What bushcraft is may vary based on who you ask. Some might view it as an outdated and even antiquated recreation full of pseudo-masculine posturing. And sure, in our sprawling civilization of electric grids and iPhones, the likelihood of needing such survival skills seems slim. (At least, we hope. Lately I’ve had my doubts.) But bushcraft, at its core, isn’t about some apocalyptic-preparedness fantasy. Bushcraft is about something deeper. It’s about a connective, immersive, and direct relationship with the natural world. In mastering the bushcraft basics, yes, you will gain survival skills. But what you will really gain is an inner confidence of your primal human abilities. And your ability to be at home in nature, wherever that is. That’s the kind of ethos an RVer can get behind.
Bushcraft is an opportunity to reclaim the pieces of our humanity that have been swept under the rug of our digitally insulated existence. As an added bonus, you will be the most prepared one in the group on any camping trip. Having recently utilized some of these skills in the thick of Hurricane Helene, I can tell you how fortunate we were to have them when the need was dire.
Let’s go over what I would consider to be the bushcraft basics. And yes, it’s OK (and smart) to begin practicing these skills with your RV nearby.
Using Edged Tools
Most bushcraft activities involving knives will require cutting and carving. You will want a knife suitable for carving, with a fixed blade and ergonomic handle. An uncomplicated blade with a flat bevel will suffice. The Condor Bushlore knife is a step up from the standard Morakniv Companion. Both will serve your purpose. A folding saw should also be considered, to help fill in the task gaps that your knife will struggle to complete. You might want to pick up a pocket sharpening stone to keep your blade up to task.
Dressing for the Weather
Dressing for weather is an underrated skill. In this all-weather camping guide, I go into more detail about dressing appropriately for various climates. Proper attire can save your life, or it can leave you at the mercy of unforgiving elements. Make sure you pack layers to protect you, especially if you are planning to camp overnight or in the rain. Remember to keep your colors dull and muted if you want to spot some wildlife as you hike. Bring extra socks, and waterproof gear when and where appropriate.
Knowing First Aid
If rugged adventure in remote areas is something you plan to do regularly and extensively, it wouldn’t hurt to take a wilderness first aid course. My husband took it many years back, and it gives me so much peace of mind for the sake of our family’s safety, especially on our more exciting adventures.
Regardless of your first aid training, a pocket first-aid kit should be a necessary tool in your pack. Here is a thorough list of things that you may want to consider adding to your first aid kit. Side note: Did you know that the most dangerous animal you will encounter in the wild are bees? The amount of fatalities from bee stings are surprising. We have seen first hand what bees can do to someone, and it wasn’t pretty. In that particular situation, an ambulance ride was the saving grace, but in remote areas where you will be going, antihistamines will be your best option. Benadryl can save a life, so don’t forget to pack it. Being prepared for these kind of encounters is important, which is why first aid is one of the most crucial bushcraft basics.
Making Fire
Fire is probably the most iconic craft associated with bushcraft. In the eyes of many, from onlooking children to Tom Hanks in “Castaway,” it is the master skill of the bushcraft basics. It sets most outdoor enthusiasts apart from those that have mastered the art of fire starting. Many factors will go into this endeavor. The types of wood at your disposal, the humidity and climate all factor in. Not only do you have to light the spark, you need to nurture it from a delicate flame to an established fire. These skills will require a knowledge of natural tinders and kindling as well as tools to ignite the flame. A Swedish Firesteel will produce hot, large sparks. The more traditional flint and steel will give cooler, smaller sparks, but is very reliable with practiced skill.
Replenishing Water
Regardless of whether you are on a day hike or a prolonged adventure, having a water filtration device should be considered in addition to any water you pack. Boiling water is a good way to kill pathogens, so carrying a pot of some sort would be wise. You can also use camp filters, life straws, or a brown filter bag for drinking water. Keep in mind that the brown filter bag is a coarse filtration method, and would pair well with the boiling method. There are lots of ways to replenish your freshwater. And it is wise to both know how to do it and have the means available.
Cooking Food
If you are spending more than a day on your expedition, you will want some proper cookware. A camping pot big enough to boil drinking water will serve for dinner purposes as well. Remember, most camping cookware is sold for the purpose of camp stoves and won’t come with any means of suspension for cooking over a campfire. Find one that can be suspended over your flame. Living off the land also creates some unique cooking opportunities — like cooking the fish you catch.
Improvising Shelter
For the more seasoned bushcraftsman, improvising a shelter would be an appropriate undertaking. But if you are just beginning, no one will judge you for packing a tarp and some rope to tie it up with. Remember, it’s more about learning the skill than proving something to someone. (So, it’s perfectly fine you’re still in walking distance of your RV.) Underneath the protection of your tarp, you will want a sleeping bag and a mat. If you can include a waterproof sleeping bag cover, you will thank yourself later should you encounter rain.
Additional Bushcraft Basics
Some other items to be considered are navigational tools, such as a compass and a map. Aand the skills to use them.) Paracord is another tool to consider bringing. You can make your own cordage from natural fibers like yucca, but that is very time consuming (And it won’t help you in a pinch.) Don’t forget a headlamp of some kind, since the night will be especially dark under a forest canopy. Pack an eating utensil as well, unless you want to carve your own out of wood to hone in on your bushcraft skills!
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