Living in the wild can be an exhilarating and gratifying experience, but it also necessitates a certain level of preparation and independence. Although there are many gadgets and tools that come in handy when in the wild, there are a few indispensables, as discussed in this article.
Living In the Woods – 5 Essential Gadgets
Here are five must-have gadgets if you live in the woods:
1. Leatherman Pocket Knife
Anyone who resides in the wilderness should never be without their trusty pocket knife. The Leatherman multi-tool is an excellent tool to have at one’s disposal. With its many functions, such as cutting rope, opening cans, and even mending equipment, it can come in handy for all sorts of tasks.
2. Suunto Watch
Crafted with durability in mind, the Suunto watch can handle even the most extreme conditions. Not only does it have an altimeter, barometer, and compass built-in for easy navigation through unfamiliar terrain, but also it has GPS technology and Bluetooth connectivity so your whereabouts can be tracked and shared.
3. Earl Backcountry Survival Tablet
Those of us who make our home in nature will appreciate how perfectly it is suited for outdoor adventures, like hiking and camping, is Earl Backcountry Survival Tablet. Boasting a 6-inch e-ink screen that can be clearly read even in bright sunlight, it comes preloaded with topographical maps and survival guides.
4. Map And Compass
In the event that things go wrong, having a backup plan is always a wise idea when headed into woodlands. It is, therefore, prudent to make sure you are carrying a map and compass with you for navigation purposes. These are invaluable tools for anyone living in the woods as they can be used to find your way even when GPS devices or survival tablets run out of battery or do not have a signal.
5. Personal Water Filter
Having a reliable source of drinkable water is absolutely vital when spending time in nature, and a Personal Water Filter provides just that. This compact and lightweight tool effectively removes waterborne bacteria and waterborne protozoan parasites from almost any water source, making it a must-have for anyone living in the wild.
How to Survive In the Wild?
When stranded in a natural environment, it is vital to be well-versed in the basics of how to survive. With some knowledge and the right tools for survival, you can significantly up your chances of making it out alive. Below are several suggestions for how one might go about enduring wild conditions:
1. Look For Food Sources
Foraging for sustenance in the wild can be a challenge. Those who find themselves without food may need to rely on consuming insects or collecting nuts. Crickets, grasshoppers, and worms provide protein, while acorns and hazelnuts contain important vitamins and minerals. Plus, if you live in the wild, you should also consider a deer feeder to ensure wildlife is getting proper food as well.
2. Build a Fire
Having a reliable source of heat, light, and cooking while outdoors is essential for survival. To create a blaze, first collect an array of materials such as leaves, needles, or small pieces of wood. Make a pile and use either a lighter or flint and steel to get it going. Then add larger logs to keep it alight.
3. Anticipate Potential Problems
In order to have a safe experience while out in the wild, it is of utmost importance to always be prepared. Ensure you have a map, a first aid kit, a compass, and additional water and food. It’s important to consider potential risks such as weather changes, animal encounters, and the possibility of becoming lost.
4. Stay Calm and Avoid Panicking
When confronted with a life-or-death situation, it is normal for one to become frazzled. However, the most important thing to do is remain as level-headed as possible to make wise decisions that could ultimately save your life. Taking deep breaths and staying hopeful is paramount.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Trying To Survive In the Wild
Making it through a challenging and uncertain experience in nature can be difficult, even for experienced outdoorsmen. To help ensure your safety, take care to avoid these common mistakes when attempting to survive in the wild:
1. Not Setting Up Perimeter Defenses
In the wilderness, it is absolutely essential to be mindful of the security risks posed by wildlife. Failure to take precautionary steps, such as forming a rock or stick wall around your camp, can leave you exposed to predators. Therefore, it is important to remain vigilant and do what you can to ensure your safety.
2. Drinking Dirty Water
Staying hydrated is critical for our well-being, but drinking unclean water can cause serious issues. Unfiltered or untreated liquids can lead to illnesses like diarrhea and dehydration. It’s important to bring a filter or purifying tablets wherever you go and know how to distinguish safe sources of liquid.
3. Not Using Navigation Tools
Exploring the backcountry can be a perilous experience for anyone lacking the necessary navigational tools. Without items such as a map, compass, or GPS device, it is nearly impossible to return home safely and unscathed. In order to avoid any potential misfortune, always carry the right equipment and make sure you know how to use it.
4. Not Camping On High Ground
In the wilderness, one must always be cautious of sudden flooding – even when the weather is clear and sunny. Being mindful of your setting and selecting a campsite on higher ground can save you from being swept away in a flood or any other type of natural emergency.
Conclusion
Making sure you have the right gadgets and tools to live in the woods is absolutely essential. From a Leatherman pocket knife to a Suunto watch – having these items on hand will help ensure your safety and comfort as you venture through the wilderness.