Asher's Survival Guide for Wild Kids of South Africa offers a comprehensive 100-page manual on essential survival skills tailored to the South African bushveld. It covers everything from fire-starting and foraging to crafting knots, traps, and hunting tools, as well as navigation techniques including map reading and compass use, plus basic isiZulu phrases for the wild. Included is an ecology booklet to track wildlife, log new abilities, and journal experiences. The guide also features a pull-out, scalable map with stickers, making it an indispensable resource for young adventurers eager to explore and thrive in nature.
First-trip family camping checklist
Planning your first night outdoors? Use this practical checklist with Asher's Survival Guide to turn preparation into part of the adventure. Pack for your campsite, the forecast, and your family's comfort, and keep adults involved in decisions about fire, tools, water, wildlife, and changing conditions.
Clothing and weather layers
- Breathable base layers, a warm mid-layer for cool evenings, and a lightweight wind- or rain layer.
- A sun hat, closed shoes, spare socks, and comfortable sleepwear.
- Extra clothing in a waterproof bag, especially for children who love exploring.
- Layers suited to your local South African conditions, including chilly mornings, warm afternoons, or sudden showers.
Sleep and comfort
- Tent, groundsheet, sleeping bags or blankets, sleeping mats, and small pillows.
- Headlamps or torches with spare batteries, plus a familiar comfort item for younger campers.
- Water bottles, camp chairs or a picnic blanket, and rubbish bags to leave the site tidy.
Basic safety preparation
- Review the campsite plan, contact details, weather forecast, and site rules before leaving.
- Bring a charged phone or power bank, a torch, drinking water, and the basic first-aid supplies your family normally uses.
- Give children clear boundaries and simple check-in rules. Keep fire, sharp tools, water, and wildlife encounters adult-managed, and follow local guidance.
Asher's guide makes preparation hands-on, with map reading, compass practice, knots, nature observation, and space to record new skills. Choose activities that suit each child's age and experience, with an adult nearby.
Simple camp food
- Pack easy snacks such as fruit, sandwiches or wraps, trail mix, and drinking water.
- Plan one simple meal that needs minimal equipment, and bring a cooler or sealed containers where appropriate.
- Keep food stored away from monkeys and baboons and involve children in age-appropriate preparation with adult supervision.
For more outdoor meal inspiration, pair Asher's Survival Guide with Asher's Adventure Camping Cookbook.
Activities children can enjoy
- Use a map to spot landmarks, make a nature journal entry, or try a family wildlife checklist from a respectful distance.
- Play a colour, shape, or sound scavenger hunt without picking plants or disturbing animals.
- Let children choose a small camp job.
First-trip FAQ
What should we bring if we have never camped before?
Start with shelter, warm and dry layers, sleep gear, water, simple food, lights, and a few familiar comforts. A short campsite stay close to home can make the first trip feel manageable.
What if the weather changes?
Check the forecast before leaving, pack an extra layer and rain cover, and have a simple plan for getting children warm and dry. Follow the campsite's instructions and change plans when conditions call for it.
How can children take part?
Give each child an age-appropriate job, such as finding the next map landmark, recording wildlife, or checking off the checklist. Adults should supervise activities involving fire, tools, water, food preparation, or unfamiliar wildlife.
Can the guide replace adult guidance?
No. It is a hands-on learning companion for families. Adults should choose activities that fit the child, campsite, weather, and local rules, and provide supervision throughout the trip.
