Introduction
Everybody carries the idea of getting stranded in a desert as something that comes out of an adventure novel. However, climate change and global warming are no longer just topics of scientific debate, but stark realities we have to live with. Natural calamities, extreme weather, and sudden temperature spikes have added ‘desert survival techniques’ to our modern survival skill set. Have you ever thought about being stranded in the sarcastic ridges of the Sahara or the expansive stretches of the Gobi and surviving with limited resources?
In this post, we’ll give you an actionable guide on how to survive in the desert, including techniques to bear extreme heat, conserve resources, and the essential survival gear you would need in such a scenario.
Section 1: Survival Techniques for Extreme Heat
The first challenge you will face in a desert survival scenario is extreme heat. A desert can get fiercely hot during the day, with temperatures often exceeding 120°F (49°C).
One basic survival technique is to stay in the shade to avoid direct contact with the sun, conserving your body’s water stock and preventing dehydration. A survival gear recommendation for this purpose is the Terra Hiker Camping Tarp (around $30), which is a lightweight, waterproof, sun-proof shelter that can create enough shade to protect you from harsh sun rays.
Another sound strategy is to limit your activities to cooler hours, i.e., early mornings and late evenings, to avoid excessive sweating and subsequent dehydration. This can be achieved using a simple but reliable Casio Men’s ‘Pro Trek’ Quartz Resin Sport Watch (around $60) which adds the benefit of a compass, altimeter, barometer, and thermometer to your survival kit to help you manage time and keep track of weather conditions.
Section 2: Resource Conservation and Navigation
In a desert, water is scarce, and finding it might feel like a needle in a haystack. A reliable water filter can drastically increase your survival chances by making any water source you stumble upon drinkable. The LifeStraw Personal Water Filter (around $20) can filter up to 1000 gallons of contaminated water, removing 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria and parasites.
A satellite phone can make a significant difference in a survival scenario by enabling contact with the outside world and rescue services. Devices like the Garmin inReach Explorer+ (around $450) offer two-way messaging, GPS, and weather forecasts, helping rescuers locate you more quickly.
Section 3: Best Desert Survival Gear
A proper survival kit can cut down on your worries significantly. The Complete Earthquake Bag – Emergency kit for Earthquakes, Hurricanes, floods (price $150-$200) offers food and water for 72 hours, solar blankets, hand and body warmers, first aid, hygiene kits, light, communication tools, and much more.
A survival knife can be a lifesaver when it comes to building shelter, hunting, or defense. Quality ones include the Fixed Blade Outdoor Knife with Sandvik Stainless Steel Blade, Morakniv Companion (under $20), known for its excellent edge and easy handling. For high-end options, the ESEE Knives 6P Fixed Blade Knife (around $200) can be a worthy tool, offering durability and efficiency.
Section 4: Common Myths About Desert Survival
There are several myths about desert survival, such as “find a cactus for water.” However, many desert plant species are toxic, and their moisture can make you sick. Instead, you should be equipped with water purifiers and learn to collect dew or dig for ground water in damp areas (look for patches of green vegetation).
Conclusion
Surviving in the desert might sound like a daunting task, but with the right knowledge, mindset, and gear, it’s possible. Learn to adapt to the heat, conserve resources, and invest in reliable warm-weather survival gear. Equip yourself with the knowledge and tools you need to stay alive. Be proactive, stay prepared, and remember, the will to survive is the most powerful tool you possess.