Paracord isn’t just a strong rope; it’s a versatile tool that outdoor enthusiasts, survivalists, and campers rely on for all kinds of practical and creative uses. With its lightweight, durable, and multi-strand design, paracord can come to the rescue in unexpected ways during an outdoor adventure. Here are some of the best ways to use paracord when you’re out in the wild.
1. Building a Shelter
Paracord is incredibly useful for setting up emergency shelters. You can use it to secure tarps between trees or to tie branches together to create a makeshift tent frame. With just a few yards of paracord and a tarp, you’ll have a safe place to keep dry and sheltered from the elements.
- How-to Tip: Tie a ridgeline between two trees using the paracord and drape the tarp over it, then use additional lengths of paracord to anchor the tarp to the ground.
2. Making a Fishing Line
If you’re near a body of water and need to catch fish, the inner strands of paracord can work as a makeshift fishing line. Simply separate the paracord and use the thinner strands inside as your line. You can even use it to create fishing nets if you have enough length.
- How-to Tip: Add a hook (or craft one from available materials like twigs or small metal pieces), bait it, and you’ve got a fishing line ready to go.
3. Emergency First Aid
Paracord can be a lifesaver in first-aid situations. Use it as a makeshift tourniquet to stop bleeding, or to create a sling for a broken arm. You can also make a splint by tying branches around an injured limb to keep it stable until you get proper medical help.
- How-to Tip: To make a tourniquet, wrap the paracord above the injury and twist with a sturdy stick to apply pressure until bleeding stops.
4. Creating a Survival Bracelet
Having a paracord bracelet on your wrist means you’ll always have a length of cord at your disposal. Survival bracelets can be unraveled quickly to provide a long piece of paracord for emergency use, and you can use them for a wide range of survival needs.
- How-to Tip: You can make these yourself or buy pre-made bracelets with additional survival features like fire starters, compasses, and mini knives built in.
5. Securing Gear and Backpacks
Keep your gear secure and your pack organized with paracord. Use it to create lashings for extra items, to secure water bottles to your pack, or even to replace broken backpack straps. Paracord is strong enough to hold heavy gear, making it a must-have for keeping your load balanced.
- How-to Tip: Simply tie paracord to loops on your backpack to hang items or keep things from bouncing around as you hike.
6. Starting a Fire with a Bow Drill
Paracord can be used to create a bow drill, a traditional fire-starting tool. This method requires patience, but in a survival situation, it’s a valuable skill. Paracord’s strength and flexibility make it ideal for this, as it holds up well to the friction needed to create an ember.
- How-to Tip: Tie a length of paracord to a sturdy stick to form the “bow,” then wrap the cord around a spindle and use it to generate heat and eventually spark an ember.
7. Improvised Shoelaces or Clothing Repairs
If you lose a shoelace or have a torn strap, paracord can step in as a quick fix. It’s durable enough to work as a replacement for shoelaces, belt loops, and even straps on bags. In emergencies, you can even use it to repair broken tent zippers or worn-out buckles.
- How-to Tip: Cut the cord to the right length, singe the ends with a lighter to prevent fraying, and thread it through your shoes or pack as needed.
8. Creating a Bear Bag
If you’re camping in bear country, hanging a bear bag is essential to keep your food safe. Use paracord to create a secure bear bag by hanging your food pack from a tree branch out of reach. Paracord is lightweight, making it easy to carry without adding bulk to your gear.
- How-to Tip: Throw the paracord over a tall branch, tie it securely to your food bag, and hoist it up to a safe height.
9. Building a Trip Wire for Safety
In certain situations, setting up a trip wire can help alert you to animals or even intruders approaching your camp. Tie some small objects to the paracord (like bells or pieces of metal) and string it around your campsite. If anything brushes up against it, the noise will serve as an alert.
- How-to Tip: Secure the cord low to the ground around your camp perimeter, tying objects that make noise along the way.
10. Crafting Traps and Snares
For those who are trained in survival techniques, paracord can be used to create simple traps or snares to catch small animals. The inner strands of the paracord can make loops and nooses for various types of traps, providing a potential source of food in emergencies.
- How-to Tip: Use smaller strands from the paracord and set up snares along animal trails, anchoring them to trees or rocks.
Why Paracord is Essential for Any Outdoor Adventure
Paracord is the ultimate multitool for outdoor adventures, providing you with creative solutions to unexpected challenges. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or in a survival situation, a few yards of paracord can make a big difference. It’s lightweight, versatile, and reliable, making it a must-have addition to your outdoor gear.
So, next time you’re heading out, make sure to bring along some paracord and practice a few of these ideas. You’ll be prepared, equipped, and ready for anything nature throws your way!