A bandana is a common item for outdoor enthusiasts to have on their person, serving as a handy accessory for virtually any activity. Outside of their most common uses as a sweat towel and a dust rag, there are several other survival uses for a bandana as well. Let’s take a look at just five of these uses so you can start using the bandana to its full potential!
1. Bandage
If you have any exposed skin in the outdoors, you could acquire a cut, scrape, or rash that requires a bandage. Fold the bandana in half to create a triangle. Then roll the widest edge of the triangle down until you have a long strip. You can then wrap it around the affected area and tie it off to stop bleeding. This also protects it from further irritation.
2. Cooling Towel
While the bandana can be used to remove sweat, it can also be used to prevent it. One of the best survival uses for a bandana is as a cooling towel. Soak it in cold water and wring lightly. Tie around your head or neck for evaporative cooling where you need it most.
3. Trail Marker
If you’re attempting to navigate your way back to safety, tear a bandana into smaller strips. Then, use them as trail markers can prevent you from going in circles without realizing it.
4. Hand Protection
If you’re dealing with fire or hot metal for any reason, a great survival use of a bandana is protecting your hands. Either wrap it around your hand or bundle it up so you can safely grab what you need to without burning yourself.
5. Sling or Wrap
First aid is full of survival uses for a bandana. Creating a sling or wrap is one of the easiest ways to put it to work until you can get medical attention.
Featured Image from Steve Johnson/Unsplash
