5 Simple Knots Every Survivalist Must Know

Learn the essential knots every survivalist, contractor, camper, and outdoorsman should master. These knots are easy, fast, and reliable in real-world emergencies.

Why These Knots Are Essential

Whether you’re building shelter, securing gear, lifting supplies, or handling unexpected situations, knowing a few dependable knots can make everything safer and easier. These five knots are simple, strong, and proven in real-world survival, outdoor, and jobsite scenarios — perfect for anyone who wants practical skills they can rely on.

1. The Square Knot

A quick, reliable knot used to tie two ropes together or secure bundles.

How to tie it:

  • Left over right

  • Right over left

  • Pull both ends evenly

Best uses:

  • Securing gear

  • Bundles or packages

  • First-aid slings and bandages

Pro tip:
If it twists or slips, you tied a “granny knot.” Redo it.

2. The Bowline Knot

Creates a fixed loop that won’t slip under tension — strong, safe, and easy to untie.

How to tie it:

  • Make a small loop

  • Bring the working end up through the loop

  • Wrap behind the standing line

  • Bring it back down through the loop

Best uses:

  • Rescue situations

  • Securing tarps

  • Attaching rope to objects

Pro tip:
The bowline is known as the “king of knots” because it stays secure but loosens easily when needed.

3. The Clove Hitch

Great for fastening a rope to a post, beam, tree, or rail.

How to tie it:

  • Wrap rope around the post

  • Cross over itself

  • Wrap again

  • Slide the end under the last wrap

Best uses:

  • Setting up shelters

  • Hanging gear

  • Temporary ties that may need adjusting

Pro tip:
Add a half hitch to lock it in place if you need extra security.

4. The Figure-Eight Knot

Creates a strong stopper knot that prevents rope from slipping through holes or devices.

How to tie it:

  • Make a loop

  • Wrap the working end around the standing line

  • Feed it back through the loop in a figure-eight shape

Best uses:

  • Climbing setups

  • Preventing rope pull-through

  • Starting other more complex knots

Pro tip:
The figure-eight is stronger and more secure than an overhand knot.

5. The Taut-Line Hitch

Creates an adjustable sliding knot that holds tension — perfect for lines that need tightening.

How to tie it:

  • Wrap rope around an anchor point

  • Make two coils around the standing line

  • Make one coil on the opposite side

  • Pull tight

Best uses:

  • Tent or tarp lines

  • Adjustable gear straps

  • Clotheslines and camp setups

Pro tip:
Slide it to adjust tension; it holds under load but loosens when slack.

⭐ Quick Reference Summary

Quick Reference: When to Use Each Knot

  • Square Knot: Joining two ropes, bundles, first aid

  • Bowline: Fixed loop for rescue, shelter, hauling

  • Clove Hitch: Fast tie-offs on posts or trees

  • Figure-Eight: Stopper knot, prevents slipping

  • Taut-Line Hitch: Adjustable tension for shelters and gear