When most people go on hikes or hunting trips, they are only thinking of short term expeditions into the wilderness. However, if you want to be a true survivalist, primitive survival skills are a must for anyone planning for a long stay in the wild. Here are a few things to consider when learning more about primitive survival skills.
When it comes to pure survival, learning primitive survival skills shouldn’t be a matter of trial and error. If you’re new to long term survival tactics, it’s a good idea to consider a quality survival course. These courses will teach you a variety of different skills, including navigational techniques, basic first aid, foraging tactics, and more. While some courses may initially be pricey, their lessons can be very beneficial indeed. Additionally, while books and videos are a great way to learn more, it’s not a good idea to replace hands on learning with these techniques. It’s one thing to read about making a fire in a book, for example. It’s something else altogether to actually do it.
Once you know some of the basics of primitive survival skills, it’s a good idea to consider what you will bring with you. Even the most spartan of hardcore survivalists have first aid kits, for example, as well as stores of food and basic navigational tools. Whether you plan on a lengthy stay in the wilderness or you just want to be extra thorough in preparing for anything, packing the right supplies is one of the most important primitive survival skills. While, for some, packing as little as possible may be a matter of pride, it’s still a good idea to think ahead and plan accordingly.
What sort of supplies will you need to accomplish primitive survival skills? As mentioned, a good first aid kit is essential for any outdoor trip. The most basic kits contain a supply of bandages and some disinfectant, while more complex ones contain a variety of devices, including tourniquets, splints, wound irrigation systems, and more. Most first aid kits are crafted in such a way as to easily fit in your pack, however.
Food is another issue. While some survivalists like to hunt and forage for their food, it never hurts to have emergency supplies. These include dehydrated, freeze dried, canned, and vacuumed sealed meals. While there is something to be said for having fresh meat and vegetables from the forest around you, it’s not a good idea to depend solely on this, especially if you’re just starting out.
Finally, no matter how many naturalists prefer using their own wits and skills for navigational purposes, it’s just plain silly to go out into the wilderness without at least a compass, maps, and emergency flares. At the very least, you’ll have these to fall back on if you find yourself completely lost. While learning how to mark trails, read the stars and identify landmarks is all well and good, you shouldn’t invite risk by attempting primitive survival skills while under equipped. Learn more about primitive survival skills today!