Surviving as a homeless person can be a daunting and challenging task, especially if you are without access to basic necessities like shelter, food, and water.

If you find yourself in this situation, it's important to have a plan in place and to know what resources are available to you.

Here are some tips on how to temporarily survive outdoors in both urban and rural areas.

 

In an urban area:

1. Find a safe place to sleep

This may be a park bench, a doorway, or an abandoned building. Try to find a spot that is out of sight and not too visible to the public. Avoid sleeping in areas that are known for crime or drug activity.

2. Stay warm

If you don't have access to a blanket or a sleeping bag, try to find items like cardboard boxes or newspapers to use as insulation. Wear layers of clothing to help keep you warm, and try to stay active during the day to generate body heat.

3. Find a source of food and water

Many cities have soup kitchens and shelters that provide meals to those in need. You may also be able to find food at local food banks or churches. If you are in a rural area, try foraging for wild berries or nuts. Be sure to stay hydrated by finding a clean water source, such as a tap or a fountain.

4. Seek help

There are many organizations and agencies that provide assistance to homeless individuals. Look for information about local shelters, housing assistance programs, and other services that may be available to you.

 

In a rural area:

1. Find a safe place to sleep

Look for a spot that is out of sight and away from any potential dangers, such as animals or hazardous weather conditions. Try to find a location that is sheltered, such as a cave or a thickly wooded area.

2. Stay warm

Build a fire to help keep you warm, but be sure to do so safely. Use dry materials like twigs, leaves, and small branches to start the fire, and make sure it is located in a designated fire pit or an area where it is safe to burn. If you don't have access to a fire, try to find items like blankets or newspapers to use as insulation. Wear layers of clothing to help keep you warm, and stay active during the day to generate body heat.

3. Find a source of food and water

In a rural area, you may be able to forage for wild berries, nuts, and other plant-based foods. You can also try fishing or hunting for small game if you have the necessary skills and equipment. Be sure to find a clean water source, such as a stream or a lake. Avoid drinking water from stagnant or dirty sources, as it could make you sick.

4. Seek help

There may be local organizations or agencies that provide assistance to homeless individuals in rural areas. Look for information about shelters, housing assistance programs, and other services that may be available to you.

 

Free and Low-Cost Tents

There are survival tents are relatively cheap, with some on Amazon costing less than $10. Such tents are called "tube tents", and you can learn more about those here.

A non-profit organization has created backpack beds that they give to the homeless across the country and around the world. They are better suited for long-term use and are equipped to better support and house the homeless. You can learn more about backpack beds here.

 

Disclaimer: The information in this guide provides no guarantees and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice.