The main function of a shelter is to protect us from the environment. Extreme heat may produce a heat stroke but on the other hand, an excess of cold produces hypothermia and freezing. Mosquitoes may devour us in swampy areas and if we are soaked to the marrow we could catch pneumonia.

A good shelter, besides protecting us from the elements above, provides comfort, safety and psychological security. The type of shelter you build will depend on your needs, the time you will remain in that place and the tools you have. You should always include at least one pocket knife, a dagger and 2×2 plastic sheets or similar in your luggage. These items will take up very little space and not weigh too much. They will also provide you with a water proof roof.

If weight is not an issue, you could also include a small ax or machete.

Location

You will want to seek a place that is dry and sheltered from the wind; and away from stagnant water or swamps to avoid being devoured by mosquitoes. Although a nearby source of water, such as a small stream would be ideal.

To minimize risks, it is advisable to shy away from riverbanks since they could surprise you with a rise in water level, even during sunny weather, as a result of a natural dam breakage; which happened not too long ago during a camping trip, devastating the site in a matter of minutes. People perished inside their vehicles and campers, dragged by the current. The same can be said about dry riverbeds that can turn into torrents during a storm before we even notice.

It is not recommended to camp under trees because of the risk of a branch falling on us. I admit I overlook this rule frequently, since trees protect us from dew. If you decide to do as I do, check for dead branches that might pose as a threat. Also, avoid places in direct danger of rock detachment or risk of snow avalanches.

It is important to pay attention to your surroundings to avoid realizing that, once our construction has been completed, that your neighbors are a beehive or an ant colonies.