It’s summertime. You have two choices: stay inside in an attempt to escape the heat or get outside and put your prepping skills to the test. You probably guessed it -- we recommend the latter choice, which is why we’ve put together this list of summer activities for preppers.

These activities aren’t just for fun (though they are fun!); their purpose is to help you work on your prepping skills and expand your knowledge even more, with hands-on experiences and real-life applications.
You ready?

Here are 6 summer activities for preppers:

1. Camping. This one may seem like a given, but some can get scared of camping during the summer, as the heat can be intimidating. What we have to say about that: you’re a prepper. You’re a SurvivalBoxer. Be ready for anything! Grab your gear and get camping, even if it doesn’t require a long walk to get to your site (we get it, it’s hot). This could be a great time to take yourself back to the basics and master your prepping skills. Just make sure you have these items packed.

2. Hiking. The best time to put your bug out skills to the test is in the most extreme conditions. Pick a hot day and practice hiking with your bug out bag. Is it too heavy? Do you have what you need? Could you afford to add a few extra items in there? Practice now before shit actually hits the fan. Still need some convincing? Here are the Top 6 Things Preppers Get from Hiking.

3. Cooking. Master your outdoor cooking skills! The summer is a great time to put your grill to use, but also to put your camp stove and fire cooking skills to the test. Grab your family or friends and cook them a full meal. It’s a great way to show off your prepping skills, especially to those in your life who may not be as skilled as you -- show them that these skills are practical and enjoyable!

4. Gardening. Gardening isn’t just for your grandma! Growing your own food is a huge step toward sustainability and can help you really prepare for a SHTF scenario. The summer is a great time to focus on this, and something that you can continue to tend to and better all year long.

5. Preserving. The summer is a great time to learn to preserve and dehydrate your food so you’re ready for when SHTF. This article has plenty of tips for prepping and storing your food.

6. Reading. This one’s a little less hands-on than the others, but still just as important. Make a goal for yourself to read a certain number of books this summer, and choose those that will help increase your survival and prepping skills even more. A few recommendations from us:
The Bushcraft Bible
Nuclear War Survival Skills Book
BackCountry Cooking Book

We’d love to hear how you’re putting your prepping skills to the test this summer, even when it’s hot outside. Head to the forum and let us know what things you’re doing to keep your skills sharp, and leave some tips for your fellow SurvivalBoxer.