Camping is a great way to get outside and into nature where you can detoxify from modern life. Many people often like the challenge of camping in remote areas to test their skills outdoors. If you are thinking of leaving the cozy campground for more adventurous locales, then you need to know a few basic skills.
Learning some survival skills without modern tools gives you a deep sense of satisfaction. There’s a special pride in being able to handle things that not everyone can do. Also, not relying on technology all the time is also very useful. Gadgets can fail, but your skills won’t. In this article, we will go over several skills you should learn before a remote camping trip.
1 – The basic survival skills
Being able to start a fire is one of the most important skills to learn when you are far from civilization. Fire keeps you warm, lets you cook food, and can signal for help.
To start a fire, you need tinder (also called feather sticks that you can learn how to make here), kindling, and larger logs. Matches and lighters are the easiest tools to use, but learning how to use flint and steel or even make a fire with a bow drill can be very useful.
Making a shelter is also essential to stay safe from the weather. Whether you use a tent, tarp, or natural materials, you need to stay dry and warm.
A compass is a reliable tool for finding direction that doesn’t need batteries. Learn the basic parts of a compass and how to take and follow directions so you can find your way even when trails are hard to see or missing.
2 – First aid
When you’re camping, staying safe and knowing how to handle emergencies is very important when you are not close to hospitals or civilization.
Learn how to clean and bandage cuts, treat burns, and manage sprains. It’s also good to know how to handle serious conditions like hypothermia and heat stroke. Always carry a first aid kit and know how to use everything in it.
If you need help, use a whistle, mirror, or build a smoky fire to signal. Always tell someone your plans before you go and have a way to contact help if needed.
3 – Find water
Knowing how to find water helps keep you healthy and hydrated so this skill is essential to your survival if you get lost.
Look for streams, rivers, and lakes, as running water is usually cleaner than still water. Avoid water that looks dirty, smells bad, or has an odd color. Once you find a water source, collect it carefully. Use a clean container and try not to disturb the bottom of the stream or lake, as this can stir up dirt.
Purifying the water is essential, even if it looks clean. Boiling is one of the best methods. You just boil the water for at least one minute to kill harmful germs.
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Hi! I'm Lash, an American nomadic world traveler who's been traveling solo since 1998. I’m passionate about traveling the world nomadically and then sharing it all with you. I hope to inspire you to travel the world, to entertain you with tales from the road, and to help you reach your travel dreams. Welcome! 
