Top 5 Wilderness Survival Hacks You Should Know
Venturing into the wilderness can be exhilarating, but nature is unpredictable—and being prepared can mean the difference between comfort and crisis. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or an occasional camper, knowing a few smart survival hacks can dramatically increase your chances of staying safe, warm, and fed in the wild. Here are the top five wilderness survival hacks that every adventurer should keep in their back pocket.
1. Use Duct Tape for (Almost) Everything
Why it matters: It’s lightweight, versatile, and tough.
How it helps:
Fix gear: Patch holes in tents, backpacks, or even cracked water bottles.
First aid: Create makeshift bandages, secure splints, or cover blisters to prevent infection.
Survival uses: Twist it into cordage, or use it to start a fire (yes, duct tape is flammable!).
Pro tip: Wrap a few feet of duct tape around your water bottle or trekking pole for easy access without adding bulk.
Additional Tip: Waterproof tape (view on Amazon) may also come in handy for situations where a watertight seal is needed
2. Turn a Water Bottle Into a Fishing Kit
Why it matters: Food might not always be available in the wild.
How it helps:
A plastic water bottle can double as a hand reel for fishing. Just wrap fishing line around it, store hooks, weights, and a few lures inside, and you have a compact, ready-to-use kit.
Pro tip: Bait can be improvised from worms, bugs, or even small pieces of fabric soaked in fish-attracting oils (if available).
3. Start a Fire With a Battery and Steel Wool
Why it matters: Fire = warmth, safety, cooking, and morale.
How it helps:
If you have a standard AA battery and some steel wool, you can start a fire even if you’ve run out of matches. Touch the wool to both ends of the battery—it will spark and ignite.
Pro tip: Carry a small ziplock bag with steel wool and a battery in your emergency kit—it works even in damp conditions.
4. Make a Solar Still for Water Purification
Why it matters: Clean water is a survival priority.
How it helps:
Dig a shallow hole, place a container in the center, and surround it with damp vegetation. Cover the hole with plastic wrap, anchor the edges with rocks, and place a small stone in the center of the wrap, directly over the container. As the sun heats the vegetation, moisture will evaporate, condense on the plastic, and drip into the container.
Pro tip: This takes several hours, so set it up early and let it work while you do other tasks.
5. Use a Crayon as an Emergency Candle
Why it matters: Light is crucial for safety and navigation at night.
How it helps:
In a pinch, a crayon can burn for up to 30 minutes, giving you emergency lighting or even helping to ignite kindling.
Pro tip: Keep a few crayons in a waterproof bag as part of your emergency kit—they're compact and lightweight.
Final Thoughts
Survival isn't just about strength—it's about smarts. These five wilderness survival hacks are simple, effective, and potentially life-saving. Whether you’re hiking deep into the backcountry or just car-camping with friends, having a few clever tricks up your sleeve can keep you comfortable and safe when things don’t go as planned.
Stay safe, stay smart, and respect the wild.
What Should Be in Your Go Bag: 15 Essentials for Survival
When disaster strikes—whether it’s a natural catastrophe, civil unrest, or a sudden evacuation—you won’t have time to think, only time to act. That’s where a go bag (also known as a bug-out bag or 72-hour kit) comes in. It’s a pre-packed backpack filled with essentials designed to keep you alive, safe, and mobile for at least 72 hours.
Here’s a breakdown of the most important items you should have in your go bag for survival, and why each one matters.
1. Water and Purification Supplies
Why: You can survive weeks without food, but only a few days without water.
What to pack:
At least 1 liter of bottled water
Portable water filter (e.g., LifeStraw or Sawyer Mini)
Collapsible water container or hydration bladder
2. Food
Why: You need energy to stay alert and mobile.
What to pack:
High-calorie, non-perishable items (energy bars, MREs, trail mix)
Electrolyte powder or tablets
Utensils or a spork
3. First Aid Kit
Why: Minor injuries can become life-threatening without treatment.
What to pack:
Bandages, gauze, and medical tape
Antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointment
Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory meds
Tweezers, scissors, and gloves
Any personal medications (3-day supply)
4. Fire-Starting Tools
Why: Fire provides warmth, light, and the ability to cook or purify water.
What to pack:
Waterproof matches or a lighter
Ferro rod or magnesium fire starter
Cotton balls soaked in petroleum jelly (for easy ignition)
5. Shelter and Warmth
Why: Exposure is one of the top killers in survival situations.
What to pack:
Compact emergency space blanket find on Amazon
Lightweight tarp and paracord
Hand warmers
Extra pair of socks and thermal underwear
6. Multi-Tool or Knife
Why: A versatile tool can handle dozens of tasks, from food prep to gear repair.
What to pack:
A quality multi-tool or fixed-blade knife
Optional: small sharpening stone
7. Flashlight or Headlamp
Why: Darkness can increase danger and disorientation.
What to pack:
LED flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
Backup light source like a glow stick
8. Communication and Navigation Tools
Why: Staying informed and oriented can save your life.
What to pack:
Emergency crank radio or battery-powered radio
Compass and local map (laminated if possible)
Whistle for signaling
Pen and waterproof notebook
9. Hygiene Supplies
Why: Cleanliness helps prevent infection and illness.
What to pack:
Travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and soap
Baby wipes and hand sanitizer
Small towel and feminine hygiene products
Toilet paper in a waterproof bag
10. Extra Clothing
Why: Staying dry and layered is key to survival in harsh weather.
What to pack:
Weather-appropriate clothing
Rain poncho or jacket
Hat and gloves
11. Cash
Why: In a grid-down scenario, digital payments may not work.
What to pack:
Small bills in a waterproof pouch
12. Copies of Important Documents
Why: Identification and medical info can be critical.
What to pack:
ID copies, medical records, insurance info, and emergency contacts
Store in a waterproof, resealable bag
13. Self-Defense Item (Optional)
Why: In extreme scenarios, protecting yourself may be necessary.
What to pack:
Pepper spray or a compact personal alarm
Know local laws if carrying any defensive tools
14. Duct Tape and Zip Ties
Why: Emergency gear repair, shelter building, and even first aid.
What to pack:
A small roll of duct tape and a few heavy-duty zip ties
15. Energy Bank/Portable Charger
Why: Keep your phone or GPS functional when the power is out.
What to pack:
Fully charged power bank find on Amazon
Charging cable
Final Tips:
Choose a durable, comfortable backpack with multiple compartments.
Keep your go bag stored in an easily accessible place.
Check and refresh your gear every 6 months—especially food, water, and batteries.
A well-prepared go bag isn’t paranoia—it’s smart planning. Emergencies don’t wait for convenience, so when it’s time to move, your go bag ensures you can survive, adapt, and protect yourself until help arrives or normalcy returns.
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A Martial Law Survival Guide: What to Do If Martial Law Is Declared
When civil unrest, natural disasters, or political instability spiral out of control, governments may declare martial law. This means that military authorities temporarily replace civilian rule, and normal rights such as free movement or public gatherings may be restricted. While rare, history shows that being prepared for martial law is just as important as other aspects of emergency preparedness.
This martial law survival guide will walk you through what to do if martial law is declared, how to protect your family, and which survival gear can help you stay safe.
1. Stay Calm and Gather Reliable Information
The first step in any crisis is to stay calm and get accurate information. During martial law, misinformation spreads quickly.
Use emergency radios – A hand-crank or solar-powered emergency radio (like the FosPower Emergency Radio) ensures you get official broadcasts even if the grid goes down.
Cross-check news – Verify reports with multiple sources before acting.
Follow official instructions – Government announcements will dictate curfews, checkpoints, or evacuations.
2. Understand Martial Law Rules and Restrictions
Knowing the rules is essential to avoid unnecessary conflict.
Curfews – Write down curfew hours and plan errands accordingly.
Checkpoints – Always carry identification and stay respectful when questioned.
Banned items – Some tools, weapons, or gatherings may be prohibited.
3. Secure Food, Water, and Supplies
Martial law often disrupts supply chains. Preparing in advance gives you peace of mind.
Water – Store at least one gallon per person per day. A portable water filter like the LifeStraw Personal Water Filter is a must-have in emergencies.
Food – Stock up on non-perishable items: canned goods, freeze-dried meals, and protein bars. The ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply is a solid long-term option.
Medical supplies – Keep a first-aid kit and any prescription medications stocked.
4. Keep a Low Profile During Civil Unrest
In times of martial law, unnecessary attention can put you at risk.
Avoid protests – Even peaceful demonstrations may be treated as illegal gatherings.
Stay private – Limit what you share online and in person.
Blend in – Dress simply and avoid confrontations.
5. Strengthen Home Security
Civil unrest often accompanies martial law, making home safety a priority.
Secure entry points – Reinforce doors and windows.
Lighting – Use solar-powered lanterns or motion-detection lights.
Neighborhood coordination – Quietly work with trusted neighbors to watch out for each other.
6. Stay Connected with Family
Communication is critical during martial law.
Two-way radios – Reliable when cell service is down (try the Midland GXT1000VP4 Walkie-Talkies).
Emergency contacts – Keep a written list of phone numbers.
Family plan – Establish where to meet if separated.
7. Be Ready to Relocate if Necessary
Sometimes, the safest option is to leave temporarily.
Go-bag – Pack essential items: food, water filter, flashlight, cash, documents, and first aid. The 5.11 Tactical RUSH72 Backpack makes an excellent bug-out bag.
Plan routes – Have multiple escape routes in case roads are blocked.
Fuel – Keep your vehicle’s tank at least half full.
8. Protect Your Rights Wisely
Civil liberties may be suspended, but you still have rights.
Stay respectful at checkpoints – Cooperation reduces risk.
Know limits – Avoid unnecessary arguments with military or police.
Seek legal aid – Keep contact info for advocacy groups if available.
Featured Martial Law Survival Gear
If martial law is declared, the right emergency preparedness gear can make all the difference. Here are some highly-rated essentials to consider:
FosPower Emergency Radio – Hand-crank, solar, and battery-powered with NOAA weather alerts, flashlight, and power bank.
LifeStraw Personal Water Filter – Lightweight, portable, and capable of filtering up to 1,000 gallons of water.
ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply – 124 servings of long-lasting freeze-dried meals.
Midland GXT1000VP4 Walkie-Talkies – 36-mile range, NOAA weather scan, and 50 channels for reliable family communication.
5.11 Tactical RUSH72 Backpack – Rugged, water-resistant bug-out bag designed for 3-day survival kits.
Jackery Solar Generator 1000 – Portable power station with solar charging, perfect for keeping electronics running during blackouts.
Final Thoughts on Martial Law Survival
Martial law can be one of the most unsettling events to experience, but the key is preparation and adaptability. By following this martial law survival guide, stocking up on emergency preparedness gear, and keeping a calm mindset, you can safeguard your family even during civil unrest.
Don’t wait until martial law is declared. Start building your survival kit today with essential gear that keeps you safe, secure, and self-sufficient.
Photo by Amber Kipp on Unsplash
