. Finding yourself alone in the wilderness is easier than one might think. All that must happen is a plane crash, a yacht overturning, a parachuting expedition going far off-course, or even a bit of hiking that strays slightly from the path. If you are put in such a situation, will you know what to do? Here are a few general tips for wilderness survival that could set you back on track and keep you alive.

Keep your wits about you and your willpower strong
In any adrenaline-packed scenario, it is easy to lose control of mental faculties. In the face of harsh conditions and unbeatable odds, your mind is the best tool you have. Escaping will require incredible willpower- the urge to keep trekking on, to keep the body moving towards your goals, and to keep yourself creatively evaluating situations. Remember your brain; wilderness survival begins with taming your apprehensions and delusions and recognizing your cognitive capabilities. To survive, one must never give up. When one thing fails, you must try another until rescued. In wilderness survival, quitters truly never win.

Remember the essentials
Wilderness survival relies on first keeping the human body alive and then finding rescue. Thus, remember the essentials for keeping your body alive: food, water, and shelter. With these, wilderness survival is possible for even the least-trained person in a dire scenario. Depending on the environment that one becomes stranded in, water is often the first priority. In a hot locale, dehydration and heat stroke must be prevented by liquid intake. Shelter is paramount in harsh conditions to remove the human body from abrasive weather and climate. Wilderness survival must be focused on these three areas. Survive first, escape second.

How to Survive in the Wilderness
How to Survive in the Wilderness

Fire is a useful tool in wilderness survival. Use it to signal help, cook food, boil water, and ward of animals.

Credit: Henk Wagener

Copyright: Henk Wagener

Takeaways
  • If stranded with nothing, you can survive. Keep your wits about you and stay determined.
  • In a wilderness survival scenario, your mind is your most valuable asset.
  • Remember the basics - food, water, and shelter - before attempting to be rescued.
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