11. Make Char Cloth

Take any small piece of cloth and place it inside a metal container with a cover. Place the container in a fire for a couple minutes. When the cloth is dark from having been burned but is still intact, you have successfully made a char cloth.

Char cloth is an ideal fire starter because it catches with a small spark, saving you time and energy gathering tinder.

12. Keep Aluminum Foil

The uses of aluminum foil are endless in a survival situation. Use it to fashion dishes and cooking utensils, or to shield your shelter from heat.

You can use it as a dry surface to start a fire. To save space, don’t bring a whole roll. Simply fold up a few large sheets and tuck them into your pack.

13. Bring Extra Socks

In addition to keeping your feet warm and dry, socks can be used for a number of other purposes. A clean sock can make a water filter in a pinch, or you can use them on your hands for extra warmth.

14. Treat Blisters

Blisters can be painful and can slow you down as you travel. Prevent blisters by covering your toes in duct tape, reducing friction as you walk. If you already have a blister, puncture it with a sanitized pin or needle on either side to drain the fluid and then cover it.

15. How To Waterproof

Waterproofing spray is good to have, but if you don’t have any, make sure your sleeping area and fire are elevated. Use a hammock or logs to raise your body from the ground. Cover your shelter with pine branches to allow rain to run off the shelter.

16. Protection From Animals

If you run across a wolf or coyote, don’t run or play dead. Look the animal in the eye and slowly back away.

17. Find Edible Plants

Know what plants are edible and which can make you sick or kill you. This requires study and practice to familiarize yourself with edible plants. Even when you learn about these plants, never eat a plant if you’re in doubt. Common edible plants include cattail, wild grass, dandelion, and acorns.