How to Build a Simple Desert Shelter With a Poncho or Blanket

Survivalists know how to construct shelters with whatever is available. In the desert, a shelter can mean the difference between life and death. Follow these tips to build a simple desert shelter from a poncho or blanket.

Instructions

  1. Using Outcropped Rock

    • 1

      Locate a rock that is outcropped (above the surface of the ground).

    • 2

      Anchor one end of a poncho, cloth, or emergency blanket to the rock. You can use other rocks and stones to hold the end down, or if there's a lot of sand available, you can pile it on top of one end to keep it weighted down.

    • 3

      Stretch the material out carefully and anchor the other end to the ground so that the cloth is angled downward. Check the sun's location in the sky and find a shady area.

    Using Sandy Mound

    • 4

      Dig into the sand and make a hole big enough in which to comfortably rest.

    • 5

      Use one mound on one side of the hole to anchor the end of your poncho, cloth or blanket. Hold it down with rocks or sand.

    • 6

      Stretch out the material over the hole and anchor the other end on the other side.