What Is A Survivalist?

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Are you someone who is always on the lookout for the next disaster?

Do you have a bug-out bag ready in case of a pandemic or economic collapse?

If so, you may be a survivalist.

Not sure? Read on…

Survivalist

Table of Contents

What is a survivalist?

A survivalist is a person who is extremely dedicated and conscientious about preparing for any situation.

They often have a bug-out bag or stockpile of supplies in case of an emergency, and they are often preppers, or people who are preparing for an emergency.

When someone says they are a “survivalist,” they often mean they are prepping for an emergency.

For some, this means having a bug-out bag with supplies to live off of for a few days if necessary.

For others, it means stocking up on food and water in case of an emergency that lasts longer than a few days.

Survivalism is about preparing for any eventuality, whether it be an unexpected natural disaster or something more sinister like an economic collapse.

It’s a funny word, and it’s one that I’ve always found fascinating.

To be a survivalist, to prepare for any eventuality- whether it be an unexpected natural disaster or something more sinister like an economic collapse- is to be someone who is always ready for the unexpected.

It’s about being comfortable with uncertainty, and being prepared for anything.

In my opinion, there are two types of survivalists: Type A survivalist and Type B survivalist (just my opinion!)

The Type A survivalist

Type A is the person who worries about every possible contingency, from having enough food to shelter in case of a storm to be able to defend themselves if attacked.

Type A people are always prepared for the worst.

They never stop worrying about every little thing, from making sure they have enough food to last through a storm, to being able to defend themselves if attacked.

They’re constantly on edge (or ‘ready’) and to some, can be really frustrating to be around.

But in a survival situation, having a Type A personality can be lifesaving.

Bottom line, when STHF you want them in your corner!

The Type B Survivalist

The Type B Survivalist is the person who takes a more relaxed approach, preparing only for those contingencies which they feel are likely and unavoidable.

Whether you’re the type that obsessively prepares for every possible scenario or take things more easy-mindedly, I think there’s something to be learned from both types of survivalists.

After all, when you’re prepared for anything, you’re ready for whatever comes your way?

What are the common traits of a survivalist?

Some of the common traits of a survivalist include being prepared for any type of emergency, being extremely conscientious about their preparations, and being very dedicated to their goals.

Is being a survivalist different from being a prepper?

There is some debate on this topic, but most experts believe that being a prepper is different than being a survivalist.

A prepper is someone who has stockpiled supplies in case of an emergency but does not necessarily have a bug-out bag or be prepared for any type of situation.

So, if you are someone who is always on the lookout for disaster and is dedicated to being prepared for anything, you may be a survivalist.

How Do Survivalists Live?

Survivalists are a peculiar breed. They are people who live in harmony with the natural world and attempt to prepare for any eventuality.

For example, many survivalists buy land in remote areas and build shelters in case of a natural disaster or economic collapse.

Others stockpile food, water, and weapons in preparation for an apocalyptic event.

To survive as a survivalist, you must be prepared for anything. You must have skills in building shelter, hunting and gathering food, and using weapons to defend yourself from danger.

If you’re reading this, it’s safe to assume that you’re probably not the average person. You know how to build a shelter, track and catch food, and use a weapon if necessary. You may even be considered a “survivalist.”

Whether it’s dealing with the elements or fighting off danger, you need to be an expert. Learn how to think outside the box and come up with solutions on your own.

This isn’t just some theoretical knowledge either – many survivalists have actually had to use their skills in real-life situations.

For example, after Hurricane Katrina hit Louisiana in 2005, many survivors had to take shelter in makeshift shelters for weeks on end. Some of these shelters were built using basic survival techniques – which is why many people consider themselves survivalists.

You also need to be mentally tough – knowing that anything can happen means that you must always be ready for it!

Is A Survivalist A Prepper?

Survivalism is a term that is thrown around a lot these days. It can mean different things to different people, but in general, it refers to prepping or preparing for an emergency. So, is being a survivalist really all that different from being a prepper?

There are definitely some key differences. First and foremost, survivalists are typically focused on preparing for an immediate crisis – like a natural disaster or terrorist attack. Preppers, by contrast, may be more concerned about long-term preparations, like stockpiling food and water supplies in case of economic collapse or pandemic outbreak.

But beyond these major distinctions, there aren’t many real differences between the two camps.

Both groups tend to invest in items and skills that will help them survive during uncertain times – whether that means learning how to build shelter or stockpile firearms.

And both groups often focus on self-reliance and reliance on others less fortunate than themselves – an important lesson in any emergency situation!

What Makes a Good Survivalist?

They have the gear and the skills to survive in any situation. A good survivalist is always learning and expanding their knowledge so they can be ready for anything.

As a minimum you’d want to have easy access to the following gear:

1. Knife

2. Bow and Arrow (or another ranged tool)

3. Fishing Rod

4. Compass

5. Map

They have a realistic view of the world and know how to use what they have in order to survive. They are self-reliant and don’t rely on others for help, which is a good trait in any situation.

If you’re interested in building your knowledge of what it takes to be a good survivalist, here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Learn how to build shelters from natural materials like trees and leaves.

2. Learn how to trap, hunt, and fish for food.

3. Be prepared for any type of weather – whether it’s extreme heat or cold.

4. Have a basic understanding of first aid and CPR.

5. Keep up with current events so you’re aware of potential threats to your safety and the safety of those around you.

Survivalist terminology

Some common survivalist terminology includes “bugging out,” which refers to leaving your home in the event of a disaster, and “bug-out bag,” which is a bag filled with supplies that would be necessary for surviving in the wilderness.

Other popular survivalist terms include:

Bushcraft: The art and skill of living off the land using primitive tools and methods.

Bug Out Bag: A bag or container filled with essential items you can use to survive if you have to flee your home in a hurry.

Emergency Kit: A collection of supplies you can use if you need to evacuate in an emergency.

First Aid: Knowledge and techniques for treating injuries and preventing infections.

Self Defence:  Techniques for protecting yourself from attack.

SHTF:  A term used to describe when ‘it’ hits the fan – when things have gone wrong you need to put your skills into practice. 

Sheeple:  A derogatory term for people who do not take preparedness, disaster planning or self-reliance seriously.

Prepper: A person who is seriously considering preparing for a possible catastrophic event, such as a natural disaster, economic collapse or nuclear attack.

Conclusion

So there you go,  those are some of the most common terms used when discussing survivalists and preppers. As you can see, these groups differ in their preparations but share many common traits.

Are you a survivalist? Are you wanting to become a survivalist? 

Check some more of our articles for more info on how you can get started.

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