If you're an avid hiker, this will come in very handy as you're already experienced with the outdoors elements on a regular basis. If you are not someone who hikes frequently, this is an opportunity for you to gain some experience and test out your skills in an environment that will serve your needs best. So it's a win/win for both!
Become accustomed to carrying a pack on your back
The first time I loaded up my emergency pack and put it on I almost fell over. It was heavy and it was uncomfortable. Lesson learned. I needed a pack that was ergonomically suited to walking some distances and the albatross I had put together was a fail.
Hiking gives you an opportunity to become accustomed to carrying a pack on your back and allows you to adapt to its feel as you travel over a distance with you hands completely free.
Get practical experience using items in you emergency kit
I don’t care how experienced you are, stuff happens and you need to be prepared. This is especially true when you are in the middle of nowhere. Stumble and trip? You need to learn how to get yourself back up on your feet with any scrapes and sprains dealt with. Need help? Learn to signal.
Break in hiking boots or other footwear
A short hike gives you an opportunity to gradually break in new hiking boots. Be aware that good socks are important too.
Learn to observe your surroundings and increase your awareness of dangers
Whether the danger is a brewing squall or a wild animal, you need to be ever-alert to potential dangers while out on the trail or in the bush. After spending time outdoors, you become more attuned to the nuances of sound and the physical cues of nature.
Practice reading a map and using a compass
If you are lost, will you be able to find you way home without using electronics? Hiking provides you with ample opportunities for learning to read a topographical map and to read a compass.
Deal with changing elements with aplomb
You only need to be stuck unprepared in a sudden thunderstorm once. After that first time, you will know to include a poncho, emergency blanket, or tarp to use to protect you from the elements.
Recognizing local edible foliage and berries
Foraging for food is another skill that needs to be practiced and honed. While hiking, you can observe local edibles and even snap photos or take samples. Once home, you can research what they are and determine whether they are safe to eat.
Stay in good physical shape and build stamina
By increasing the length and difficulty of your hikes, you can build up stamina and endurance far beyond what you can do with almost any other type of activity except perhaps swimming.
These are very helpful tips came from Backdoor Survival. To read the complete article head over here.
Breaking in your hiking boots is essential yet often overlooked. If you're in a survival situation and you need to be quick on your feet, don't add unnecessary blisters and painful feet to your list of concerns. If you're in a SHTF scenario, you'll have more than enough on your plate as it is.
Can You Think Of Anything To Add to This List?
If after reading this article you've thought of some additional ways you could use hiking as an opportunity to improve upon your survival skills, we'd love to hear from you. Any and all feedback is welcomed in the comments section below. We check them frequently!