If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who loves spending time in nature, then you know the importance of being prepared for any situation. Whether you’re headed on a week-long camping trip or just a day hike, having the knowledge and skills to survive in the wilderness is essential. That’s why we’ve put together a list of 15 must-read survival books that will equip you with the information you need to thrive in the great outdoors. From wilderness first aid to foraging for food, these books cover a wide range of topics that every outdoor enthusiast should be familiar with. So grab a cup of coffee, snuggle up in your favorite camping chair, and get ready to embark on a literary adventure that will transform you into the ultimate survival expert.
1. The SAS Survival Handbook
Overview of the book
The SAS Survival Handbook is a comprehensive guide to survival in various outdoor and wilderness situations. Written by former British Special Air Service soldier, John “Lofty” Wiseman, this book covers a wide range of topics and provides valuable knowledge and techniques for staying alive in the wild.
Key survival skills covered
The book covers an extensive array of survival skills, including building shelters, finding and purifying water sources, navigating without a compass, foraging for food, starting fires, and administering first aid. It also provides guidance on how to deal with dangerous animals, extreme weather conditions, and natural disasters.
Why it’s essential for outdoor enthusiasts
For outdoor enthusiasts, this book is an invaluable resource. It equips individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate challenging situations while exploring the great outdoors. Whether you enjoy camping, hiking, or any other outdoor activity, the SAS Survival Handbook ensures that you have the tools to overcome unexpected challenges and ultimately increase your chances of survival.
2. Bushcraft 101: A Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival
Introduction to bushcraft
Bushcraft refers to the ability to not only survive but also thrive in the wilderness by utilizing natural resources and primitive skills. Dave Canterbury’s Bushcraft 101 serves as a comprehensive guide for individuals looking to learn and master bushcraft techniques.
Essential skills and techniques
This field guide introduces readers to a wide range of essential bushcraft skills, such as fire making, shelter building, knife handling, and foraging for wild edibles. It also covers topics like navigating in the wilderness, knot tying, and basic first aid.
Benefits for outdoor enthusiasts
For outdoor enthusiasts, learning bushcraft can elevate their camping or hiking experiences. By acquiring the knowledge and skills outlined in this book, individuals can rely less on modern conveniences and be better prepared to handle unexpected situations. Bushcraft empowers adventurers to connect with nature on a deeper level and appreciate the simplicity and self-reliance that comes with mastering these survival skills.
3. 98.6 Degrees: The Art of Keeping Your Ass Alive
Understanding core body temperature
98.6 Degrees by Cody Lundin delves into the critical importance of maintaining core body temperature for survival. The book emphasizes the significance of thermoregulation and how it impacts overall well-being in wilderness situations.
Methods to regulate body heat
Lundin provides readers with valuable insights and techniques to regulate body heat, such as proper clothing choices, shelter construction for insulation, and efficient fire management. The book also educates readers on the dangers of hypothermia and how to prevent and treat it effectively.
Importance for outdoor enthusiasts
For outdoor enthusiasts, understanding the concepts discussed in 98.6 Degrees can be a lifesaver. Whether facing extreme cold or scorching heat, the ability to regulate body temperature is crucial for survival and optimal performance. This knowledge empowers outdoor enthusiasts to make informed decisions when it comes to gear selection, staying comfortable, and avoiding potentially life-threatening situations.
4. Wilderness Survival: 2nd Edition
Essential survival techniques
In his book Wilderness Survival, Gregory J. Davenport provides a comprehensive guide to surviving in different wilderness settings. The second edition incorporates updated information and practical advice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Navigational skills
Davenport emphasizes the importance of navigational skills in a survival scenario. The book covers traditional methods like using maps and compasses, as well as more modern techniques involving GPS and electronic navigation devices. Readers will learn how to orient themselves, track their progress, and navigate through unfamiliar terrain.
How it benefits outdoor enthusiasts
For outdoor enthusiasts, Wilderness Survival offers a wealth of knowledge to enhance their safety and enjoyment while exploring nature. With an emphasis on understanding and mitigating potential risks, this book equips readers with the skills and confidence needed to make informed decisions and navigate effectively. By mastering survival techniques, outdoor enthusiasts can explore new environments with a sense of preparedness and self-reliance.
5. The Complete Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook
Preparing for unlikely scenarios
The Complete Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook, written by Joshua Piven and David Borgenicht, takes a unique approach to survival by addressing unlikely but potentially dangerous situations. This book offers practical advice and unconventional solutions to a variety of improbable scenarios.
Survival skills for various emergencies
Covering scenarios such as being trapped in quicksand, encountering a shark, or escaping a sinking car, this handbook provides step-by-step instructions on how to react and survive. It addresses medical emergencies, extreme weather events, and unexpected encounters, ensuring readers are prepared for the unexpected.
Why it’s useful for outdoor enthusiasts
While some scenarios covered in The Complete Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook may seem far-fetched, they serve as valuable mental exercises for outdoor enthusiasts. By considering these unlikely events, readers can heighten their situational awareness and develop a mindset that embraces adaptability and resourcefulness. The book encourages readers to think creatively and be prepared for a wide range of situations, making it a valuable addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s survival library.
6. Outdoor Survival Skills
Fundamental survival techniques
Outdoor Survival Skills, written by Larry Dean Olsen, focuses on providing readers with a solid foundation in basic survival techniques. Based on the author’s experiences teaching survival skills to college students, this book presents practical knowledge applicable to a variety of outdoor settings.
Basic navigation and shelter building
Olsen covers essential skills such as navigation using natural markers, constructing effective shelters, and sourcing clean water. Readers will also learn about fire building, procuring food through hunting and gathering, and administering basic first aid.
Relevance for outdoor enthusiasts
For outdoor enthusiasts seeking to develop a well-rounded skill set, Outdoor Survival Skills is an excellent resource. By mastering these fundamental techniques, individuals can gain the confidence to venture into more challenging wilderness environments. This book empowers outdoor enthusiasts to be self-reliant and adaptable, characteristics that are invaluable when facing unexpected circumstances in the great outdoors.
7. Deep Survival: Who Lives, Who Dies, and Why
Psychology of survival
Deep Survival, written by Laurence Gonzales, explores the psychology behind survival and examines why certain individuals thrive while others perish in extreme situations. Gonzales draws from real-life survival stories to analyze the decision-making processes that contribute to survival or demise.
Learning from real-life survival stories
The book presents gripping accounts of individuals who faced life-threatening challenges and managed to survive against all odds. Gonzales highlights key factors that influenced their outcomes, such as mindset, resilience, adaptability, and the ability to stay calm under pressure.
Significance for outdoor enthusiasts
Deep Survival offers a unique perspective for outdoor enthusiasts by shedding light on the psychological aspects of survival. By understanding the mindset and behaviors that contribute to successful survival, readers can enhance their own decision-making skills and mental resilience in challenging outdoor situations. This book serves as a reminder that survival is not solely reliant on physical skills but also on the strength of one’s mind.
8. The U.S. Army Survival Manual: FM 21-76
Military survival tactics
The U.S. Army Survival Manual serves as a comprehensive guide to survival strategies employed by the military. Drawing from the collective knowledge and expertise of the U.S. Army, this manual provides valuable insights into surviving a wide range of challenging environments.
Field-tested strategies
Readers will gain access to field-tested strategies, techniques, and tactics used by soldiers in various survival scenarios. This book covers topics like procuring food and water, building shelters, administering first aid, and evading capture. It also offers guidance on dealing with extreme weather, natural disasters, and hostile encounters.
Applicability for outdoor enthusiasts
For outdoor enthusiasts seeking a practical and reliable guide to survival, the U.S. Army Survival Manual offers a wealth of information. The military’s focus on preparedness, resourcefulness, and adaptability translates well to outdoor enthusiasts looking to enhance their own survival skills. By learning from military tactics, individuals can gain valuable insights and techniques to boost their chances of survival in any environment.
9. The Zombie Survival Guide
Survival strategies in a fictional scenario
The Zombie Survival Guide, written by Max Brooks, takes a creative and entertaining approach to survival preparedness. While addressing a fictional scenario, the book provides practical guidance that can be applied to various emergency or disaster situations.
Preparing for outbreaks or disasters
Brooks outlines strategies to survive a hypothetical zombie apocalypse, but readers can easily translate these strategies to real-world emergencies or disasters. The book discusses topics like fortifying homes, securing supplies, assembling a survival kit, and identifying potential threats.
Fun yet informative for outdoor enthusiasts
The Zombie Survival Guide offers a light-hearted and entertaining take on survival preparedness, making it an enjoyable read for outdoor enthusiasts. While the scenarios presented may be fictional, the book serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive planning, resource management, and adapting to unpredictable situations. Plus, any outdoor enthusiast with a love for post-apocalyptic fiction will find this book both fun and informative.
15. The Survival Medicine Handbook: A Guide for When Help is Not on the Way
Medical emergencies in survival scenarios
Authored by Joseph Alton and Amy Alton, The Survival Medicine Handbook focuses on equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to handle medical emergencies in situations where professional help is not available.
First aid techniques and improvisation
The book covers essential first aid techniques, wound care, managing infections, and other medical procedures that may be required during a survival situation. It also emphasizes improvisation, teaching readers how to use alternative materials and resources to address medical needs.
Essential for outdoor enthusiasts
For outdoor enthusiasts venturing into remote areas or engaging in activities with inherent risks, The Survival Medicine Handbook is an essential resource. Being able to provide basic medical care can make a significant difference in an emergency, potentially saving lives or preventing further injury. This book empowers outdoor enthusiasts to handle medical emergencies effectively and take charge of their well-being when professional help is not immediately available.
In conclusion, these fifteen survival books cover a wide range of topics and are essential reading for any outdoor enthusiast. From basic survival skills to advanced techniques, psychological insights, and medical knowledge, these books provide readers with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate and overcome challenging situations in the great outdoors. With these valuable resources in hand, outdoor enthusiasts can enhance their safety, increase their self-reliance, and embark on thrilling adventures with confidence.
