Enjoying nature and being outdoors is fun and relaxing – if you’re prepared. These survival suggestions may help.
by Lydia Havens
Camping and spending time outdoors can be an adventure and a welcome break from cerebral toil. Whether you’re hiking, camping overnight, or just walking and exploring, being outdoors can be a welcome change from books, computers, and academic papers.
Need a break from studying? Or just a break from the academic grind? Juggling classes, assignments and personal lives make it easy to overlook some outdoor basics. Just like you might turn to a nursing paper writing service for academic help, these suggestions may provide some outdoor survival help.
If you’re not prepared for the outdoors, things can get tricky fast. Survival isn’t just about being tough—it’s about being smart. Knowing a few rudimentary survival skills can be a lifesaver.
Start with a survival mindset.
Then consider these suggestions.
Pick the right spot to rest, relax or set up camp
Your camping spot matters more than you might think. Avoid setting up near rivers or lakes where unexpected rain could cause flooding. Stay clear of low-lying areas, which get colder at night and collect moisture. Instead, look for slightly elevated ground with some natural wind protection, like trees or rocks. Just make sure you’re not too close to dead trees or loose branches—they can fall without warning.
Navigation
If you ever lose your way, don’t panic. (You’re going to have a map and compass and possibly a GPS along. Right???) Use the sun and shadows. Stick a small twig in the ground and mark the tip of its shadow. Wait about 15 minutes and mark the new position of the shadow tip. The first mark is west, and the second mark is east—this can help you figure out the right direction. Put your heels on the line between them – then you’re facing south.
If you’re lost at night, look for the Polaris, or the North Star. Mark the way north with a stick, line of stones or scratch in the dirt. Then STAY PUT until morning. In the Northern Hemisphere, Polaris stays in the same spot while other stars move around it. It’s a reliable way to find your bearings.
Fire Isn’t Just for Warmth—It’s a Signal, Too
Fire is crucial for warmth, cooking, morale and keeping predators away, but it’s also a powerful way to signal for help. Three fires in a straight line or triangle is an international distress signal. Campfire smoke can help searchers locate you. Carry several different methods of starting that initial flame. Then know how to build a fire from that.
Keep Your Clothes Dry at All Costs
Wet clothing can be dangerous and directly cause hypothermia. Soggy, cold apparel makes you lose body heat fast, even if the weather isn’t freezing. If your clothes get wet, change as soon as possible.
Always carry duct tape
Duct tape is a survival must-have. You can use it to patch up torn gear, fix broken shoelaces, make bandages, or even create a waterproof seal for containers.
Make a quick tarp shelter
If you have a tarp and some rope, you can make an easy shelter in minutes. Tie the rope between two trees, drape the tarp over it, and secure the sides with rocks or logs. This may help protect you from rain, wind or the sun.
Stay hydrated
Finding water in the wild is essential, but drinking from just any stream or pond can make you sick. Always boil water before drinking if you don’t have a filtration system.
Watch for Animal Signs
Animals can tell you a lot about your surroundings. If you see lots of birds or insects near a tree, there may be water nearby. Avoid areas with a lot of disturbed ground or animal droppings—this could mean you’re near a wild animal’s territory. If you see fresh tracks, move carefully and make noise to alert animals to your presence—they usually want to avoid you as much as you want to avoid them.
Pack a Whistle
A loud whistle carries farther than your voice and takes less energy to use. Three short whistle blasts are a universal distress signal. This is especially helpful if you’re lost and need to attract attention without yelling.
Final Thoughts
Surviving in nature isn’t about being the strongest—it’s about being the smartest. Knowing how to find directions, build a shelter, and use the resources around you can make all the difference.
Whether you’re on a weekend trip or an outdoor adventure, a little knowledge can go a long way. Stay safe, be prepared, and enjoy exploring the wild!

Lydia Havens
Lydia Havens is a writer known for her work in poetry and essays regarding mental health, identity, and healing. Havens has contributed significantly to literary communities, offering insights and reflections that encourage readers to explore their own narratives.
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