7 Survival Myths That Can Be Deadly If You Still Believe Them
When you're out in the wild, the right knowledge can keep you alive, but the wrong advice, even when it sounds convincing, can be dangerous. Some survival myths have stuck around for years, passed down or repeated in movies and TV. The problem is, some of these myths can lead you into bigger trouble than you started with. Here are seven of the most common survival myths that could put you at real risk if you still believe them.
Moss Always Grows on the North Side of Trees
This is one of the oldest myths, and it's a risky one to trust. Moss grows where it's damp and shady, and that could be any side of a tree depending on the conditions. Relying on moss for direction can send you the wrong way fast. If you're lost, your best bet is to have a map and compass or a GPS device. Natural signs can help, but they’re not always reliable on their own.
You Can Drink Water from a Stream if It Looks Clean
Just because water looks clear doesn't mean it's safe. Bacteria, parasites, and viruses can live in even the clearest mountain stream. Drinking untreated water can lead to serious illness, like giardia, that will dehydrate you quickly. Always boil, filter, or use purification tablets before drinking from any natural source. Staying hydrated is crucial, but so is making sure the water won't harm you.
Rubbing Snow on Frostbite Helps Warm It Up
This one sounds logical, but it's actually dangerous. Rubbing snow on frostbitten skin can cause way more damage. The cold paired with the friction can make the injury worse and even lead to permanent tissue damage. The correct approach is to slowly warm the affected area using body heat or warm (not hot) water. Be gentle, and get medical help as soon as you can. Time matters when dealing with frostbite.
You Should Suck the Venom Out of a Snake Bite
Movies love to show someone cutting a snake bite and sucking out the venom. In real life, this doesn't work and can even make things worse. Cutting the skin adds injury, and sucking doesn’t remove enough venom to matter. Worse, it might introduce bacteria into the wound. The best thing to do is stay calm, limit movement, and get to a hospital. Keeping your heart rate down is what'll help slow the spread of venom.
You Can Eat Anything Animals Eat
Wild animals have very different digestive systems. Just because they're munching on berries or mushrooms doesn’t mean it’s safe for you. Some plants are toxic to humans, even if animals eat them with no trouble. Stick to what you know is safe. If you can’t positively identify a plant, don’t eat it. In survival situations, risking poisoning for a small bite of food is never worth it.
Building a Fire Will Always Keep You Warm
Fire helps, but it doesn't fix everything. If you're wet or exposed to wind, a fire alone might not keep you warm. Hypothermia can still set in, especially if you don’t have shelter, dry clothes, or insulation from the ground. Fire is only one part of staying warm. Always focus on staying dry, blocking wind, and layering clothing or natural materials to hold heat close to your body.
If You're Lost, the Best Thing Is to Keep Moving
Wandering without a plan often leads people deeper into danger. If you're truly lost, moving can make it harder for rescuers to find you. Unless you're in immediate danger, it’s usually safer to stay put. Set up camp, make yourself visible, and wait. Moving makes sense only if you know where you are or have a clear path to safety. Otherwise, you might end up more lost and more exhausted.
Believing myths like these can make a bad situation worse. In survival, facts matter more than tradition, folklore, or stories. What keeps you safe is preparation, calm thinking, and knowing what really works. Learn the truth before you need it, and don't rely on hearsay when your safety is on the line. Nature doesn’t care what you’ve seen on TV. The more you know, the better your chances of making it out safely.