Terrain Training Tuesday: The Jungle Part 2

So, as we ended last week, the best shelter is definitely off the ground. Even if you are not building a shelter or can only build on the ground, ensure your bed is. Depending upon the type of jungle you are in will dictate your materials. Bamboo is awesome and gives a sophisticated Asian look but other branches will work just as well to make a pole bed. Vines can be swung on in true Tarzan style, then pulled down as they are useful for construction too.

How to make a pole bed:

• Look for four trees clustered in a rectangle, or cut four poles (bamboo is ideal) and drive them firmly into the ground so they form a rectangle. They should be far enough apart and strong enough to support your height and weight.

• Cut two poles that span the width of the rectangle. They, too, must be strong enough to support your weight.

• Secure these two poles to the trees (or poles). Be sure they are high enough above the ground.

• Cut additional poles that span the rectangle's length. Lay them across the two side poles, and secure them.

• Cover the top of the bed frame with broad leaves or grass to form a soft sleeping surface.

Source: http://www.wilderness-survival.net/shelters-2.php

Once your pole bed is made, the easiest shelter to make is a simple A frame shelter where you tie a rope from one tree or pole to another and throw your tarpaulin/parachute/poncho over it and secure each corner with a sharp stick. The biggest mistake people make when erecting a shelter is making it too big. Most shelters only need to keep you dry and ensure not too much body heat escapes. If you brought your mosquito net put that up too or cover yourself with it, otherwise apply the insect repellent or make a smokey fire and hope for the best.

For lazy minions who can’t be bothered or if you are just sheltering for the night, just make a hammock using any material you have and tying it between two trees.

The same goes for if you don’t have enough material to make an A frame shelter, just make it into a one sided lean to, this style is easier for observation anyway. It all depends upon how long you are going to stay put and how much energy you want to put into it and if there are others who can watch and be impressed with your skills. If you assert your dominance early, the others may actually follow you orders and make it for you, then you are truly on the path of success with minions of your own.

Next week, we look for water and food...