There are many ways to travel the world nowadays, but so few options are available to us during the COVID-19 pandemic. Without a doubt, one of the safest forms of travel is to venture into the great outdoors and explore our natural surroundings away from the hustle and bustle of the cities. Most importantly, away from the crowds that might put you and your loved ones in risk of catching the virus.
If you're planning to go on a nature escapade like camping, trekking and hiking for the first time, or even if you're a seasoned traveller, there are some basic survival skills and tips you should know before you dare take on such a trip. Today, I am talking about the most important survival tips that every experienced, and novice traveller needs to know in order to safeguard their well-being and ensure the safety of their loved ones in the great outdoors.
5 Survival Tips For Travellers and Adventurers
1. Learn How To Start a Fire
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Firstly, if you're a novice adventurer, then it's best that you spend your nights at the designated camping grounds, preferably where there are other people. However, if you're looking to venture out on your own and spend entire days in the wilderness, then you need to be prepared for the long nights ahead.
Most importantly, you need to learn how to start a fire in a safe and controlled manner. After all, you don't want to start a forest fire by accident. The first step is to clear a circular space on the ground. Then, line the circular space with large rocks. Place small sticks and twigs (dry wood, basically) in the circle to create a platform. Place dry grass and leaves on the kindling. Light a fire with matches or a lighter. Remember, always have matches or a lighter on you when adventuring in nature, because you don't want to have to go through the trouble of lighting a fire with your bare hands.
You must always be aware of local bylaws and any temporary restrictions due to dry weather. Don't start a fire somewhere where it's illegal to do so!
2. Rely on a Physical Map
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In the modern, tech-driven world, we have become extremely reliant on apps on our smartphones and other devices. And that's a good thing, because modern technology elevates our quality of life and makes pathfinding easier. However, every Traveller in Australia and abroad should be prepared for a scenario in which your tech gives out on you.
While it is important that you always bring a solar charger and a battery to keep your devices charged, you also want to bring a physical map should something go awry. It's important that you know how to read a physical map in case of an emergency, and make sure to bring a physical compass as well so that you can effectively find your way back to camp. Just make sure you know how to read a real map and how to use a compass!
3. Master First Aid and CPR
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One of the most important survival skills you need to know and even master is providing first aid in case of an emergency. This is not only something you should know, but it's also a crucial skill other members of your travel party need to know in order to save your life or the life of someone else if need be. First aid and CPR is something you can learn online nowadays if your country is in lockdown and if you're unsure where to take the course.
You can even get CPR and first aid certification through your online training curriculum, so that you can even take entire parties on your escapades as a guide, or in order to even be allowed to venture into certain outback areas on your own without a professional guide. Make sure that you know how to help others in case of emergencies and administer emergency care when you’re exploring the great outdoors, because you might end up saving a life.
4. Manage Your Food Supply Wisely
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Every experienced traveller will tell you immediately that managing your food supply is crucial for a successful trip in the great outdoors. Many people underestimate how much food they need to bring on their camping trips. Or at the very least, they mismanage their food supplies and by the last day, they are getting by on scraps of food and leftovers.
Needless to say, you need to be meticulous about your food management and ration all portions wisely. Know exactly what and how much you'll be eating every single day, bring food reserves just in case, and stick to an eating plan to ensure that your food supply lasts.
5. Always Have Access To Drinking Water
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Last but not least, bring ample amounts of drinking water. Make sure to map where the drinking water is around you, if there is any, and don't forget to bring a water purifier. If you don't have a water purifier on you, then always make sure to boil the water you collect in nature to make it safe to drink.
When you're out on long hikes and away from a source of fresh water, make sure to ration your supplies and hydrate slowly throughout the day.
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Traversing and exploring the natural landscapes is one of the most rewarding things you can do right now, especially if you're looking to get away from the crowds. Be sure to use these tips to stay safe on your adventures, and keep your loved ones out of harms way.
Author: Sophia Smith is a freelance graphic designer by day and a lifestyle and health blogger by night. She is very passionate about traveling, yoga, wellness rituals, natural skincare, and living in balance with nature. She loves sharing meaningful content that educates and inspires people. Sophia has covered topics ranging from organic beauty products and sustainability to conscious traveling.
