survival 101

Would you resort to cannibalism if your life depended on it? A shocking number of our readers said "yes." Our expert shows you how to do the unthinkable.

Wind can destroy your fire or create a serious forest fire hazard. Here's how to windproof it.

Wind can destroy your fire or create a serious forest fire hazard. Here's how to windproof it.

Learn the right way to site, start, maintain, and extinguish a low-impact fire.

Learn the right way to site, start, maintain, and extinguish a low-impact fire.

Only one match left? Here's how to get a campfire going.

Only one match left? Here's how to get a campfire going.

Boiling water is a guaranteed way to purify it, but in a survival situation, you probably won’t have a pot and stove. Here’s how to heat your water with just a plastic bag and a fire.

Prevent the deep chill by learning how to spot and treat hypothermia in the backcountry.

Whether you're solo or with a group, the BACKPACKER editors show you how to safely cross a raging river–no bridge necessary.

Learn what to put in a bear canister–and where to hide it–to keep your meals safe.

It's OK to admit it: you've logged hundreds of miles in the backcountry without really knowing how to use your compass and topo map together. Watch our video tutorial to catch up on this essential backpacking skill.

Find your way using only a topo map and a GPS.

Follow these steps and you're guaranteed the perfect campfire in no time.

In the wilderness, a broken leg can you leave you stranded–or worse. But if you know how to diagnose, treat, and build a splint with camping gear, you'll better your odds for survival.

Learn how to deal with a black bear or grizzly encounter with Shannon Davis and Ted the Bear.