Returning to nature is a wonderful way to recalibrate and learn to genuinely respect our planet and the ecosystem we’re a part of. Spending time in the wild can be thrilling and adventurous, so it’s also a great way to learn and make lovely memories with your family and friends you’ll forever cherish. However, staying safe in the wild should be your top priority, so being adequately prepared is crucial if you want to have the time of your life. Having this in mind, here is some useful safety advice that will hopefully help you stay safe and get the most out of your backcountry experience.
Know where you’re going
In order to enjoy your wildlife excursion to the max, you need to thoroughly research the destination you’ve chosen to visit. Contacting other, more experienced campers is a wonderful idea if you’re planning to sleep out in the wild. They will be happy to tell you more about their previous trips which will be especially beneficial if you’re interested in visiting the campsite they’ve previously frequented. It’s extremely important to do your research for multiple safety reasons. If you’re going hiking, it’s essential to know whether there’s possibly dangerous terrain on the trail. Additionally, knowing about local flora and fauna can be of tremendous help. For example, if you know of poisonous plant species in the area, you will know when to be more cautious.
Don’t experience backcountry alone
Though being alone surrounded by nature may sound like a lovely way to practice self-care, if you’re not a wildlife connoisseur, don’t attempt this. Instead, go out to nature with your family or friends. This way, you will always have someone to rely on if you find yourself in imminent danger. Another great tip is to always have a more experienced person with you. If possible, this person should also be a bit more knowledgeable about the area you’re choosing to visit. They will be great in showing you the ropes, and maybe after some time, you will become that experienced camper everyone will ask for help.
Don’t forget to pack the essentials
No matter how you choose to spend your time in nature, make sure you have everything you’ll need. This is especially the case if you want to spend the night under the stars. There should always be space in your backpack for a first-aid kit, tinned food, a power bank charger, a flashlight, and an extra outfit. Also, because staying safe in nature demands that you be ready at all times, it’s a good idea to pack a few tried and true OTF automatic knives. Having a sharp knife on you will make you feel more confident while a part of nature. It can also be extremely helpful in slicing up some apples for a healthy snack or for cutting firewood to make a bonfire. If you intend to camp, you can’t go without a tent and a sleeping bag.
Canned goods are your best friend
If you’re planning on spending a couple of days out in nature, it’s extremely important to have some food on you. When it comes to packing food, it’s better to pack more than you initially think you’ll need. This way, if something unexpected transpires, you’ll be able to stay nourished for longer. It’s also a great piece of advice to bring canned food since it doesn’t need to be refrigerated and has a longer shelf life. You can also always heat it up using fire. In order to stay fully focused on the wildlife around you, it is key to be nicely fed.
Stay clear of the animals
Because you’ve done the needed research, you know which animal species frequent the camping area you plan to explore. Large animals such as wolves and bears should never be approached and you should be careful not to accidentally attract them. Don’t opt for spicy foods since they can be lured in by nice aromas. If these predators somehow cross your path, try not to engage with them.
In order to stay safe in the wild, it is important to be adequately prepared. This entails doing your research and having a bag packed full of essentials. Additionally, never go camping on your own and be wary of wildlife if you want to ensure your safety. Now that you have our tips in mind, you should sleep soundly knowing your next camping adventure can’t take a wrong turn.
