8 Ways to Make an Emergency Shelter with a Raincoat

Tents are an essential element in the world of adventure, as they provide us with protection against weather elements such as scorching sun and rain. Tents are optimal for expeditions that require extended stays, spanning several days. However, for short explorations, carrying a tent will only add to your load and may be less effective.

Hence, those planning short explorations often do not bring a tent; most of them opt for a lightweight flysheet. But did you know, my friends, that raincoats or ponchos can also be used as emergency shelters?

For those who are just starting their adventure hobby, remember this. Always carry a raincoat wherever you go, especially a poncho-style raincoat. Apart from protecting your body from the rain, the batwing-style raincoat can also be used as an easy-to set up emergency shelter, which helps save time.

Curious? Here’s how to make an emergency shelter using a raincoat:

1. Basic Lean-To (Horizontal)

To make it, the process is quite simple. Just hook the poncho with a rope between two trees, then stake down the bottom part with pegs to make it sturdy. This shelter model can be used for sleeping, seeking shade from the sun, and light rain protection. Materials needed: Rope / paracord and pegs / stakes.

2. Basic Lean-To (Vertical)

This type is the same as the first one, with the only difference being the poncho’s position is changed to a vertical or lengthwise orientation. The method of creating it and the materials used are also the same as the horizontal version.

3. Ridge Line Lean-To

This type of emergency shelter protects the user from both sides, making it suitable for conditions with fairly heavy rain and moderate winds. It can also offer protection from the sun’s heat during the daytime as it blocks it from both sides. The construction method is the same as numbers 1 and 2; the only difference is in how you position the poncho. Tools used: Rope, Pegs, and Optional Poles (can be trekking poles or long branches).

4. Flat Roof

A flat roof is similar to a ridge lean-to, but the roof portion is made flat. The construction process is the same; it just requires two poles or trees to connect the roof part to make it flat. Materials needed: Rope, Pegs, and Optional Poles (can be trekking poles or long branches).

5. Ghost Man

An emergency shelter made from a ghost man-style raincoat can protect its user from various directions but is only suitable for one person. Its main function is to shield or camouflage the user from wild animals when hunting, but it can also withstand fairly strong winds and moderate rain. Materials needed: Rope, Pegs, and Poles (can be trekking poles or long branches).

6. Hood Hoist

This emergency shelter can be raised and lowered as needed. However, making it requires attaching a rope to an overhead tree branch. This type is versatile; when lowered, it can protect the user while sleeping and can also withstand strong winds and heavy rain.

7. Poncho Tent

An emergency shelter made from a poncho-style raincoat is the most commonly used because it is highly versatile. Like a regular tent, it provides protection for the user from both sides. It can be used for sleeping and seeking shelter. Its drawback is that it has a relatively low height and can only be used for lying down.

8. Double Poncho

This shelter utilizes two ponchos to create it. One poncho serves as the roof, and the other as the groundsheet, providing maximum protection. You can choose the model from the seven options mentioned earlier.

Well, it’s easy to make, isn’t it? In addition to being efficient, these emergency shelters made from a poncho or raincoat can be shaped into various models as needed.

It is RECOMMENDED to use these emergency shelters made from a raincoat or poncho only during short trips and for seeking shelter or spending a brief night. Always prioritize safety.

Source : https://www.indosurvival.com