What comes to your mind when you hear the term ‘survivalist’? Do you think of a guy holed up in a bunker with canned beans, clutching a flashlight, and living in perpetual fear of the apocalypse? Or maybe you imagine someone who can start a fire with just two sticks, lives off the land, and has a vast knowledge of edible plants and foraging techniques.
Well, that’s a part of it, but there’s so much more to being a survivalist. Let’s unpack the whole concept, discuss what it really means, and maybe even dispel a few myths along the way.
The Basics of Being a Survivalist
Definition
At its core, a survivalist is someone who prepares for emergencies and self-reliance. It’s all about having the skills, knowledge, and supplies to survive various adverse situations—whether it’s a natural disaster, economic collapse, or something more personal like getting lost in the woods during a hike.
The Types of Survivalists
Survivalists aren’t a one-size-fits-all category. In fact, they can be broken down into various subtypes, each with their own unique focus and skill set. Here’s a handy table:
| Type | Focus | Notable Skills |
|---|---|---|
| Urban Survivalist | Emphasizes survival in city environments | Self-defense, urban foraging, first aid |
| Wilderness Survivalist | Focuses on surviving in natural environments | Fire-making, shelter-building, navigation |
| Doomsday Prepper | Prepares for large-scale apocalyptic events | Stockpiling, advanced weaponry, sustainable living |
| Homesteader | Centers on self-sufficiency and off-grid living | Gardening, animal husbandry, renewable energy |
| Bug Out Specialist | Plans for quick evacuation from dangerous situations | Rapid packing, escape routes, mobile gear |
The Psychology of Survivalism
Why do people become survivalists? It’s a mix of factors. Some find it a thrilling hobby, while others approach it from a place of genuine concern for potential future catastrophes. There’s also a segment drawn to the philosophy of self-reliance, which can be incredibly empowering. Imagine the peace of mind that comes from knowing you can take care of yourself and your loved ones no matter what happens.
Myths and Misconceptions
Contrary to popular belief, not all survivalists are paranoid conspiracy theorists. Many are ordinary people like you and me, who just like being prepared. They aren’t necessarily rooting for society to collapse; they just prefer being prepared for whatever life throws their way.
The Skills of a Survivalist
Knowing how to survive isn’t just about having a stockpile of goods. It’s also about having the right skills. Let’s break down some key abilities every survivalist strives to master.
Fire-Making
Creating fire is one of the basic but essential skills. Whether it’s using a lighter, matches, or even making fire the primitive way with a fire bow, knowing how to generate heat can be the difference between life and death.
Shelter Building
In both urban and wilderness settings, knowing how to create a reliable shelter is crucial. Whether you’re using tarps, natural materials, or even salvaging materials from the environment, a good shelter can protect you from the elements and provide a psychological boost when times are tough.
Foraging and Hunting
While not all survivalists are hunters, many prefer to know how to gather food from their environment. This can mean identifying edible plants, fishing, or even trapping small animals. It’s not just about eating; it’s about supplementing your diet when traditional food sources are unavailable.
First Aid
Being prepared means more than having a first aid kit. It means knowing how to use it. From treating cuts and burns to performing CPR, medical knowledge is a cornerstone of survival skills.
Self-Defense
Whether you’re in a city or the wild, knowing how to defend yourself can be vital. This includes hand-to-hand combat skills, knowledge of firearms, or even just learning how to defuse a dangerous situation verbally.
The Gear of a Survivalist
Having the right tools is just as critical as having the right skills. Here’s a breakdown of essential gear that any survivalist should consider.
The Bug-Out Bag
The bug-out bag is a pre-packed kit that contains everything you need to survive for at least 72 hours. Here’s what you might find in a well-stocked bug-out bag:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Water and Water Filtration | Staying hydrated |
| Non-Perishable Food | Sustenance |
| Multi-Tool or Swiss Army Knife | Versatility |
| First Aid Kit | Medical emergencies |
| Fire Starters (Lighter, Matches, Flint) | Generating heat |
| Emergency Shelter (Tarp, Space Blanket) | Protection from elements |
| Clothing | Appropriate layers for climate |
| Flashlight and Extra Batteries | Lighting |
| Map and Compass | Navigation |
| Personal Documents | Identification and emergency info |
Clothing and Footwear
Your clothing can act as your first line of defense against the elements. Survivalists often opt for durable, weather-resistant materials. Think in layers: moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and water-resistant outer layers. And let’s not forget the importance of a good pair of hiking boots.
Tools and Equipment
In addition to the bug-out bag, survivalists often have a range of other tools. These can include:
- Axes and Machetes: For chopping wood or clearing brush.
- Firearms and Ammunition: For hunting and self-defense.
- Portable Stoves: For cooking when no other heat source is available.
- Communications Devices: Such as two-way radios to maintain contact in areas without cell service.
Food and Water Storage
Long-term survival often involves stockpiling food and water. Many survivalists use a combination of freeze-dried foods, canned goods, and even home-canned fruits and vegetables. Water storage solutions like rain barrels or large water tanks are also common.
The Lifestyle of a Survivalist
Survivalism is more than just preparing for the worst; it’s about living a certain way. This lifestyle often incorporates elements of minimalism, sustainability, and a back-to-basics approach.
Minimalism and Sustainability
A big part of the survivalist mentality is being able to make do with less. This not only means being prepared for an emergency but also being content with fewer material possessions in everyday life. Many survivalists practice skills like gardening, raising livestock, and utilizing renewable energy sources such as solar panels.
Mental Preparedness
Mental resilience is as vital as any physical preparation. Survivalists often train their minds to remain calm under pressure, think critically in stressful situations, and continually adapt to changing circumstances.
Community Involvement
Believe it or not, survivalism is often a communal activity. Many survivalists are part of larger networks or groups that set up mutual aid systems. Whether it’s sharing resources or pooling skills, being part of a community can dramatically increase your chances of survival in a crisis.
The Evolution of Survivalism
Survivalism didn’t just pop up overnight. It has evolved over time into the broad and varied movement it is today.
Historical Context
The idea of being prepared for emergencies is nothing new. People have always found ways to ensure they can weather difficult times. From ancient foraging methods to colonial practices of stockpiling food and water, survivalism has deep historical roots.
Modern-Day Survivalism
The modern survivalist movement really started gaining traction in the mid-20th century, fueled by fears of nuclear war. Over the years, it has broadened to include a wider range of potential threats, from natural disasters to economic instability.
The Benefits of Being a Survivalist
It’s not all doom and gloom. Being a survivalist can have a lot of positive effects on your life, even when things are going just fine.
Peace of Mind
Knowing that you’re prepared for various situations can bring an incredible sense of calm. Imagine no longer worrying about the next big storm or economic downturn because you know you’ve got it covered.
A Healthier Lifestyle
Many of the skills that survivalists practice—gardening, foraging, hiking—encourage a healthier lifestyle. Plus, the food you grow or gather yourself is often more nutritious than store-bought alternatives.
Increased Self-Reliance
There’s something hugely satisfying about being able to take care of yourself. Many survivalists find that this self-reliance seeps into other areas of their lives, making them more confident and resourceful overall.
Criticisms and Controversies
Like any movement, survivalism isn’t without its critics. Some argue that it fosters paranoia or a negative outlook on society. Others believe that it can lead to unnecessary isolation or even hoarding tendencies.
Paranoia vs Preparedness
It’s a fine line between being prepared and being paranoid. While some survivalists do have a go-it-alone mentality, many more focus on practical steps anyone can take to be better equipped for emergencies. The key difference often lies in the approach and mindset.
Social Implications
There’s also the question of how survivalism interacts with broader social structures. If everyone becomes a highly independent survivalist, what happens to community-focused efforts and shared responsibility? It’s a debate that continues to evolve.
How to Get Started as a Survivalist
So, you’re intrigued by the concept and think you might want to give it a try. Here are some steps you can take to start your survivalist journey.
Start Small
You don’t need to go all-in right away. Start with small preparations like creating an emergency bag or taking a first aid course. These are practical steps that can be beneficial even if you never consider yourself a full-fledged survivalist.
Learn New Skills
Pick one or two skills that intrigue you and start practicing them. Whether it’s gardening, fire-making, or basic carpentry, having a few key skills in your back pocket can make a big difference.
Build Up Your Supplies
Start building a stockpile of essential items. Focus on non-perishable food, water purification systems, and basic medical supplies.
Connect with Others
There are plenty of online forums and local groups where you can meet like-minded individuals. Connecting with others can provide valuable support and additional knowledge.
Conclusion
So, what is a survivalist? It’s someone who is prepared, resourceful, and self-reliant. Whether driven by hobby, philosophy, or genuine concern, survivalists embody a unique blend of practical skills and mental toughness. They may live in cities, rural areas, or anywhere in between, but the one thing they all share is a commitment to being ready for what comes next.
Being a survivalist can lead to a stronger sense of security, improved health, and an empowered lifestyle. And let’s face it—we could all probably use a little more of that in our lives.
So, is this a path you see yourself taking? Perhaps it’s time to consider not just the risks of emergency scenarios but also the rewards of being prepared. It might just be the adventure you never knew you needed.
If you’ve stuck around this long, you might already be more of a survivalist than you think. So why not take that next step and see where it leads you?
