Under ideal circumstances, hikers, hunters, backpackers and campers venture into the wild with the necessary supplies for survival. At any given moment, an outing in the wilderness can turn into an emergency situation. To stay healthy and alive in the outdoors, it is important to become familiar with essential materials and skills.


An adequate supply of water is essential for survival in the wilderness. Bring an ample amount of bottled water and purification materials. Replacing fluids lost during hot weather, stress and activity is crucial. Aim to consume a minimum of 2 liters of water per day to maintain strength and energy. To obtain water from natural resources, use clean containers to collect rainwater or water found in lakes, ponds, streams or springs. Avoid diseases and harmful organisms by boiling the water for at least three minutes.


Pack plenty of high-protein, non-perishable food for a trip into the wild. When facing a food shortage or wilderness survival dilemma, nature provides a handful of edible options. Insects are high in protein and easy to catch. In damp humus soil or after a fresh rain, capture worms for a boost of protein. Look for beetles, grubs, termites and ants under rocks or rotting logs and in grassy areas. In freshwater, seek crayfish, shrimp, clams and fish, which provide a decent source of protein and fat. You may steam, boil or bake mollusks in the shell. Cook freshwater fish to kill any parasites.


In the wilderness, build a fire to keep warm, light the darkness, purify water and cook food. When preparing to stay in the outdoors, bring waterproof matches or a lighter. Tinder, kindling, dry leaves and grass, logs and branches serve as suitable materials to build a strong fire. The convex lens from a camera, magnifying glass or binoculars can create a fire on a bright, sunny day.


To survive in the wilderness, shelter offers protection and warmth when sleeping in the outdoors. As the sun sets, cooler temperatures usually set in. Mosquitoes and other creatures are also more active. A thunderstorm may erupt. When you're not staying in a cabin or camper, suitable forms of shelter include a tent and/or sleeping bag. If an alternative shelter site is needed, look for a temporary natural setting, such as rocky crevices, caves, large trees with low-hanging branches or clumps of bushes.

Dry Clothing

Keep warm, stay healthy and protect your skin with dry clothing when enjoying the outdoors. Choose layers of natural, light fibers against the skin and waterproof garments for outer layers. Hats also offer protection from the elements.

First Aid Kit

From antiseptic wipes to bandages for wounds, a first aid kit comes in handy for campers and hikers, especially if they lose their way or separate from their camp for a couple of days. Easily portable, a first aid kit helps treat a wide range of medical concerns, including headaches, nausea, upset stomach, burns, cuts, infections and splinters.

Map or Compass

Becoming lost in the wilderness places your life in danger, as food and water supplies decrease and the risk of encountering threatening wildlife increases. Pack a map that illustrates the nearest ranger stations, water sources and other helpful locations in the region. Learn how to identify north, south, east and west on a compass. Some compasses attach to the thumb, are held or fasten to a map. When you have no map or compass, take advantage of the North Star or follow the shadow of the sun, which moves from east to west in the sky.

About the Author

Yona Williams is co-owner of Priceless Writers, LLC, and a freelance writer with a BA in English (Colgate University) and MA in Journalism (Newhouse - Syracuse University). Williams has been professionally providing online and offline content for nearly 10 years, including Golden-Gate-Park.com and the Green Connoisseur.

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