Subscribe for Real-World Readiness

Weekly checklists, tested gear picks, 10-minute drills.

7 Odd Ways People Have Died In The Wild | Outdoor Survival Tips

7 Odd Ways People Have Died In The Wild | Outdoor Survival Tips

Win a
$1,000 Milwaukee Tool Package

One DIY Projects subscriber wins on May 10. A full kit of Milwaukee tools — the kind that makes a weekend project easier to finish, whether it’s a fence post, a set of shelves, or the cabinet door that’s been sticking for years. Free entry, just an email.

Hosted by our partner site

Exploring unfamiliar territories may sometimes lead to unexpected demise, so here are some outdoor survival tips that may come in handy. We’ve seen plenty of gruesome death scenes in movies set in the wild and it would be a shame if we fall victim to that same plot, right?

Outdoor Survival Tips | How to Avoid Death in the Wilds

If we are going out alone or with friends in the wild, it’s a must to equip ourselves with the right outdoor survival tips for everybody’s sake. Having sufficient knowledge and skills will definitely take us the extra mile and help us create a safe zone within any hazardous areas. But before that, what are the most common deaths in the wild and how can we avoid them?

1. Drowning

Drowning | Outdoor Survival Tips | Odd Ways People Die So You Don't Have To

Drowning is no stranger to this list as lack of certain skills and equipment can spell doom for anybody. Given we’re decent swimmers, it’s a no-brainer to avoid submerging when seas are turbulent as the last thing we would like is to helplessly explore its unimaginable depth.

2. Heat Stroke

Heat Stroke | Outdoor Survival Tips | Odd Ways People Die So You Don't Have To

It’s no secret that before embarking on a journey, we should always bring water. We’ll never know if the rivers we come across are drinkable or contaminated. Hence, always make sure you have a bottle or two in your bag to prevent dehydration and heat stroke.

3. Falling off a Cliff

Falling off a Cliff | Outdoor Survival Tips | Odd Ways People Die So You Don't Have To

This is arguably the most common way of dying when exploring rough terrains. A misstep can lead to fatal wounds or worse, dismemberment of the body. It is necessary to bring a flashlight and take the time with our steps. You can also tie a long rope around the waist and tie the other end around a sturdy tree trunk.

4. Mauled by Wild Animals

Mauled by Wild Animals | Outdoor Survival Tips | Odd Ways People Die So You Don't Have To

Camping at night? Better be equipped with sharp weapons as we’ll never know when a pack of wolves or a giant bear may possibly maul us for dinner. Also, place all the food at least a hundred meters away from the campsite since bears have a heightened sense of smell.

5. Eating Poisonous Food

Our last resort should be consuming unknown plants or fruits when food supply runs out. Always go for the safe consumables and when the going gets tough, it is best to heat the food thoroughly to kill bacteria or any microbes that could lead to poisoning.

6. Quicksand

Quicksand | Outdoor Survival Tips | Odd Ways People Die So You Don't Have To

We won’t actually die in quicksand as seen in the movies. Being stuck for days leading to starvation and dehydration will. Apparently, panicking will only make it harder to get out as this will agitate the sand.

The best way to approach the situation is to take your time, lean backward, and slowly wiggle your legs up until it reaches the surface. Then, move the arms in a sweeping motion until we reach the edge and start to roll over.

7. Heart Attack

Heart Attack | Outdoor Survival Tips | Odd Ways People Die So You Don't Have To

We will never know when this dreaded disease will hit us, heck, it’s not ranked as one of the top causes of death worldwide for no reason. So, before heading out, make sure the body is in tip-top shape and is ready for any rigorous activities like mountain climbing. If there’s a need to do so, rest by all means.

Looking for something more hardcore? Here are 10 horrific ways people died courtesy of Alltime10s:

Our desire to explore uncharted territories should always come with proper preparation. In the outdoors, a minor miscalculation may result to gruesome injuries, or worse, death. When unsure, the best course of action is to always stay put and observe. Hopefully, our outdoor survival tips here can help you out when you’re in a difficult situation in the wilderness.

7 Odd Ways People Have Died In The Wild | Outdoor Survival Tips

Which scenario do you find scariest? Share other outdoor survival tips in the comments below.

Up Next: 8 Outdoor Survival Hacks Using Everyday Items

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Tumblr, and Pinterest!

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Get field-tested gear picks and drills delivered before you ever need them.

Win a
$1,000 Milwaukee Tool Package

 One DIY Projects subscriber wins May 10. Free to enter. Approximately $1,000 in Milwaukee branded products, shipped via Amazon.com.

Hosted by our partner site

Related Articles

Can you bring a travel emergency kit on a plane?

Hurricane Updates US Today (as of June 2, 2026) Hurricane

Quick Buying Guide Best Overall for Emergencies: WaterStorageCube Collapsible Water

At a Glance: Hurricane Season 2026 Below-Average Forecast: The 2026

Scroll to Top