Bushcraft is more than just camping — it's the art of thriving in the wild using skills, tools, and natural resources. Whether you're bugging out, exploring deep woods, or just sharpening your self-reliance, bushcraft is the foundation of long-term survival.
At Five Star Survival, we believe every outdoor enthusiast and prepper should know these 7 essential bushcraft skills:
π₯ 1. Fire Starting Without Matches
Knowing how to start a fire without a lighter or matches is key. Use a ferro rod, fatwood fire starter, or even a magnifying lens.
β Recommended Gear:
Fatwood Fire Starter Sticks – 100% natural pine
Magnesium fire starter or ferro rod
π Tip: Practice in dry and wet conditions to gain confidence.
ποΈ 2. Shelter Building
Even if you don’t have a tent, you can survive with the right shelter skills. Learn how to build a lean-to, A-frame, or tarp shelter using natural materials and paracord.
β Recommended Gear:
Tube tent or emergency Life Tent
Tarp + 20pcs Bungee Cord Set
Paracord sling (for shelter tying)
π§ 3. Finding & Purifying Water
Water is life. Learn to locate streams, collect rainwater, and purify with filter straws or tablets.
β
Beginner Tip:
Always boil or filter unknown water sources, even if they look clean.
πͺ 4. Knife Skills
Your knife is your #1 bushcraft tool. Use it to carve, baton wood, skin game, or create traps.
β Best Knives for Bushcraft:
π Learn: Feathersticking, notching, and fire prep techniques.
πΎ 5. Food Sourcing & Traps
Learn to set simple traps, identify wild edibles, or fish with compact tackle kits and a bit of patience.
β Suggested Tools:
22-in-1 survival card (includes fishing hooks, saw, more)
π§° 6. Knot Tying
From shelter building to climbing, knot skills are critical. Learn a few core knots: bowline, trucker’s hitch, clove hitch, and square knot.
β Helpful Tool:
πΊοΈ 7. Navigation Without GPS
Knowing how to read the land, follow the sun, or use a basic compass can help you stay oriented — even if your phone dies.
π Bush Tip: Moss grows on the north side of trees in the Northern Hemisphere — but don’t rely on just one sign.
π Final Thoughts: Start Small, Practice Often
Bushcraft isn't about gear — it's about self-reliance. Start with the basics, practice often, and gradually introduce tools to make your setup smarter, not heavier.
π Ready to begin your bushcraft journey? Explore beginner-friendly gear and survival tools at FiveStarSurvival.com — built for the woods, made for real life.