Let us now discuss the crucial skills necessary for survival in your home, bug out location, or any other place you may find yourself in. While numerous skills can be acquired, only a few are indispensable for managing and surviving in such situations.
First Skill – Starting a Fire
This is something every prepper/survivalist should know. We have a lot of gadgets to help start fires and the more you have the better off you will be. But make sure you know how to use them all, some can be trickier than expected. We also recommend learning primitive ways to start a fire such as Flint & Steel, Fire plow, Hand drill, Bow drill Pump drill, Fire piston. Also a good thing to keep in mind is what woods in your area will give off the least amount of smoke to keep yourself hidden. Some of these include ash, oak, beech, birch and hickory and maple. There are hundreds of uses for fires, so make sure you know how to make one in the first place.
Second Skill – First Aid
Have you ever used any of the tools in your ultimate first aid kit that are capable of reattaching a severed head or limb? It doesn’t really make sense to carry around all this equipment if you lack familiarity with it or how to utilize it. It would be more valuable to develop basic skills in suturing, or even printing a PDF guide on the subject and storing it in your kit. Don’t overlook fundamental techniques such as Basic Life Support, CPR, proper medication storage, natural remedies, and shock treatment (elevating feet, providing warm blankets, etc.). Additionally, bandaging a wound and controlling bleeding is just one aspect of managing wounds. Make sure to acquire knowledge on how to thoroughly clean and prepare a wound.
Navigating is a skill.
Navigation is often neglected, disregarded due to the abundance of various devices and technologies available nowadays. Consequently, the reliance on maps or compasses has significantly diminished. Regrettably, there is a strong possibility that GPS, digital maps, and directions might become unreliable. Therefore, it is crucial to acquire skills in compass usage, the interpretation of diverse map types (such as topographical maps), familiarity with your surroundings and nearby regions you may be compelled to navigate, understanding the sun’s indications, and dedicating time to grasp the fundamentals of star navigation. Possessing this knowledge will prove immensely valuable to both yourself and others.
Skill number four is cooking.
It is crucial to acquire the skill of cooking as it is essential to know how to utilize limited supplies efficiently. It can be quite expensive to waste fluids or make errors while cooking. Rocks have great value when it comes to cooking as they have the ability to absorb heat and serve as ovens, frying pans, or even as a means to steam food underneath or boil it. Therefore, it is important to master these techniques and maximize the effectiveness of your fire and fuel. Additionally, it is beneficial to understand the foods you have and how to adeptly prepare them in order to extend their shelf life or make them go further.
Skill number 5 entails the practice of hunting, fishing, and trapping, following a systematic and logical approach.
Having a great food storage is a desirable asset, but it is not permanent. It is necessary to acquire knowledge on procuring food in your surroundings. Familiarize yourself with the local fauna and learn the art of preparing them for consumption. Understand the appropriate weaponry and how to utilize it effectively. Guns should not always be relied upon since ammunition is limited and the noise they create can be perilous. Gain proficiency in using a bow, a spear, and a fishing pole. Employing traps can be a highly efficient method of hunting that requires minimal energy expenditure. It would be beneficial to acquire books or seek guidance from an expert at this time. Investing time in this realm will undoubtedly be advantageous in the long run.
The sixth skill is self defense.
When encountering another person or animal, it is preferable to avoid engaging in a battle. If you do engage, the outcome can result in death, injury, or disability, which would make survival more difficult. Nonetheless, it is important to learn how to defend yourself and your group or family. If possible, consider taking a Jiu Jitsu class, but for those who are lazy or too busy, it is essential to learn key points for effective strikes. Prioritize targeting the eyes, temples, throat, groin, stomach, nose, and ribs. While there are no strict rules, except possibly in prison, when there is no alternative but to fight, unleash your full strength and make the attacker aware that further attempts will not be tolerated. If you lack a firearm, you can utilize weapons from the environment, such as rocks or clubs. However, for those with a firearm and good aim, it is needless to say the advantages it brings.
Communications is skill number 7.
It is important to learn every language, if possible, because there will always be a need for communication even when things collapse. Although cell phones may not be the primary means of communicating anymore, they could still work to some extent, so it is advisable not to completely abandon them. However, during an event, the high traffic on cell phones will cause issues, so it may be worth trying to get through to family or friends once, but afterwards, alternative means of communication may be necessary. Landline phones may still function without power, so having a corded phone on a phone line is recommended. Additionally, having a few emergency radios, whether crank or solar-powered, or both, can be useful as emergency information and weather updates will be broadcast over the airwaves. CB, Two-way radios, and HAM radios are other forms of communication that it is important to learn how to use. Broadcasting with HAM radios requires a license, but it is possible to operate without one. Learning how to use a HAM radio is highly recommended, as it will likely become the main mode of communication when things deteriorate. It is crucial to protect at least one of your radios from EMPs, and we will discuss this further at a later point.
Mechanics is the 8th skill.
The study of engine mechanics requires several years of dedication. Our intention is to emphasize the importance of having knowledge in basic maintenance for small or car engines. If you lack the ability to change spark plugs, belts, oil, or even identify the appropriate fuel, you may encounter difficulties unless you have access to a mechanic, which we all hope for. The upkeep of generators, essential for maintaining power, is necessary. Your bug out vehicle will require regular tender loving care. Furthermore, your proficiency in mechanics can greatly improve your quality of life, regardless of your location. Acquiring skills in pulley systems and other motor applications can significantly enhance convenience. If time is a constraint, consider storing books on these topics to gain some knowledge.
Skill #9: Water Water is an essential skill to possess.
Water is the most essential element for survival, and it is crucial to understand how to appropriately store, conserve, treat, obtain, and gain knowledge about water. It is important to recognize that your water supply is finite, so knowing how to obtain and treat water for safe consumption is essential. Water serves numerous purposes beyond drinking, such as cleaning, planting, and cooking, so it is important to learn how to reuse and conserve it effectively. Various methods, including filters, chlorination, homemade filters, and boiling, can be utilized to purify water, and it is vital to be familiar with all of them. Considering that a family of four requires a minimum of 270 gallons for three months, it becomes evident that storing a substantial amount of water is necessary. Therefore, dedicating time to research and educate oneself about water is indispensable, as everything ultimately depends on it.
The skill of carpentry is considered as number 10 in the sequence.
If you intend on staying alive, it will be necessary to possess some expertise in carpentry. Constructing your shelter will demand proficiency to ensure its stability and protection from external factors. Acquiring knowledge in constructing aqueduct systems for gardening, fences, pens for animals (such as a hamster farm), bridges, portable ladders, and plant boxes, among other things, will greatly enhance the quality and ease of your life. It is essential to learn how to prepare and shape the wood you have chopped down for construction purposes, as not everything is compatible with round logs.
Skill number 11 pertains to the practice of gardening.
If you are unable to succeed at hunting, you always have the option of relying on vegetables. It is important to have knowledge of gardening because solely consuming meat is not considered healthy. By becoming a proficient gardener, you can consistently obtain a greater quantity of food and nutrition. It is possible to reuse heirloom seeds for multiple harvests. Familiarize yourself with the plants that are beneficial for your body. Additionally, learn about the crops that thrive in the specific location where you intend to stay. Acquire skills for indoor gardening as well. If there is a sufficient water supply nearby, hydroponics can be particularly advantageous. Educate yourself about medicinal plants that can be beneficial. possessing a green thumb will greatly benefit you and your group, making you invaluable.
Skill number 12 relates to security.
After finding a stable location following chaotic events, it is necessary to understand how to protect it. While it may be improbable to construct a .50 cal. turret on your house, there could be others who have done so. It is crucial to establish your standoff space, which refers to the visible distance between your residence and a guarded perimeter. Strive for optimal visibility from your position while maintaining as much concealment as possible. Erecting a tall fence is important to discourage both animals and individuals. It will also grant you additional time to intercept an intruder who must overcome or bypass the barrier. Ensure you possess motion detectors, barbed wire, and other security measures. If the need arises, consider constructing a detention facility. thoroughly research defensive weapons such as pepper spray, stun guns, firearms, or a crossbow. Educate your loved ones on the safe usage of these defense tools since most individuals are likely unprepared, and unfortunately, some may resort to theft. Stay prepared, but avoid becoming excessively paranoid.
Fun Survival Skills To Master
After learning about the essential 12 skills, these are some additional skills that may be beneficial to acquire before their necessity arises.
Prepper Skill #1: Advanced bushcraft.
Advanced Bushcraft 101, authored by Dave Canterbury, instructs individuals on how to fully engage in the natural environment by teaching advanced bushcraft and woodcraft techniques. These skills, collectively known as bushcraft, are essential for surviving in remote areas without much or any equipment.
Prepper Skill #2: Archery.
When considering the hobby of archery, it is important to think about its benefits in terms of hunting and protecting your group. Additionally, the recyclable and repairable nature of arrows make them a sustainable resource. Furthermore, by learning to craft your own arrows, you can follow in the footsteps of native Americans from centuries ago.
Prepper Skill #3: Battlefield basic skills.
Do you possess the five fundamental military survival skills? These essential military survival skills encompass locating water, constructing shelter, searching for food, building fire, and navigating.
If you want more, consider getting 100 Deadly Skills: Survival Edition, written by Clint Emerson. This book is a crucial guide that covers everything from finding shelter, starting a fire, locating food, and returning to society in any surroundings. It also teaches you how to think like a special forces soldier, allowing you to survive situations such as being held hostage, encountering an active shooter, facing a suicide bomber, or dealing with a terrorist threat on public transport. Furthermore, it provides knowledge on administering first aid as a immediate responder.
Prepper Skill #4: Backpacking.
Backpacking is an enjoyable activity that not only helps you acquire basic wilderness survival skills, but also enables you to utilize man-made conveniences such as water filtration techniques, cooking methods, and navigation. Additionally, it aids in endurance training and enhances your ability to properly carry a bugout bag, ensuring that the weight is distributed on your hips rather than solely on your shoulders. Moreover, trekking long distances through challenging terrains prepares you for various additional advantages, including acquiring knowledge on preventing mosquito and tick bites, avoiding trenchfoot, and minimizing the occurrence of blistering feet. Undoubtedly, the immense confidence it instills is one of the reasons why the scouting community is fond of this activity.
Prepper Skill #5. Baking and Bread making.
Bread is a common part of the American diet and biting into freshly baked bread brings great satisfaction. Preppers are content with kneading dough by hand to make it rise, even without a bread machine. They acquire the skill of making various types of bread, like bannock bread, biscuits, cornbread, tortillas, flatbreads, and other types of simple breads from scratch.
Prepper skill #6: Bartering.
To gain inspiration, watch the video titled “One Red PaperClip”. When you watch it, you will comprehend how a young man successfully traded one red paperclip for a house. This remarkable tale is worth sharing with everyone you come across.
Prepper Skill #7: Beekeeping.
If you read more about beekeeping, especially in the book Little House in the Suburbs: Backyard farming and home skills for self-sufficient living, by Deanna Caswell and Daisy Siskins, you will find a very comprehensive section on the topic. This section covers various aspects of beekeeping, such as acquiring bees and bee products, including honey candy drops. So, don’t worry, honey, you can definitely give beekeeping a try!
Prepper Skill #8: Beer making.
Not only is becoming a brew master a satisfying hobby, but it can also have practical benefits in terms of bartering. It is advisable to consult local regulations, as many states permit brewing for personal consumption. Due to the timeless appeal of beer, there will always be a demand for it. A recommended approach for acquiring brewing skills is to purchase a kit, and the Coopers Do it Yourself kit is widely regarded as the best option available.
Prepper skill #9: Butter churning.
Making butter by hand is not so much a skill as it is an endurance test. Even though it may not be the most thrilling skill to learn, many people are unaware that butter can be made using milk. Getting the kids involved in the process will not only provide them with a challenge, but also with the satisfaction of the end result. Additionally, it presents an opportunity to learn how to create flavored butters.
Prepper Skill #10: Camping.
Camping is simpler compared to backpacking because it doesn’t require any hiking activity. Practicing camping can be easily done in your own backyard. Those who are prepared for emergencies already possess a collection of camping equipment, including backpacks, tents, camping stoves, fuel, water filters, freeze dried foods, and other essential items. Engaging in camping practice is highly recommended.
When you stock up on freeze dried foods for camping, it ensures that your preparations will not be wasted. This is because you have the opportunity to try out your preferred brands before making a bulk purchase. Additionally, if something unexpected occurs, the camping foods you have accumulated can provide both a sense of comfort and a reminder of more pleasant moments.
Prepper Skill #11: Candle making.
If you want to enhance the ambiance, you should think about the art of candle making, which can be as simple as putting a wick in a can of Crisco.
If you want to try making your own oil lamps, you can easily create a basic one in a mason jar by using a few accessories.
Prepper Skill #12: Canning.
Preppers have acquired knowledge of the fundamental canning techniques. By canning fruits and vegetables harvested from their own yard, they will ensure their survival during the scarce Winter months in the new society. If the need arises, Happy Preppers will gladly exchange their canned food items.
Prepper Skill #13: Charcoal making.
Learning how to make charcoal is an essential skill for building fires. Additionally, it is beneficial to learn how to make charcloth, as it can also assist in firebuilding.
Prepper Skill #14. Charcuterie.
Charcuterie, originally a craftsman art in the creation of pork products like salami, sausages, and prosciutto, is now defined as the art of salting, cooking, smoking, and drying meats. By learning to make sausages, terrines, pâtés, olive and vegetable rillettes, duck confit, mortadella, soppressata, or smoked almonds, a Prepper can develop expertise in Charcuterie. “Charcuterie: The Craft of Salting, Smoking, and Curing,” found immediately on the right, provides the path to acquiring this skill.
Prepper Skill #15: Cheese making.
Preppers understand that if they store waxed cheese in cool temperatures, it can last for 25 years. They choose hard waxed cheeses because the wax provides protection against mold, bacteria, and moisture. Although preppers are willing to store cheese in different forms (waxed, freeze-dried, powdered, etc), they take pleasure in creating cheese from scratch. In a future society, this traditional skill would be crucial for survival.
Learn how to wax cheese in order to prolong the shelf life of your family’s favorite cheeses.
Prepper Skill #16: Chicken cooping.
Chicken cooping is becoming trendy and brings joy to a Preppers’ everyday routine. Chickens consume garden insects and leftovers, resulting in a plentiful and visually diverse collection of eggs. Additionally, they naturally assist in composting. An added benefit of keeping chickens is that they serve as pets, relieving stress and enhancing the overall quality of life.
Prepper Skill #17: Coin collecting.
The government has the authority to confiscate silver bars and gold bars, but collecting coins offers the advantage of them being collectibles, allowing individuals to search for junk silver coins (U.S. coins that were minted before 1964). It is acceptable to focus on the silver value rather than the coin’s actual worth, so low quality is acceptable.
Prepper Skill #18: Cooking.
If your goal is to bring happiness to others, then one way to achieve this is by providing them with delicious meals. Chefs typically possess the natural ability to cook using whatever ingredients they have available, and this skill can bring even greater happiness to Happy Preppers. These skills can involve various techniques such as making bread, dehydrating food, preserving it in cans, producing cheese, and smoking meats. Additionally, Happy Preppers are knowledgeable about cooking methods that don’t require electricity, such as creating a pit oven.
Prepper Skill #19: Composting.
If you lack the understanding of what materials are suitable for composting and the proper techniques for composting, you run the risk of falling ill.
Prepper Skill #20: Couponing.
The skill of getting a good deal at the grocery store should not be underestimated as a skill for preppers. There are methods to acquire what you desire at a significantly reduced price, or even for no cost.
Prepper Skill #21: Dehydrating.
Having a dehydrator and knowing how to dehydrate foods is a crucial skill for organizing your storage system. The process of drying foods is a successful method of preserving them as it reduces water content while preventing the growth of harmful organisms. Enjoy using the conveniently designed dehydrator shown in the top right picture, which is perfect for drying various items like fruits, vegetables, herbs, and jerky. Though it is an important skill, dehydrating enough food for your family’s three-month supply is a demanding and time-consuming task. Freeze-dried foods have a longer shelf life.
Prepper Skill #22. Entomology.
The study of bugs may be an important survival tool, even though it may seem extreme to most Happy Preppers. Recognizing edible and poisonous insects could be useful for survival while backpacking or hiking. Insects like crickets offer a good amount of protein, fats, and vitamins, and they may be easily found in your area. Poisonous bugs are usually brightly colored. Various cultures, such as Thai people, enjoy eating insects like bamboo worms. In fact, many Asian cultures incorporate insects into their diets. It is possible that insects will be consumed more frequently than mammals in the future.
Prepper Skill #23: Fishing.
Many Happy Preppers find the attraction of fishing appealing. Depending on their location, they refine their fishing skills in rivers, lakes, or oceans. Additionally, they may acquire the knowledge of preserving fish through salting or smoking in case refrigeration is not available.
Prepper Skill #24: Food Foraging.
Preppers are pleased to acquire knowledge about the native plants in their area with the intention of utilizing the land for sustenance. To ensure their safety, preppers must possess an understanding of the plants to steer clear of, as well as those that are safe for consumption.
Prepper Skill #25: Gardening, seed saving.
Preppers possess an inherent ability to garden effectively. Engaging in gardening not only enhances your physical well-being through exercise and exposure to sunshine, but it also fosters a feeling of self-reliance and satisfaction.
Getting food from your own backyard (or even your porch or balcony) is always more fulfilling compared to purchasing it from the nearby grocery store. Anyone can begin by having a potted plant on their terrace or initiating a sprouted seed project in their kitchen. The greatest advantage is that starting a cost-effective container garden is a possibility for nearly anyone!
