1. Hunting and Animal Husbandry Skills

Hunting wild animals was a vital part of Viking life. They hunted reindeer, deer, and seals for both food and fur to get through winter.
In addition to hunting, they raised livestock such as sheep, cattle, and goats, providing a stable food source throughout the year. Vikings often made cheese, yogurt, and preserved meat for long-term use.

2. Farming and Harvesting Techniques

Although the Scandinavian lands were not easy to farm, Vikings used small plots to grow barley, oats, and wheat. These were their primary food sources, used for making bread and brewing beer.
They also grew vegetables like onions, garlic, and turnips to supplement their diets, which helped them fight off cold and avoid vitamin deficiencies in winter.

3. Food Preservation Techniques

Vikings used salting, drying, and smoking to store food for long periods. Salted or dried fish and meat were essential foods that helped them survive harsh winters.

They also widely used fermentation, which helped preserve food and provided beneficial bacteria for digestion.

4. Building Cold-Resistant Houses

Viking houses, or longhouses, were built from wood and had roofs covered in grass or straw to retain heat. These longhouses allowed communities to live closely together, creating a warmer and more connected environment.
They constructed stone fireplaces in the center of the house to distribute heat evenly and keep the entire family warm.

5. Cold-Resistant Clothing

Fur and thick woolen clothing were essential for Vikings to endure the extreme cold. They used animal furs like bears, foxes, and wolves to create warm coats.
Each layer of clothing served a specific purpose: fur coats for warmth, woolen layers for breathability, and an outer layer to protect against wind.

6. Seafaring and Navigation Skills

To survive in a marine environment, Vikings were highly skilled in seafaring and navigation. They used sunstone tools to determine their position, even in thick fog.

Viking longships were not only built for combat but also allowed them to explore new lands and trade.

7. Building a Resilient Community

Vikings upheld a strong sense of community responsibility and had strict laws and customs to ensure order and safety.

The spirit of unity was crucial for their survival. Every family and community member had specific roles and responsibilities, from hunting and farming to caretaking.

8. Maintaining Physical and Mental Health

Vikings maintained physical health through activities like hiking, rowing, and strength training. This helped them endure cold weather and perform physically demanding tasks.

They also took care of their mental health through festivals and religious ceremonies, which strengthened their bonds and faith in the gods.

The Vikings were not just fierce warriors but also survival experts with unique skills. Their survival techniques not only helped them withstand harsh conditions but also built a lasting and resilient civilization. Learning from the Vikings, we can gain deeper insights into the importance of adaptability, community strength, and unity in life.

Check out some Vikings inspired designs here