How do you survive being stranded in a forest?

How is it that we’ve become accustomed to navigating the ridiculous, frantic, and fantastically diversified urban jungle, yet worry at the prospect of spending a day in the woods?

Consider that we are all experts of survival – we do it so brilliantly every instant! From budgeting to arranging our next big party, we are continually bound by such bizarre laws and norms. Therefore, why not take a step back and consider the good aspects of wilderness survival? After all, it cannot be as complex as city life!

Let us begin by recognizing honestly that becoming lost in the forest is not something you want, nor is it the wisest thing you’ve ever done. Therefore, let us examine how we might circumvent it as gracefully as possible. Here are some survival strategies that should come in handy if you ever become disoriented in the wilderness.

How do you survive being stranded in a forest?

1. Conducting Research and Planning

Assume you’ve chosen to go hiking, trekking, or engaging in other forms of wilderness activity. Unless you have confirmation from a credible source that the road you are about to take is straight and clearly marked, begin gathering as much information as possible about your itinerary—it is unlikely to be as straightforward as you originally believe.

Conduct a Google search, peruse travel forums, and peruse hiking journals. Inquire around; perhaps some of your friends are familiar with the region. If you want to remain longer than four days, the likelihood is that you will run out of food and water, therefore familiarize yourself with the region’s flora, animals, and water resources.

Finally, but certainly not least, print a nice map and bring it along.

2. Let people know where you’re going and for how long

This is a requirement. In the event of an emergency, it’s comforting to know that someone will likely activate the alarm and initiate the rescue procedure. If you have any questions about this “advice,” simply read about Aron Ralston’s amazing story or see the film 127 hours.

3. Do some research about survival gear and take some important items along

If you’re hiking, bring a whistle, a compass, a decent knife, some matches (wrapped in a waterproof material), some rope, a compass, a sturdy sleeping bag, heavy clothing, and waterproof, traction-enhancing hiking shoes.

Additionally, there is sufficient of potable water. This is an excellent essay on what to pack for various types of trips. If you are missing an item, you can always improvise. It is advisable to understand how to utilize all of these tools prior to starting trekking.

Due to the likelihood that your cellphone will lose signal during your adventurous journey, we also came across the SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger unit, an interesting device that can send emergency messages “in the harshest environments, including temperature, altitude, humidity, corrosion, vibration, and being waterproof and buoyant.”

Okay, so you become disoriented in the jungle. What happens now?

4. Remain calm and indicate your position… if possible

Many say that the most critical item you have with you when hiking is not your rucksack gear, but rather your thoughts. Panic will only result in inner chaos, and you don’t want it to interfere with your clever strategy to return to civilization safely.

Once you discover you’ve been disoriented, contact someone through phone or GPS Messenger.

5. Begin exploring the region, but keep track of your “zero point”

People sometimes overlook how critical it is to remain still, since it improves your chances of being discovered. Therefore, you should mark it in some way (a cluster of boulders or a stack of tree branches) and begin exploring the region, returning to the starting location at regular intervals.

6. Locate a supply of water and make an attempt to cleanse it

Always keep in mind that water is the most valuable resource you have on your camping adventures. People can survive weeks without food, but only three days without water, therefore cherish and conserve it as much as possible. The most reliable and best source is a spring, but the odds of locating one are slim. In dire circumstances, you can collect dew from plants in the morning or drink from a flowing river, taking the risk of being ill in order to continue surviving.

A viable option is to purify water either by heating it (three minutes of vigorous boiling kills the majority of germs) or by placing it in a plastic container and exposing it to sunlight for six hours (this will only work if the water is not filled with sediments). Here are some other suggestions for purifying water outside.

7. If you are endangered by nightfall, build a survival shelter

If you feel there is a possibility that you will spend the night in the forest, begin planning to build a survival shelter in the woods. This will keep you out of excessive heat or cold, as well as out of the rain or snow. To begin, locate an existing building (an old cottage, a stable or a sheepfold- while keeping in mind your point zero). If you are unable to locate any, seek for a place that is as clear of rocks and roots as possible. While constructing a shelter in a ditch is generally a good idea, in this situation, you risk being infiltrated by rain, therefore no. Locate a tree or a rock tall enough to serve as the foundation for your shelter. You may use this as a “roofed seat” or just to protect yourself from the elements.

Wood is the most crucial component of a forest, so begin gathering as much as possible and use your imagination to create an isolated environment. The larger parts may be used to construct the skeleton structure of your shelter. The tiny ones are also excellent—they may be used to start the fire. Assemble a waterproof and windproof ephemeral house by stacking leaves (or different windproof clothing or even plastic bags) on top and then covering them with wooden planks (or replacements) to prevent them from being swept away by the wind. Remember to clearly describe and label your exit. Utilize your imagination to create a sturdy yet maneuverable “door,” but bear in mind that you will also want ventilation, so do not entirely cover the area. Ventilation requires two piercings: one in the “ceiling” and another in the door.

Also, I recommend you to check on our wildlife forest survival.

8. Start a fire

As soon as you understand you may be spending an indeterminate period of time in the woods, begin gathering materials to create a fire. This will assist you in heating food and beverages, drying your clothes, signaling your location, and most importantly, providing you with a more optimistic outlook on your predicament. Always remember to start a fire before nightfall.

Combine twigs, dry paper, cardboard, and anything else that may readily catch fire with bigger hardwood logs. Begin by clearing a circular space and insulate it with rocks. Then gradually add the kindling, tinder, and remaining wood. The following are step-by-step instructions for building a fire.

9. Find a reliable source of food

Bring enough of caloric food with you when trekking. If you become lost, you can search for food in the forest, but make careful to consume only safe stuff, since it is preferable to be healthy and hungry than to become ill. Cook any insects or tiny animals you come across as a general rule. Consider fishing if a suitable body of water is nearby. On Trails.com, there is a brief guide to foraging for food in the woods.

10. Think (positive)!itive)!

Maintain a clear head and a cheerful attitude regardless of the scenario! Sing if necessary, shout if necessary, but do not panic, and if possible, try to enjoy your escape a little. While becoming lost in the woods may seem frightening, with a little forethought, it can be an unforgettable adventure. Consider how much story-telling you will do after you reach your destination safely!

If you have any comments, recommendations, or personal experiences to add to this survival guide, please drop by with them!