20 Surviving In The Wild Best Books to Read

Welcome to our curated list of the 20 best books about surviving in the wild. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a survivalist, or simply someone who has a love for adventure, these books are sure to captivate and educate you on the art of wilderness survival. From firsthand accounts of harrowing survival stories to comprehensive guides on essential skills, each book on surviving in the wild offers valuable insights and knowledge for navigating the great outdoors. Get ready to be inspired, informed, and entertained as we delve into the world of surviving in the wild through these remarkable books.

20 Best Surviving In The Wild Books

The Survival Handbook

by Colin Towell

The Survival Handbook by Colin Towell is a comprehensive book on surviving in the wild that is packed with essential information and practical advice for anyone venturing into the great outdoors. The book covers a wide range of survival skills, from building shelters and finding water to navigating using the stars and identifying edible plants. With detailed illustrations and step-by-step instructions, this book about surviving in the wild is an invaluable resource for hikers, campers, and adventurers of all levels. Whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip or embarking on a more challenging wilderness expedition, this surviving in the wild book will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to handle any situation that may arise. With its engaging writing style and practical tips, The Survival Handbook is the ultimate guide to staying safe and thriving in the great outdoors.

Deep Survival: Who Lives, Who Dies, and Why

by Laurence Gonzales

Deep Survival: Who Lives, Who Dies, and Why by Laurence Gonzales is a captivating book on surviving in the wild that delves into the psychology and science behind human behavior in extreme situations. Gonzales draws on real-life survival stories to explore the factors that determine who survives and who doesn’t when faced with life-threatening challenges in the wilderness.

The book about surviving in the wild examines the mindset, decision-making process, and resilience of individuals who have found themselves in perilous situations, offering valuable insights into the human capacity for survival. Gonzales also explores the role of intuition, rational thinking, and emotional control in the face of danger, providing readers with practical wisdom for navigating unforeseen dangers.

Through gripping narratives and thought-provoking analysis, Deep Survival is a must-read for anyone interested in the psychology of survival and the intricacies of human behavior in high-stakes environments. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, adventurer, or simply curious about the human ability to endure, this surviving in the wild book offers a compelling and enlightening exploration of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Bushcraft 101: A Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival

by Dave Canterbury

Bushcraft 101: A Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival is an essential resource for anyone looking to master the art of thriving in the great outdoors. Written by Dave Canterbury, a renowned survival expert and co-star of the hit show “Dual Survival,” this book is a comprehensive guide to honing your wilderness survival skills.

Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman or a novice camper, this book is packed with practical tips and techniques for building shelters, sourcing food and water, and navigating through the wild. Canterbury’s expertise shines through as he shares invaluable knowledge on fire-making, tool crafting, and essential gear to pack for any outdoor adventure.

With its clear instructions and detailed illustrations, Bushcraft 101 is not just a book about surviving in the wild, but a roadmap to thriving in it. Whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip or an extended trek into the backcountry, this book is a must-have for anyone looking to develop their wilderness survival skills. So grab a copy and get ready to embark on your next outdoor adventure with confidence!

The SAS Survival Handbook

by John ‘Lofty’ Wiseman

The SAS Survival Handbook by John ‘Lofty’ Wiseman is an essential guide for anyone who wants to learn the art of wilderness survival. Packed with practical tips, detailed illustrations, and real-life survival stories, this book is a treasure trove of knowledge on how to thrive in the great outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a beginner, this comprehensive book on surviving in the wild will teach you everything from building a shelter and finding food to navigating without a compass and dealing with emergencies. With its easy-to-follow instructions and valuable insights, this book about surviving in the wild is a must-have for anyone who wants to be prepared for the unexpected. It’s an essential companion for anyone who loves the great outdoors and wants to be ready for anything nature throws their way.

Wilderness Survival: Living Off the Land with the Clothes on Your Back and the Knife on Your Belt

by Mark Elbroch

Wilderness Survival: Living Off the Land with the Clothes on Your Back and the Knife on Your Belt by Mark Elbroch is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to learn the art of living off the land. This book is a treasure trove of essential skills and knowledge for anyone who wishes to immerse themselves in the wilderness and survive using nothing but the basics.

Elbroch’s book about surviving in the wild covers a wide range of topics, including building shelters, finding food and water, making fire, and navigating through the wilderness. The author’s expertise as a wildlife biologist and tracker shines through as he provides practical advice and techniques for thriving in the great outdoors.

Readers will appreciate the detailed illustrations and step-by-step instructions that accompany each skill, making it easy to understand and apply the information. Whether you are an experienced outdoor enthusiast or a novice adventurer, this surviving in the wild book is a valuable resource that will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle any wilderness survival situation.

Survive!: Essential Skills and Tactics to Get You Out of Anywhere – Alive

by Les Stroud

Survive! is an indispensable guide for anyone seeking to master the art of wilderness survival. Written by Les Stroud, a renowned expert in outdoor adventure and survival, this book is packed with essential skills and tactics to help you navigate and conquer any survival situation. Whether you find yourself lost in the woods, stranded in the desert, or facing a natural disaster, this book about surviving in the wild equips you with the knowledge and confidence to make it out alive.

Stroud draws on his own experiences surviving in some of the world’s harshest environments, offering practical advice on shelter building, fire making, water procurement, and food foraging. He also delves into the psychological aspects of survival, preparing you to handle the mental and emotional challenges that come with being in a life-threatening situation. With its clear, concise instructions and real-life survival stories, Survive! is the ultimate resource for anyone seeking to master the art of thriving in the wild.

98.6 Degrees: The Art of Keeping Your Ass Alive

by Cody Lundin

98.6 Degrees: The Art of Keeping Your Ass Alive by Cody Lundin is a gripping and informative book on surviving in the wild. Lundin, a renowned survival expert, uses his extensive experience and knowledge to provide readers with essential skills and strategies for staying alive in the wilderness. The book covers a wide range of topics, including how to build shelters, find water and food, navigate using natural elements, and make fire without modern tools.

What sets 98.6 Degrees apart is Lundin’s focus on the psychological and emotional aspects of survival. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and staying calm under pressure, offering valuable insights into the mental resilience required to endure challenging situations. Lundin’s engaging writing style and practical advice make this book a must-read for anyone interested in outdoor adventures or preparing for unexpected emergencies. Whether you’re an experienced outdoors enthusiast or a novice hiker, 98.6 Degrees provides valuable information that could save your life in a survival situation.

The Ultimate Survival Manual

by Rich Johnson

The Ultimate Survival Manual by Rich Johnson is a comprehensive guidebook for anyone looking to master the art of wilderness survival. This book on surviving in the wild provides expert advice on how to navigate through the toughest outdoor challenges and emerge victorious. Whether you’re facing a natural disaster, getting lost in the woods, or simply want to be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances, this book about surviving in the wild has got you covered.

From building a shelter and finding food to treating injuries and navigating using only the stars, this surviving in the wild book is packed with essential tips and techniques for staying alive in the great outdoors. With clear instructions and helpful illustrations, it’s the ultimate resource for adventurers, hikers, and anyone who loves spending time in nature. So, if you’re ready to take your outdoor survival skills to the next level, this is the book you need by your side.

The Natural Navigator

by Tristan Gooley

The Natural Navigator by Tristan Gooley is a captivating book on surviving in the wild, guiding readers on how to navigate through nature using natural clues and signs. Gooley, an expert in natural navigation, shares his extensive knowledge on using the sun, moon, stars, and even plants and animals to find your way in the great outdoors. This book is not just about surviving in the wild; it’s about thriving in it, embracing the natural world and learning to understand and appreciate its signs and signals.

Gooley’s writing style is engaging and accessible, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in the art of natural navigation. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoors enthusiast or just starting to explore the wilderness, The Natural Navigator offers practical tips and fascinating insights that will enhance your connection to the natural world. So, if you’re looking for a book about surviving in the wild that goes beyond basic survival skills, this is the book for you.

The Complete Walker IV

by Colin Fletcher

The Complete Walker IV by Colin Fletcher is a comprehensive guide for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the wilderness. This classic book on surviving in the wild provides valuable insights and practical tips for hikers, backpackers, and adventurers of all levels. With detailed information on essential gear, navigation techniques, and outdoor ethics, Fletcher’s expertise shines through in this updated edition.

Readers will find themselves captivated by Fletcher’s engaging writing style as he shares his experiences and wisdom gained from years of exploring the great outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a novice hiker, The Complete Walker IV offers valuable advice for anyone looking to embark on a journey into the wilderness. This book about surviving in the wild is a must-have for anyone seeking to expand their knowledge of outdoor survival and enhance their outdoor experiences. With its timeless advice and practical guidance, The Complete Walker IV is a trusted companion for those eager to embrace the challenges and rewards of the natural world.

The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook

by Joshua Piven and David Borgenicht

The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook is a comprehensive and entertaining guide to navigating life’s most perilous situations. Written by Joshua Piven and David Borgenicht, this book is a must-have for anyone looking to gain practical knowledge on how to handle emergencies, disasters, and other unexpected challenges. From escaping quicksand to fending off a shark attack, this book covers a wide range of scenarios with clear, step-by-step instructions and helpful illustrations. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just someone looking to be prepared for anything, this handbook provides valuable tips and techniques for staying safe and sound in the great outdoors. With its straightforward advice and humorous approach, The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook is the perfect companion for anyone seeking a fun and informative read on how to thrive in the wilderness.

The Lost Art of Reading Nature’s Signs

by Tristan Gooley

The Lost Art of Reading Nature’s Signs by Tristan Gooley is a fascinating book on surviving in the wild that delves into the ancient art of understanding nature’s clues. In this insightful and engaging book, Gooley takes readers on a journey through the wilderness, teaching them how to interpret the natural world around them in order to navigate and survive. Through vivid descriptions and practical examples, he shares the secrets of reading the stars, understanding animal behavior, and interpreting weather patterns. With Gooley as your guide, you’ll learn how to find your way using natural signs, predict the weather without a forecast, and even track animals through their footprints and other signs.

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a wilderness enthusiast, or simply someone who wants to reconnect with nature, this book about surviving in the wild will ignite your curiosity and deepen your understanding of the world around you. The Lost Art of Reading Nature’s Signs is a must-read for anyone who wants to develop their outdoor skills and cultivate a deeper connection with the natural environment.

The Forager’s Harvest: A Guide to Identifying, Harvesting, and Preparing Edible Wild Plants

by Samuel Thayer

The Forager’s Harvest: A Guide to Identifying, Harvesting, and Preparing Edible Wild Plants by Samuel Thayer is a comprehensive and engaging book on surviving in the wild. Thayer’s expertise and passion for foraging shines through as he takes readers on a journey through the world of edible wild plants. The book provides detailed and practical information on how to identify, harvest, and prepare a wide variety of wild plants, making it an invaluable resource for both beginners and experienced foragers.

Thayer’s writing style is both informative and captivating, making the book an enjoyable read as well as a valuable reference. He includes personal anecdotes, detailed illustrations, and a wealth of knowledge that will leave readers feeling inspired and empowered to explore the natural world around them.

Whether you’re interested in foraging for sustenance, connecting with nature, or simply expanding your culinary horizons, The Forager’s Harvest is a must-read book about surviving in the wild that will deepen your understanding and appreciation of the bountiful resources that surround us.

The Essential Wilderness Navigator: How to Find Your Way in the Great Outdoors

by David Seidman

The Essential Wilderness Navigator: How to Find Your Way in the Great Outdoors by David Seidman is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to develop their wilderness navigation skills. This book is a valuable resource for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, campers, and anyone interested in learning how to navigate in the wild.

Seidman covers a range of essential navigation techniques, including map and compass navigation, GPS usage, understanding topographic maps, and celestial navigation. The book also provides practical advice on how to navigate in different terrains and weather conditions, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to venture off the beaten path.

With its clear and concise instructions, The Essential Wilderness Navigator is an indispensable tool for anyone looking to enhance their wilderness survival skills. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced outdoorsman, this book will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the great outdoors with ease.

The Outdoor Survival Handbook

by Raymond Mears

The Outdoor Survival Handbook by Raymond Mears is an essential guide for anyone looking to learn the art of wilderness survival. This comprehensive book on surviving in the wild covers a wide range of topics, including building shelters, finding and purifying water, making fire, and navigating through the wilderness. Raymond Mears, a renowned expert in bushcraft and survival skills, shares his wealth of knowledge and experience in this engaging and practical handbook.

Readers will learn valuable tips on foraging for food, identifying edible plants, and using natural resources to their advantage. Whether you are a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a novice adventurer, this book about surviving in the wild is packed with useful information and actionable advice that could potentially save your life in a survival situation.

With detailed illustrations and real-life survival stories, The Outdoor Survival Handbook is a must-have for anyone who enjoys spending time in the great outdoors and wants to be prepared for any unexpected challenges that may arise.

The Trapper’s Bible: The Most Complete Guide on Trapping and Hunting Tips Ever

by Eustace Hazard Livingston

The Trapper’s Bible is a comprehensive guide to the art of trapping and hunting, offering a wealth of tips and techniques for thriving in the wilderness. Written by Eustace Hazard Livingston, a seasoned outdoorsman, this book is an essential resource for anyone interested in honing their wilderness survival skills.

Readers will find detailed instructions on setting traps, identifying animal tracks, and understanding animal behavior. The book also offers valuable insights into the mindset and tactics of successful trappers, making it a must-have for those looking to improve their hunting and trapping abilities.

Whether you’re an experienced trapper or a novice outdoors enthusiast, The Trapper’s Bible provides a wealth of knowledge and practical advice for thriving in the wild. With its easy-to-follow instructions and in-depth information, this book is an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to enhance their skills in the great outdoors.

Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, this book about surviving in the wild will provide you with the knowledge and expertise needed to thrive in the wilderness.

The Ultimate Guide to Wilderness Living: Surviving with Nothing But Your Bare Hands and What You Find in the Woods

by John McPherson

The Ultimate Guide to Wilderness Living is a comprehensive book on surviving in the wild by John McPherson. This expertly written guide provides essential knowledge on how to survive with nothing but your bare hands and the resources you can find in the woods. McPherson’s extensive experience and practical advice make this book an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to learn the art of wilderness living.

From building shelters and making fire to finding food and navigating through the wilderness, this book covers it all. McPherson’s detailed instructions, accompanied by clear illustrations, make it easy for readers to grasp the essential skills needed for surviving in the wild.

Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a hiker, a camper, or simply someone who wants to be prepared for any situation, this book about surviving in the wild is a must-have. It’s a treasure trove of knowledge that will empower you to thrive in the great outdoors and embrace the challenges of wilderness living.

Into the Wild

by Jon Krakauer

Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer is a captivating non-fiction book about a young man’s journey into the Alaskan wilderness. The story follows Christopher McCandless, a bright and adventurous soul who decides to abandon his comfortable life and set out on a quest for self-discovery in the unforgiving wild. As he travels through the American West and eventually into the Alaskan bush, readers are taken on a riveting and sometimes heart-wrenching adventure.

This book delves into the theme of exploration and the human desire for adventure and freedom, making it a thrilling read for anyone interested in the outdoors and the pursuit of a deeper meaning in life. Krakauer’s meticulous research and powerful storytelling make Into the Wild a must-read for those fascinated by survival stories and the challenges of living off the grid. Whether you’re looking for a book about surviving in the wild or a gripping tale of adventure and self-discovery, this book has it all.

The Survival Handbook: Essential Skills for Outdoor Adventure

by Colin Towell

The Survival Handbook: Essential Skills for Outdoor Adventure by Colin Towell is a comprehensive and practical guide for anyone looking to learn the essential skills needed for surviving in the wild. This book covers a wide range of topics, including building shelters, finding and purifying water, navigating in the wilderness, and foraging for food. With clear and detailed instructions, Towell provides readers with the knowledge and confidence to handle any outdoor survival situation.

Whether you are an experienced outdoor enthusiast or a novice camper, this book about surviving in the wild is an invaluable resource for preparing for and dealing with unexpected challenges in nature. The Survival Handbook is filled with useful tips, illustrations, and real-life scenarios to help readers feel more prepared and capable in any outdoor environment. No matter the adventure, this book on surviving in the wild is a must-have for anyone seeking to develop their survival skills and increase their confidence in the great outdoors.

SAS Survival Handbook: The Ultimate Guide to Surviving Anywhere

by John ‘Lofty’ Wiseman

SAS Survival Handbook: The Ultimate Guide to Surviving Anywhere by John ‘Lofty’ Wiseman is a comprehensive and practical book on surviving in the wild. This essential guide covers a wide range of survival skills, from building shelters and finding food to administering first aid and navigating through different terrains.

Wiseman, a former SAS soldier and instructor, provides invaluable tips and techniques that are essential for anyone venturing into the wilderness. The book is filled with illustrations, diagrams, and real-life examples that make it easy to understand and apply the knowledge in real-life situations. Whether you are an experienced outdoor enthusiast or a novice camper, this book about surviving in the wild is an indispensable resource for anyone looking to enhance their survival skills and knowledge.

With its practical advice and expert insights, SAS Survival Handbook is a must-have for anyone interested in learning the art of wilderness survival. This surviving in the wild book is a timeless classic that will help you prepare for any outdoor adventure or unexpected emergency.

Final Thoughts on Best Surviving In The Wild Books

Exploring the great outdoors and learning about survival in the wild is an exciting and essential skill. The 20 best books about Surviving In The Wild provide valuable insights, tips, and techniques for anyone looking to embark on an adventure or simply be prepared for unexpected situations. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a novice explorer, these books offer a wealth of knowledge to help you thrive in the wilderness. From essential bushcraft skills to gripping survival stories, these books are a must-read for anyone with a passion for the great outdoors.

Which book about Surviving In The Wild is best?

The best book on Surviving In The Wild can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. The Survival Handbook by Colin Towell,
  2. Deep Survival: Who Lives, Who Dies, and Why by Laurence Gonzales,
  3. Bushcraft 101: A Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival by Dave Canterbury.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about Surviving In The Wild?

For those looking to learn about Surviving In The Wild, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  1. The Survival Handbook by Colin Towell,
  2. Deep Survival: Who Lives, Who Dies, and Why by Laurence Gonzales,
  3. Bushcraft 101: A Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival by Dave Canterbury,
  4. The SAS Survival Handbook by John ‘Lofty’ Wiseman,
  5. Wilderness Survival: Living Off the Land with the Clothes on Your Back and the Knife on Your Belt by Mark Elbroch,
  6. Survive!: Essential Skills and Tactics to Get You Out of Anywhere – Alive by Les Stroud,
  7. 98.6 Degrees: The Art of Keeping Your Ass Alive by Cody Lundin,
  8. The Ultimate Survival Manual by Rich Johnson,
  9. The Natural Navigator by Tristan Gooley,
  10. The Complete Walker IV by Colin Fletcher

These books offer a range of perspectives on Surviving In The Wild, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books about Surviving In The Wild?

The best books about Surviving In The Wild are:

  • The Survival Handbook by Colin Towell,
  • Deep Survival: Who Lives, Who Dies, and Why by Laurence Gonzales,
  • The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook by Joshua Piven and David Borgenicht,
  • The Lost Art of Reading Nature’s Signs by Tristan Gooley,
  • The Ultimate Survival Manual by Rich Johnson,
  • Survive!: Essential Skills and Tactics to Get You Out of Anywhere – Alive by Les Stroud.

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Surviving In The Wild are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best Surviving In The Wild books of all time?

Choosing the best Surviving In The Wild books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include

  • The Survival Handbook by Colin Towell,
  • Deep Survival: Who Lives, Who Dies, and Why by Laurence Gonzales,
  • Wilderness Survival: Living Off the Land with the Clothes on Your Back and the Knife on Your Belt by Mark Elbroch,
  • The Ultimate Survival Manual by Rich Johnson,
  • and The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook by Joshua Piven and David Borgenicht.
  • Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Surviving In The Wild and continues to be influential today.