Any survival is difficult, but survival in extremely cold conditions is completely different. While you can get dehydrated and cold and hungry in warm or mild weather, cold conditions present unique challenges.

In this blog, we will explore some cold weather survival tips. However, note that you will need more than reading this article to be able to survive the freezing weather. You will need practice, good physical health, and a strong will.

1. Winter survival kit

There are some specific items you will need to prepare. Ideally, you will be able to bring all of the following:

• Food and water
• Medicine
• Snow shovel
• Heating device and fire starters (especially tinder for starting a fire)
• Flashlights and batteries
• First aid kit
• Extra clothes, warm socks, gloves, hats, scarves, jackets, and blankets
• Durable boots
• Sleeping bags, a pad, and a tarp

2. Prevent heat loss

Heat is crucial to surviving cold conditions. You need to avoid hypothermia and frostbite as they are often the number one cause of death in extreme winter. Don’t just rely on wearing thick clothing. Protect your body heat by layering several pieces of clothing to trap air in between each and every layer. The air is what will keep you warm.

Don’t forget to put on extra layers on your head, feet, and hands as well.

3. Snow shelters

In a survival situation, you are often forced to use the weather conditions to your advantage. In winter, snow might become your number friend when building a shelter. Snow is a good insulator, and it can be used to build a safe shelter if needed. This is where your snow shovel also comes in handy.

You can build snow pits, snow caves, or an igloo. However, if you don’t have a shovel or need to work quickly, you can try using trees to build a snow shelter underneath. Snow accumulated under trees is often not as deep and is easier to dig out.

4. Fire

Building a fire on wet and cold ground is a challenge but it’s not impossible. You will need to shove away snow from the area first to create a small and dry platform for your fire. You should always carry tinder in your winter survival kit. If you don’t have any or you already ran out, try using tree branches.

5. Be prepared

Sometimes, it’s impossible to foresee the dangers and risks of cold weather. But being ready is integral to survival.

If you can, avoid going out during extremely cold conditions. Don’t go mountain climbing in winter, look out for weather changes during your hikes, and always carry your survival kit with you. Make sure your kit is restocked as well after your last hike. Bring enough food and water supplies and keep your body fit and healthy.