In a Bind? We Can Help.

Boy Scouts was so long ago, and recalling what knot is appropriate for which situation can be tricky. Luckily, we've provided a step-by-step guide to help you figure out when a bowline works better than a butterfly, and more!

What's your favorite knot (or, which ones do you remember how to tie)? Comment below!

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Survival 101: Tarp Uses for Emergency Situations

Every emergency kit — whether stashed in the trunk of the car or stuffed in your hiking pack — should contain a tarp. There are endless reasons why tarps are one of the most reliable and affordable emergency supplies available, so don’t get caught in a dangerous situation without one. Here are a few ways a tarp can help save your life when you’re in a bind.

Shelter from the storm: Tarps are easily one of the simplest and most affordable ways to construct a protective shelter on the fly. Because they’re so compact, they can be carried in your hiking, camping or wilderness survival kit easily without adding too much extra bulk or weight. You can use just about any structure, like a tree or ledge, to support the construction of your makeshift tent. Always choose a tarp with grommets and carry rope in your pack to make the process move quickly.

Protection from the elements: Having adequate protection from the elements can help your body maintain a safe core temperature. Exposure to rain, wind and snow can cause conditions like hypothermia, frostnip/frostbite, loss of vision and other compromising conditions. Always choose a UV-resistant, waterproof tarp — such as a polyethylene tarp — to help reinforce the tarp’s ability to shield you from extreme weather conditions.

Warmth when it’s most vital: In addition to reliable sheltering, tarps can also be used as an emergency blanket. They can help trap in essential heat so that your body maintains a healthy temperature until rescue. In situations where sun exposure is a concern, tarps can effectively filter out broad-spectrum UV rays to keep you shielded from the damaging effects of the sun.

Additional applications: Tarps, especially brightly colored yellow or orange tarps, can also be used as a flagging device to help alert rescuers of your location. Additionally, they provide safe, dry temporary flooring, reliable covering of your food/supply storage and can be even used to create a water basin for collecting rainwater.

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Pitch Your Own Tarp Hammock

Who needs a rigid, expensive hammock when you can quickly rig one up with an affordable, versatile tarp? Ideal for any outdoorsy type, tarps can easily be transformed into covers for relaxing loungers in the woods with just a few simple tools and some panache. All you need is it a tarp — we recommend a square or rectangular tarp; and an 8-foot by 10-foot tarp works best) and roughly 9 feet of line or rope. You can also use carabineers (climbing clips) if you’d rather not deal with knots.

To rig a tarp hammock, start by tying securing one end of the line to the tarp and then wrap the line around the tree and back through the line’s loop. Pull tightly and create a secure knot. Next, secure the other end of the line to another tree or post and then secure that end appropriately. You’ll want to make sure the line is taut enough to hold the tarp up while you adjust it. While the line or rope is somewhat loose, adjust and center the tarp and then tighten the line to secure it in place. Finally, sit back and relax in your cozy outdoor oasis.

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