Survivalist camping is for those ambitious enough to put their physical and mental skills to the ultimate test. Relying solely on the bare essentials, extreme outdoorsmen embark on their outdoor excursions with only the supplies needed to survive. For novice survivalists exploring the ins and outs of this camping alternative, you can skip the frilly glamping accessories and bring only the absolute must-have supplies. Signaling equipment, hydration systems, and first aid kits are fundamental survival tools. Items that offer protection from the elements, including durable tents, lightweight building supplies, and camping-friendly (aka moisture-wicking and heat-insulating) clothing are also must-haves in any survivalist pack.
Survival knives and water filtration systems can only get you so far if you don’t possess the insider knowledge necessary to survive the Great Outdoors’ harsh weather conditions and unexpected threats. Survivalists in training must be prepared with the skills and abilities to act fast when faced with the unforgiving wilderness. Trapping animals and catching fish will save you from starvation, much like water-purifying knowledge will help you stave off a visit from an emergency rescue team.
Building a fire may seem like an easy task, but sparking a flame without matches sets a survivalist apart from the average camper. Refining select survivalist camping skills may require extended courses. However, you can familiarize yourself with expert-recommended tips and tricks by consulting a popular survival blog. In an instant, you’ll follow in the footsteps of outdoorsmen capable of trekking high-risk terrain without a second thought.
Out of every survivalist skill and tool, any camper will agree their most indispensable item is a reliable knife. With the ability to cut ropes, serve as a weapon to fend off predators, build shelters, and more, the right blade can mean the difference between life or death. Not sure which is right for you? Consider these top-rated survival knives, and you’re destined to satisfy your survivalist needs.
Victorinox Pathfinder Edition Swiss Army knife
These small yet sturdy folding knives come in handy in a variety of tasks. From slicing tinder to twisting screws, this condensed toolbox offers endless uses in both camping and everyday life. Pocket knives with tweezers come in handy if you’re dealing with a tick, and a sharp blade is an essential accessory for any experienced fisherman.
Fortunately, the outdoor market is chalked full of quality knives. Take the Victorinox Pathfinder Edition Swiss Army Knife as one example of a reliable pocket tool.
Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 survival knife
This fixed-blade knife was born for an outdoor survival experience. Study steel and a durable handle make for one powerful protection tool while allowing knife-wielders to avoid a traditional self-defense weapon’s bulkiness. Like every Benchmade blade, this knife comes with a lifetime warranty.
Ka-Bar Becker BK9 Combat Bowie Fixed Blade knife
For those campers looking for a larger knife, the Becker BK9 is hard to beat. While the blade itself may be heavier than others on the market, its ability to tackle numerous tasks will grant you the opportunity to ditch conventional (and less efficient) alternatives and construct a shelter from scratch with ease. Built with an ergonomic handle and thoughtful balance, it’s a large knife that doesn’t compromise usability.
Morakniv Kansbol Fixed Blade knife
This survival knife’s Swedish design guarantees a quality blade. The Morakniv Kansbol Fixed Blade has quickly become a household name amongst experienced survivalists. Both affordable and functional, this knife offers all the survivalist-friendly benefits of a sturdy weapon. Its lightweight steel blade is ideal for maintaining an agile pack, and the four-inch size will perform well in almost every camping task.
Final words
Every successful survivalist knows that a quality blade is a camper’s most valuable asset. Each knife yields unique benefits, and pinpointing the model that’s right for you will plant you feet-first on the path toward becoming an experienced survivalist.