small survival shelter far away in the wilderness.jpg

Essentials of Building a Survival Shelter

Building a shelter using only what is available in the wilderness

Even with the best preparation, unexpected situations can leave you without essential gear. Whether you lose your pack, get caught in sudden bad weather, or face an extended survival situation, knowing how to construct a shelter from natural materials can be life-saving.

By understanding different types of shelters—such as lean-tos, debris huts, or snow caves—you can adapt to any environment and protect yourself from the elements.

Lean-To Shelter

shelter that looks like an open book, hand made using logs, sticks and other natural elements

1. Choose a Suitable Location

Select a dry, level area for your shelter. Consider proximity to water sources, wind direction, and natural barriers that provide extra protection from the elements.

2. Construct the Frame

Find two sturdy branches or logs to serve as the main support poles. Position them at an angle and firmly anchor them into the ground to ensure stability.

3. Add Roof Support

Place shorter branches or logs horizontally across the support poles, forming the structure for the roof. Space them evenly for strength and durability.

4. Cover the Shelter

Drape large leaves, or bark, over the frame. Extend the covering beyond the edges to maximize protection from rain and wind.

5. Secure the Covering

Use rope, vines, or other cordage to fasten the covering securely to the frame. Tighten it properly to prevent shifting or sagging.

6. Build a Sleeping Platform (Optional)

For added comfort and insulation, gather extra branches or logs to create a raised sleeping area. Cover it with leaves, grass, or other soft materials to keep warm and dry.

This lean-to shelter will provide essential protection in the wilderness, helping you stay dry and comfortable in survival situations

Debris Hut Shelter

crawl in survival shelter made with sticks and leaves

1. Choose a Suitable Location

Find an area with plenty of natural materials like sticks and leaves. Ensure the spot is safe from falling branches, flooding, or other hazards.

2. Set Up the Ridge Pole

Select a sturdy 8-foot-long branch and prop one end against a tree trunk or stump. This will serve as the main support for your shelter. Ensure there’s enough space underneath for your body, plus about six inches of insulating debris on all sides.

3. Add Ribbing Sticks

Lay shorter branches along both sides of the ridge pole, angling them to form the walls. Leave an opening for the entrance. The ends of these ribbing sticks should extend about six inches beyond where you plan to lie down.

4. Create a Lattice Structure

Place smaller sticks perpendicular to the ribbing sticks. This lattice framework will help hold the insulating debris in place and prevent it from falling into the shelter.

5. Cover with Insulating Debris

Pile a thick layer of leaves, grass, or pine needles over the structure. Use the driest, softest materials inside for comfort. Aim for at least three feet of debris on all sides to provide insulation.

6. Secure the Shelter

If it’s windy, place additional branches or logs over the debris to keep it from blowing away.

This debris hut will provide excellent protection against the elements, keeping you warm and insulated in a survival situation.

Survival Tent Buying Guide

For a survival tent, prioritize durability, weather resistance, and ease of use. Opt for a 3- or 4-season tent with a sturdy footprint, ample space for gear, and a balance between weight and packability.

Key Features:

Capacity: Choose a tent that fits your group plus extra room for gear.

Season Rating: When selecting a tent for your go bag, it's crucial to choose one that suits your specific weather conditions. If you live in a warm climate with mild winters, prioritize features like waterproofing and wind resistance—a three-season tent should be sufficient. However, if you reside in an area where winter temperatures drop to freezing, a four-season tent is essential for proper protection.

Durability: Look for tough materials such as a highly rated nylon that will withstand wind and rain. There are other materials that are considered more durable but in most instances they are not worth their hefty prices. Polyester is also a good option but it is heavier and has a tendency to collect puddles of water on top in rainy weather.

Weather Resistance: A rainfly and waterproof coating are essential in all seasons.

Weight & Packability: Lightweight yet durable options are ideal.

Ventilation: Prevents condensation buildup.

Ease of Setup: Quick setup is essential in survival situations.

Based on the guidelines above, we've compiled a shortlist of options that meet the specifications.

Best Bare Minimum

Survival Bivvy

(1 Person Option)

Bright orange or green lightweight bag that a person can fit in and it reflects body heat keeping you warm

Why is SOL Escape Bivvy the Best Bivvy?

Durability
Highly water-resistant fabric with a fully-adjustable hood keeps you warm and dry even in wet, soggy conditions
Reflects 70% of radiated body heat
Includes a hood for extra warmth.
All-Season Durability - Hard-wearing fabric resists punctures and tears through heavy use