Elk antlers are fully natural, which is one of their main advantages as dog treats. Elk antlers are not processed, and they don’t include any additives or preservatives as some other dog treats do. This indicates that they are a safe option for dogs and are devoid of any toxic ingredients that can endanger your pet.

Elk antlers are a great source of vitamins and minerals, which is an additional benefit of using them as dog treats. They are abundant in calcium, phosphorus, and other necessary elements that are important for the development of strong bones in dogs. They can also assist in cleaning your dog’s teeth and gums, which lowers the risk of dental problems including plaque and tartar buildup.

For dogs with allergies or sensitivities, elk antlers are also fantastic. Elk antlers are hypoallergenic, which means they are less likely to provoke an allergic reaction in dogs than certain other dog treats. They are a secure and wholesome option for dogs with food sensitivities because they are also devoid of common allergens including wheat, maize, and soy.

It’s crucial to find elk antlers that are the right size and hardness level for your dog when buying them. Elk antlers are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, ranging from small fragments appropriate for puppies to larger ones for mature dogs. They differ in hardness as well; some are softer and more suited for senior dogs or dogs that have dental problems.

The best antlers for treats are usually split elk antlers for dogs. These antlers are natural antlers that have been found on the ground after they shed but instead of just being cut to length for a treat, they have been split (long-ways) so that the marrow in the antler is exposed making it easy to get to for your dog AND it only leaves the hard outer shell of the antler on one side.

When your dog is chewing on an elk antler, keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t swallow any big pieces or suffocate on smaller ones. Elk antlers are often healthy for dogs to chew on, but like with any treat, they should only be given occasionally to keep your dog from absorbing too many calories.

Elk antlers are a great option for dog treats because they are all-natural, healthful, and hypoallergenic. For dogs, they offer a number of advantages, including as supporting healthy bone development, cleaning the teeth and gums, and supplying vital vitamins and minerals. Make sure to choose elk antlers for your dog that are the right size and hardness for them, and constantly keep an eye on them while they chew to ensure their safety.

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Everyone happily agrees that cooking is its own art form. People do not regularly acknowledge, however, the art of survival cooking. Not yet, anyway. 

Survival cooking can also be referred to as primitive cooking. This simply means cooking without modern-day luxuries like gas or electricity. 

Survival cooking is an important weapon in the arsenal of any prepper. 

For those of us who love cooking it can be terrifying to accept that one day, we will not have access to our kitchens and our tastefully stocked pantries. What can make this less scary, however, is learning some survival cooking techniques. This way you can still feed your family, even during an emergency. 

In dire situations, a good meal can change everyone's outlook. Survival cooking is the perfect recipe for restoring hope and filling bellies. 

In this article, we're going to talk you through our top 4 survival cooking methods that every prepper should know. 

Let's not waste any more time shall we, we have things to prepare for… 

The Basics

There are a few basic skills all preppers need to have in their back pocket if they want to be able to survive.

One of these is starting a fire. None of our cooking methods will be very useful to you if you can't do that. 

Here are a few reasons why you should know how to start a fire: 

1. Fires can keep you warm 
2. Fires will help you cook, and make your meals more pleasant
3. Fires create light 
4. Fires can be used to leave messages or send signals

You get it. 

Need help learning this skill? Check out this handy guide to starting fires in the wild: 

Once you've learned that you can move onto our top 4 survival cooking methods: 

#4 - Earth Oven 

We're kicking off this list with a tried and true method, used by humans all over the world for thousands of years. All you'll need for this method is food, coal, and dirt.

TIP - Start your earth oven construction 2 hours before you need to eat. This method is best if you are somewhere safe, where you can remain for at least a few hours. 

Dig a hole in the ground and start a fire at the base of the pit. The more food you are trying to cook the bigger your hole will need to be, and the larger the fire. 

Cover the fire with large stones. Then add a protective layer of vegetation over the stones. Place your food onto this vegetation, before covering it with a second layer of vegetation. Then fill in the rest of the whole. 

Leave to cook. 

The larger the amount of food you are trying to cook, the longer the cooking will take. A whole animal may take a whole day. 

#3 - Faux Griddle

For this method, you will need a flat, thin item that will conduct heat well. The best option for this is corrugated iron. However, flat stones or ceramic tiles may be easier to find. 

TIP - it is very easy to burn yourself using this method. So, be careful. If you are in a situation when you need to do survival cooking, the likelihood is you won't be able to treat your burn correctly. 

Once you have found your long thin item, start a fire. Use two large rocks on either side of the fire to create a shelf with your faux griddle. Leave it over the fire to heat up. When the griddle is hot enough add your food and start cooking. This is a great method for thin cuts of meat and tough vegetables. 

TIP - This is not a subtle cooking method, so you must do it somewhere secluded and as safe as possible. 

#2 - Faux Grill

This method follows a similar thought process to the Faux Griddle method. However, you will need to find something to act as a set of Faux grates, rather than a griddle. This method is better for cooking tender fruits and vegetables, as well as thicker cuts of meat. 

TIP - You will find it much easier to cook with coal embers compared to a roaring flame. Let the flames die down a bit before you start cooking. 

If you are looking for a makeshift grill woven branches, chainlink fence, or even chicken wire will work well. Dig yourself a small firepit (it only needs to be 2-3 inches deep), start your fire, and then let it die down. 

TIP - Getting something really got is a great way to disinfect it quickly and without wasting precious resources. It also makes for easier cooking if you heat up your utensils. 

Once your 'grill' is nice and hot, place your food on and allow it to cook. 

TIP - developing forging skills can not only have your life in an emergency, but it can also give you the ability to spice up your daily meals. 

#1 - Spit Roast

This is perhaps the oldest cooking method of all time, but there is a reason why it has lasted. You can use this method to cook pretty much anything, including whole animal carcasses.

TIP - Part of your preparation should include knowing how to gut and skin an animal. This is something you don't want to be trying for the first time 'on the job'... 

You will need a metal pole (or wet branch), and 6 branches to make a stand. Use 3 branches at each end of the fire to make forked supports. Once you have prepared your food, skewer it through with the metal pole. 

Prop the pole into the supports, and turn the meal until it is cooked. 

TIP - not turning the food will result in one side of it being raw and the other burnt to a crisp. 

BONUS TIP - Use a wet branch if you do not have a metal pole to hand. A dry branch will burn or splinter and will drop your food into the fire.   

The post Primitive Cooking Methods Every Prepper Should Know appeared first on Survivor Hive.

Although this might be the world in which we live, that doesn’t mean we can’t fight against the rising tide of plastic. Many of us are aiming to live a sustainable life. If you’re reading this, then you probably want the same thing.

To help you begin this journey, we have created this guide to walk you through the basics.

What Is A Sustainable Lifestyle?

Before we show you the main areas you should focus on, we first want to explain exactly what sustainable living is.

Sustainable living is a philosophy rather than a rule book. It is when you actively try to reduce your negative impact on the climate and environment around you.

It’s impossible to live a modern life and avoid using plastic completely. Unfortunately, it is everywhere around us. Instead, the aim is to reduce your carbon footprint as much as possible.

This could mean swapping from one brand to another which is more eco-friendly, changing your cleaning products to something more natural, or picking up groceries that don’t come in plastic wrap.

We have mentioned plastic several times, but being sustainable doesn’t just mean trying to avoid this material. It means living your life in a way that minimizes the permanent damage to our earth.

For example, solar panels are sustainable because they are a constant source of energy which doesn’t take from the world around us. The same can be said for wind turbines and hydropower. 
Coal and gas, however, are a limited resource. Ignore the damaging CO2 effect they cause when burnt, we only have a limited amount of these materials. Using them as often as we do is not sustainable. Soon we will run out and will not be able to maintain our current way of life.

Explaining Your Carbon Footprint

We are going to talk about carbon footprints a lot in our article. If you don’t know what this term means, it’s time you learned.

The concept is simple, really. It is the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere by the activities, products, or anything you have interacted with. The more carbon you release, the bigger your footprint on the world is.

For example, driving to work has a larger carbon footprint than walking. 

To reduce your footprint to zero, you need to find a way to absorb the carbon you have produced. When companies say that they are carbon neutral or have a carbon net zero balance, this normally means they are planting trees that absorb carbon dioxide naturally. This means that although they are producing carbon dioxide, they are absorbing it too, so they aren’t impacting the environment.

Most of us cannot plant a tree every time we drive. Instead, we aim to lower our carbon footprint as much as possible.

Why Choose To Be Sustainable?

So why should we choose to be sustainable? Of course, we could go on and talk about why caring for the environment will help it survive through the horrors we have put it through, but some people need a less abstract reason to become sustainable.

For these people, we want to show you why being sustainable is a great investment for you as well as the environment.

1. Renewable Sources Are Cheaper

Because coal and gasoline are a limited resource, and we can start to see the end of these materials, their prices are increasing. Of course, other world issues are causing this price hike too, but their rarity is one of them.

Renewable energy, however, is becoming cheaper as more and more companies make the switch. With more money and research being put into these projects, we are able to buy solar panels cheaper than ever before. This in turn means our energy sources will be cheaper too.

Wind, sunshine, and water will never run out, and so as long as we know how to harness this energy, we won’t risk price hikes due to scarcity.

2. Cheaper Products

You can clean your home, buy your groceries, and redecorate your home in a much cheaper price bracket if you do so sustainably.

You don’t need to rely on other companies to create products for you if you know how to create them yourself. A couple of simple tips can be all you need to have the best kitchen cleaning products in your home.

Lemon, water and bicarbonate of soda can remove grease and grime from your kitchen as well as any brand, and you can buy these without purchasing plastic.

Acting sustainably can reduce the amount you pay for everyday items

3. It’s Less Fuss

Once you get started on the sustainable living journey, you’ll notice that your home will be filled with less and less plastic. This means you’ll have to take your bins out less and there will be less clutter around your house as wrappers and cans will be less frequent. 

Even looking through your bills in email format instead of through letters in the post will mean you’ll have more control over your life, as you can save this data without worrying about where it has gone.

Sustainable Food/Drink

Those are just a few reasons why you should live a sustainable life, but now to explain how to get started.

Before you get too invested and start planning for every inch of your life to become more sustainable, you need to take a breath. Becoming sustainable won’t happen overnight, and you cannot change everything in one go. It will take years of looking at your own actions to know how to become more sustainable.

A lot of people start this journey with high hopes and end it shortly after, succumbing to the overwhelming feeling of failure when they release just how much plastic and landfill they have in their life. 

Instead of tackling everything at once, we suggest picking one thing you know you can handle and trying to make that area more sustainable. 

Let’s start with food and drinks.

Home Grown Food

We said to start small, and we mean it. Although we are about to talk about homegrown foods, that doesn’t mean you should have a massive garden that grows every vegetable you’d normally buy at the grocery store.

Instead, you should pick one vegetable that you enjoy and try to grow it in whatever green space you have. 

The easiest vegetables to grow are tomatoes, salad greens, and potatoes. They don’t need a lot of space, can handle rough conditions, and are used in almost every meal!

If you live in an apartment, you can grow these vegetables in plant pots or carrier bags. No garden is necessary. 

For an easier start, try growing herbs. Not only will they make your home smell lovely, but you can keep them on a windowsill and know that they won’t take up too much space.

Even replacing one food from your shopping list with a homegrown alternative can help reduce your carbon footprint. The amount of plastic packaging which shipped the product and the gas needed to bring the food to your grocery store, will all be nonexistent. 

You don’t need to grow your whole dinner, but removing one vegetable from your basket can do a lot of good.

Avoiding Bottled Water/Drinks

In America, we have a culture of drinking bottled water even though our tap water is safe enough for us to drink. 
Of course, there are some areas such as Flint, which do not follow this general rule, but if you don’t live in a town or state with contaminated water, you should consider drinking from the tap.

Consider Water Filters

If you are worried about the limescale or other materials from natural water entering into your appliances or even your body, there is a way for you to still live sustainably without drinking straight from the tap. 

In these cases, you should either install a filter into your facet, or you should buy a water filter. The filtering system removes all of the materials in your water. This allows you to drink clear, clean, and fresh liquid with almost no taste.

A lot of water filters are made of plastic, and you may think that buying a product such as this counteracts all of the good you are trying to achieve. However, buying one life-long filter is a lot better for the environment than buying thousands of disposable bottles in your lifetime.

Using one plastic item to replace thousands means you are still helping to reduce the overall plastic emergency we are currently facing.

Flavor Your Water

In the UK, it’s common to find a bottle of “squash” in the cupboards. This squash isn’t a vegetable, it’s cordial. In the US, the most similar item we have to compare it to is syrup. 

When you add syrup to a coffee you include a sweetened version of a specific flavor. When you add cordial to water, you add an artificial flavor to your beverage.

This means that people in the UK can drink tap water even if they don’t like the flavor, as they can add a drop of squash to make it taste how they like.

We don’t suggest shipping in squash from across the world in an attempt to reduce your carbon footprint, as the travel of that bottle will counteract the good you are trying to do. 

Instead, we suggest using this idea to make your own flavors naturally at home. Add cucumber, lemon, or oranges to your water to give it a new flavor. 

If you or someone in your home finds it difficult to drink water due to the flavor, use this technique to create a new taste in the beverage.

Sustainable Home

Being sustainable in the home is much easier than you may think. Sure we could talk to you about installing solar panels and living without electricity, but for most people, those big changes aren’t possible.

If you can afford to buy a solar panel, do it! They will save you money in the long run and will help the environment. But that type of gear will cost you thousands of dollars, and your home might not even be facing the right direction.

No, we want to aim smaller. Changing the small things can have a domino effect on the big things, as these “small things” are often part of our daily lives. Changing one thing in your home, and doing that consistently can have a massive impact on your overall carbon footprint.

Let’s jump into these small things now.

Layering Up

When winter comes around, many of us turn to our thermostats and instantly bring our homes back to that perfect 68 degrees Fahrenheit. 

The thing is, we don’t need our home to be toasty all the time. This practice not only costs us a lot of money, but it forces us into producing more CO2 than we need to. 

Instead of turning on the heating, you should start wearing warmer clothing instead. For most of this, this means putting on a sweater, slipping into your slippers, and pulling out the blankets.

At night you can swap from a summer blanket to a winter duvet so that your bedroom stays cozy when the temperature falls even further.

How To Layer Up Efficiently

If you live in a particularly chilly location, you’ll know that an extra layer of warmth won’t be as helpful as you hoped. Cooking in a giant Oodie isn’t exactly practical. 

In these situations, you need to include multiple layers – 4 in fact.

Your first layer should be light and long-sleeved. Thin clothes will stop your sweat from absorbing into your outfit, and will therefore dry faster. A dry outfit is a warm outfit after all.

Your next layer should be made of polyester or wool. You can even opt for a mixture of the two. This layer is where the warmth of your body will be trapped, and prevented from escaping into the cold air.

Layer three should be a puffy jacket that includes a hood. The hood should protect your head from winds and cold temperatures, while the body will be protected without releasing heat.

Lastly, you need a waterproof jacket to go over everything else. This will protect any rain or snow from settling on your body. If the rain comes in, this warming technique will be made redundant. 

Really this information is designed to help you when you are out and about, but use it to help you learn about laying up at home.

If you notice your dressing gown is making you sweaty and gross, change into a thin base layer and then top up with a wooly sweater.

Low Energy Appliances/Bulbs

Once you’ve made the swap from heating to sweaters, you should consider looking at your home appliances. 

Buying appliances that use less energy will reduce your electric bill and your carbon footprint.
To find these appliances you need to look for the Energy Efficiency Label. This label will show you how much the appliance will cost you to run. You can use these figures to figure out which will be cheaper for your lifestyle and in turn, which will reduce your carbon footprint.

LED Bulbs

Starting off easy, a simple way to reduce your carbon footprint is to replace your light bulbs with LED ones. You can either do this when the light needs replacing or straight away so you don’t have to worry about it again.

Once they are screwed in, you’ll be reducing your carbon footprint without even trying.

Microwaves

If you have a dish that could be cooked in the microwave, then use this appliance instead of the oven. Ovens are less energy efficient than a microwave, even if you have bought one with an A + + + rating. 

This is because ovens have to heat up the space inside them to ensure your food reaches the right temperature. Microwaves, however, can heat your food without focusing on the empty space around them.

Dryers

Lastly, if you use a dryer to dry off your clothing, know that there is a cheaper and eco-friendly alternative – a clothing line.

Hanging your clothes to dry can benefit you in a number of ways. Firstly, it will cost you nothing in terms of electricity. Secondly, if the sun is shining, it can take less time than a dryer would. And thirdly, your clothes will smell fresh like the air. This means you don’t need to spend more money on fragrances to achieve that pure scent effect.

Recycle/Upcycle

Recycling and upcycling are the two ways in which you can prevent waste from ending up in the landfill. Although the idea of recycling has been around for years, upcycling is a relatively new concept.

To help you understand the difference, we will explain both in detail.

What Is Recycling?

Recycling is when you turn something that would have been thrown into a landfill, something that is considered a waste product, into something new.

When we put items into a local recycling center, the people who work there turn the old materials into something new. They may convert your car tires into pencil holders or old climbing ropes into dog toys.

Recycling is normally done in a big factory which reduces the original material down to small parts and then builds it back up again into something new.

The idea is to bring the item back into the cycle of life, but through a new pathway – re-cycling.

What Is Upcycling?

Upcycling is very similar to recycling, however instead of breaking the materials down to their tinies parts to recreate them into something new, you work with what you have to bring new life into the object.

For example, your desk might have a broken leg. Instead of throwing the whole furniture away, you could upcycle it by buying some wood and fixing it yourself. Perhaps you inherited a chair, but this chair doesn’t match the aesthetic of your house. Instead of throwing it away, you could paint it or stencil it so it has the right colors. 

Many people upcycle items as a hobby. They will go to thrift stores or yard sales and buy other people’s junk. They then give the item some tender love and care, and turn the rubbish into a centerpiece.

You don’t need to buy anything to be part of the upcycling community though. The best way to use this method, when trying to live sustainably, is to think of ways to repurpose items when they break.

A broken wheelbarrow could turn into a stationary plant pot. A broken mug could be turned into a pen holder. An old-fashioned couch could look modern with new fabric and an industrial stapler.

Get creative.

How To Add Recycling And Upcycling To Your Everyday Life

If your local council or government doesn’t already have a recycling system in place, you should search for a local company that focuses on recycling.

Once you know which area you should be looking in, you should search through their list of recyclable items. Print these out and stick them on your fridge, or put them somewhere noticeable.

From there, you can ensure that every time you go to throw one of these items away, you can double-check against your list. If the item is on the list, put it in a separate container. When you have collected enough of these items, take them to your local recycling center.

Every area will have a different method. Some will already have recycling trunks coming up and down your street, ready to collect every week. Others will require you to drive to their centers. Once you learn what these local methods are, you can adjust your weekly or monthly routine to slot a recycling endeavor in. 

For upcycling, you should have the same structure in place. Whenever you think you throw something out, question whether you could fix it yourself. Even if you don’t want to keep the end product, upcycling it can prevent it from reaching the landfill. Once you’ve finished elevating it, you could sell the item, giving it a new life.

Sustainable Travel

The last topic we want to share with you today is about travel. Most of us prefer to drive to get to our destination. When we’re driving we have space alone in our cars, we can take the routes which make the most sense to us, and we get a sense of freedom from the experience.

However, a typical passenger vehicle emits around 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide a year, making it the biggest contributor to your carbon footprint.

So how do we make travel sustainable for the environment?

Drive Less

The first thing we can do is drive less. This might mean carpooling with friends or family when going to destinations, taking public transportation when it’s available, or exploring activities closer to home.

If you and your friends all go to the same school, job or activity, it makes sense for one person to drive and the rest to become passengers. This will save all of your vehicle’s mileage and gas money, as you can each take turns being the driver.

If your journey to work isn’t on the same route as your co-workers, you could take public transit instead. 30 people on a bus mean 30 fewer cars on the road.

Take The Stairs

Although gas and coal are major contributors to the decline in the earth’s health, so is electricity. This includes unexpected devices such as elevators. Researchers at Cambridge University found that 15 seconds in a lift uses the same amount of energy as leaving the lights on for 1 hour. If you use your elevators every day, this number can dramatically affect your carbon footprint.

If you normally take the elevator to reach your workplace or home, consider taking the stairs instead. Not only will this add to your workout for the day, but will reduce your carbon footprint without much effort.

Experience Nature

When it comes to travel, most of us consider how we get from work to home and back again. But there are many ways for us to travel. Going to the grocery store, seeing our friends, and even going on vacation include moments of travel.

In these instances, we still have the mentality of getting from A to B, but that is where we can make a change. Instead of seeing the journey as a chore, we should learn to see it as an adventure in itself.

If your friends live 5 minutes away by car, but 30 minutes by foot, then walk to their house. Use that time to experience nature around you.

Even if you don’t live in a natural environment, you can use that walk to learn about the streets around you. You will be more likely to pick up on new shops opening, and community events being advertised, and you may even meet new people on your journey.

Walking is great, not just for the environment but also for your mental health. Breathing in the fresh air and moving your body in a regular rhythm gives your mind an alertness which is attributed to positivity. 

All of these positive attributes come from taking life slowly. Not only will you be saving money from walking to your destination, but you will also be saving your mental health by allowing yourself a period of time to breathe and relax as you take in the world around you.

Staycations

Many of us count the days until we can head off to a sunny destination. Vacations are a needed part of life, and you shouldn’t limit yourself on these days of freedom. However, just because you need to set yourself free, doesn’t mean you need to travel far.

Traveling to a nearby country, area or state could be all you need to get into the holiday spirit. Traveling to a local area will reduce your carbon footprint for the journey, which is the main aim when it comes to sustainability. However, it can also reduce the amount of travel time, and allow you to experience local interests that you may not have been aware of before.

With more time added to your vacation experience and less time waiting for the travel to end, you get to experience more time doing the things you love.

Staycations became popular during the financial crisis of 2008. The tourism industry was failing as more and more people couldn’t afford to go on vacation. In an attempt to drive up business, people started advertising to local areas instead of far-off locations.

The idea was to boost the industry by showcasing the amazing activities you could explore right outside your front door. It was an instant success as people still wanted to experience vacation even if they couldn’t go far.

This movement showed people that you don’t need to spend lots of money to feel like you’ve had a true rest, and there are thousands of amazing sites and activities all around you.

From a sustainable living point of view, the answer is clear. A staycation is a perfect way to indulge in a holiday without putting too much pressure on the environment.

Summary

Living a sustainable lifestyle has to start somewhere. You don’t need to live off the grid, own a solar panel or have a massive vegetable garden to get started. All you need to do is focus on one area of your life that you know you can change.

Changing your light bulbs to LED alternatives is a great first step. It might take an hour or two out of your day as you travel to a DIY store and replace the lights, but once it’s done you don’t have to think about it again.

The best switches are the ones you don’t even notice. Start there, and continue to adapt one step at a time.

The post Beginner’s Guide To Living A Sustainable Lifestyle appeared first on Survivor Hive.

If you are looking to spend more time outdoors surrounded by nature, then camping can be a great way to do this.

There are a number of reasons why camping is beneficial for mental health and wellbeing, including the escape from your daily routine and sense of freedom that can be achieved.

More than 40 million people go camping every year, there are so many mental and physical benefits that come from camping. Spending more time in nature encourages you to relieve stress and can even protect the immune system.

You can also improve connections with loved ones and make time to socialize if you are camping with friends or family.

How To Prepare

Start In Your Backyard

If you are less experienced with camping, then it could be worth making small steps towards improving your skills and confidence beforehand. This could involve camping in your backyard or an area that is close to your home.

When you do this, it can make you feel much more confident because you will be able to assemble your tent and camping setup without relying on it.

Knowing that you can go back inside if the weather turns or if you are less comfortable is great for beginners, as it can help them ease into camping.

Getting used to using new equipment can be intimidating, and it can be useful to schedule some practice camping sessions ahead of time in your backyard. This can also help you to rely on people in your group if you plan on camping with others.

Assign responsibilities to individuals and make sure everybody understands what their roles are. It can make setting up your tent and camping setup much smoother when you arrive at a campsite.

Practice How To Set Up A Tent

You can use the first few times camping as practice sessions. This can help you get a better understanding of how to set up your tent, and be able to do it more efficiently.

While many people do not take the time to do this, it can allow you to feel considerably more comfortable setting up your tent and camp anywhere.

Likewise, you can easily get everything set up in little time even when the sun has set. Because there are many different styles of tents, each has a slightly different assembly process as well as packing it down into its bag.

Make sure you are looking at directions online and that you can begin building up the necessary muscle memory for easy set up of your camp.

Choose The Right Camping Style For You

Luckily, there are a range of different options available in terms of camping style. This means that there is a higher likelihood that you will find the right fit for you. Compare your needs and preferences with the types of tents and setup.

You should think about the kinds of comforts that are needed in order to get a good night’s rest, and plan your camping setup based off of this.

Some people prefer a minimalist approach where they can camp underneath the stars using a hammock during warmer weather, while others like to be comfortable and sheltered from the rain and cold.

The different camping styles include backpacking which uses only the items that can fit into a compact bag or hiking pack. Alternatives are car camping, RVs, hiring a cabin, and glamping which is slightly more luxurious.

Plan Your Trip Ahead Of Time

The key to being prepared for anything is to plan ahead. This is especially important when it comes to camping, because there are a range of precautions which need to be accounted for.

Make sure you ask yourself questions about the importance of convenience, and whether you would prefer to stay on a campsite or in the wilderness.

Similarly, you should also think about camping with friends in comparison to camping alone. Some people enjoy the opportunity to share these experiences with those that are close to them, while others appreciate the peace that can come with camping on their own.

Drinking water sources should also be considered ahead of time when you are planning a camping trip.

Plan Your Meals

When you are planning your trip ahead of time, it can also be helpful to think about your meals. This can allow you to do as much preparation as possible and figure out how much food and drink you want to bring.

Some people like cooking on a campfire or a small portable stove, and will pack food that can be prepared easily in this way.

Meanwhile, other people may plan a hike with strategic breaks in places that they can eat. This could involve planning a route which goes close to a diner or restaurant, or even ordering food to the campsite.

Whichever approach you choose to take, it is worth considering your options ahead of time and planning accordingly.

If you are camping with a larger group of people, then you can assign certain meals to different people. Pack a cool box with everything you will need, and make sure you check whether campfires are permitted for cooking at the intended campsite or destination.

Make sure you are also considering breakfasts, lunches, and snacks as well as dinners. Spending more time outdoors and walking can make you more hungry.

Pack plenty of high protein snacks and bottles of water or refillable water bottles to keep you and everybody in your group fueled.

Create A Packing List

One of the main things that should be considered when you are preparing for camping is to consider what you are packing. Managing the weight of your bag and make sure that you have everything that you may need by creating a packing list.

This can take a few camping trips to perfect, but you should eventually have a go-to list that could be used as a checklist whenever you are packing for a camping trip.

If you are planning to walk or hike to your camping site or destination then it is worth carefully planning your packing list to make the load as light and easy to carry as possible.

A first-aid kit is essential because you never know when you are going to suffer from an injury. Make sure your first-aid kit has all the necessary medical supplies and spare prescriptions for everybody in your group.

Likewise, emergency contact details should be kept safe in the same container. Band-aids, pain relief, and possibly an emergency burner phone or radio should also be kept in your first-aid kit.

Similarly, you will need to pack sun protection even if the visibility is poor. The UV can still burn, and it is important to protect yourself from the sun as much as possible.

A headlamp is also recommended for your packing list, so that you can find your way back to camp when the sun is setting.

Depending on which type of navigation method you prefer, this should be included. For example, a map and compass or a small battery powered navigation device. A knife can also be very useful with any camping setup.

This is because it can help with cutting meat and cooking, as well as being used for self-defense.

Other essentials that need to be included in any packing list include enough food and water to last the entire trip, plus extra in case of emergencies. Fire starters are also necessary when you are making a campfire, because it will take less time to light and heat enough to cook on.

Of course, shelter, clothing, and sleeping bags should also be thought about ahead of time.

Different Types Of Camping

Because there are so many styles of camping, it is worth thinking about the role that they can play in your overall experience.

Whether you would like to have access to a comfortable bed or if you prefer to go with the flow and have more flexibility, here is a look into some of the different types of camping.

Car Camping

Something that is becoming more popular is car camping. This involves making a temporary bed in your car and spending the night there. It can provide more shelter than a regular tent, but the main disadvantage is that it tends to be less comfortable than other types of camping.

Car camping is great if you do not have a booking in a campsite, because of the flexibility which it allows. However, the term can also refer to any camping arrangement where you are able to park next to your designated campsite.

This is ideal for many who have large tents because it allows them to pack plenty of supplies with fewer limitations. Stock up on supplies beforehand and make sure you have everything that you need to enjoy a peaceful camping trip.

Backpacking

Another popular type of camping is backpacking. This is great for the adventurous type, who want to spend more time hiking and exploring the wilderness.

These trips usually involve hike-in campsites which typically have limited facilities. For many, this adds to the exclusive feel of the trip. It can also be great for disconnecting from the outside world.

Backpacking camping involves having all the supplies needed in a backpack that is relatively easy to carry. Because of this, there tend to be minimal supplies used. This could include a lightweight tent and sleeping bag, or missing out on certain comforts for one night.

Glamping

On the other hand, you could choose to go glamping for a touch of luxury surrounded by the wilderness. Many people enjoy this form of camping because it allows them to relax and unwind after being in the busy modern world.

While this is the most expensive form of camping, it can allow your mind to truly switch off and feel at peace. For many, this is a great way to focus on what is important to them and feel more energized.

Glamping is usually done from small cabins, and they can have their own hot tubs or access to a lake. Other glamping sites include natural hot springs or even beach access.

There is a huge variety of glamping options and styles, and it is certainly worth looking into the available options within your area.

RV Camping

An RV can easily provide a compromise between camping in the wilderness and glamping. While it costs a little more to purchase or hire an RV, it is worth trying this camping style out to see if it is the right choice for you.

Some people head to campsites where they can stay in an RV, while others use them for long road trips.

This is because they can easily camp on the side of the road or anywhere that they can park in for the night. Consider hiring an RV during the summer for you and your friends to enjoy.

Tent Camping

The most traditional form of camping which is enjoyed by many involves using a tent. This is frequently done in campsites, but there are plenty of national parks where you can camp using a tent for a small fee or for free.

Make sure that you are leaving no trace when you leave a site, and that you are able to set up and pack away everything beforehand.

Some of the different styles of tents require different kinds of equipment and tools. These include pop-up tents, A-frame or ridge tents, tunnel tents, and car rooftop tents.

Dispersed Camping

Another type of camping is also known as boon docking or free camping. The aim of this is to find a place to camp that is free of charge, and it usually happens on public lands.

If you are looking for a place to do dispersed camping near you, then it is worth looking for sites that are run by the Bureau of Land Management or the National Forest Service.

Some campsites ask for a fee, and there can be complications if you are caught camping on private lands. Because of this, it is important to plan where to camp ahead of time.

Primitive Camping

For a more stripped back approach to camping, a primitive camping site could be suitable. This is because it involves few facilities, and most of these areas will provide a space for you to camp or set up your tent.

There tends to be a limit on the additional resources available on these sites, such as toilets. In fact, many primitive camping sites do not have restrooms or running water.

Where To Go

Because there are so many options for camping, there are so many possibilities on where and how you can camp.

Whether you want to explore your home state with a fresh set of eyes, or if you want to visit somewhere completely new, here are some of the best places to visit as a beginner camper.

Acadia National Park, Maine

For a great camping experience, head to Acadia National Park in Maine. It is known as the state’s natural jewel. There are 17 million acres of incredible scenery and pine forest to explore, and there is no doubt that you will find the perfect place for camping.

Not only can you enjoy the natural beauty of the forest, but you can also visit the many lakes, rivers, and streams that this national park has to offer. There are three camping sites to choose from, and many people enjoy hiking and exploring Acadia National Park on a regular basis.

Minnewaska State Park Reserve, New York

If you live around New York, you can visit Minnewaska State Park Reserve which is 94 miles from the city. This park has rocky terrain that is worth exploring.

Not only can you hike and mountain bike through the park at your own pace, but you can also utilize the camping ground which can be found opposite the state park.

Thanks to it being 2,000 feet above sea level, Minnewaska State Park Reserve boasts some incredible views which are certain to take your breath away. Make sure you pack a camera!

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

For those that live in, or who are planning a road trip to Virginia, it is worth paying a visit to Shenandoah National Park. Visitors can get lost in the 500 miles of trails. There are also plenty of waterfalls and forested areas worth exploring.

This national park provides incredible views all year round, so it does not matter if you want to visit during the spring, or in the fall. There are five campgrounds to choose from, as well as an 8-mile hike up Old Rag Mountain.

Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland

Camping near the beach is a must when you visit this national park. Located in Maryland, Assateague Island National Seashore can be found nine miles from Ocean City. It is a surfer’s paradise, with campgrounds located in the middle of it all.

Enjoy the 37 miles of beaches from this incredible campsite. Visitors can also paddleboard, kayak, go crab fishing, and spot wild horses.

Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

If you want to explore Fort Jefferson or admire one of the world’s largest barrier reefs, Dry Tortugas National Park in Florida has you covered.

There are plenty of resources to hire snorkeling equipment and areas to explore, that you won’t be sat idle when you visit this national park. Not to mention there is a highly rated campground nearby.

Big Bend National Park, Texas

Those that want to truly slow down and appreciate the natural beauty of the world we live in should pay a visit to Big Bend National Park in Texas. The clarity of the night’s sky alone is worth booking a trip, and you will be able to lose hours searching for the different constellations.

There is plenty of back country camping available, as well as three main campsites to choose from. Explore the desert trails that will lead you to mountains and rivers. Not only that, but visitors can enjoy rafting, kayaking, and canoeing along the Rio Grande.

Ozark National Forest, Arkansas

Despite being one of the most commonly overlooked areas for camping, Arkansas has a range of incredible scenery to offer. As well as rich countryside, lakes, and streams, there are nine beaches to explore.

Ozark National Forest is certainly worth visiting, as there are several campsites for tents and RVs to choose from. Enjoy the 400 miles of hiking trails and make sure that you take in the wonderful views.

Badlands National Park, South Dakota

If you are up for a challenge, the rough South Dakota weather is worth enduring for the gorgeous rock formations at Badlands National Park. Visitors can choose from two campsites with different available facilities, and there are so many stunning views to enjoy.

Make sure to take a peek at the ancient fossils, the prairies, and the different trails that explore the area.

Sawtooth National Forest, Idaho

Another place with rough weather that is worth visiting is Sawtooth National Forest located in Idaho. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains and choose from the many camping grounds available in the area.

Glacier National Park, Montana

If you are interested in seeing naturally formed glaciers, then Glacier National Park is the place to be. Montana has an incredible amount of breathtaking scenery, from forests and mountains to meadows.

Not only that, but there are many campsites to stay in. Enjoy the 700 miles of scenic trails when you visit this national park.

Top Tips

Wear Durable And Quick Drying Clothing

Don’t forget that you will need to consider your clothing when you are planning a camping trip. Wearing lightweight layers is recommended because they tend to be made from quick drying fabric.

There is nothing more uncomfortable than sitting in cold, wet clothes and knowing that you do not have anything dry to wear.

Because of this, you should always pack one change of clothes for each day that you are camping, plus one extra. Your clothes should also be durable as well, so that they can withstand regular movement and the occasional catch.

Camping is so much more enjoyable when you are wearing dry clothing that is flexible, breathable, and dry. These layers are also lightweight, so they won’t take up too much space in your backpack.

Do Your Research

Of course, you should always take the time to do your research on the campsite and any national parks in the area. Consider the weather predictions and how that will affect the type of clothing you are packing.

Likewise, you should research the grocery stores on the way, and where you can park if you plan on driving to a campsite.

Make Note Of Any Amenities At Your Campsite

This can help you feel more prepared when you are creating your packing list for camping. Make sure you pack soap and body wash if you plan to use the campsite’s facilities. Similarly, it is important to account for any amenities that are not available at your campsite.

For example, being further from a bathroom may require additional research such as where the closest one is, or how you can create a makeshift toilet if necessary. It is always worth packing extra rolls of toilet paper, regardless of how you are camping.

Bring Sealable Food Storage

Avoid getting bugs on your food and stop larger creatures from stealing your food with sealable food storage. You can use Tupperware containers, sealable bags, or cling wrap. Whatever you decide to use, it is essential to keep your food contained as much as possible.

This includes packing sandwiches for a long hike, or ingredients for cooking on a campfire.

Only Pack The Essentials

It is so easy to over pack, especially when you are heading into the wilderness. However, this can make it difficult to carry everything at once.

While this isn’t necessarily an issue for those that can park next to their camping area, it can be restrictive when you are hiking or planning to camp in the wilderness.

Make sure you can move easily with your backpack securely on, and that you are sticking to your packing list with just the essentials.

Arrive In The Daylight

So many people make this mistake, and it is easy to lose track of time when you are traveling to a campsite or spending time with your friends. Make sure you arrive at the campsite when the sun is still up, so that you don’t have to use up the batteries on your flashlight.

Setting up a tent is challenging, but it is even more difficult when it is dark. Try to plan ahead and check when the sun is expected to set on your chosen day.

Then, you can aim to arrive during the daylight so that you can understand where everything is and easily assemble your camping setup.

Find A Flat Spot To Pitch Your Tent

Another reason why you should arrive during the daylight is so that you can find a flat spot for your tent. This can make it significantly easier to rest at the end of the day, and to get comfortable.

Most RVs and other vehicles have their own leveling equipment, but it is much more challenging with a tent. This is especially true when you are attempting to camp in the wilderness, and not in a campsite.

Make sure you are allowing time to get this right once you have reached the desired camping spot.

Set Your Tent Up Away From The Cooking Area

It is so easy to set your tent alight when cooking, that this should be avoided as much as possible. Make sure you are setting up your cooking area away from your tent, so that you can avoid any damage done to your tent in the future.

The material that tents are made out of is surprisingly flammable, which does not usually pair well with cooking on an open flame or a small gas stove.

Cook Simple Meals

There is no reason why you should prepare a complex meal when you are camping. This only makes more work for you as well as preparation and dishes to clean. Try and keep your meals as simple as possible, and do some of the preparation ahead of time if possible.

This could include dicing and seasoning meat and sealing it in a freezer bag, or purchasing tinned food such as beans which are a great protein source and easy to heat up.

Cook Before Sundown

As well as setting up your tent before the sun goes down, you should aim to cook while you have the daylight. This makes it much easier to enjoy the food before the outside temperature drops, and it is harder to see.

Practice Fire Safety

Because the majority of camping involves cooking on a campfire or using an open flame, it is worth practicing fire safety beforehand. This can allow you to know what you should do if something goes wrong.

Make sure you are prepared as much as possible in order to prevent accidents from happening.

Know How To Purify Water

It’s no secret that bottles of water can be very heavy, especially if you are hiking with multiple in your backpack. Make this easier by understanding how you can purify water.

There are several methods to choose from that involve filtration, and it is worth learning more about so that you don’t have to carry as much water with you when you are camping.

Check The Weather Forecast Before You Go

The air pressure and weather can determine how you find camping, especially if you are a beginner. Make sure you are heading out during a dry time of year, and that you are not heading directly into a storm or hurricane.

Bring Cooking Gear

Having somewhere to store your food such as a cooling box is frequently overlooked. Make sure you are using one, and that you do not forget your camping stove for cooking food on. Some campsites do not permit campfires, so these are ideal solutions.

Summary

Camping is an incredibly immersive experience that can allow you to forget about certain stressors from everyday life. Being able to surround yourself with mother nature and enjoying the outdoors is highly rewarding.

It is definitely worth making the necessary preparations for camping today!

The post Beginner’s Guide To Camping appeared first on Survivor Hive.

Surviving in the wilderness means more than knowing what to bring. Although flashlights, compasses, and extra food are essential items to pack with you, you also need to bring your knowledge.

Knowing how to build a shelter, make a fire, and find non-poisonous food will help you survive when you’re out of supplies.

This knowledge is not just important for survival in an unexpected situation, it can help you create a wilderness adventure when you decide to go off-grid. Either way, the skills we are about to teach you will help you stay calm and find safety.

Know Your Priorities

As soon as you find yourself lost in the wilderness, you need to sort out your priority needs. These are your shelter, water, fire, food, and gear.

The last need – gear – may become a hit or a miss, depending on your situation. If you can only carry a small collection of items, make sure they are the ones described below. Ditch everything else to keep your journeying easier.

Shelter

One of the biggest killers in wilderness survival is exposure to the elements. Heatstroke and frostbite are silent killers that can harm you slowly. Starting off as headaches, overly sweating, nausea, and shallow breathing, if left untreated these illnesses can kill you.

To prevent overexposure to the elements, you need to create a shelter. This will stop the wind from misleading you about the sun and keep the rain from settling into your clothing and making you cold.

Later on, we will explain how to create a shelter, if you don’t have a tent with you.

Water

If you go without water for 3 days, you can die of dehydration. Before you reach this demise, you will suffer from cracked lips, swollen and cracked tongue, cracked and bleeding nose, difficulty peeing, difficulty breathing, and eventually will go unconscious.

Because the length of time we can survive without water is so short, finding water and purifying it is the most important knowledge you can have.

We will explain how to find water later, but for now, we will teach you how to purify it. Water from plants, and collecting dew or rainwater will allow you to drink clean water. If you only have access to rivers or still water, boil it to remove any bacteria. Let it bubble for 2 minutes and your water will be safe.

Fire

To boil water, you need to create fire. Later in our Essential Skills section, we will explain how to make a fire. But for now, we’ll teach you why it is so important.

With a fire you can boil your water, thereby stopping it from infecting you with bacteria. If you become wounded you can use this pure water to clean the area without worry of infection.

Fires can keep you warm. If you are lost in a cold environment, you will need a fire to stop the elements from harming you – shelter or no shelter.

Lastly, a fire can cook your food allowing it to last longer in the wilderness and killing off any bacteria.

Food

Archiv Fur Kriminologie originally stated in 2009 that a human can survive without food for between 8 to 21 days. However, after monitoring hunger strikes in the UK, M.Peel suggested that people can survive for up to 40 days without food.

The large difference in time scale could be due to the difference in food culture in the UK and the US. As US food is known to have less nutritional value in comparison to Europe, US citizens cannot last as long without food.

Knowing this, you should ration your food supply to keep you strong while not burning through your resources. If your food supply is running low, you need to start foraging.

Survival Gear

If you are hiking or on a wilderness trip, you should be taking these items regardless of how safe you feel on the trail. These items will help you if you get lost or become injured and need to wait for help.

When you become lost, you may realize that your backpack has become too heavy as you’ve grown weaker. In moments like these, you need to consider what you should dump and what you need to take with you. This list will help you figure that out.

Layers

Layers mean insulation. You need it for your shelter and for your clothing. Wearing layers is more likely to keep you warm without making you sweat.

If you sweat your own bodily fluids will cool you down, however in the process it will also soak your clothes. This will make you cold again. Whereas layers will give your body the breeze it needs to stop sweating while staying warm.

With layered clothing, you can also remove an item when the temperature changes.

First Aid Kit

This goes without saying, but you will need a fully stocked first aid kit. It should contain plasters, dressings, safety pins, tweezers, scissors, cleansing wipes, rash cream, antiseptic cream, and painkillers

If you know the area contains other dangers, such as poisoned snakes, take these specific precautions into account.

Compass

Not only do you need a compass, but you also need to know how to use it. Your compass will point north at all times. If it has a red and white arrow, the red is for North and the white is for South.

Before you head into the wilderness, you should look for physical landmarks and their location on the compass points. For example, if you know there is a river to the west, and following that river upstream will take you to a village, use your compass to go west until the river is found. Then you can travel knowing that safety is on the horizon.

Backpack

To carry all of your essential survival gear, you need to have a waterproof and strong backpack. Being waterproof means you can put in any electronic devices and be sure that the rain won’t destroy them. You can also cross a river, with your backpack as a floatation device, and not worry about its contents.

However, if you are lost in the wilderness, breakages can occur. A sharp branch could rip your bag apart ruining the only storage you have for all of your belongings. This is why you need to bring duct tape with you too.

Duct tape will be your saving glory, as it fixes the holes in your tents, bags, clothes, and shoes.

Flashlight

Flashlights will make sure you can see when the night comes along. If you hear a noise you don’t recognize, you can use the flashlight to scare away a predictor.

You can use the flashlight to make sure you don’t step into a ditch while walking in dense woods or areas with little sunlight.

To make sure your flashlight doesn’t run out of battery, you should bring one which runs on kinetic energy. These are flashlights that have a handle you can turn, which generates enough energy to power the flashlight.

The only problem with the lights is the noise they make as you turn them. If you are worried about predators, the noise could alert them to your location. However, most of us won’t have to worry about that issue.

Swiss Army Knife

A swiss army knife, also known as a multi-tool knife, allows you to carry around all of the tools you need without taking up room in your backpack. As a minimum, you’ll have scissors, a knife, a can opener, and a pick. However in modern multi-tool knives, you can also have wire cutters, LED light, wood saw, nail file, screwdriver, and a pen.

These tools can help you create firewood, build shelters, clean wounds and open up your reserved food. You need to keep your multi-tool knife safe from rust. To do this, you should keep it inside your waterproof backpack instead of dangling on the outside.

Waterproof Matches

We will discuss how to light a fire without a match later, but the best way to remove any stress or complication is to have easy-to-use resources at the ready. Bringing waterproof matches is one of these resources that can save you a lot of anxiety, time, and frustration.

If you are trying to survive in a damp wilderness, finding good firewood can be tricky. Using waterproof matches will allow you to start your fire without an issue. You simply need to find enough dry wood to keep the fire going.

The same goes for rainy weather conditions or crossing a river. No matter what the situation is, your waterproof matches will be able to keep your fires lit without concern.

Sun Protection

Sun protection means sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and aftersun creams. The two creams protect you from getting sunburnt and help you recover if your skin does become damaged.

When you are out in the wilderness, you don’t have protection from the sun’s harmful rays. This means you can develop sunburn much easier. Without an abundance of clean water to wash your wounds, these burns can become infected. Using sunscreen will protect your skin, while the aftersun will stop the damage from becoming worse.

Using a hat is another way to protect your face and neck from sunburn – adding automatic shade and delaying the effects of sunstroke. Using sunglasses can also help you stay alert to food, water, and dangerous foot placement.

Extra Food

Although you can survive a long time without needing to eat, lack of food can make you irrational. It lowers your mood, clouds your thinking, and can prevent you from making good choices.

If you become lost while on your nature trails, you should bring double the food you expect to eat. For example, if your hiking trail was meant to last for 1 day, then take 2 days’ worth of food. If your camping trip was for 1 week, then take 2 weeks’ worth.

To ensure the food can fit in your backpack, only take emergency rations or survival ration foods. These are packaged mush in an aluminum packet which you can rip open and push out like cat food. These will be slimlined, so can be packed easily, and will hold enough nutrients for a day, so you don’t need to work out protein sizes.

Extra Clothing

Although you can use duct tape to repair your clothes, you still need extra clothing to stop yourself from getting cold. If you get wet due to the rain, sweat, or going into the water, your clothes can quickly become your demise. Swapping out your wet clothes for something dry will stop you from getting hypothermia.

We suggest getting one replacement item for every piece of clothing you take. However, you should have extra items for socks. Socks are the quickest item to get wet, and because you are on your feet all day, this can easily turn into trench foot.

Your feet, hands, and head are the quickest to release heat, which means cold feet can change your core body temperature.

Essential Skills

Now you know what to bring, it’s time to teach you how to create or find essential items in the wilderness. Before you attempt a survival day, make sure you are completely prepared for the below activities.

How To Create Shelter

If you no longer have a tent or if the landscape and weather are rough, you should start looking for alternatives. A strong storm can make your tent useless as it tries to protect you, but if you know how to fortify your shelter then, you can keep the storm at bay.

To do that you need to understand the 4 basic shelters – natural, snow caves, tree wells, and the leaning technique.

Natural Shelters

Natural shelters are areas that can keep the elements at bay without interfering with them. Overhanging cliffs and natural caves are perfect shelters here on this green earth.

If you find a shallow cave with a clear end and no sign of wildlife nesting there, then take shelter in the night or as the weather rages on.

If the cave is deep, and you’re unsure if other animals have taken refuge there, then stay away or keep on high alert with your travel companions.

Either way, be sure to build a fire at the entrance of the cave. This should deter creatures from trying to enter while you’re sheltering.

Snow Caves

A snow drift is a large deposit of snow that has been shaped by the wind. Imagine sand dunes but much colder. Although the top layers can be moved around easily, the bottom layers are dense and hard to shift.

This is perfect for survivalists. If you find yourself lost in a snowing biome, find a large snow drift and dig into it. Make sure the tunnel is large enough for you and your friends to all huddle inside. Be sure to make ventilation holes in the “roof”, as your breath can soon become a new toxin to contend with.

Although snow itself is cold, when packed together like this, it can act as a good insulator – protecting you against the blizzard outside.

Tree Well

A tree well is another great natural shelter for snowy biomes. Spruce trees in snowy locations will not have the same amount of snow around the base of the trunk as the rest of the landscape. This is because the branches protect the base. This means there will be a hole or a well around the tree. You can hide in this hole to protect yourself against the weather.

The Leaning Technique

The leaning technique is the simplest method to create your own shelter out of the materials around you.

First, you need to find a dry patch of land. Next, you should cover the bottom with bark, leaves, or anything that will stop you from touching the floor. Without this layer, the natural moisture from the ground will make you wet and can cause hypothermia.

Next, find branches that can lean against each other to create a tent-like shape. This should protect you from the rain and wind.

This isn’t a strong construction build, but if no caves or snow drifts can be found, it’s an easy option to attempt.

How To Access Water

You should be aiming to drink between 2 and 3 cups of water a day to stay hydrated, but 6 to 8 to be truly healthy.

To find water you can do one of three things – find a water source like a lake or river, collect water from the area around you like morning dew and snow, or lastly collect water from underground.

In every one of these situations, you should be boiling the water before drinking it, to kill off any bacteria. Finding a lake and collecting morning dew are the easy options.

However, if you cannot find either, you can instead look at the ground for mud. Once you find muddy soil, start digging in the area to create a well. Soon, water will fill up the well. Scoop out what you can, and remember to boil it.

How To Make A Fire

To make a fire you should first find a safe place to get it going. This means avoiding barky areas and instead searching for rocky or sandy landscapes. Create a rocky platform if you need to, otherwise, you can create a wildfire.

Next, you should use your flint and steel or matches on dry and thin firewood.

If you don’t have tools, you can still create fire. Find two dry pieces of wood, and scrape off their bark using a swiss army knife (if you can). Put one piece on the ground, and the other in your hands touching it. The second one should have one edge touching the ground piece and the other pointing to the sky.

Lastly, twist the wood as fast as you can to create friction. It will take a while, but eventually smoke will appear. At that point, grab some leaves or thin dry wood and try to give the smoke and heat something to burn. Blow on the smoke too, to help give it more power.

How To Access Food

As we said before, water, shelter, and fire are the most important things you need when surviving the wild. However, after a while, you need to start looking for food too. Foraging is often easier to accomplish than hunting or creating traps.

You shouldn’t be eating anything you’re unsure of and should take a foraging book with you in case the need for food becomes desperate. While searching, be aware of the following:

Avoid Red Or White Berries

Any berry could be poisonous to humans, however, the majority of fatal or harmful berries come in one of two colors – red and white.

Although some red berries are perfectly harmless, such as strawberries, don’t let this fool you. Red and white berries are the most likely to harm you, so if you’re unsure of the fruit in your hand, reject it straight away.

Watch What Animals Eat

Take this rule with a pinch of salt, even though a deer can eat grass that doesn’t mean you can. However, if you see a bunch of different animals all eating the same berry from a berry bush, you can assume it isn’t toxic.

Before you take the plunge, be sure to boil it.

Boil Your Food To Remove Some Poisons

Just as boiling water can remove bacteria from your liquid supply, boiling your food can remove some poisons. Whenever you’re eating something you’re unsure of, boil it. The worst that can happen after boiling an unknown substance, is the flavor will be diminished. And in these types of situations, the flavor is the last thing on your mind.

Avoid Mushrooms

Mushrooms are a great source of nutrients if you know what you’re looking for. However, if you have no idea about mushrooms, then you can easily confuse the False Death Cap with the actual Death Cap.

A good rule of thumb would be to avoid mushrooms with white gill and avoid ones with any type of rink around the “neck”. You should also avoid any mushroom with a red cap or a red stem.

However, unless you have some knowledge about mushrooms, you shouldn’t touch them at all.

Look For Nut Trees

All nuts are editable unless you have an allergy. This means looking for nut trees is the safest option when you forage.

Look on trees for bulbous-shaped sprouts near leaves. If they have a hard outer shell, then you may have found a nut. Try to smash it open with a stone. And as always, boil it.

Educate Yourself On Your Surroundings

If you are preparing for the worst on your trailing journey, or are actively getting ready for an adventurous survival weekend, you should educate yourself on the type of plants in the area. If you know that pine trees, spruce trees, and yellow birch are going to be common foliage, then you should learn how to spot them.

These trees have edible inner bark, which means you can use your knife to pull the bark off the tree and find fresh food.

Learning which trees are in the area, and which of those have hidden delights could save you from starvation.

How To Use Your Survival Gear

Most of the survival gear we mentioned above is self-explanatory. You should already know how to build your tent before you take it outside. You should know how to turn your kinetic flashlight before trusting it’s easy on the day. And your multi-tool knife has a lot of options for you to use, but make sure you know how to clip them in.

If you happen to have a map and a compass, you need to know how to use the two together. The basic trick is to see where North is on your map and match it up with North on your compass. Then find a landmark like a village in that line, and keep traveling until you find it.

For a more accurate approach, you need to understand how to use the bezel, direction arrow, and orienting lines. Study these elements and practice in well-known places, so you can learn how to use the compass correctly.

Knowledge Of Medical Plants

Just as you should be learning about the trees in the area you are camping in, you also need to learn about the medicinal foliage too. For example, a dock leaf is an instant remedy against nettle stings. Spitting onto the leaf and allowing the sapling to cool your affected area will stop the stinging sensation allowing you to carry on with your day.

Knowledge Of Herbal Remedies

Knowing which plants are helpful also means knowing how to prepare them. For example, the Yarrow plant can help you treat rashes and insect bites. You can take the flowers and the leaves and boil them into a tea. Or you can chew the leaves and create a paste to rub on the insect wound.

Knowing the plants in your area will help you narrow down your studying session, as you learn which plants can help you against what.

How To Deal With Wildlife

Depending on where you’ve become stranded, the type of wildlife you will encounter will be different. Just as you should study the plants and trees of the area, you should study the animals too.

To help you cope with an animal encounter in the wild, you should try to remember these three things.

Have An Escape Route

Normally when you meet a critter in the wilderness, it will run away from you before you realize it was even there.

If you accidentally trap an animal, it will be more likely to attack you. For this reason, you need to ensure the creature has an escape route. Let it run away from you.

For the same reason, you should create an escape route for yourself. That might mean backing away from the creature, as you exit its area.

Try Not To Panic

While this is happening, it can be easy to allow the adrenaline to take over. But try to stay calm. Take a few deep breaths, and try to think clearly.

Running will likely spook the creature, causing it to become offensive unnecessarily. Remember that most animals will only attack if they feel threatened. Instead, try to remain calm and remove yourself from the situation without suggesting aggression.

While you back away, make sure to keep your eyes on the creature but don’t stare.

Remove Yourself From The Situation Slowly And Calmly

Remember that one of the ways in which an animal could feel threatened is due to territory. If you have stepped onto another creature’s territory, you may have accidentally created a panic response in the creature.

To stop this response from being actively triggered, you should back away slowly. The slow movement shouldn’t surprise the creature any further, and acting calmly will also show no sign of aggression.

As you move, keep an eye out for other creatures too, while quickly returning your gaze to the first animal.

While you are looking, you need to make sure you aren’t backing further into the animal’s territory. If you notice more creatures of the same species around you, you should back away from them too.

Summary

Although some people plan to go on a survival weekend, where there is no technology and just their compass to guide them, very few people plan for this type of situation.

Because becoming stranded isn’t an expected outcome of their journey, these same people often don’t know what to do when they find themselves out of luck. This doesn’t have to be you.

If you like to go camping, hiking, or spending time away from the bustle of people, you should also know how to survive if things turn south.

Use our information to help you start these survival skills.

The post Guide To Surviving In The Wild appeared first on Survivor Hive.

There are many benefits that come with hiking regularly, but it can be a little overwhelming to know how to start and begin experiencing these mental and physical improvements. This is a complete guide to hiking, including recommended equipment, how to begin, and other essential tips.

Whether you want to connect with your spiritual side, push your body a little further, or spend more time outdoors, hiking is a great way to explore nature and disconnect from the busy world for a while. Something that makes hiking unique is that it can be as strenuous or easy as you like. This means that you can bring your dog, children of all ages, and relatives if they want to.

In many cultures and religions, nature is considered sacred and even a source of new life. It’s no wonder that more and more people are enjoying hiking, because of the mental clarity which comes from being immersed in the wilderness. This is unlike anything else, and provides a great opportunity for enlightenment.

What Is Hiking?

Making a conscious effort to spend more time outdoors surrounded by nature is one of the fundamental characteristics of hiking. It can be an incredibly mindful process of self-reflection which allows you to deal with the busy world easier.

For others, hiking is a physical challenge which encourages them to push their bodies a little further and reach extreme heights or distances.

While hiking is originally defined as a long and vigorous walk through nature, it has adapted since the activity first came to light. This means that your hike can be as easy or challenging as you like without having to strain yourself when you do not want to.

Nowadays, hiking is a mental exercise as much as it is a physical one. It encourages people to slow down and turn off their overactive minds. Switching off phones and disconnecting from the busy modern world offers a great opportunity to enter a meditative state, or even enjoy chatting with friends or loved ones.

The Benefits Of Hiking

Hiking is an extremely rewarding activity which encourages you to appreciate the natural world while exercising. Many consider it to be the perfect exercise, and it isn’t hard to see why.

Apart from parking charges and donations to nature reserves, hiking is completely free. This means that it is one of the most accessible forms of exercise out there.

So many people of all ages can go at their own pace and appreciate the many benefits that hiking provides. You can bring toddlers, friends, family members, and dogs on a hike, or head out on your own if you need something that is a little more meditative.

While some see hiking as an athletic challenge to push themselves to extremes and cover larger distances, it can improve your mental health by offering a chance to switch off. Focusing on what you are doing, and where you are going allows your mind to settle from overthinking, worrying, and what-ifs.

Because of this, hiking is widely credited for improving mental health and allowing people to be more conscious of their choices in life. Not only that, but it can help people to become more mindful about the natural world in which they live.

Hiking provides some much-needed perspective to many, and encourages people to think about the bigger picture rather than our own lives.

9 Essential Hiking Tips

If you are wondering how you can start your hiking journey, and where to begin planning, these are some essential tips that will help. Remember to be considerate of your environment and don’t cause excessive damage to the area.

1. Start With A Hike For Beginners

Firstly, it is worth recognizing that hiking isn’t something that you can jump straight into the deep end. Choose a route that is recommended for beginners in order to work your way up. Tough terrains up very steep hills or mountains can be too much of a shock to your body if you are not used to that kind of physical activity.

Beginner trails are usually on more level ground which is easier to start on. They also normally take less time to cover the route. This means that you can do these types of trails more frequently if you choose until you want to try a tougher trail.

It is recommended that you choose a route that is less than five miles in length if you are new to hiking, and stick to something with minimal climbing. It is easy to train yourself and work your way up to more challenging routes and longer hikes, but five miles is a respectable distance for a leisurely hike.

2. Pick Beginner Hiking Gear

It’s not only the route which can be recommended for beginner hikers, but the gear that you use as well. Beginner hiking gear allows you to understand some of the basics before using expert level equipment that is a little more complicated and advanced.

Any kind of athletic pants are ideal for hiking because they will protect your legs from bushes and bug bites. It can also prevent rubbing and sweat absorption which is common in jeans that become very heavy and difficult to move in.

A reliable pair of sneakers or hiking boots are also essential, but it’s important that they are comfortable and do not rub on your feet or ankles in any way. Use a backpack, water bottle, extra layers for the weather to get warmer or colder, snacks, and rain protection.

Other types of hiking gear which can be useful for beginners are a compass, emergency whistle, a folding knife, and a lighter or container of waterproof matches.

3. Timing Is Key

Depending on whether you want to be surrounded by more people or head out alone, it is worth timing your hike correctly. Those who want to be lone hikers should aim to start their route first thing in the morning, whereas those who prefer the company of others or feel more confident when there are more groups nearby should go closer to midday.

This can make it a little more social and encourage you to catch up with friends or family members.

Of course, you should also check the weather forecast in relation to the intended time of day. Remember that conditions at the top of a mountain are usually a little different than the surrounding towns and villages.

4. Prep Sessions

This is basically a little research prior to the hike, which involves checking if you need to purchase a permit and following the steps to do so if it is necessary. Additionally, it is worth checking the weather forecast before heading out so that you are not walking straight into a severe storm.

It is also worth checking with the local park if a particular route is open to the public on the intended day of hiking, as there is little point heading to your chosen hiking spot if you cannot use the route that you wanted to.

5. Tell Someone

Even if you are going on a very short route, it’s crucial that you tell a neighbor, close friend, or family member exactly where you are headed before leaving the house. This is because most people turn off their phones on a hike to save battery, and they will be harder to reach in an emergency.

The person who you have spoken to beforehand will know where to look for you if you do not return within the expected time period, or if they are concerned about your safety. Something as simple as a text message with the zip code or address of the parking lot and estimated time for your hiking route works great.

6. It Is Not A Race

Remember that the goal of hiking isn’t to reach the vantage point the fastest, so you shouldn’t treat it as a race. Trying to get all the way around your chosen route in record time won’t get you anything, apart from a little hot and sweaty.

Make sure that you go at a pace that feels comfortable for you and all members of your group if you plan on hiking with multiple people. Consider everybody’s needs and athletic ability.

There are different types of hikes, but it is generally recommended that you treat it more like a marathon than a sprint race for the athletic minded individuals. This means pacing yourself and preserving your energy rather than rushing off on your hike because you do not know what could be around the next corner.

7. Watch Your Feet

Snakes, thick tree roots and even large stones are some of the most common culprits of trusted ankles. It is easy to forget when you are listening to music with headphones, talking to other members of your group, or lost in thought.

Try to get into the habit of watching where you are placing your feet on a hike so that you don’t fall victim to an injured ankle.

8. Don’t Be Scared To Get Lost

For some, their goal is to travel from a starting point to an end point, or in a long loop, and that’s it. However, you could find a hike more enjoyable if you allow yourself to get lost in the wilderness, and enjoy breathing in the fresh air. This is a great way to become immersed in the natural world and reconnect with mother earth.

If you are trying to figure out where you are, then you can backtrack to find your way and hopefully get you on the route that you were following.

9. Learn The Right Hiking Etiquette

Understand how to interact with other people on the hiking track correctly. Be mindful of other people and remember to treat everybody you meet with respect. Let someone who is going uphill to pass before you so that they do not have to lose momentum.

Other ways to be courteous of other hikers are to keep dogs under control at all times because some people are wary of them, and to keep music and conversations at a low volume if you are part of a larger group.

10 Essentials For Survival When Hiking

When you are getting ready for your hike, it’s important that you are ready for anything. This includes setting up emergency shelter, getting lost, severe weather, and injuries. That is why we have listed ten essentials that can help you survive any hiking trip. Try to pack these into your hiking backpack so that they are always with you on every route.

1. Navigation

Don’t rely too heavily on GPS and phone signals when you are hiking because many routes will not have as much connection. Try to trace your route using paper maps ahead of time and keep a copy with you during the hike.

If you don’t already know, make sure you can use and understand a compass before heading out on a hike because this can help you follow a map more accurately.

For those who are less experienced with navigating their way through the wilderness, it could be useful to find a hiking track that is more popular to start with. This way, you can ask other hikers which way to go, and even follow the signs if there are any.

Making sure you have some knowledge and practice navigating your way through the wilderness during a hike can prevent you from getting lost for longer amounts of time. This is likely to get you stranded and having to set up an emergency shelter for the night.

If you are planning a more extreme hiking trip, you could also pack a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) which makes it much easier for emergency services to find you if you need to be rescued.

2. Protection From The Sun

Even if the weather is cloudy, the UV exposure can be damaging to your skin. Excessive UV rays and sun exposure can contribute to an increased appearance of wrinkles, uneven skin tones, and increase the risk of developing skin cancer.

It is therefore essential that you use sun protective measures such as applying SPF and bringing sunblock with you on your hike to reapply. Other methods to reduce the impact from the sun include wearing a hat, sunglasses, and light colored clothing.

3. Headlamp

Low visibility can happen at any time of the day, and it’s important that you are prepared for these conditions on a hike. Pack a high quality headlamp to make finding your way back  from the trail easier.

It is also useful to have a headlamp or flashlight in case you lose track of time and notice that it is getting dark out. Those who want to camp in the wilderness overnight during a hike would also benefit from a reliable headlamp.

Try to pack extra batteries for this headlamp in case you need to use it regularly. It could also be worth finding a high quality LED headlamp or flashlight that lasts a little longer than regular flashlights.

4. First Aid Essentials

Safety should be prioritized by packing a simple first aid kit that you can bring on any hike. While injuries and sickness are unlikely, you will not want to be caught short when someone falls over and needs a bandaid, sling, or even hayfever medication.

Consider the needs of everyone that you plan on hiking with, and whether you need to include emergency medication such as an EpiPen, inhaler, a spare dose of insulin, or anything else that applies to you or your group.

Of course, most first aid kits are recommended to contain pain medicine such as aspirin, bandaids and some bandages, a temporary sling or material to make one out of, sanitary products, and anything else that you think is necessary on a hike.

5. Knife

Pocket knives are ideal additions to any hiking or outdoor set-up because they have so many uses. Make sure you have a cover that is easy to store safely when the blade is not in use.

You can use a knife to carve sticks, remove clothing from a wound, open cans of food, and for self-defensive reasons. It can also be used to make kindling when you need to build a fire, and during food preparation.

6. Fire

Waterproof matches or butane lighters are essential for starting a fire in an emergency. They will need to be reliable and easy to use when needed. You can also pack a small camping stove for a source of heat, or small amounts of kindling kept dry in a zip-loc bag.

7. Enough Food

Protein bars are an ideal source of energy when you are hiking because they can give you a boost that will help you get to where you need to be. It is recommended that you pack one day’s extra worth of food when you are preparing for a long hike.

Things with long shelf lives are generally better because you will not have to worry about keeping them cool. This includes jerky, nuts, and dried fruits, because they don’t need to be cooked or prepared at all.

8. Shelter

If you are planning to spend several days in the wilderness or take on a much longer hiking route, it could be worth packing materials that can be used to create a shelter. This could be an old tarp to hang between trees, a hammock, or a small tent.

For people who don’t know how long a particular trail will take them, it could also be worth bringing some supplies to create a shelter in case the sun starts to go down and you don’t know where you are. It can also be used for shelter if you want to wait out a storm, rainfall, or take a break for lunch.

Emergency shelters are essential for any hiking pack, and they are considerably more lightweight than other forms of shelter. For that reason, it could be worth purchasing small emergency shelters for everyone in your hiking group.

9. Extra Clothes

Even if the weather forecast looks mild and consistent, it’s essential to bring another layer of clothes in case you find yourself stranded in the wilderness at night. This is when it can get a little chilly, and you won’t want to be stuck in a basic tank top.

Most hiking routes will usually take you onto higher ground up a mountain or hill, and you should have an additional layer to put on once you feel the chill that can come from this. Try to pack a lightweight sweater, long sleeved T-shirt, or even some socks in case your feet get wet.

Additionally, it could also be worth packing a lightweight waterproof jacket if it looks like it will rain. This can prevent you from returning from a hike and needing to get into your car when you are soggy. Spare sets of underwear are always a useful thing to pack for any hike.

10. Enough Water

Try to think realistically about how much water you need to take, and where you can refill water bottles if necessary. It is generally recommended that you drink around 32 fl oz for every two hours that you are hiking.

You could try to bring more in case other members of your group need water, but your pack can easily become pretty heavy. Many people invest in a reusable water bottle that has a high capacity and carry it separately from their hiking packs in their hands. This can encourage them to take more regular sips when they are exploring the wilderness.

It could also be useful to find ways of purifying water when you are hiking so that you don’t have to carry as much emergency water supply. These are normally in the form of chemical treatment tablets, small filters, or using portable stovetops.

How To Stay Safe During A Hike

It is easy to forget that hikes can be a little perilous when the weather is less than perfect. This is because of poor visibility, extreme temperatures, excessive rain, or windy conditions. Make sure you are staying as safe as you can be on a hike so that you do not become injured, lost, or dehydrated.

Research

This is one of the best things that you can do. Planning ahead of time allows you to research more details about where you are going, local amenities, parking, and estimated time of each different trail.

Researching your route makes it easier to estimate how long you will be out of the house for, and whether a particular route will allow you to be finished with your hike before the sun goes down.

It is also recommended that you research as much as you can about the area that you will be hiking in so that you do not end up on a very steep track that is a little too physically challenging for your preference.

Make sure you know what route to take, and how to stick to it all of the time on your hike. This allows you to bring people who are less athletic and show them the wonders of the natural world without pushing them too far.

Pack Only The Essentials

It can be easy to fill your pack with a lot of things that aren’t necessary out of the need for comfort or familiarity, but you should try and be strict about how essential everything is when you are packing for a hike.

This ensures that you know exactly what is in your pack, and where to reach for it when needed. Having a lightweight pack allows you to move easier on long hikes without feeling weighed down unnecessarily.

Check To See If There Are Water Sources Or Nearby Amenities For Food

This is a highly useful thing to do, so that you know how close you will be to these ahead of time. Avoid bringing excessive amounts of food and water, because they can weigh your pack down and make the load more difficult to carry.

It could also be worth taking a note of these locations or writing them onto your paper map so that you can reach them in an emergency. It could also be useful to know where the nearest diner or restaurant is if you are hiking in a large group and all want to eat a big meal afterwards, or even just to use the bathroom.

Break Your Footwear In Before The Trail

While it may seem obvious, many people skip this step and end up with painful rubbing on a hike. This is normally caused by new footwear that hasn’t been worn-in yet. A hike can become very unpleasant if you have ill-fitting or uncomfortable boots or sneakers.

Because of this, it’s important to wear shoes that you know are comfortable and fit your feet well on a hike. If you decide to purchase new footwear for hiking, it could be worth wearing them ahead of time so that they have time to be adjusted and made as comfortable as possible without rubbing into your ankles or feet.

Go At A Consistent Pace

This can keep your heart pumping and allow your body to benefit from regular exercise. Listen to your body and go at a pace that feels comfortable so that you can enjoy your hike without over-exerting yourself.

Like we mentioned previously, a hike is not a race and there is nothing to prove. You may as well take your time and enjoy the scenery while you can.

Make Sure You Tell Someone Where You’re Going

It may feel a little unnecessary, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. You can easily get lost or lose track of time on a hike, so you should tell somebody close to you where you are planning to go and when they should expect to hear from you to say that you’ve arrived home safely.

Having somebody to be on stand-by waiting for your return is a highly effective way for them to find you in an emergency while allowing you to enjoy being disconnected for a little while.

Look At Local Weather Forecasts

This should become a part of your routine when you are preparing for a hike, and it’s crucial to remember that the weather in the towns nearby a particular route does not always correlate with the conditions on top of a mountain.

However, you can prepare appropriately by bringing spare layers and waterproof clothing. With that said, it could be dangerous to hike while a severe storm is passing over. For that reason you should always check local weather forecasts and find one that is pretty accurate.

Stay Hydrated And Keep Energy Levels High

Remember to keep your body fueled and avoid losing too much energy or fluids on a hike. This is so that you can stay focused on the track and find the right way around while taking in the environment and appreciating the nature around you.

Energy bars are ideal for short boosts that will keep you going. However, they are less effective for a long-term solution. If you are planning a long hike that is expected to last an entire day, it could be worth packing a small picnic to keep your body sufficiently fueled.

Summary

One of the great things about hiking is that it can be as physically challenging as you like. This means that you can choose to push yourself a little further and work on improving your timing, or enjoy the scenery and use the time to reflect.

Some people bring their toddlers and use this as an opportunity to teach them about the natural world, and others use it as a chance to bond with elderly family members. There are so many different hiking trails around the country that it is easy to choose one that matches your preferences, physical fitness, and desired length.

Make sure you are packing some of the hiking essentials, and that you have done plenty of research before heading out. It can be easy to lose track of time and need rescuing if you get lost, so it’s important that you come prepared with the knowledge and appropriate precautions for your chosen route.

The post The Ultimate Guide To Hiking appeared first on Survivor Hive.

Introduction

Historically, preppers have been seen as people who are hyper aware of the environmental situation and the role that they play in being ready for natural disasters. Most of the time it’s important to have an extra storage of food essentials, medicine, and water in case of an emergency the limits access to these supplies. In spite of the media portraying some preppers as excessive, over the top, and having a negative outlook on the future, the current state of the world means that prepping could be ensuring you are one step ahead. 

The term ‘prepper’ originally came into light during the social growth of survivalism in the 1980s. By comparison, a prepper is someone who is ready for any kind of severe disaster, limiting food or medicine supplies. These could be as immense as global diseases spreading or more local such as food shortages, drastic changes to weather patterns, or even political reasons why medicine, water and other essentials might become limited. By comparison, preppers stock a place like a bunker, remote cabin or even their current home with the essentials in order to avoid needing to venture out during times of disaster. 

For the most part, the fundamentals used by preppers are less apocalyptic, and more about ensuring security for the future. Not to be confused with survivalists, who avoid staying in the same place if they can help it. Both types of people create their own stockpiles individual to their perceived needs, but the main difference is that survivalists focus on self-defense skill development. During a catastrophe, survivalists will have their own skills, including some medical training and knowledge of shelter building. 

Originally, the rise in nuclear weapon development in the 1930s caused a lot of concern surrounding the welfare of a lot of people. This is one of the primary contributors to the modern prepper rise, because of the valid concerns from a lot of people. More were beginning to question how prepared they would be in a national supply shortage, or if they required to stay in the house for safety. More concern came into light following the 1960s inflation rise, where U.S. citizens were questioning the chances of another Cold War or even the use of nuclear weapons. People were urged to build their own bunkers or makeshift shelters and keep a small stockpile of basic supplies. This is why a lot of people still feel more comfortable when they have some essentials in store, as it is reassuring to know that you’re protected during any catastrophe. 

In spite of the rationale behind the rise in preppers, the media has created a stigma using film portrayals of obsessive people who have hoarding tendencies. Dystopian movies commonly demonstrate characters who obsess over the classic end of the world scenarios, but it is often more of a way to feel reassured and can even be a fun way to make friends with others that have similar interests or beliefs. Although it is easy to see where preppers get their hermit-like portrayal from, they are often unlike this and will often come across as typical members of society who manage their anxieties for the future with emergency stores and plans. 

In contrast to some common beliefs, prepping can be social. There are some great communities that you can find online or locally for preppers wanting to encourage others and even compare notes. You might even find that you have an excess supply of something and want to set up a trade system with other local preppers. Social support is an effective way to make prepping feel more ordinary and less like hoarding. It can be hard to ignore what the media says about some preppers, so it’s important to challenge your internalized beliefs about it and share your views with others. 

Religious reasons have often been one of the biggest causes for prepping. From prophecies coming into light or the predicted end of all things, there is a large number of preppers who base their beliefs on religious texts and use those for predictions. Not only that, but religious preppers offer immense stockpiles when the community comes together. Weather, money, and political uproar are among some of the most common factors that people prep for. However, the reasons are often varied, and it depends on an individual’s beliefs as well as what their main concerns are. For example, many preppers focus on local issues, while others prophesize a catastrophe like a meteor landing. These are some tips to encourage you to be the most ready that you can be. Whether you want to begin prepping, or even if you want to see what you already have in your stockpile, these are some great ideas to ensure survival. 

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Table Of Contents

1

Introduction

2

Prepper Checklist

2.1

Food

2.2

Water

2.3

Medical

2.4

Safety & Security

2.5

Power & Heat

2.6

Tools & Misc.

2.7

Communications

2.8

Comfort Items

2.9

Skills & Training

2.10

Personal

3

Tips and Beginner Mistakes

3.1

Don’t Buy Off-the-shelf kits

3.2

Stay Realistic and Practical

3.3

Don’t let Prepping Overwhelm You

3.4

Ignore the Noise and Extremism that Tries to take Over Prepping

3.5

Prepping is Better when you Connect with Similar People

3.6

It’s Better to Buy Some High-quality Items

3.7

Practice with your Supplies and Plans

4

Summary

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Prepper Checklist

This is a basic checklist with some great pointers to show you how it doesn’t have to be perfect from the start when it comes to prepping for survival. 

Food

One of the most commonly stockpiled items that is often the easiest to get started with is creating a good food store. Some preppers go as far as to hit up their local bulk store, but you can easily add to your weekly grocery trip some items to get started. Salt is essential, from flavoring food to adding essential electrolytes to the body. It’s important to have enough in your store. 

Dried foods such as grains like rice, oats, and pasta are great ways to bulk meals up, it’s definitely worth investing in some reliable food storage methods. To include a bigger range of items and increase the shelf life of some of your foods, you will need to invest in some bins to keep bulk items away from insects, and Mylar bags to preserve them. Oxygen removing pouches easily preserve foods for years to come. Don’t forget to include plenty of sugar, honey, and flour too. 

Of course, canned food has the most stable shelf life because of the procedure used. Nowadays, there are so many options for foods stored in cans, fruits, cheese, butter, and even bacon! Coffee, peanut butter, tea, and energy bars are among some shelf stable essentials that you will definitely need in an apocalypse event. There is no reason why you should go without your favorites, which is why a varied stockpile of food types offers plenty of options. On that note, it’s important to add some dried jars of spices to your store to allow for versatility of cooking and attempting to change up common meals if you plan on having the same thing often. 

Baking soda is an extremely versatile thing to add to any emergency storage, because it can be used in cleaning, as a toothpaste, heartburn medication, and of course a cooking agent. Pet food is just as important to keep a surplus of, as you do not want to be cutting into the human food if you can help it. Ensure that you have enough to feed your dog, cat, chickens or birds for at least 30 days. 

Water

Make sure that you know how to treat dirty water, through purification tablets or even filtration systems. It is recommended that you have roughly one gallon per person per day that you are preparing for. Invest in some food-safe grade plastic for storing your emergency water, and ensure that you have the space to keep it. Another option for making the most out of water, if you live in rainy areas, is to introduce a rain collection system using your home's guttering. Refine your filtration technique and work on purifying the water so that it is safe to consume. 

Nowadays, there are many options for water storage that you can choose from. One of the most effective ways to save space is to invest in a good quality plastic bladder that can be stored in your home’s bathtub. Whether you want to use the rainy weather to your advantage or maximize space in your storage area, it’s definitely worth researching the many options available with water storage and filtration systems. 

Knowing how to prevent wasting water is just as essential during a natural disaster as is storing it itself. One idea to practice saving as much as you can is to challenge yourself or even the household to a day when you each only use one gallon of water. Not only will this encourage children to appreciate the role of water, and how much we take it for granted, but it will help you learn some water-saving techniques. Some great ways to save water are to use paper plates that can be thrown away. This is especially useful in a disaster because you might not want to waste valuable water on washing dishes all the time. 

Medical

It’s important to have a good quality supply of medicine and wound treatments in your emergency storage. Depending on who you are prepping for, there might be someone in your group needing regular medication or even with an allergy. Your home should already have some level of first aid kit for emergencies, including band-aids, dressings, and basic painkillers. Antiseptic and antibiotic ointments are also great additions, if you want to be ready for anything, you could pack some splints, clean gauze, and sharp scissors. 

Benadryl and Pedialite have a great deal of benefits to adults and children alike. Whether you want to store Benadryl in case of hay fever or a rash from an irritation, or rehydrate someone suffering from diarrhea using pedialite, the two are definitely essential additions to your emergency medical kit. Make sure to invest in a good, reliable book with everything you might need to know about wound dressings, dealing with infections and other helpful tips. During a natural disaster or other eventuality, it might be worth having access to several comprehensive medical books to help see you through.

Some pieces of equipment that you will definitely benefit from having readily available are a thermometer, bite kit for insects or snakes, sutures, and needles. All of these would ensure you are ready for anything and can protect you and those around you from getting more ill as a result of minor injury or infection. It’s impossible to know what the future holds, which is why it’s better to prepare for any eventuality and cover all bases. Hospitals might be hard to get to during the event you have in mind, so checking that you know how to properly dress wounds and protect yourself as well as your family is essential. 

You’ll be surprised how effective essential oils can be during a disaster. Most of them can be used for antiseptics, treating wounds, and helping with sleep. It’s worth looking into the many different effects of essential oils during an emergency, because a lot of them are shelf stable and have medicinal properties. Vitamins and any regular prescription medicine for you or your family are important as well, especially when eating a reduced diet from the emergency stores. Make sure that you pack plenty of menstruation products, as it can be highly embarrassing to be caught out when stores are no longer available. Sunscreen and Vaseline are also valuable items that can prevent infection from spreading and maintain skin protection. 

Safety & Security

During a national disaster, you will need to access as many resources as possible, which is why a great move to prepare is to get to know your neighbors. If people begin to act violently, you might want to be able to defend yourself using a gun, knife, or taser. Preventative measures that can deter people include a dog that can alert you of intruders, and security lights. Of course, it’s usually better to rely on non-electrical methods if possible. 

You can also prepare a level of financial security during any kind of government shutdown by keeping a stash of cash in your storage. Around $500 worth of tens, twenties, fives, and ones, along with some change allows you to get one step ahead during any kind of long-term disaster. 

Power & Heat

Depending on how your home is fuelled, you can ensure power when needed with a backup generator, or spare stores of fuel like gas canisters. Whether you want to install solar panels or keep a store of rechargeable batteries, any preparations are good for ensuring power in the future. Lighting is another important thing to consider. Keep several torches nearby with spare batteries when needed. Oil lamps and candles also offer great light sources. 

For keeping warm, a lot of prepper homes feature wood fire places. This can allow warmth and light at the same time, not to mention how food can be cooked on it easily. If this isn’t an option for you, you could try setting up a fire outside and keeping a small stash of dry wood. Matches and other firelighters are essential to any emergency storage set, and you should also include a reliable fire extinguisher with a long use by date. Invest in a good quality blanket, pillow and sleeping bag for each family member to keep them warm and prevent any fevers from developing. 

Tools & Misc.

If you are choosing to use wood fires, you will need a good quality axe that can be used for chopping wood and as self-defense if needed. A shovel, wheelbarrow, and a bucket are all important tools you might need. If you want to go the extra mile ahead, you might want to set up a garden for vegetables and herbs. This is why you will need to ensure you have plenty of seeds and all the necessary equipment. In addition, other tools include a decent hammer, screwdriver, nails, screws, and zip ties. Wire can also be multi-functional and be used in a lot of areas. 

Bleach, Epsom salts, and spare toothbrushes all have wide ranges of uses when in an emergency, so are worth keeping extras of. Not to mention, any baby items like diapers, spare clothes, and wipes. Paper and pens can also be beneficial to keep children entertained, but also for conveying messages if the power goes out. 

It’s also important to keep a backpack with some supplies in for scoping out areas and assessing the situation. Keep some copies of maps handy and a small container of water, a torch, and self-defense weapon. You might even want a tent and bicycle to use when you really need it. If gas becomes unavailable, pedal bikes can be an effective way to cover more ground faster than walking. 

Communications

During times of distress, you will need to be able to contact emergency services if they are still available. Investing in a good radio that is hand cranked or even battery powered can be perfect for enabling you to communicate with others. Whether you want to give your neighbors some radios to stay in contact with you, or if you want to use an emergency list of contact numbers, frequencies, or channels to use, a radio offers a perfect form of emergency communication. 

Comfort Items

Keeping some people’s favorite comfort items can do wonders for their mental health. Candy often has a long shelf life, especially hard candies, and can be great for kids or adults. Chewing gum can also offer a great stress reliever. Chocolate also has a long shelf life because of the sugar content in it. For entertainment, it’s important to think about kids and adults alike. Keep several sets of cards handy and a good stack of board games. Books are also useful additions that anyone can keep busy for a while. 

Soap has many uses and is probably not considered a “comfort” item per se, but it is definitely worth including in your emergency stores. Toilet paper is a necessity that should be kept topped up often, and even if you make the move to compost based toilets outdoors, toilet roll is definitely a commodity. Other additional items include luxuries like small amounts of alcohol, and cigarettes. Make sure to avoid adding them if anyone in your group, including you, has a history of addiction. 

Skills & Training

Another way in which you can focus your efforts is to teach yourself how to cook, build fires, use a gun, and dress wounds effectively. Taking local classes or doing your own research online are both good options to work on your abilities and take note of what you need to practice more. Other skills you can think about include how to find water, following maps, woodworking, and Morse code. Not to mention, caring for animals, self-defense, hunting, fishing, land navigation, and gardening. 

Personal

One of the areas that is the most commonly overlooked is personal documents. It is essential to keep copies of important documents in your emergency storage. These include birth certificates, driver’s license, passport, and marriage certificate. Other documents needed to include bank account details, passwords, house deeds, medical records, and corporate or business documents. Additional items of sentimental value include family heirlooms such as photographs, recipes, or even letters. 

Tips and Beginner Mistakes

Some common things that beginner preppers should avoid doing come from the mistakes made in the past. This is why some of the common tips have been listed below. While it’s often easier said than done, try to avoid believing the common stigma about preppers. They are simply trying to get ready and are often less extremist than you might think. 

Don’t Buy Off-the-shelf kits

While it might seem tempting to grab a ready-made kit from the store, they tend to fill them with unnecessary items and don’t have nearly the right amount of supplies needed. It’s better to build your own kits for first-aid and more severe medical issues. There is no need to try to get everything done in one month, as your budget might not allow for that. Of course, there are a lot of things that need to be properly researched and invested in because of the desired quality and durability. Take your time and build up to a full kit or storage area. 

Stay Realistic and Practical

It can be easy to believe that zombies are going to attack and that you need to prepare for the world ending as we know it, but that’s unrealistic and can instill a level of panic that is somewhat unnecessary. Take the time to do your research and see what disasters the area around you are likely to face. This can also be a good way to develop your stockpile as you are more aware of what risks your area has. 

Don’t let Prepping Overwhelm You

You don’t need to be ready for absolutely everything. Prepping can add a lot of pressure to make sure that you’re covered during any eventuality. That is not always the best approach, as the panic can be overwhelming when you focus on it. Avoid getting overwhelmed by taking the time to focus on developing new skills such as building a fire or even hunting. 

Ignore the Noise and Extremism that Tries to take Over Prepping

It is really easy to fall into the trap of stereotypical prepping behavior. Many people believe that prepping is for people who are obsessed with the end of the world, prophecies, and political downfall. Contrary to this, the majority of preppers are unsure about the future of the planet and want to cover their ground carefully. Making sure that you are ready for a few different eventualities is highly beneficial. 

Prepping is Better when you Connect with Similar People

Not only will prepping allow you to meet like-minded people and compare notes with one another, but it will allow you to have an ally if the worst does eventually happen. You could set up regular meetings or even trades. Not to mention, it is beneficial to share skills and teach each other new ways of doing things in order to maximize energy and make life easier. 

It’s Better to Buy Some High-quality Items

Instead of cheap stuff that can fail when needed, invest in more expensive items that will last a while and be much more reliable than some cheaper options. This is why the above point mentions how it takes time to work on an emergency supply storage, as some things such as equipment or even medical items cost more money. More durable and reliable items are highly desired within prepping because you never know how long something will need to last. 

Practice with your Supplies and Plans

We briefly covered this when discussing water, but it can be a great idea to spend the time writing out your plan and any variables that you’re unsure of. This can include certain people within your household, pets, or even tools you don’t have yet. Additionally, one of the main ways to check that you have all of your supplies needed is to practice. Organize a “lockdown” with your household or even friends over a weekend, and see how you adapt and use your available supplies to stay alive, fed, and hydrated. 

Summary

The role of prepping in the modern world isn’t a recent development, as it has been around since the development of nuclear weapons. Preppers are arguably the ones who responded appropriately to their environment, as there was posing to be a threat within their immediate surroundings. This is why a lot of people do not consider preppers to be extremist individuals, as they were rational and seemingly collected when it came to their early stockpiles and prepping efforts. Wartimes have always posed a threat to humanity, from immense levels of weaponry to political threats within governments. The influence of having access to high amounts of information thanks to modern technology is mostly one of fear among preppers, who tend to catastrophize the future. 

Some of the basics for prepping have been covered, although it’s definitely worth remembering that there is no wrong way to enter the world of prepping because everyone has to start somewhere. Whether you want to reach out to someone locally and ask for some advice or even contribute to a community stockpile of resources, there are new ways to come together and work towards a more secure future. Remember that any progress takes time, because it is worth investing in good quality, reliable tools that will not break when you need them most. 

Additionally, it can be a great opportunity to ask local groups for where to find hunting advice or even how to build a fire. Some survival skills are even taught in scouts groups, so it’s worth speaking to anyone within your local community about how to get into prepping. Of course, if your family are less supportive, then another way to begin a stockpile could be in your bedroom, or even at a friend’s house if they are willing, and have the space. 

Benefits of prepping include improved security for the future, ability to feed people during stressful times, and keeping you covered in an emergency. Of course, some people still think that it is strange, as it might seem a little pessimistic to do so. But, thanks to climate change, there is no certainty about the quality of the planet and weather patterns of the future, so it is possible to see more likelihood of natural disasters. 

An interesting way in which some people get into prepping is by using coupons. While couponing is considered a hobby of its own, a lot of people use excessive coupon schemes to generate free products for themselves. It can be a fascinating way to ensure additional items which will then be added to their food store or even donated to local food banks. 

To summarize, there is no right or wrong way for preppers to get ready for survival, because the majority already have basic medical knowledge. One way is to work on outdoor skills such as building a fire, woodworking, and how to look after animals. Whatever you are trying to get ready for, it’s important to know how to look after yourself and protect your family or household during a disaster.

The post A Prepper’s Guide To Survival appeared first on Survivor Hive.

Flashlights come in handy all year round, and even less serious preppers have them at hand. You never know when you’ll need one. On camping trips certainly, but also if you need to look for small items under the furniture, or in case of a power outage.

In most instances, a regular flashlight will do just fine. However this article is about the best pocket flashlights on the market, so we will be looking at flashlights that are compact and lightweight, yet still yield plenty of lumens of brightness, and are long-lasting.

Coming up shortly we have product reviews of our 5 favorite pocket flashlights, and after that, we’ve got a handy buying guide for you that outlines the key things you’ll want to think about before you buy.

Because we get it - with so many different ones around, it can be hard to pick one.

Since the term “pocket” flashlight is quite loose and not strictly defined by size, we have included both regular handheld flashlights and mini flashlights in our top 5 picks.

But if you’re looking for a small Every Day Carry rather than a fair-sized flashlight for your camping backpack, then a mini flashlight is your best option.

So, let’s get straight to it!

OUR TOP PICK

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Nebo Redline Rechargeable LED Flashlight

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EDITORS CHOICE

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YiFeng XML T6 Tactical Flashlight

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OLIGHT S1 Baton Compact EDC Flashlight

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Nebo Redline Rechargeable LED Flashlight

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Now, this is a fantastic little pocket flashlight!

Bright, versatile, compact, durable, and rechargeable to boot!

There are two different versions to choose from, a 1000 lumens one, which is really bright, or a 6000-lumens one which is even brighter still. 

It has 5 different light modes you can choose from, namely low, medium, high, strobe, and turbo. So versatile.

It comes with a belt clip and is comfortable to wear on your belt, at less than three inches in length, and just over 2 ounces in weight. But if the belt clip starts to get on your nerves, you can simply remove it.

It’s constructed with anodized aircraft-grade aluminum, so is durable enough to take a knock. And it’s water-resistant too.

It comes with a battery included, and it’s completely rechargeable. You simply attach the USB cable to charge it back up again. 

We also like that it has a magnetic base, which could come in handy.

Please note this review is for the 1000-lumens version, and not the 6000-lumens.

Pros

• 5 different light modes
• Strobe mode for emergencies
• You can wear it on your belt
• Ultra-bright at max 1000 lumens
• Completely rechargeable

Cons

• Premium product at a premium price

EDITORS CHOICE

YiFeng XML T6 Tactical Flashlight

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Now this flashlight really has a lot going for it

It shines an ultra-bright LED light, 3 times brighter than the manufacturer’s 2019 version, and has a maximum brightness output of 1000 lumens, able to light up a range of a whopping 600 feet.

You can adjust the focus, and consequently the brightness, by turning the flashlight’s body. You zoom in for a floodlight effect and zoom out for a spotlight effect.

There are 5 light modes to choose from, SOS mode (perfect for an emergency situation), high, medium, low, and strobe.

In its most compact form, it measures 5.31 inches long, so could fit into a jean’s pocket, which means it could be used as an Every Day Carry.

It’s powered by 3 AA batteries, which are a doddle to get hold of, available everywhere. Just be sure to buy good ones for a longer battery life.

It comes with a wrist strap, which is handy for keeping your hands free, should you need to use your hands for something.

But when you do want to hold it, you can take advantage of the anti-slip grip.

It has a good, durable build, made with aircraft grade alloy, and it has a high water resistance rating, coming in at an impressive IPX6.

It’s available to buy alone, or as a pack of two or three, which is great if you and your partner want to have one each, for example.

Pros

• Excellent value for money
• Zoomable brightness
• 5 light modes, inc SOS

Cons

• The light is more of a cool white than a neutral white

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OLIGHT S1 Baton Compact EDC Flashlight

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What we love the most about this pocket flashlight is just how small and compact it is, measuring just 2.4 inches, and weight little more than an ounce. Perfect for an Every Day Carry..

It comes with a belt clip and is comfortable to wear on your belt. Ready when you need it. Or you can take advantage of the lanyard hole if you prefer.

Yet, despite its small size, it throws out some really bright light, at 500 lumens. That’s enough to light up to 120 yards ahead - a whole football field.

You don’t have to keep it at this brightness all the time, however.

If you want to keep your night vision, you can adjust the brightness to 80 lumens on the medium setting, or just 8 lumens on the low setting.

It has a good, solid build, constructed with hard-anodized aluminum. Plus there’s laser etching on the outside to ensure you get a good, firm grip. It’s also both impact and water-resistant.

It comes with a battery included, a CR123A, and the flashlight uses a built-in timer, so the light is on only when you need it, to save the battery.

The timer can be set for 3 minutes or 9 minutes. And when it does eventually run out, you can replace the battery with another CR123A or an RCR123 battery.

We love that the flashlight is covered by Olight’s warranty, which is not just 12 months long, but 5 whole years.

Pros

• Very compact, can be worn on your belt
• Adjustable brightness
• Impact and water-resistant
• Comes with battery included
• Comes with a 5-year warranty

Cons

• Some customers complained about the positioning of the on-switch

RUNNER UP

EVEREADY LED Tactical Flashlight

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If you’re looking for an affordable Every Day Carry for emergencies, then this one will do the job.

The maximum light output is not as high as we’d like, but you dont always need a lot in most situations, and this flashlight’s 270 lumens can light up objects over 500 feet away, which is plenty.

There are 3 different light modes you can use, and they are high, low and strobe.

And better yet the light is zoomable too, so you can either cover a wide area, or shed a lot of light in a smaller area. So versatile.

It has a durable construction and is really built to last. And it can handle the rain too, thanks to it’s water-resistance rating of IPX4. We also like the laser etching, to better aid your grip.

It takes 3 AAA batteries, so finding batteries that will work won’t be a problem, you can get them anywhere.

It’s small and compact enough to even fit in a back pocket, which makes it a perfect Every Day Carry.item.

You can buy it on it’s own or as a pack of two, so your partner gets one too.

Pros

• High, low & strobe light modes
• It takes 3 AAA batteries
• Small and lightweight
• Impact & water resistance
• Zoomable beam, wide or focused

Cons

• Low maximum light output

RUNNER UP

GearLight Tac LED Tactical Flashlight

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This flashlight comes as a pack of two, one for you and one for you r partner. And it offers fantastic value for money.

It has a maximum brightness output of 1040 lumens, which is really bright.

But it’s worth noting at this point that the real life brightness depends on what battery you put in. You can put in regular AAA batteries or a rechargeable 18650 battery.

We love that the light is zoomable, and how you can switch from wide mode to focus zoom, as the need arises.

It comes with both a belt clip and a wrist strap, so you’re in no danger of ever losing it.

You can also take the belt clip off for an improved grip. Speaking of grip, it also features laser etching, so it shouldn’t ever slip from your hand.

And it can handle the rain with no problem at all, with a water resistance rating of IPX4.

That, together with it’s impact resistance too, means it can withstand even a drop in a puddle. That’s thanks to it’s tough military grade metal construction.

Sadly although it has different focusing strength, it doesn’t have different light output modes.

But that can be a good thing - no fumbling around and half pressing buttons etc.

In terms of size, it’s not quite as compact as we’d like, but is still less than 6 inches long, making it small enough to fit in your jeans pocket, and therefore small enough to be used as an Every Day Carry.

Pros

• Excellent value for money
• Uses AAA or rechargeables
• Impact and water-resistant
• Comes with belt clip & wrist strap
• Zoomable beam, wide or focused

Cons

• Doesn’t offer different levels of light output, just different strengths of focus

Best Pocket Flashlight Buying Guide

As promised, here’s your buying guide. You can use it as a quick checklist to make sure you’ve thought of everything.

Brightness

Brightness is measured in lumens. The higher the number of lumens, the brighter the light.

In most occasions you won’t need more than say 100 lumens, but since this articles on the the best pocket flashlights, we included ones with up to a very bright 1000 maximum lumens output.

Zoomable

Sometimes you’ll want your flashlight’s light to cover a large or wide area, and othertimes you may prefer a more focused, seemingly brighter light for nooks and crannies.

All of the pocket flashlights in our top 5 picks have this feature.

Size

If you want your pocket flashlight as an Every Day Carry, then you’ll likely want it to be small enough to fit in your pocket. So, to that end, we’ve tried to include the product dimensions in our product reviews where possible.

If your pocket flashlight is intended for a bug out bag, however, or for a simple camping trip, then the size is less important.

Battery Type

The battery life of a flashlight is important, especially if you expect to use it right throughout the night. But how long it will last depends on the battery type.

Flashlights that take AAA batteries are handy, because you can get those anywhere. Or if you only intend to use the flashlight where you have electricity you can invest in a rechargeable flashlight. Or alternatively, you could buy yourself a kit of rechargeable AAA batteries.

Durability

Flashlights tend to be very sturdy and durable devices, but there’s no harm in checking what the flashlight is made from, just to be sure. 

Several of the flashlights on our top 5 picks offer impact resistance, so you know they’ll still work after a drop.

Or if you don’t want it to ever drop, you could look into whether it has a non-slip grip or laser etching on the grip.

Light Modes & Emergency Use

A flashlight with different light modes is able to throw out different outputs and brightness of light, usually with a high and low mode, and sometimes with a medium mode too.

In an emergency situation however, you might prefer to have morse code SOS mode, or perhaps simply a strobe mode to help catch someone’s eye if you’re in need of rescue.

Water Resistance

If you intend to use your pocket flashlight outdoors, then you’ll want it to be able to stand up to the rain. Luckily, most flashlights these days have some level of water resistance.

An item’s level of water resistance is measured by it’s IP rating. The higher the rating, the better the resistance.

Where the IP rating is given, we recommend that you look out for flashlights with an IP rating of IPX4, IPX5, or IPX6

Other Features

Small pocket flashlights can be easy to lose, so it’s handy to have one that comes with a wrist strap and/or a belt clip too.

The post Best Pocket Flashlight appeared first on Survivor Hive.

When sheaths were invented they didn’t only bring about a great method of carrying your blade but they also acted to keep you safe from the blade while it wasn’t in use.

In modern times we’ve adapted this ancient technology to meet our needs and add capabilities to blades that previously weren’t available to us.

Things like belt loops, leg holsters, and torso sheaths are some of the best ways to transport and conceal your blade. For the most effortless, accessible, and oftentimes stylish option you know have access to neck knives.

Neck knives hang off of your neck exactly as a necklace would and give you concealed but rapid access to your blade if you ever need it.

In a pinch when you need to open packages, in the yard when you need to release some pallet straps, in a survival situation where your blade could mean the difference between life and death, or even in a self defense situation your neck knife could and would be the best tool for the job. 

Obviously keeping a knife so close to the center of your chest can make you feel a bit vulnerable but that's where the sheath comes in. 

A high quality sheath with a secure fastening system is a vital feature in your neck knife so the ones that advertise a ‘high quality nylon/canvas sheath’ should be completely avoided.

You will need a hard shell sheath for any neck knife. To fasten around your neck or your collar, a chain or paracord loop can be extremely secure.

If you’re looking for a knife you can actually use and will be handy to you, you might have to forgo fashion a little bit, not too much as you’ll see, but a leather string or a cute golden mini-Cuban link chain are out of the question.

These good looking chains aren’t strong enough or durable enough to hold a decently weighted knife for any length of time.

We’ve put together a list of the top 5 best neck knives currently available. There are unfortunately a large number of low quality cheap options out there that at first glance may seem to be high quality but after any sustained use will fall apart. 

In a Rush?

Do you have a camping trip coming up very soon and you need to make sure you’re fully prepared? Not to worry, we’ve got our top pick right here for you with just a few reasons why we love it. 

Kershaw Dune Full Tang Neck Knife

The Dune from Kershaw is an amazing neck knife. With its minimalist design and molded polymer sheath and paracord lanyard, the Dune meets all your needs without being overly pretentious. It also looks great.

• 7 inches of 3Cr13 steel leading to a 3.8-inch cutting edge.
• Japanese tanto style blade.
• Molded polymer sheath.
• Full tang handle covered by textured nylon.
• Adjustable paracord lanyard.

OUR TOP PICK

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Kershaw Dune Full Tang Neck Knife

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EDITORS CHOICE

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CRKT Minimalist Bowie Neck Knife

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Morakniv Eldris Lanyard Knife

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OUR TOP PICK

Kershaw Dune Full Tang Neck Knife

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Our top pick is the Dune Full Tang Neck Knife from Kershaw. Kershaw has been designing and producing EDC knives in a spring blade, fixed blade and flip blade design for almost 50 years and their expertise in the fixed blades is evident in this neck knife.

Kershaw initially produced knives in and through Japan and the influence is definitely notable in this design.

The Dune takes after a Japanese Tanto knife which is similar to its big brother the Katana except in knife shape and size. This design offers a relatively large cutting edge with high durability and beautiful aesthetics. 

The Dune is a 7-inch knife that is on the larger side of neck knives but it still manages to stay relatively lightweight at only 3.5 ounces.

The knife is constructed from 3Cr13 steel which is known to be a cost effective yet durable steel.

This reduces the overall weight of the unit without compromising quality or ruggedness. This type of steel will last you years and because of its weight, you’ll be able to wear it for years without noticing.

The blade has a black oxide coating that increases the rust resistance and makes the whole piece look absolutely stunning.

The sheath is constructed from an injection molded polymer that is extremely durable. It has been designed to hold the knife in place without making it impossible to remove in case you need to.

Kershaw has achieved this by creating a slight edge between the blade and the handle that snaps into place with a corresponding protrusion inside the sheath.

This method of locking the blade in means you won’t have to worry about any parts becoming loose or mechanisms failing, it uses the natural elasticity of the polymer which cannot be worn down.

The top of the sheath has pre drilled holes and comes with an adjustable paracord lanyard already threaded through.

You can change this out for any lanyard you may want to but the included paracord is extremely resistant to wear and the plastic tightener works great to reduce or increase the size of the neck loop.

The handle is made from a nylon synthetic polymer and is reinforced with glass to increase its strength.

It is textured to increase your overall grip and is long enough to fit in most hands without feeling too flimsy in larger hands.

The bottom of the handle also has a cord loop available for you to add a length of paracord if you’d like to for even easier access.

Pros:

• The Kershaw quality and standards are prevalent in this neck knife. 
• The knife measures 7 inches total and has a full tang design for extra rigidity.
• The Tanto style blade gives you excellent piercing and slicing abilities.
• An injection molded polymer sheath protects you and holds the knife effectively.
• The glass reinforced handle withstands heavy use and is textured for grip.

Cons:

• The blade only weighs 3.5 ounces which is comfortable for extended wear but can seem lightweight when in use.

EDITORS CHOICE

CRKT Minimalist Bowie Neck Knife

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The Minimalist Bowie Neck Knife is a great entrant on this list from Columbia River Knife & Tool (CRKT) and performs effectively for its small size.

This knife (as its name suggests) is modeled after a bowie knife which is a large clearing knife that would normally work terribly as a neck knife.

At the size that CRKT has manufactured this knife the Minimalist Bowie is made to be a mini chopper.

With an overall length of 6.75 inches and a blade length of 2.125 inches this knife is great for making long comfortable cuts.

The bowie knife shape adds a natural curve to the blade tip that matches the arch your arm makes as you make a sustained cut.

While this knife would be perfect for a farmyard or even a warehouse job it is also designed with a keep fisher in mind. The security the ergonomically shaped handle gives you also makes this perfect for self defense.

The Minimalist Bowie is constructed from 5Cr15MoV steel. This type of steel is similar to the one used by Kershaw but has a higher corrosion resistance and higher carbon percentage.

This makes the blade slightly denser but also slightly harder meaning that it will hold an edge incredibly well.

The knife also uses a full tang design that means the steel from the blade runs all the way through to the end of the handle. This increases the overall structural strength of the knife and makes it better balanced in use.

The blade also has a bead blast finish which makes it less reflective and also gives a stylish matte look to the steel. The whole knife only weighs 1.6 ounces so you won’t even notice it around your neck.

The handle is made from a polished resin infused fiber that has a nice greenish blue tint and is textured for increased grip.

The handle is also ergonomically designed to fit in the hand in one direction. The way CRKT has done this is by shaping the handle to force your fingers into the perfect position without effort. 

The sheath is constructed from a molded thermoplastic and has the exact same adjustable paracord lanyard as the previous entrant on our list. The major difference is in the shape of the sheath.

It uses the same recess in the blade method to lock them together but it also has a few extra holes around the edges.

These extra holes can be used along the paracord to attach the knife to your thigh or ankle or you could use the extra included belt loop to attach the piece to your belt.

Finally, the blade comes with a length of usable braided paracord attached to the bottom that you can use to easily remove it from the sheath or as a rope if necessary.

Pros:

• The high carbon stainless steel blade takes an edge easily and holds it well.
• The shrunken bowie style of the blade makes it perfect for slicing or piercing.
• The resin infused fiber handle is shaped ergonomically for practicality and comfort.
• The thermoplastic sheath comes with an optional belt loop and paracord lanyard.
• At only 1.6 ounces this blade can hang from your neck all day without you noticing.

Cons:

• The finger recesses are spaced quite far apart and can be a bit uncomfortable for smaller hands.

BEST VALUE

Morakniv Eldris Lanyard Knife

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The next neck knife on our list is the Eldris Lanyard Knife manufactured by Morakniv in Sweden.

This completely practical knife actually won the 2016 Scandinavian Outdoor Award based on functionality, quality, innovation, design and sustainability so you can guarantee this knife delivers what it promises.

The Eldris Lanyard Knife is constructed from Swedish Sandvik 12C27 Stainless steel that is exceptionally hard, razor sharp and highly corrosion resistant. 

This knife has truly been designed with the outdoorsman in mind. The minuscule 5.6-inch knife is tough enough to carve large chunks of wood while still being sharp enough to feather an edge for kindling.

The sheath is constructed from a hard plastic that isn’t vacuum formed to the shape of the blade but it does include a stylish leather strap with push fastener to secure the knife in the sheath. 

The paracord lanyard isn’t adjustable past you tightening it with extra knots but it does come with 2 firesteel rods included. With this knife around your neck, you’ll be prepared for anything.

The Eldris Lanyard knife also comes in 6 different colors so you can choose which color you’d prefer to have around your neck.

Pros:

• Award winning design.
• The blade is constructed from Sandvik stainless steel.
• The hard plastic sheath comes with a mechanic fastener to ensure the blade stays put it also has a paracord lanyard.
• The knife comes with 2 firesteels that you can strike on the spine to create a spark.
• The anti-slip rubberized handle works well in all weather conditions. 

Cons:

• If you don’t fasten the sheath the knife can fall out.

RUNNER UP

Cold Steel Counter TAC Series Knife

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At 8.6 inches in length, the Counter TAC Series Knife is the bulkiest knife on our list. It is also the most badass looking knife on the list. With a traditional spearpoint boot knife design, this knife looks the part.

Cold Steel is well known for creating dangerous and effective steel weapons and their abilities are evident in this knife.

The double sided full tang knife can is tough enough for standard usage and sharp enough to be a hunting or fishing knife. The blade is constructed from Aus8a Steel which is a Japanese steel known for its edge retention. 

The textured ergonomic handle is made from a proprietary kray-ex that Cold Steel claims can be adaptable to any grip.

With the deep texturing the knife is slip resistant and you will have a secure grip in all conditions.

The sheath is made from a hardened plastic that Cold Steel calls secure-ex. While we don’t understand the naming scheme the sheath is very secure and will keep the knife in place regardless of where you carry it.

The included lanyard is similar to a military chain and is colored black just like the rest of the visible components of the sheathed knife.

The sheath also comes with a removable boot/belt clip and 4 separate 1-inch lashing slots so you can really carry the knife wherever it may suit you best.

Pros:

• The boot knife style spear point knife is great for all situations.
• The full tang blade is constructed from razor sharp Japanese Aus8a steel.
• The sheath makes the knife able to be carried anywhere on the body. 
• The textured grip is great for all conditions and gives most hand sizes a secure grip.

Cons:

• At 8.6 inches the knife is a bit bulky to carry around your neck for long periods of time.

RUNNER UP

MTECH USA MT-673 Fixed Blade

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The last item on our list is the MT-673 Fixed Blade from MTECH USA.

This company has made a name in the USA by manufacturing high quality cost effective blades for any purpose. This knife is no exception and is extremely high quality for its low cost.

The 440C Stainless steel used isn’t the best on the market but will hold an edge reasonably well and is very easy to sharpen.

At 5 inches total length and with a blade length of 2 inches the MT-673 is small but mighty, you’ll be able to get through most utility tasks with this no problem. 

The handle is designed similarly to the much more expensive Minimalist Bowie from CRKT and is ergonomically designed very well.

The handle scales are made from G10 which is a durable composite that can withstand most heavy usage. It is also textured to increase your overall grip. 

The sheath is formed from Kydex and includes a military dog tag chain similar to the knife from Cold Steel.

The locking mechanism works reasonably well and should stop the knife from slipping out without you intending to pull it out.

Pros:

• The cost effective design makes this knife half the price of any knife on our list.
• The full tang handle is sturdy and makes the knife well balanced.
• The G10 composite on the ergonomic handle makes for a high performance grip.
• The kydex sheath is low cost but extremely effective, together with the chain you can wear this knife around all day.

Cons:

• Cheaper quality steel means you may have to sharpen the blade more often.

Best Neck Knife Buying Guide

 If you’re looking for a neck knife you’re most likely looking for a preparedness tool. It’s one of those things that you won’t always need but you’ll be extremely grateful that you have it.

A neck knife covers you in survival situations, in self defense instances, and even just when you need a utility tool. They are concealable, lightweight, cost effective yet extremely effective at their job. 

If you’re looking for the best possible neck knife there are a few things it’ll need to check off to be a high quality one. After you’ve gone through the checks it's then up to you which one suits you best ergonomically and aesthetically.

You’ll want a knife that’s durable, corrosion resistant, and well balanced. The build materials lend to these features the most so if you look for high quality stainless steel and high quality plastic or fiber handles you’ll ensure that you cater to all of those features. 

You also need to consider what you’ll be using the knife for, if you’re looking for a utility knife then any size will work as long as it has a good cutting edge.

If however you're intending on using it as a survival knife or a survival knife you’ll need something a bit more hefty with some extra feature like maybe a hand guard or a firesteel.

The sheath quality is very important, the last thing you want is to trip over and be poked by your own knife. There are many different materials a good sheath can be made from but as long as it’s a hardened, durable plastic and not a canvas sheath you should be fine.

You can be picky here, so if you want to have a knife that’s versatile enough to be carried on your belt or in a boot then a chunkier knife like the Eldris wouldn’t work for you. 

Overall, as long as the materials are high quality, it looks how you want it to and the sheath and handle suit you then you’ll have a decent neck knife. The lanyard or necklace isn’t massively important as you can change these out fairly easily.

The post Best Neck Knife appeared first on Survivor Hive.

Every day carry (EDC) items involve the essential items you carry on a daily basis.

These are usually limited to what can be physically carried on a person or in a small bag or organizer, but the term EDC may sometimes be extended to everyday preparedness items and may be stored in a larger backpack or even a vehicle. 

Generally speaking, there are the must-have EDC items that you would store on your body, and then there are the ones you’d carry in a backpack. 

Ultimately, EDC items will differ between individuals and there is no go-to list. That being said, most lists will at least feature four or five of the same items, and we’ll be paying attention to these in our list. 

Wallet

A wallet is one of the most obvious EDC items, and, ideally, it’s best to carry cash alongside your bank cards and ID. The reason why it’s worth carrying cash, as well as bank cards, is because you’ll always be prepared, which is at the heart of EDC.  

While it might be second nature to pay by card in the city, you don’t want to find yourself stuck in more remote areas unable to buy groceries, gas, or other essentials. Because of this, it’s always a good idea to have your wallet and at least some cash in it.  

Cash also means you can leave a tip, and, along with your bank card, it means you give yourself multiple options when it comes to paying for something - especially in the case when a card machine is out of order.  

It’s also best to ensure your wallet is as lightweight and compact as possible. Getting rid of any unused cards or receipts is a good way to streamline your wallet, as it’s surprising how much unnecessary junk we can carry around with us.  

Cell Phone 

This is another pretty obvious choice, but think about it: your cell phone contains more than just the ability to communicate - these devices have pretty much everything you need to navigate daily life - from GPS to Google maps, to a notebook, clock, calculator and so much more.

Just don’t forget to pack your charger, as a cellphone without charge is both useless and frustrating - especially when you really need it.  

Flashlight

A flashlight is a must-have EDC item because it’s one of those things that you’ll be so glad to have if ever you need it. Depending on your needs or preferences, you can also get different flashlights.

While a flashlight is handy for everyday use when walking the dog at night or looking for your keys in your bag, you can even get a tactical flashlight which can be used for self-defense.

When it comes to an ideal flashlight for EDC purposes, you want something that shines brightly, has an excellent battery and is super lightweight.  

Pocket knife

Just like a flashlight, a pocket knife is a must-have EDC item. These multi-functioning tools can be used for anything from cutting up food, cutting fabric or packages, and even self-defense. Choose a pocket knife that is lightweight and compact but has a strong blade.  

A multi-tool is also a good option as this is a jack of all trades and can prepare you for any unforeseen challenges.  

Watch

While you can always check the time on your phone, we still recommend wearing an old fashioned wrist watch.

For one, the battery lasts a lot longer than your cell phone’s, and it keeps you from checking your phone too often.  

Pad and pen 

Again, you could use your phone to make notes, but a pad and pen is a timeless combination that enables you to keep all of your to-do lists, thoughts, contact details, and whatever else in one place.  

IFAK (Individual First Aid Kit) 

Whether you like to carry an IFAK equipped to deal with serious injuries or a pocket-sized one for patching up small cuts, it’s always a good idea to carry some sort of first aid kit.  

IFAK can be ideal for when you’re acting as a first responder (if you’re qualified to) or for taking care of yourself until medics arrive. They can also be handy for carrying general medication to treat headaches. 

Again, the size of the kit is up to you, but you can get many impressive IFAKs that are surprisingly extensive yet don’t take up too much space in your backpack or pocket.  

Water Bottle 

A good quality water bottle is a no-brainer, as not only is it good to stay hydrated on a daily basis, but having a supply of water with you can come in very handy in an emergency, for example, if you find yourself stranded or if you need to rinse a wound.

Look for a water bottle that is robust and hard-wearing, and that keeps your water chilled even in warm temperatures.  

Final Say 

EDC items are all over the internet, and as we say, lists will differ between individuals. There may even be some items on this list that you deem unnecessary, or perhaps ones that are necessary to you that we’ve missed out.  

The main goal of EDC is to be prepared for whatever the day throws at you. It’s also a good idea to ensure your EDC items are of good quality, are hard-wearing, and multi-functional.

While you may already have the latest smartphone or a fancy leather wallet, investing in a robust pocket knife or a compact individual first aid kit could make a huge difference if you find yourself in a situation where you need these things.  

It’s also a good idea to keep your weight as low as possible, as you may get fed up with carrying all of these EDC items if they feel unnecessarily cumbersome. Like we said, look for items that are lightweight and compact, that can easily be stored in your pockets or a backpack.

There may be items that you deem unnecessary, like a pad and pen if you frequently rely on your smartphone instead, and if this is the case, feel free to cut your weight by leaving such items out.  

The post Must Have Everyday Carry Items appeared first on Survivor Hive.