Why This Skill Matters in an Emergency or Survival Situation

Building a travois is a valuable skill for emergency or survival situations where traditional transportation methods are unavailable or impractical. A travois can be used to transport goods, injured individuals, or even as a makeshift stretcher. It is particularly useful in areas with rough terrain or when carrying heavy loads over long distances.

What You Need

Materials

  • Two long, sturdy poles (approximately 10 feet each)
  • A crossbar (about 3 feet long)
  • A strong, flexible rope or cord
  • Optional: additional padding or a frame for carrying people

Tools

  • Knife or saw for cutting poles
  • Scissors or sharp tool for cutting rope
  • Optional: hammer and nails for securing the crossbar

Knowledge

Understanding basic knots and lashings is essential for securing the poles and crossbar together. Familiarity with the terrain and the types of materials available in your environment can also be beneficial.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Selecting Poles: Choose two poles that are straight and sturdy. They should be long enough to extend beyond the crossbar on both ends.
  2. Preparing the Poles: Trim any branches or protruding parts from the poles to ensure they are smooth and free of obstructions.
  3. Attaching the Crossbar: Position the crossbar near the middle of the poles. Use a strong rope or cord to lash the crossbar to both poles. Start by wrapping the rope around the crossbar and one pole, then cross the rope over itself and pull tight. Repeat this process on the other side of the crossbar.
  4. Securing the Ends: Tie the ends of the poles together with a rope or cord. This helps to keep the poles from spreading apart and ensures stability.
  5. Adding Load Carrying Capacity: If you plan to carry heavy loads, you can attach additional ropes or straps to the poles near the crossbar. These can be used to secure the load to the travois.
  6. Using the Travois: To transport a load, place it on the crossbar and secure it with ropes or straps. For carrying people, ensure the padding or frame is comfortable and secure.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

  • Using Weak Poles: Ensure the poles are sturdy and straight to prevent breakage during use.
  • Improper Lashing: Make sure the knots and lashings are tight and secure. Loose knots can lead to the poles or crossbar coming apart.
  • Overloading: Do not exceed the weight capacity of the travois. Overloading can cause the poles to break or the travois to become unstable.

Variations, Tips, and Related Techniques

  • Adjustable Length: You can make the travois adjustable by using a sliding knot or a loop that can be tightened and loosened to change the length.
  • Multiple Crossbars: For carrying multiple items, you can add additional crossbars to the poles.
  • Padding: Use available materials like cloth, blankets, or branches to create padding for carrying people or delicate items.
  • Traction: In slippery conditions, you can attach ropes or cords to the bottom of the poles to increase traction.

TLDR

Building a travois is a practical skill for transporting goods or people in survival situations. Use two sturdy poles, a crossbar, and rope to create a stable and effective transport device. Ensure materials are strong and knots are secure to avoid common mistakes.

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