Scout Essentials - Scout Life magazine

How to Display and Fold the American Flag

Here's how to properly honor and respect the flag of the United States.

How to Whip and Fuse the Ends of Rope

The more you use rope, the more it frays. Here's how to make one of the most important tools in Scouting last a little longer.

How to Prevent Fire Damage When Building a Campfire

Heat from a campfire can char the ground, blacken rocks and sterilize soil.

How to Make a DIY Survival Kit

This 2-pound kit could save your life for at least three days in the wild.

Every Packing List Starts With the 10 Scout Basic Outdoor Essentials

Every packing list starts with these items. They're called "Scouting Outdoor Essentials" for a reason.

How to Use a Compass to Orient a Map and Find Your Way

You can use a map and compass to figure out which direction you're facing.

How to Safely Cross a Stream

Crossing a body of water presents some hazards. So before you just wade in, consider several factors.

How To Stay Safe From Bears

Bears can catch a scent miles away. That’s why you need to properly store your smellables when you’re in bear country.

How to Tie an Overhand Knot

This simple knot can be used to prevent a rope from slipping through a pulley or hole, or to make a rope easier to grip.

How to Tie the 7 Basic Scout Knots

It's knot difficult. With our step-by-step videos, the seven basic Scout knots are easy to learn. Give them a tie!

How to Choose a Safe and Comfortable Campsite

Picking a place to camp isn’t always simple. Before setting up your tent, consider these nine factors.

How to Use Rope Tackle to Move a Log

Rope tackle allows you to move a large load with a small amount of force. Here's how to set up rope tackle to move a log.

How to Avoid Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

When your body loses too much water and salt, trouble follows. Know the symptoms and how to treat them.

Choosing the Most Effective Bug Spray to Stop Mosquitoes

Mosquitos and other bugs can drive you crazy in the wilderness. Here's how to keep them away.

How to Measure Distance By Counting Your Steps

Counting your steps is a good way to estimate distances as you hike. Here's how to do it.

How to Pack a Backpack

VIDEO: Backpacking can be hard, but here are some ways you can make it easier by packing the right way.

How to Start a Campfire Without Matches or a Lighter

Watch our step-by-step video to learn how to start a fire using flint and steel, friction or a magnifying glass. No matches or lighter needed!

How to Use an Ax to Chop Wood

The ax is one of the best tools for gathering wood. But to chop effectively and stay safe, you must know what you're doing.

How to Sharpen an Ax

To keep an ax safe and effective, it must stay sharp. Here's how to properly sharpen your ax.

3 Wild Plants That Relieve Minor Stings, Burns and Itches

These common plants can help if you have a minor scratch, burn, sting or itch.

How to Dig a Cathole in the Backcountry

How we go to the bathroom in the backcountry is important. Assuming there are no existing facilities, you have two choices: Use a cathole or pack it out.

How to Build Your Own First-Aid Kit

What should you include in your first-aid kit? Be prepared with advice and checklists to help you get the best first-aid kit for your next adventure.

How to use a camp saw

Camp saws are helpful for cutting firewood or clearing trails. Here's how to properly use one.

How to Sharpen a Pocketknife

A pocketknife is only useful if you keep it sharp. Here's how to sharpen a knife using a whetstone.

How to Build a Survival Shelter

Being prepared to live — and live well — when you’re far from the comforts of home starts with being able to take effective shelter from the elements.

How to prevent and treat blisters

Here are tips for how to avoid getting blisters and how to treat them.

Forms for planning your outing’s itinerary

Paperwork? For an outing? When it comes to the outdoors, keeping good paperwork is part of Being Prepared. Download our templates to help you get started.