The 13 Essential Survival Skills Every Man Should Know

When the world is on fire, it’s the ones with survival skills who come out on top. In this article, we’ll explore the essential skills every man needs to survive in even the toughest situations.

Survival skills – what do they mean in this day and age? Back in the day, it was a matter of life and death – hunt or starve, build or freeze, live or perish.

But now, with all our fancy gadgets and technology, who needs to know how to start a fire, right?

Wrong. Dead wrong.

Survival skills are just as crucial today as they were centuries ago. And if you think I’m exaggerating, you clearly haven’t been paying attention to the world around you.

Survival skills can be broken down into different categories:

Wilderness survival skills: These are the skills you’ll need to survive in the great outdoors, where nature is your biggest adversary.

Urban survival skills: When you need to navigate city streets in a crisis, these are the skills that will keep you alive.

Tactical survival skills: In situations where you’re in danger from other people, you’ll need to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Long-term survival skills: If you find yourself in a situation where you’re cut off from civilization for an extended period, these are the skills that will ensure your survival.

Now, regardless of the situation you find yourself in, there are 13 essential survival skills that every man should know. These skills are the building blocks of survival, and they form the foundation upon which all other survival skills are built, no matter what the predicament. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at what those skills are.

Mindset, Mental Toughness

Alright, let’s talk about the most important tool you’ll need in a survival situation – your mind. That’s right, your brain is your biggest asset, and it’s also your biggest liability. When you’re in a survival situation, your mind can either be your best friend or your worst enemy. So, how do you make sure it’s the former?

Well, the first thing you need to do is maintain a positive mindset. I know, I know, it’s easier said than done. When you’re lost in the woods, or the city’s gone to hell, it’s hard to stay positive. But trust me, it’s essential. A negative attitude will only make things worse, while a positive one can help you find solutions to your problems.

One way to maintain a positive mindset is to focus on the things you can control. When everything around you seems to be going to hell, it’s easy to feel helpless. But the truth is, there are always things you can control. Maybe it’s the shelter you build, or the fire you start, or even just your own attitude. Whatever it is, focus on those things, and let go of the things you can’t control.

As an extension to the point above, another important aspect of mental toughness is staying focused on a goal. When you’re in a survival situation, it’s easy to get distracted by fear, hunger, thirst, and exhaustion. But if you want to survive, you need to stay focused on your goal. Whether that’s finding your way out of the woods, or barricading your home in the city, you need to keep your eyes on the prize.

One way to stay focused is to break down your goal into smaller, more manageable tasks. If you’re lost in the woods, for example, your goal might be to find a source of water. But instead of focusing on the big picture, focus on the small steps you need to take to achieve that goal. Maybe it’s finding a low lying area where water may collect, or maybe it’s building a solar still. Whatever it is, take it one step at a time, and stay focused on the task at hand.

Remember, your mind is your biggest asset, so take care of it, and it’ll take care of you.

Shelter Building

When it comes to survival, there’s one thing you need above all else – shelter. Sure, food and water are important, but without shelter, you’re pretty much screwed. That’s because shelter is what protects you from the elements, and it’s what helps you maintain your body temperature. And let me tell you, maintaining your body temperature is crucial. If you get too cold, you’ll freeze your butt off. If you get too hot, you’ll bake like a potato.

Now, there are a lot of different types of survival shelters out there, and the one you build will depend on the environment you’re in. In the woods, you might build a lean-to or a debris shelter. In the desert, you might build a sand or rock shelter. In the city, you might have to get creative and build a shelter out of whatever materials you can find. Here are just a few of the most common:

Lean-To

So, let’s talk about some of these different types of shelters, and how to build them. First up, the lean-to. This is a classic shelter that’s easy to build and provides good protection from the elements. To build a lean-to, you’ll need two long sticks or poles, and a bunch of smaller sticks or branches. Lean the long sticks against a tree or other sturdy object, and then lay the smaller sticks across them at an angle. Cover the whole thing with leaves or other debris, and voila – you’ve got yourself a lean-to.

Debris Shelter

Another type of shelter you might build in the woods is a debris shelter. This is a more complex shelter that provides better protection from the elements, but it takes longer to build. To build a debris shelter, start by building a frame out of sticks or poles. Then, pile leaves, branches, and other debris on top of the frame, creating a thick layer of insulation. The idea is to create a shelter that’s warm and cozy, like a big hug from your grandma.

Sand and Rock Shelters

If you’re in the desert, you’ll need to build a shelter that protects you from the sun and wind. A sand or rock shelter can do the trick. To build a sand shelter, start by digging a hole in the ground. Then, pile sand on top of the hole, creating a mound. You can then dig out a space inside the mound to create your shelter. To build a rock shelter, find a large rock or boulder and use smaller rocks to create a circle around it. You can then drape a tarp or other material over the circle to create a shelter.

Urban Shelter

Now, if you find yourself in the city, you might have to get creative with your shelter-building skills. You could build a shelter out of cardboard boxes, or use tarps and bungee cords to create a makeshift tent. The key is to be resourceful and use whatever materials you can find. Frankly, you’ll have a lot of resources around you – like vehicles. They are ready-made shelters.  Or dumpsters. Yes, they may take some getting used to. 

Across the country, we’re seeing a homeless problem like never before. One aspect of this issue that stands out is how effective a good old tent is in an urban setting. Literal tent communities are proliferating in many inner cities. We can learn from this problem about what works and what doesn’t, and we can apply that knowledge in a survival situation.

Remember, shelter is your number one priority in a survival situation, so take the time to build a good one.

Fire Starting Survival Skills

So, let’s talk about how to start a fire without matches or lighters. First things first, you’ll need to gather some materials. You’ll need some tinder – this could be dry grass, leaves, or even dryer lint. You’ll also need some kindling – small sticks or twigs that will catch fire easily. And finally, you’ll need some larger logs to keep the fire going.

Now, there are a lot of different ways to start a fire without matches or lighters. You could use a survival fire starting kit, like a ferro rod or a flint and steel. Or, you could go old school and use a bow drill or hand drill. The important thing is to find a method that works for you and practice, practice, practice.

Once you’ve got your materials and your method, it’s time to get to work. Start by creating a small pile of tinder in the center of your fire pit. Then, add some kindling around the edges of the tinder pile, creating a teepee shape. Using your chosen fire starter method, ignite the tinder. As the kindling catches fire, add larger logs to keep the fire going.

So why is fire so important in a survival situation? Well, for one thing, it provides warmth. When you’re out in the elements, it’s easy to get cold – and hypothermia is no joke. But with a good fire, you can keep yourself warm and cozy all night long. Plus, you can use it to cook food and purify water, making your survival situation a whole lot more comfortable. And if you need to signal for help, a big old bonfire is a great way to do it.

Water Procurement

Water, without it, we’d all be pretty screwed. And in a survival situation, finding and purifying water should be near the top of your to-do list. Because let’s face it, drinking your own urine… not on the to-do list.

Finding Water

The first step in water procurement is finding a source. This could be a river, a lake, or even a puddle. But don’t just start chugging away – you need to make sure the water is safe to drink. And I’m sorry to break it to you, but that crystal clear stream you stumbled upon might not be as pure as it looks.

In an urban environment, even if the water system is down, you can still find water in water pipes, fire sprinkler systems and fire hydrant systems, especially the ones on the sides of buildings. They take a special key (Sillcock key) to access but they can be an excellent (and stealth) water source. You can typically find exposed water pipes (sometimes with insulation on them) in building basements or underground parking garages.

Purifying Water

So how do you make sure the water is safe to drink? Well, there are a few different methods of water purification. You could use a water filter, like a LifeStraw or a gravity filter. Or, if you don’t have a filter handy, you could boil the water for at least 10 minutes. And if you have them, you could use chemical purification tablets.

Use Wilderness Ways To Procure Water In An Urban Setting

But what if you can’t find a source of water? Don’t worry, there are still ways to procure water. You could collect dew or rainwater, or even dig a solar still. And if you’re feeling really hardcore, you could even squeeze the moisture out of cacti or other plants.

The important thing is to stay hydrated – without water, your body can’t function properly, and your chances of survival go way down. So make finding and purifying water a top priority in any survival situation. And remember, just because it looks like water doesn’t mean it’s safe to drink. So always err on the side of caution, and maybe invest in a good water filter. Trust me, your stomach will thank you.

Food Procurement

Sure, you can go without food for a while, but trust me, you won’t be a happy camper. Luckily, there are a few ways you can get your grub on.

You can try your hand at foraging, fishing, hunting, or trapping. Each method has its own set of challenges and requires a different skillset, but they all have one thing in common: they require patience and persistence.

Foraging and Scavenging

If you’re going to forage for food, you’ll need to learn how to identify edible plants and avoid the ones that will make you sick. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than spending a day hunched over with stomach cramps. You’ll need to research the plants in the area before you go and learn about their seasons, so you know when and where to find them.

Fishing

Fishing is a popular option, but it requires a bit of skill and a lot of luck. You’ll need to know how to rig your gear, cast your line, and reel in your catch. And even if you do manage to snag a fish, you’ll need to know how to clean and cook it properly.

Hunting and Trapping

Hunting and trapping can be effective ways to procure meat, but they also require more skill and experience. You’ll need to know how to track animals, make and set traps, hunt with a bow and arrow (see the best bow for survival) and, most importantly, stay patient. But hey, there’s nothing like fresh squirrel after a long day of survival.

Communication and Signaling for Help

When you’re stranded in the middle of nowhere, the ability to communicate with the outside world can be the difference between life and death. So if you’re lost, don’t be shy, go ahead and do whatever it takes to get attention.

Cell Phone

The first rule of communication is to try your cell phone. Yes, you know you’ll have it with you and you’d be surprised how far some networks extend. Make sure to get to higher ground or a clearing for a better shot at a signal.

Visibility

Your next best option is to make yourself as visible as possible. If you’re in an open area, build a large signal fire. If you’re in a forested area, create a clearing to give searchers a better chance of seeing you. And if you’re in a desert, use rocks or sticks to make an “SOS” signal on the ground. Finally, if you have a signaling device such as a flare gun or a mirror, use it to catch the attention of anyone passing by.

Sound

Another way to signal for help is by using sound. Yell as loudly as you can, and if you’re lucky, someone will hear you. You can also use a whistle, which is much louder and can be heard from a greater distance.

And if you don’t have any of these things, well, it’s time to get creative. Use whatever you have on hand to make noise or create a visible signal. Just remember, the goal is to be as visible and as audible as possible.

Remember, the more visible and audible you are, the better your chances of being found.

Navigation Survival Skills

When you’re lost in the wilderness, there’s nothing more important than having solid navigation skills. Trust me, wandering around aimlessly is not fun, especially when you’re running low on food and water.

GPS

One of the most useful tools for navigation is a GPS, but let’s be honest, those things can break or run out of battery. So, it’s always best to have a backup plan.

Map and Compass

That’s where map and compass navigation comes in handy. Sure, it might seem like an outdated method, but it’s a tried and true way to get you where you need to go. Plus, it’s always satisfying to figure out where you are on a map and watch as you make your way to your destination.

Sun and Night Sky

But what if you don’t have a map and compass? No problem, there are still ways to navigate. You can use the sun and stars to find your way, or even landmarks if you’re lucky enough to spot one. Just make sure you know what you’re looking for and have a good memory because landmarks can be easily missed.

Trail Markers

And if all else fails, you can mark a trail with trail markers. This is especially useful if you need to retrace your steps or if you’re leading a group of people.

No matter what method you choose, the key to successful navigation is to always be aware of your surroundings and pay attention to the details. It might seem like a lot of work, but it’s better than getting lost.

First Aid

Look, I don’t care how tough you think you are, or how invincible you feel, accidents happen. When they do, you better be prepared. This isn’t just about some cuts and bruises, although you better be able to handle those too, but it’s about knowing how to deal with anything from broken bones to life-threatening conditions.

First Aid Kit

So, let’s start with the basics. You need a first aid kit. Don’t be one of those guys who thinks he can just wing it, trust me, you can’t. You need to have the right equipment and supplies to handle whatever situation comes up. Your first aid kit should include bandages, gauze, medical tape, antiseptic wipes, scissors, tweezers, a thermometer, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you need. And don’t forget, keep it clean and organized.

Common Injuries and Illnesses

Now, let’s talk about some common injuries and illnesses you might come across. Cuts and scrapes are pretty common, so make sure you know how to clean and dress them properly. If someone has a wound that won’t stop bleeding, you need to apply pressure and elevate the affected area. And if you suspect someone has a broken bone, make sure you immobilize it before you move them.

But it’s not just physical injuries you need to worry about. You also need to know how to treat someone who’s suffering from heatstroke, hypothermia, or dehydration. These can all be life-threatening conditions, so you need to act quickly.

Look, I could go on and on about the different first aid skills you need to know, but the bottom line is this: You need to be prepared for anything. Take a first aid course, read some books, watch some videos, do whatever it takes to make sure you’re ready to handle anything that comes your way. Because when the going gets tough, you better be ready to patch yourself and your buddies up and get back in the game.

Self-Defense

Self-defense is an essential survival skill that every man should know, because in a survival situation, it’s not just nature you have to worry about. Sometimes you gotta know how to throw a punch or two.

Avoid Trouble

However, before we even get to the self-defense techniques, it’s important to remember that the best self-defense is to avoid dangerous situations altogether. This starts with awareness – knowing your surroundings, and staying alert for potential threats. Sometimes, the best way to win a fight is to avoid it altogether.

Confidence and Assertiveness

But let’s say you can’t avoid a dangerous situation. What should you do? Well, one thing you can do is to deter potential attackers by projecting confidence and assertiveness. Sometimes, just making it clear that you’re not an easy target can be enough to make an attacker think twice.

Basic Self-Defense

Now, onto the self-defense techniques themselves. When it comes to defending yourself against humans, the most important thing is to know the weak spots. Strikes to vulnerable areas like the eyes, throat, and groin can be very effective. Additionally, learning how to break free from grabs and holds can be useful in a close quarters struggle.

Defending Against Wildlife

But what about wildlife threats? Different animals require different techniques. For example, if you’re facing a black bear, it’s generally best to make a lot of noise and try to appear bigger than you are. But if a grizzly bear attacks, your best bet is to play dead and protect your vital organs. 

On the other hand, if you’re facing a snake, it’s important to move away slowly and avoid making sudden movements. The key takeaway from this – there isn’t one general technique that fits all situations. Take the time and learn how different animals behave and how to deal with them effectively.

Overall, self-defense is an important part of survival. While we hope we’ll never need to use it, knowing how to protect ourselves is a skill that could make all the difference in a dangerous situation. Remember, avoidance is the best strategy, but if you do need to defend yourself, make sure you know how to do so effectively.

Emergency Preparedness, Prepping Survival Skills

We all know that life is unpredictable, and sometimes things can go from bad to worse in the blink of an eye. That’s why it’s essential to have a plan in place and be prepared for any survival situation that may arise.

Risk Assessment

The first step in emergency preparedness is to assess the risks and hazards that are unique to your location. Are you in an area prone to earthquakes, floods, or extreme weather? Knowing what risks you face is the first step to being prepared.

Gear

Next, you need to make sure you have the right gear and supplies on hand. Depending on your location and the time of year, this can vary. But in general, you should have a basic survival kit or 72 hour emergency kit that includes items such as a knife, fire starter, water filter, shelter, and first aid supplies.

Bug Out Bag

If you’re planning on bugging out, you’ll need to have a more comprehensive kit that includes additional supplies such as food, water, extra clothing, and a means of self-defense.

Emergency Plan

When it comes to emergency preparedness, it’s also important to have a plan in place for communication and evacuation. Make sure you have a way to contact emergency services or loved ones, and establish a designated meeting point in case you get separated.

It’s important to remember that in a survival situation, your mental state is just as important as your physical preparedness. Stay calm, stay focused, and don’t give up. With the right mindset and the right gear, you can overcome even the most challenging of situations.

Gear Selection and Maintenance

When it comes to survival situations, gear selection can make or break you. That’s why it’s essential to choose your gear wisely. Some folks might be tempted to pack their entire house into their backpacks, but that’s not practical. You want to keep things light and functional, so you don’t get weighed down.

When it comes to survival gear, there are a lot of different categories to consider. You’ve got:

• shelter, 
• fire, 
• water, 
• food, 
• first aid, 
• navigation, 
• communication gear, 

just to name the most common. 

The categories of survival gear mimic the skills on this list for the most part. You can find all the details in our “survival gear list” article. It’s a comprehensive list of items that you’ll need in a survival situation. Of course, the items you choose will depend on many factors, like the time of year, location, and what your location is prone to.

Everyday Carry (EDC)

But survival gear isn’t just for the backcountry. There are everyday carry items that can be crucial in a survival situation too. Things like a Swiss Army knife or multitool, a flashlight, and a small first aid kit can make a big difference when you’re in a pinch. These items don’t take up much space or add much weight to your load, so there’s no excuse not to carry them with you.

Gear Maintenance

Once you’ve got your gear, you’ll want to take good care of it. Proper maintenance can extend the life of your gear, so it’s always there when you need it. For example, you’ll want to keep your knives sharpened, your batteries charged, and your water filter clean. It’s a good idea to make a checklist of all the gear you’re bringing with you, and double-check it before you head out.

Remember, the best gear in the world won’t help you if it’s broken or missing when you need it most. So, take the time to choose your gear carefully, and maintain it properly. When the time comes to put it to use, you’ll be glad you did.

Mobility

Now, let’s talk about survival mobility. This is all about how to get around and traverse different environments so you can stay alive in a survival situation.

Swimming

First up, let’s talk about swimming. Swimming is a great way to get around if you find yourself in a situation where you need to cross a body of water. But don’t be fooled, swimming in open water is a lot different than swimming in a pool. The current can be unpredictable, the water can be murky, and there may be obstacles in your way. So make sure you know what you’re doing before you jump in.

River Crossing

Another way to cross water is by river crossing on foot. This can be a bit more challenging, but it’s doable if you know what you’re doing. You’ll need to read the water and find a shallow spot where the current isn’t too strong. And make sure to use a sturdy stick to help you maintain your balance.

Climbing

Climbing is another important skill to have. You may need to climb a tree to get away from a dangerous animal, or climb a rock face to get to safety. Make sure you have the right gear and know how to use it properly.

Rappelling

Rappelling is similar to climbing, but it’s all about descending. You’ll need a rope, harness, rappel or belay device, and some good anchoring points to rappel safely. It’s not for the faint of heart, but it can be a lifesaving skill in the right situation.

Watercraft

If you need to cross water in a more substantial way, you’ll want to know how to canoe, boat, sail, or raft. These skills require some practice and knowledge of how to read the water, but they can be a great way to travel long distances.

Driving

Driving is a bit more straightforward, but it’s still an important skill to have in certain situations. Make sure you know how to drive a manual transmission, drive in mud, over rough terrain, and don’t forget snowy and icy conditions.

Hiking

Finally, hiking is a fundamental survival skill. Whether you’re in the desert, the mountains, or the forest, you’ll need to know how to navigate, find water, and stay safe. Make sure you have a good pair of hiking boots, a map and compass, and the knowledge to use them.

All of these skills are important for survival mobility. So take the time to practice them and learn from experienced outdoorsmen.

Adaptability, Improvising Tools and Weapons

Adaptability and improvisation are crucial skills for any survival situation. You might have all the fancy gear and weapons, but sometimes, things don’t go as planned, and you have to improvise.

In survival situations, you’ll find that sometimes you have to make do with what you have, which is where adaptability comes in. You might have planned for the hot and dry desert, but suddenly you find yourself in the cold snow, or downpours and floods, and your gear isn’t going to cut it. So what do you do? You adapt, you improvise, and you make it work.

Improvise Tools and Weapons

One of the most important skills in this regard is learning how to improvise tools and weapons. In survival situations, you’ll need to use whatever you can find to help you survive, and that includes tools and weapons. Maybe you need to make a spear to defend yourself against predators, or you need to create a fire starter out of materials in your environment. 

Adapting To Changing Circumstances

But improvisation isn’t just about tools and weapons, it’s also about adapting to changing circumstances. You might have a plan, but when things don’t go as expected, you need to be able to think on your feet and adapt. Maybe you planned to find shelter in a cave, but it’s already occupied by something with big teeth. In that situation, you need to be able to quickly reassess and come up with a new plan.

Adaptability and improvisation are skills that can only be developed through practice and experience. The more you’re able to adapt to different situations and improvise tools and weapons, the better prepared you’ll be for any survival situation.

Bonus – Survival Skills: Stealth and the Art of the Gray Man

The art of the “gray man.” It’s like playing a game of hide-and-seek, but instead of seeking the best hiding spot, you’re trying to blend in with the crowd. And when it comes to high-risk situations, blending in can save your life.

What Is A “Gray Man”

Now, when we talk about being a “gray man,” we’re talking about blending in and avoiding detection. This is especially important in urban environments during times of civil unrest. You don’t want to stick out like a sore thumb, drawing unwanted attention from those who may see you as a target.

Gray Man Techniques

So, how do you become a “gray man”? It’s all about looking like you belong, acting like you belong, and avoiding anything that might make you stand out. That means dressing appropriately for the environment and situation, avoiding anything flashy or attention-grabbing, and being aware of your surroundings.

It’s important to keep in mind that being a “gray man” doesn’t mean hiding in the shadows. It’s about blending in with the crowd and appearing as if you belong. If everyone around you is dressed in street clothes, you don’t want to be the one in a three-piece suit. Conversely, if everyone is dressed in business attire, you don’t want to be the only one in jeans and a t-shirt. See more on grey man tactics.

In high-risk situations, it’s also important to be aware of potential threats and avoid them whenever possible. This means staying away from large crowds, potential conflict areas, and anything else that might put you in harm’s way.

Being a gray man involves a high degree of preparedness. So gray man gear is an important aspect of being ready for anything. But you don’t want your appearance, your clothes or backpack, to alert people that you may have specialized gear on you that may do anything to get their hands on.

Overall, being a “gray man” takes a certain level of awareness and adaptability. You need to be able to blend in with your environment and avoid anything that might make you stand out. With a little practice and some common sense, you can become a master of the art of the “gray man.”

The Last Word

Well, there you have it. We’ve covered the 13 essential survival skills every man should know, plus the bonus skill of being a gray man.

Each one of these can be applied across the different categories:

• wilderness survival skills,
• urban survival skills,
• tactical survival skills,
• long term survival skills.

We’ve talked about everything from fire starting and shelter building, to finding food and purifying water. We’ve covered how to navigate in different environments, and how to be mobile in a variety of ways. We’ve even talked about the importance of being adaptable and the art of improvising tools and weapons.

And let’s not forget about the bonus skill of being a gray man. In high-risk situations, being able to blend in and avoid detection can be the difference between life and death.

But the truth is, these skills aren’t just important in survival situations. They’re also valuable in everyday life. Knowing how to start a fire or build a shelter will come in handy on any camping trip. Knowing how to navigate without a GPS might help you when you’re lost in an unfamiliar city. And being able to blend in and avoid drawing attention to yourself can be helpful in all sorts of situations.

So, my advice to you is to practice and hone these skills in everyday life. You never know when they might come in handy. And who knows, maybe one day you’ll find yourself in a survival situation and these skills will be what saves your life.

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