Survival Guide: Essential Food Tips for Survival

The ability to obtain and sustain an adequate food supply is essential for survival in any situation, whether it be during a natural disaster, a prolonged power outage, or even while navigating through remote wilderness areas. In such circumstances, having the knowledge and skills necessary to procure, prepare, and preserve food can make all the difference between life and death. This article aims to provide readers with an indispensable guide on essential food tips for survival.

Imagine finding yourself stranded in the aftermath of a major hurricane that has devastated your community. The once bustling grocery stores are now empty shelves void of sustenance. With no access to electricity or fresh supplies, you must rely solely on what you have at hand to survive. Understanding which foods are crucial for your immediate needs, how to properly store them without refrigeration, and how to stretch limited resources becomes paramount in ensuring your well-being amidst this dire situation.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various aspects of survival food preparation, including selecting nutrient-dense options that offer long shelf lives; mastering techniques to safely store perishable items; exploring alternative methods of cooking when traditional means are not available; as well as discussing the importance of water purification and sanitation practices. By equipping ourselves with these vital food-related skills and knowledge, we can increase our chances of survival and maintain optimal health during challenging circumstances.

Finding Edible Plants

Imagine being stranded in the wilderness with limited food supplies. In such dire circumstances, knowing how to identify edible plants can be a crucial skill for survival. Take, for example, the case of John, a hiker who found himself lost deep in the forest without any provisions. With no other options available, he had to rely on his knowledge of edible plants to sustain himself until help arrived.

When searching for edible plants in the wild, it is essential to stay vigilant and learn how to distinguish between safe and toxic species. One useful way to approach this task is by focusing on four key characteristics: leaf shape, coloration, odor, and growth pattern. By carefully observing these attributes and cross-referencing them with reliable plant identification resources, you can significantly increase your chances of finding nourishment amidst the vast array of vegetation.

To aid in your quest for survival sustenance, here is a checklist outlining important traits commonly associated with edible plants:

• Leaf Shape: Look for leaves that are elliptical or ovate-shaped rather than irregularly lobed or compound.
• Coloration: Pay attention to vibrant green hues as they often indicate healthy foliage suitable for consumption.
• Odor: Some edible plants emit distinct aromas like garlic or onion when their leaves are crushed or bruised.
• Growth Pattern: Seek out plants growing in open areas under direct sunlight as they tend to have more nutritious properties compared to those found in shady spots.

Additionally, consider referring to this table highlighting some easily identifiable edible plants and their distinctive features:

Plant Name	Leaf Shape	Coloration	Odor
Dandelion	Lobed	Bright yellow	None
Purslane	Ovate	Green	Slightly sour
Nettle	Toothed	Green	Earthy
Chickweed	Linear	Light green	None

By familiarizing yourself with these characteristics and using them as guidelines, you can increase your chances of finding edible plants in the wild. The next section will delve into how to identify safe and nutritious options from the available choices without compromising your well-being.

Transitioning seamlessly into the subsequent section about “Identifying Safe and Nutritious Wild Foods,” it is important to build upon our understanding of identifying edible plants by considering their safety and nutritional value.

Identifying Safe and Nutritious Wild Foods

Having learned about finding edible plants, it is equally important to be able to identify safe and nutritious wild foods. By understanding the characteristics of such foods, one can enhance their chances of survival in a challenging environment. For instance, imagine being stranded in a dense forest with limited supplies – knowing which wild foods are both safe and nourishing could make all the difference.

Identifying safe and nutritious wild foods involves careful observation and knowledge of different plant species. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

• Look for familiar plants: While exploring your surroundings, you may come across plants that resemble those commonly found in gardens or fields. These familiar plants often indicate safety as they have been cultivated for consumption.
• Pay attention to color and texture: Colors that mimic poisonous counterparts should raise suspicion. Additionally, certain textures might suggest high fiber content or edibility.
• Take note of plant structure: Some edible plants possess distinct features like thorns, hairs, or milky sap while others exhibit specific leaf arrangements or stem shapes. Familiarizing yourself with these structural attributes can help differentiate between potential food sources.
• Seek expert advice when uncertain: If unsure about a particular plant’s edibility, consult local experts who specialize in botany or wilderness survival before consuming it.

To further illustrate the importance of identifying safe and nutritious wild foods, consider the following table showcasing four common examples:

Plant Name	Color	Texture	Edible Parts
Dandelion	Bright yellow	Smooth leaves	Leaves (raw/cooked)
Wild strawberry	Red	Soft flesh	Berries
Cattail	Brown	Starchy root	Roots (boiled/mashed)
Chickweed	Green	Tender stems	Leaves/stems (salads/soup)

As one can see, understanding the visual characteristics and edible parts of wild plants is vital for survival. Armed with this knowledge, individuals in dire situations can make informed decisions regarding which foods to consume.

By familiarizing ourselves with safe and nutritious wild foods, we simultaneously develop an awareness of potentially harmful plant species. In the following section, we will delve into identifying poisonous plants that should be avoided at all costs.

Understanding Poisonous Plants to Avoid

Survival Guide: Essential Food Tips for Survival

Section H2: Understanding Poisonous Plants to Avoid

Transitioning from the previous section on identifying safe and nutritious wild foods, it is crucial to now delve into understanding and recognizing poisonous plants. By equipping ourselves with knowledge on these potentially harmful plant species, we can minimize the risk of ingesting toxic substances during survival situations.

To illustrate the importance of this topic, let us consider a hypothetical scenario where Alex, an experienced hiker, finds himself lost in a dense forest after his map and compass were swept away by a sudden flood. Feeling hungry and desperate for sustenance, he notices an unfamiliar plant nearby that appears tempting enough to eat. Without proper awareness of poisonous plants, Alex unknowingly consumes part of this plant. Shortly after ingestion, he starts experiencing severe abdominal pain and nausea.

To avoid such unfortunate incidents, here are key points to remember when dealing with potential poisonous plants:

• Familiarize yourself with common poisonous plants in your region:
  • Hemlock (Conium maculatum)
  • Deadly Nightshade (Atropa belladonna)
  • Castor Bean Plant (Ricinus communis)
  • Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)

Recognizing these dangerous plants could save your life or those around you. Here is a table summarizing their distinctive characteristics:

Plant Name	Appearance	Toxic Parts
Hemlock	Tall stalks with clusters	All parts
Deadly Nightshade	Small purple/black berries	Berries
Castor Bean Plant	Large leaves with red veins	Seeds
Foxglove	Bell-shaped flowers	Leaves, seeds

In any survival situation, it’s essential always to err on the side of caution when uncertain about a particular plant’s safety. Remember that some edible plants may have similar characteristics to poisonous ones, making accurate identification crucial. It is advisable to consult local guides or experts before consuming any wild plant.

Understanding the risks associated with poisonous plants allows us to make informed decisions and safeguard our well-being in survival scenarios. By remaining vigilant and knowledgeable about these potential dangers, we can better navigate our environment while searching for safe food sources.

With a solid understanding of identifying both safe and toxic plants, it’s time to explore another practical method of obtaining sustenance – building a homemade fish trap.

Building a Homemade Fish Trap

Imagine finding yourself in a survival situation, surrounded by dense vegetation and limited food resources. You spot an unfamiliar plant with vibrant berries, tempting you with the possibility of sustenance. However, it is crucial to exercise caution when foraging for plants in the wild, as many of them can be poisonous or toxic. By understanding which plants to avoid, you can greatly increase your chances of survival.

To help you navigate this treacherous territory, here are some key tips on identifying and Avoiding Poisonous Plants:

1. Educate Yourself: Prior knowledge about local flora is invaluable in determining which plants could pose a threat. Familiarize yourself with common poisonous species found in the area before venturing into unknown territories.

2. Observe Physical Characteristics: Pay close attention to the physical attributes of plants. Certain characteristics like shiny leaves, thorns, or milky sap often indicate toxicity. Be cautious around these warning signs and proceed with care.

3. Seek Professional Advice: If unsure about a particular plant’s edibility, consult experts such as botanists or experienced foragers who possess comprehensive knowledge about local plant life.

4. Perform a Skin Test: Before ingesting any part of a potentially edible plant, conduct a skin test first. Rub a small piece of the plant onto your forearm or inner wrist and wait for at least 30 minutes to observe if any negative reactions occur.

By adhering to these guidelines and exercising vigilance while exploring your surroundings, you can mitigate the risk of consuming harmful vegetation during times of survival.

Plant Name	Warning Signs	Symptoms	Treatment
Hemlock	Purple spots on stems	Paralysis	Induce vomiting
Oleander	Shiny evergreen leaves	Irregular heartbeat	Contact medical assistance
Deadly Nightshade	Dark purple berries	Dilated pupils	Seek immediate medical attention
Pokeweed	Red stems and dark berries	Vomiting, diarrhea	Hydrate and monitor symptoms

Remember, the importance of correctly identifying plants cannot be overstated when it comes to survival. Always err on the side of caution if uncertain about a plant’s edibility.

As we move forward in this guide, let us now delve into an essential skill for procuring food in a survival situation: building a homemade fish trap.

Using Natural Materials for Fish Traps

Building a Homemade Fish Trap can be an effective way to catch fish in survival situations. One example of how this method was successfully utilized is by John, a survivor stranded on a deserted island. With limited resources and time, John managed to construct a simple yet functional fish trap using materials he found on the shore.

To build his fish trap, John followed these key steps:

1. Selecting the right location: John carefully chose an area close to the shoreline where he observed fish swimming regularly. This ensured that his trap would be placed in a prime fishing spot.

2. Gathering suitable materials: Utilizing natural materials such as sticks, rocks, and vines, John constructed a framework for his fish trap. He used long branches to create the main structure while smaller twigs were interwoven to form walls for the trap.

3. Creating entrance points: To entice fish into the trap, John fashioned several small openings in the walls using sharp stones or shells. These entrances allowed fish to swim inside but made it difficult for them to escape once trapped.

4. Baiting the trap: Using bits of leftover food scraps, John strategically placed bait near the entrances of his Homemade Fish Trap. The scent attracted hungry fish and increased their chances of being caught.

The effectiveness of building a homemade fish trap lies in its simplicity and reliance on natural elements readily available in most environments. By constructing a sturdy framework with well-placed entrances and enticing bait, individuals can increase their chances of catching fish for sustenance during survival scenarios.

Table: Advantages of Building a Homemade Fish Trap

Advantages
Requires minimal tools
Can be easily modified
Cost-effective
Low maintenance

Incorporating natural materials into our survival strategies not only enhances our resourcefulness but also connects us more deeply with nature’s provisions. Now let’s delve into another technique that utilizes natural elements effectively for catching small game.

Transitioning seamlessly into the next section, ‘Effective Techniques for Catching Small Game,’ we explore an alternative approach to food procurement in survival situations. By expanding our knowledge and skill set, we can further ensure our chances of sustaining ourselves in challenging environments.

Effective Techniques for Catching Small Game

Having explored the use of natural materials for fish traps, let us now delve into effective techniques for catching small game. In survival situations, it is crucial to understand various methods that can provide sustenance when conventional food sources are scarce or inaccessible.

Section:

1. Understanding Animal Behavior:
   To successfully catch small game, it is essential to have a basic understanding of animal behavior and their preferred habitats. For instance, rabbits tend to seek cover in dense vegetation, while squirrels often reside near nut-bearing trees. By observing these patterns and conducting thorough research on local wildlife, you can increase your chances of locating potential game.

Bullet Point List (evoking emotional response):

• Stay patient and persistent; hunting requires time and perseverance.
• Adapt to different weather conditions and adjust your strategy accordingly.
• Develop stealthy movement skills to avoid alarming animals.
• Respect nature by adhering to ethical hunting practices.

Table (evoking emotional response):

Hunting Technique	Description	Pros	Cons
Snaring	Setting up snares to trap animals	Requires less effort than active hunting	Animals may escape or get injured
Tracking	Following footprints or droppings	Provides insight into animal habits	Time-consuming and requires skill
Ambush	Lying in wait at areas frequented by game	Increases chances of surprise encounter	Requires patience and good camouflage
Camouflaging	Blending with surroundings	Allows for close proximity without alerting prey	Requires careful selection and adaptation

2. Weapon Selection:
   Choosing an appropriate weapon is vital when targeting small game. Depending on local regulations, options may include a bow and arrow, slingshot, or small caliber rifle. Each weapon has its advantages and limitations, so it is crucial to practice with your chosen tool extensively beforehand.

3. Setting Traps and Snares:
   Traps and snares can be effective methods for capturing small game passively. By utilizing natural materials such as branches, rocks, or cordage found in the environment, you can construct simple yet efficient devices that increase your chances of securing food while conserving energy.

Transition into subsequent section:

Mastering these techniques will significantly enhance your ability to secure sustenance in survival situations. Understanding the nuances of trap placement and bait selection can greatly improve your success rate when targeting specific animals.

Tips for Setting Traps and Snares

With a basic understanding of the different types of small game available in survival situations, it is essential to learn effective techniques for catching them. By employing these methods, you can increase your chances of procuring food and sustaining yourself during challenging circumstances.

Techniques for Catching Small Game:
One effective technique for catching small game is using traps and snares. These devices are designed to capture animals by restraining or immobilizing them until they can be harvested. Traps such as deadfalls, snare wires, and pit traps have been successfully utilized by survivalists throughout history. For instance, consider a hypothetical scenario where an individual sets up multiple snare wires in an area known for its abundance of rabbits. This method allows the person to passively trap several rabbits simultaneously, increasing their chances of obtaining sustenance.

To further enhance your knowledge on this subject, here are some key tips when setting traps and snares:

• Location matters: Identify areas with signs of animal activity such as tracks, droppings, or chewed vegetation.
• Understand animal behavior: Learn about the habits and movement patterns of specific target animals to strategically place your traps.
• Use bait effectively: Utilize natural baits that are attractive to the targeted species while considering local availability.
• Regularly check your traps: Consistently monitor your traps for any captured animals to ensure humane treatment and prevent escape.

Table – Animal Trapping Methods Comparison

Method	Pros	Cons
Deadfall	Effective for larger prey	Requires more time and effort
Snare Wire	Versatile; suitable for various animals	May cause injury if not properly set
Pit Trap	Can catch multiple animals at once	Needs careful concealment

Preserving Food in a Grid-Down Situation
In times of crisis, it is crucial to have a plan for preserving the food you catch or gather. Understanding how to store and preserve perishable items can significantly extend their shelf life, allowing you to maximize your resources even in a grid-down situation. This next section will focus on various methods of preserving food without relying on modern conveniences.

By acquiring knowledge on preserving food, you can ensure that nothing goes to waste and increase your chances of long-term survival during challenging circumstances.

Preserving Food in a Grid-Down Situation

Having covered tips for setting traps and snares to capture food in survival situations, it is equally important to know how to preserve the food you acquire. In a grid-down situation where access to grocery stores or refrigeration may be limited or non-existent, knowing effective methods of preserving food becomes crucial. This section will explore various techniques that can help extend the shelf life of your provisions.

Preserving Food in a Grid-Down Situation:

To illustrate the significance of proper food preservation, let’s consider a hypothetical scenario involving a group of survivors stranded on an island after a shipwreck. With limited resources and no immediate hope of rescue, they must rely on their ingenuity to survive. One survivor manages to catch several fish using improvised fishing gear but realizes that without proper preservation methods, these valuable protein sources could quickly spoil.

To ensure long-term sustenance, here are some essential techniques for preserving food in such challenging circumstances:

1. Canning: Canning involves sealing cooked or raw ingredients inside cans or jars under high heat. This process kills microorganisms and prevents spoilage while maintaining nutritional value.

2. Dehydration: Dehydrating food removes water content, inhibiting bacterial growth and reducing weight for easier transportation. It also concentrates flavors, enabling longer storage periods.

3. Smoking: Smoking not only adds flavor but also acts as a preservative by dehydrating meat through exposure to smoke and low heat. The combination of these factors helps inhibit microbial growth.

4. Fermentation: Fermenting certain foods like vegetables, fruits, and dairy products can significantly increase their shelf life while adding unique flavors and beneficial bacteria.

In addition to understanding these preservation methods conceptually, it is important to know the specific guidelines and techniques for each method to ensure optimal results. Below is a table summarizing some key considerations for each preservation technique:

Preservation Method	Benefits	Considerations
Canning	Long shelf life	Requires heat source and canning equipment
Dehydration	Lightweight	May require specialized dehydrator or oven
Smoking	Enhanced flavor	Requires proper smoking apparatus and controlled temperature
Fermentation	Increased nutrients	Requires precise measurement of ingredients and fermentation time

By mastering these food preservation methods, survivors on the hypothetical island can extend the usability of their acquired food resources, ensuring better chances of long-term survival.

Transition into the subsequent section about “Alternative Methods for Food Preservation”:
While understanding these essential techniques is crucial in a grid-down situation, there are alternative methods that may prove equally effective in preserving food. Exploring these options will provide further insight into maintaining provisions under challenging circumstances.

Alternative Methods for Food Preservation

Imagine this scenario: you find yourself in the midst of a power outage that lasts for several days or even weeks. Without electricity to keep your food fresh, it becomes essential to explore alternative methods for preserving perishable items. In such situations, knowing how to preserve food can make all the difference between having enough sustenance and going hungry.

One effective method is dehydration. By removing moisture from food, you inhibit the growth of bacteria, mold, and yeast that cause spoilage. Dehydrated foods not only have an extended shelf life but also retain most of their nutrients. For example, let’s consider beef jerky—a popular dehydrated meat snack. The process involves slicing lean cuts of beef into strips and then drying them at low temperatures until they become tough and chewy.

When it comes to preserving fruits and vegetables, canning is another reliable option. Canning involves placing prepared food into jars or cans and heating them to destroy microorganisms that could lead to spoilage. This method creates a vacuum seal once the containers cool down, preventing air from entering and causing further deterioration. As a result, canned goods can stay edible for months or even years if stored properly.

To give you an idea of what types of food are suitable for long-term storage during grid-down situations, here are some examples:

• Rice: A staple grain that provides energy-rich carbohydrates.
• Beans: An excellent source of protein and fiber.
• Honey: A natural sweetener with antimicrobial properties.
• Salt: Essential for flavoring food and preserving meats.

Additionally, consider utilizing root cellars or underground storage spaces as these environments provide stable temperature conditions ideal for prolonging the freshness of produce.

By learning these skills alongside proper food preservation techniques, you will be better equipped to navigate challenging situations that require self-reliance and resourcefulness.

Cooking Techniques for Outdoor Survival

Imagine you find yourself in a post-apocalyptic world, where access to fresh food is limited. In such a scenario, knowing alternative methods for food preservation becomes crucial for survival. Let’s explore some effective techniques that can help extend the shelf life of your perishable foods.

One popular method is canning, which involves placing food in jars or cans and sealing them tightly. This process creates an airtight environment that prevents the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. Canned foods have been known to last for years without spoiling, making them an excellent option for long-term survival situations.

Another method worth considering is dehydrating food. By removing moisture from fruits, vegetables, and even meat, you can significantly prolong their lifespan. Dehydrated foods are lightweight and easy to store, making them ideal for emergency kits or backpacking trips.

When it comes to preserving dairy products like milk and cheese, fermentation can be a lifesaver. Fermented foods undergo natural processes where beneficial bacteria convert carbohydrates into acids or alcohol. Not only does this preserve the food by creating an acidic environment inhospitable to harmful bacteria, but it also enhances its flavor and nutritional value.

To summarize:

• Canning: Seal perishable foods in jars or cans to create an airtight environment.
• Dehydration: Remove moisture from various types of food to extend their shelf life.
• Fermentation: Preserve dairy products through natural bacterial processes.
• [Emotional bullet point list]:
  • Maintaining a steady supply of preserved food provides peace of mind during uncertain times.
  • Alternative methods offer flexibility when traditional refrigeration systems are unavailable.
  • Preserved foods allow individuals or groups to sustain themselves during extended periods of isolation or travel.
  • Learning these techniques empowers individuals with valuable skills essential for self-reliance.

Consider exploring these different preservation methods as part of your preparedness plan. They not only provide practical solutions for food storage but also offer a sense of security in challenging circumstances.

Using Fire and Heat Sources in the Wild

Building on the knowledge of essential cooking techniques for outdoor survival, let us now explore the crucial topic of using fire and heat sources in the wild. To illustrate the importance of this skill, consider a hypothetical situation where you find yourself stranded deep within an unfamiliar forest. With no access to modern conveniences, your ability to utilize fire and heat sources effectively becomes paramount.

Using Fire and Heat Sources in the Wild is vital for several reasons:

1. Providing warmth: In cold environments or during chilly nights, having a reliable source of heat is critical for maintaining body temperature and preventing hypothermia.
2. Cooking food: Fire can transform raw ingredients into nourishing meals. By utilizing various techniques such as roasting, grilling, or boiling over open flames, you can make even basic provisions more palatable and nutritious.
3. Purifying water: In emergency situations where clean drinking water may be scarce, heating water to its boiling point kills harmful bacteria and parasites that could cause illness if ingested.
4. Signaling for help: A well-tended fire can serve as a visual beacon, attracting attention from potential rescuers who might otherwise overlook your presence.

To better understand different methods of utilizing fire and heat sources in the wild, refer to the following table:

Method	Description	Pros	Cons
Bow Drill	Friction-based method using a wooden bow	Can create fire without matches	Requires significant physical effort
Flint and Steel	Striking flint against steel to produce sparks	Relatively simple technique	Requires proper materials
Solar Ignition	Focusing sunlight onto tinder to ignite it	No need for additional tools	Depends on weather conditions

In summary, mastering the use of fire and heat sources in wilderness settings is indispensable for survival. From providing warmth and cooking food to purifying water and signaling for help, fire plays a multifaceted role in ensuring your well-being. By familiarizing yourself with various methods such as the bow drill, flint and steel, or solar ignition, you can increase your chances of success in any survival situation.

As we delve deeper into the realm of wilderness survival, it is essential to equip ourselves with the necessary tools for efficient cooking. In the upcoming section on “Essential Wilderness Cooking Gear,” we will explore the items that should be part of every survivalist’s repertoire.

Essential Wilderness Cooking Gear

Survival Guide: Essential Food Tips for Survival

With fire and heat sources now mastered, it is essential to equip yourself with the necessary wilderness cooking gear. In this section, we will explore some of the most vital tools and equipment needed to prepare food in a survival situation.

Imagine finding yourself deep within an unfamiliar forest after your camping trip takes an unexpected turn. You are hungry, tired, and desperately need sustenance to keep going. Having the right cooking gear can make all the difference between staying nourished or succumbing to hunger. Let’s delve into four crucial items you should have at your disposal:

Bullet Point List (emotional response):

• Portable Camping Stove: A reliable portable camping stove provides a quick and efficient way to cook meals even when natural fuel resources are scarce.
• Lightweight Cookware Set: Invest in lightweight yet durable cookware sets that include pots, pans, and utensils designed specifically for outdoor cooking.
• Collapsible Water Container: Hydration is just as important as food. A collapsible water container allows you to store and transport water easily while minimizing space consumption.
• Multi-tool Kitchen Utensil: Opt for a versatile multi-tool kitchen utensil that combines various functions such as cutting, peeling, grating, and opening cans – saving precious space in your backpack.

Table (emotional response):

Item	Features	Benefits
Portable Camping Stove	Fuel-efficient design	Enables fast cooking times
Lightweight Cookware Set	Non-stick coating	Easy cleaning
Collapsible Water Container	BPA-free material	Safe storage of water
Multi-tool Kitchen Utensil	Compact and lightweight	Multiple functionalities in one tool

Paragraph 1:
A portable camping stove is an indispensable tool for wilderness cooking. Its fuel-efficient design allows you to cook meals quickly, even when natural fuel resources are scarce. With a reliable camping stove at hand, you can focus on gathering and preparing ingredients without worrying about the availability of firewood or suitable heat sources.

Paragraph 2:
Investing in a lightweight cookware set designed specifically for outdoor cooking is essential. Look for sets that include pots, pans, and utensils made from durable materials with non-stick coatings. These features facilitate easy cleaning while ensuring your food doesn’t stick to the surface during preparation.

Paragraph 3:
While food is vital for survival, so is hydration. A collapsible water container should be part of your essential gear as it allows you to store and transport water conveniently while minimizing space consumption in your backpack. Opt for containers made from BPA-free material to ensure safe storage of water throughout your journey.

In conclusion, equipping yourself with appropriate wilderness cooking gear greatly enhances your chances of survival in challenging situations. Having a portable camping stove guarantees access to cooked meals regardless of available fuel sources, while a lightweight cookware set ensures efficient cooking with minimal cleanup effort. Additionally, carrying a collapsible water container and multi-tool kitchen utensil further optimizes space utilization and functionality within your pack. By being prepared with these crucial items, you will increase your resilience in the face of adversity while maintaining proper nourishment during unexpected wilderness journeys