Finding a snake in your tent would be an unexpected surprise, especially if you discovered it while reaching for your sleeping bag or boots. The important thing is not to panic or try to handle it. Snakes generally want to avoid people, and giving one…
It can be tempting to offer food to a robin, feed a duck or leave a little something for an animal you spot while exploring outdoors. However, food that seems harmless to us can cause problems for wildlife, from encouraging animals to approach people to…
Being comfortable outdoors in cold, wet weather starts with choosing the right clothing before you leave. Waterproof outer layers, suitable insulation and sensible footwear can make a significant difference, but clothing also needs to suit the conditions and the activity. Your challenge is to prepare…
A route that looks straightforward on a map can become much more difficult when the weather changes, a path becomes muddy or someone in your group gets tired. Good outdoor judgement means thinking ahead rather than waiting for a problem to happen. For this challenge,…
Knowing a navigation technique is useful, but being able to explain it clearly to someone else is a different skill. Teaching makes you slow down, explain each step and check whether the other person genuinely understands what to do. Your challenge is to teach a…
A simple shelter wall can have gaps that let wind through, even when the frame itself is strong. Clay-rich soil mixed with plant fibres can form a natural plaster that fills small spaces and helps bind materials together. Your challenge is to make a small…
A mud oven is a simple example of how natural materials can be used to create something practical outdoors. Clay-rich soil holds its shape, while grass fibres can help bind the mixture together. Your challenge is to build a small model oven and understand how…
Long before modern synthetic dyes became widely available, people used plants and other natural materials to colour cloth, yarn and everyday objects. Different materials can produce surprising colours, from soft yellows and browns to pinks and purples, depending on the material, the fibre and how…
A head injury on a scramble can quickly become a serious situation. Uneven ground, exposed rock and difficult access may make it harder to protect an injured person or get help to them. In the moment, people can feel under pressure to act quickly, which…
A wet outdoor trip does not end when you get home. Mud, moisture and grit can damage equipment if they are left in bags, pockets or folds until the next outing. A quick inspection gives you the chance to dry everything properly, spot problems and…
Clean drinking water is one of the most important things to plan for when spending time outdoors. If your normal water supply is unavailable, understanding different treatment methods can help you make better decisions. One method worth learning about is solar water disinfection, often called…
Affiliate disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase something through one of our links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Waking up to a damp sleeping bag can make an otherwise good night outdoors uncomfortable. Sometimes the moisture…
