Book Review: Survival Hacks, by Creek Stewart

I have always been a fan of Creek Stewart. From his television show Fat Guys in the Woods to his numerous survival books, Stewart is an energetic and passionate spokesperson for the art of survival in the outdoors. So of course I had to pick up his latest book when I saw it in a local bookstore last week. But does Creek’s new book, Survival Hacks, live up to his other titles? Let’s see.

At first glance, this book matches the style and format of the Creek’s other books, which I took as a good sign. And after flipping through it, I found that many of the hacks were fun and familiar tricks that I often share in my classes and seminars. But then there were the hacks I’d never seen before (and frankly, was embarrassed that I hadn’t thought of first). Using a bra cup for an emergency respirator mask, using a space blanket to make a parabolic mirror for fire starting—just brilliant.

This book walks you through over 200 survival hacks, many of which I actually use on a regular basis and in my training. The first section includes hacks with clothing, footwear, shelter, and bedding. The next two sections are on water and fire (I love the hacks Creek does with matches). The book also includes tricks for food gathering, hygiene, survival gear, lighting, movement, and EDC gear. In fact, the format of the first half of the book mirrors the survival priorities, and I think that’s an excellent way to reinforce the hierarchy of survival needs.

This book is fun to read, easy to understand, and packed with neat hacks that could give your family lots of projects to try this summer—and give them the edge in a real survival setting. 

Was there anything I didn’t like about the book? Nope, it was well done and very educational. Survival Hacks retails for $12.99 in the U.S. (although you can find it for slightly less on Amazon) and is available where survival books are sold. And given the content and the time of year right now, it could make a great gift idea for those dads and grads in your life.

Have you read this book yet? Tell us how you liked it by leaving a comment.