Today I’ve got something really exciting to share…

A Complete Guide To Buying, Building & Uses Diversion Safes

Because diversion safes are just awesome…

They allow you to hide valuables in plain sight!

• So whether you’re looking for your first
• OR want to add one to your collection…

I’m going to show you the best ones available AND how to make your own…

TOPICS IN THIS GUIDE…    ↓(click to jump)

• Best Diversion Safes Today
• Best Items Worth Stashing
• What Is A Diversion Safe?
• Regular vs. Diversion
• Best Diversion Safe Features
• How to Make One Yourself

Want a free 78 item prepper checklist?

Click here to instantly download this Complete Checklist PDF. No purchase necessary.

Best Diversion Safes On The Market Today

Many styles, shapes, and sizes are available today.

It’s tricky to know exactly what you’re getting.

That’s why we list some of the highest-rated, most widely acclaimed diversion safes.

The list is diverse to give you a taste of the vast choices.

Some are simple, some are clever, and others are outright devious.

But they are all high quality, intelligently designed, and explicitly made to hide your valuables.

↓ RamPro Hide-a-Spare-Key Fake Rock

↓ Hair Brush Safe

↓ What Is The Shaving Cream Safe?

↓ The Flower Pot Hidden Safe

↓ Real Paper Transfer Book Safe

Note: If you are looking for even bigger hidden safes, look at our “How To Hide Guns In Plain Sight.”

Best Items Worth Stashing

Of course, there’s an endless number of valuables you can hide.

But here are a few of the most common and the most popular:

Stashing Emergency Cash

Having an emergency cash stash is a valuable survival preparation step.

These safes are perfect for keeping a little somethin’ extra hidden away.

A bit of “mad money” you can access quickly.

Or some extra insurance for the day the financial sector collapses.

With a diversion safe, you know exactly where you can get your hands on cold, hard cash.

You can quickly grab it on the way out the door in an emergency disaster.

Because keeping all your cash in a bank is a disaster waiting to happen.

Hiding A Spare Key

Don’t tuck your spare house key under the doormat.

That’s only slightly better than leaving the front door wide open.

But plenty of hidden safes are designed to look like rocks or landscape objects.

Things that are normal to see on or around a porch.

Keeping a spare key inside one is a smart way to avoid the dreaded lockout.

Concealing Illegal Drugs

I’m NOT advocating for drug use here…

But if you have an illegal substance, there’s no better place to hide it than a diversion safe.

They’ll hide the contents from looters, roommates, spouses, and curious kids.

But they’ll also protect your stash from snoopy authorities.

Just be aware even the best ones won’t keep a drug-sniffing dog from finding your stash.

Protecting Special Documents

Perhaps you have some “special” documents you want to keep close but also safe.

If you have such documents, but it’s worth stealing, storing them inside a hidden safe is a sneaky way to protect them.

Most are large enough to keep a USB thumb drive inside.

So, you could store a small library of information in your safe.

Sending Secret Messages

Need to deliver a message in secret?

Need to send some critical information to someone you CANNOT meet in person?

No problem.

Stash your message inside a hidden safe, and leave it in a pre-specified location.

A message delivery system without creating a digital footprint.

Just remember to end the message with a p.s.:

“Destroy after reading!”

Sneaking Weapons Around

Something unsuspecting, like a book or a clock, can work for weapon concealment.

Now we’re not encouraging you to sneak guns or knives into places where they’re illegal.

But the option is there if/when it makes sense.

What Is A Diversion Safe Anyway?

You’ve likely seen such a safe used in Hollywood movies.

They’re used to create mystery, intrigue, and exciting plot twists.

• Often, a book opens up containing a gun instead of pages.
• Or tabletops that slide aside to reveal secret documents.
• Or drawers with false bottoms to conceal scandalous photos or illegal paraphernalia…

A classic example is in the iconic movie Shawshank Redemption.

Andy Dufresne hides a small excavation hammer inside a hollowed-out Bible.

↓ Shawshank’s Hollowed-Out Bible

They’re safes wearing the skin of an everyday object.

And the more mundane and boring the object, the better.

A thief searching for valuables will automatically skip over a dull, everyday object.

That’s the power of a diversion safe.

Their brain will not register it as anything of value.

Soda cans, hairbrushes, electrical sockets, and food jars make excellent hidden safes.

Because nobody’s going to take the time to search for those items.

99% of the time, those objects are exactly what they look like.

Making it a dumb tactic for a thief to check those items on the off chance it’s a safe.

There’s no time for that when ransacking a house.

Thieves seek obvious targets – jewelry drawers, closet safes, and expensive gadgets.

The idea, when used correctly, is powerful.

Want a free 54 item survival gear checklist?

Click here to instantly download this Complete Checklist PDF. No purchase necessary.

Regular Vs. Diversion 

The problem with a conventional safe is – you know there’s something of value inside.

It’s a treasure chest for criminals.

When they see one, they know whatever’s inside is worth stealing.

Because no sane person puts trash in an expensive safe, right?

Nope, we put $100 bills, gold coins, expensive jewelry, and family heirlooms in them.

So when presented with such a juicy opportunity – a thief won’t hesitate to nab your safe.

They’ll pry that sucker off the wall if necessary.

And don’t fool yourself; they know how to open it “back at the shop.”

That’s why it may be safer to hide your valuables in plain sight…

This is not to say you shouldn’t use a conventional safe.

Short of safe-cracking skills, modern safes are challenging to get into for a would-be thief.

But there are situations when it makes sense to hide something in a non-conventional manner.

The best way to do that is with a diversion.

These sneaky lockboxes offer a smart way to store valuable items in unsuspecting places.

Like in a hairbrush, a boring book, a jar of peanut butter, or even dirty underwear!

A hidden safe offers a different kind of security.

A disguise that makes your valuables virtually invisible.

They come in all kinds and sizes, and in almost any design you can imagine.

There’s one out there that’s perfect for the job at hand.

Want a free 78 item prepper checklist?

Click here to instantly download this Complete Checklist PDF. No purchase necessary.

Best Diversion Safe Features To Look For

Just like well-designed survival gear, there are key features:

Keep these particular qualities in mind when looking at all your options online.

Ordinary Household Objects (Mundane & Boring)

The main feature is like using camouflage; it blends in with its environment.

But the environment you’re working with isn’t a forest; it’s everyday household items.

So avoid anything flashy and fancy.

That would defeat the entire purpose.

That is why these safes often take on the appearance of items that people want nothing to do with:

• cleaning supplies
• lengthy books
• personal hygiene items
• there are even some disguised as dirty laundry

The more mundane the object, the better.

Believability

Some safes have the right idea but miss the mark on authenticity.

It must be believable.

If it sticks out like a sore thumb as a fake book or a fake can of soda, it’s more likely to attract unwanted attention.

A well-designed hidden safe should be able to fool you.

If you can tell it’s a dupe, so can others.

Just because someone is a criminal doesn’t mean they’re not smart.

Heck, the best criminals are the smartest ones.

The ones that DON’T get caught.

Secure Mechanism

Many hidden safes rely too heavily on their disguise as a deterrent, not security.

If you hide real valuables, get a safe with a sturdy locking mechanism.

A key lock or a combination lock enhances the effectiveness.

No, a professional thief will take the safe with them and use tools to break into it.

But a lock will deter curious kids and roommates from opening the safe – should they find it.

Has Some Keepsake Value

The problem with “low-value” safes is those items often get tossed out, moved, or lost.

Nobody thinks twice about tossing out an empty bottle of laundry detergent – that’s actually your safe!

Of course, you’d never accidentally do that.

But a helpful neat freak friend or your busy beaver mother-in-law might.

Safes that resemble items with a bit of keepsake value are at a lower risk of being accidentally tossed or lost.

Think of memorable items (like a potted plant) or hold some long-term value (like a book).

Want a free 78 item prepper checklist?

Click here to instantly download this Complete Checklist PDF. No purchase necessary.

Making Your Own From Scratch

Obviously, you can make your own.

It can be as simple as converting an old product into a container with a hidden compartment.

Boom, you have yourself a hidden safe!

And it will probably cost you a lot less, too.

To give you some ideas on what’s possible – check out these 3 simple to make DIY safes:

↓ 3 Ways To Make A Secret Safe

The question of security becomes a double-edged sword, though.

Because if you are lazy about making yours, it might not be effective.

Don’t cut a mountain dew bottle in half and stuff it full of cash.

You won’t be doing yourself any favors.

Buying one means you have guaranteed security, especially if you get one with a lockbox.

By that same token, you can ensure it’s extra secure by making your own.

If you go the extra mile and design a good one, you could create a hyper-secure safe. 

If it’s good enough, you might even be able to sell it…

So what kinds of things make for good hidden safes?

The list of highly-rated ones we covered above has some good examples.

But here’s a short list of other items that might work well, too:

• Flashlight
• Lamps
• Paperweights
• Liquor or wine bottles
• Candles
• Food cans/boxes
• Condiment bottles

You get the idea.

The bottom line:

Choose a diversion safe that’s right for you.

• It can be something as simple as a false bottom in a drawer.
• Or a hidden gun safe behind a painting, or a safe disguised in a brick wall…

The sky is the limit because the concept is so clever and simple.

Why Trust Skilled Survival…

Go here now to review a full breakdown of:

Who We Are

Our Credentials

Our Mission

& Product Recommendations…

Here are a few highlights of our teams credentials & certifications:

• Certified Member of a Mountain Search & Rescue Organization
• Plant Emergency & Safety Leader for a Major Food Manufacturer
• Member of the 10TH Mountain Division Hut Association
• Certifications: Avalanche 1, WFR, CPR
• Official Gear Tester for Numerous Outdoor Gear Companies
• Countless Multiday Backpacking trips into Remote Wilderness
• Bachelor’s Degree In Mechanical Engineering 
• Bachelor’s Degree In Civil Engineering
• Bachelor’s Degree In Biomedical Engineering

“It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it.” – Warren Buffett

We’re fully aware that trust is NOT something you GET but is EARNED.

And we’ll continue to earn YOUR trust through our forthright and honest approach with each new Blog Post, Guide & Product we create…

Will Brendza

Bachelor of Arts, University of Colorado at Boulder

Member of The 10th Mountain Division Hut Association

Certifications: Avalanche 1, WFR (expired), CPR (expired)

8+ Years Researching, Writing, About Survival and Preparedness

Awards from Society of Professional Journalists

Winner of Camp Cold’s “Happy Camper” award in 2020

P.s. Do You Live In A ‘Danger Zone’ County?

Find out now using my Danger Zone County List & Special Report it’s absolutely FREE. In minutes you’ll know EXACTLY where you stand and if you should be worried or not..

So click here to get my FREE Danger Zone County List & Report…. Click on the image to get the List & Report for FREE and find out if YOU live in a ‘Danger Zone’ County…”

The post 10 Best Diversion Safes To Keep Your Stash Well Hidden appeared first on Skilled Survival.

Today I’ve got something extremely important to share…

A Complete Guide To Finding & Using a Bivy Sack For Freeze Cold Temps

Because when it comes time to survive the elements, you need a lightweight shelter you can trust.

• Sure, there are tons of camping tents on the market.
• And there are even some lightweight survival tents.

But it’s hard to find a 4-season tent designed for one person that doesn’t weigh 3-4 lbs.

While that sounds light, 4 lbs. is a big addition to your pack in both weight and volume.

But there’s another option: A bivy sack!

TOPICS IN THIS GUIDE…    ↓(click to jump)

• Best Bivy Sacks On The Market
• What’s A Bivouac Sack Anyway?
• The Best Bivy Sack Features
• Dispelling A Few Bivy Myths
• Who Should Own One?

Want a free 54 item survival gear checklist?

Click here to instantly download this Complete Checklist PDF. No purchase necessary.

Best Bivy Sacks For Sale Today

There are dozens of sleep systems and shelter options on the market today.

However, there are 2 main categories:

1. High-End
2. Emergency

High-End

The high-end offerings are largely from mountaineering companies.

These tactical sacks use high-tech fabrics and lighter weights, with prices to match.

These are designed for heavy duty use in the worst conditions and repeat usage.

They are essential if gear failure could be the difference between life and death.

I’ve slept in 0-deg sleeping bags and mountaineering bivvies during rescue missions.

We’re talking in heavy wind and snow down to -15deg.

I won’t say it was my life’s “best” night of sleep.

But I stayed dry and reasonably warm.

It allowed me to catch some much-needed sleep before continuing the search and rescue mission:

↓ FREEZING Solo Winter Wild Camp

↓ U.S. Army Modular Sleep System

↓ Outdoor Research Helium Bivy

Emergency Bivvy’s

Finally, there are the “emergency sacks”.

These are mainly reinforced mylar tarps and space blankets.

A tiny, lightweight bivy focused on portability and retaining body heat than keeping the elements out.

An emergency bivy can be a super minimalist camping option if you expect cool temps, but the chances of snow or rain are low.

However, I wouldn’t advise using one if a blizzard is in the forecast.

↓ Survival Frog TACT Bivvy Review

↓ SOL Escape Bivvy – Review

What’s A Bivouac Sack Anyway?

First of all, the term is short for bivouac.

The official definition of the bivouac is:

“a temporary camp without tents or cover used especially by soldiers or mountaineers.”

Otherwise known as – sleeping under the stars…

↓ Truth About Using A Bivy

And a sack is:

“a single-person tent distilled down to only the essential components.”

Putting the two together it’s a lightweight temporary portable waterproofing and breathability sleeping bag cover.

A cover lets you skip the heavy tent and stay protected from rain and snow.

Some models even include some nice features.

I’ve seen Bivouac sacks that include a bug net.

Others include a small pole system (to keep the fabric off your face while you sleep).

Helping from feeling too claustrophobic if you zip everything shut in bad weather.

All while keeping you warm and dry by blocking the wind and adding 10deg of insulation to your sleep system.

Soldiers, scouts, and mountaineers have used them for decades.

Because they’re lightweight, easy to set up, and low profile, this helps soldiers move fast, stay alive in harsh elements, and evade the enemy.

Modern materials (such as Gore-Tex) have made these sacks far more breathable and less clammy.

This results in a much more comfortable option for individual travelers.

Plus, it packs down small to take with you where traditional tent won’t.

The bottom line is:

Ultralight bivy bags are the ideal cold-weather protection for survivalists and ultralight backpackers.

And if you pair this sleep system with a sleeping pad – you’re not sacrificing.

Want a free 54 item survival gear checklist?

Click here to instantly download this Complete Checklist PDF. No purchase necessary.

Best Bivy Sack Features To Look For

So, before we get into the different types, it’s worth a quick comparison of tents vs. bivy sacks.

Durability

This depends on the quality of the build.

There are both highly durable camping tents as well as emergency bags. So there’s no clear winner here. 

But look for one with ripstop nylon to ensure it can handle the snags you’ll find in the great outdoors.

Weight

A bivy sack is a hands-down winner here.

Even the heaviest ones come in at less than 2 pounds.

You won’t find many tents that light – and even fewer designed for extreme weather.

Pack Size

Again, the bivy has the edge.

While I’ve seen some pretty compact tents, mine is smaller than a water bottle.

It’s even smaller than my down jacket!

Price

This one is a draw based on designs for similar conditions.

A four-season Gore-Tex sack may cost several hundred dollars.

But so will a tent designed with the same specs.

Conversely, some are very inexpensive, even under $50.

These aren’t the shelters you want for heavy repeat use in seriously extreme weather.

However, they provide a great option when you might not take shelter otherwise.

These more affordable options are best for emergencies or more temperate climates.

Comfort

We can’t sugar-coat this one.

A tent is a more comfortable option in nearly every case.

At best, an emergency bag lets you lean on an elbow and read a book.

You won’t have the space to sort through your gear or spread out in one.

So it may be too small if a mummy-style sleeping bag makes you claustrophobic.

On the other hand, in cold weather, a tent has a lot of cold, dead air space to warm up.

While a bivy sack keeps your body heat close.

Dispelling A Few Myths

Myth 1. Only For High-Altitude Mountaineering

First and foremost, some folks think they’re only for extreme, high-altitude mountaineering expeditions.

But that isn’t the case, friends!

They’re a great option for anyone who wants to travel light and fast in the backcountry, whether you’re going for a weekend hike or a multi-day trek.

Myth 2. They’re Uncomfortable

Another myth is that they’re claustrophobic and uncomfortable.

I won’t lie to you; some can be a bit snug.

But that doesn’t mean they’re uncomfortable!

In fact, many folks find they provide a cozy, secure sleeping space that can enhance their overall camping experience.

Myth 3. They’re Terrible In The Rain

Some people also think they’re only good for dry weather.

But that’s not true!

While it’s true that some bivy sacks aren’t 100% waterproof, many are made with materials that can withstand rain and other wet conditions.

And if you’re worried about getting wet, you can always pack an additional tarp or rainfly to throw over it.

Myth 4. They’re Difficult To Set Up

Finally, some folks believe they’re difficult to set up and use.

But they’re actually one of the easiest camping shelters to use!

Find a flat spot to lie down, unroll it, and crawl inside. That’s it!

No poles to set up and no complicated rainfly attachments to fuss with. It’s simplicity at its finest.

So there you have it – some of the biggest myths debunked.

Who Should Own At Least One

Well, that depends on your outdoor activities and preparedness needs.

But you should pack an emergency bag if you spend time outdoors, hiking, hunting, fishing, etc.

They’re a versatile and valuable tool for various outdoor enthusiasts.

Campers

If you enjoy backpacking or camping in te wild, a bivy sack can be a lightweight and compact alternative to a backpacking tent.

It offers shelter and protection from the elements while occupying minimal space in your pack.

Plus, it’s easy to set up and take down, making it a convenient option for on-the-go adventurers.

Hunters

If you’re a hunter, they can provide a safe and secure shelter during extended hunts.

It can protect you from the elements while you wait for your prey, and its small size means it won’t take up much space in your hunting gear.

Preppers

For those who prioritize preparedness, it’s an excellent addition to your emergency kit.

It can be used as a temporary shelter during a disaster, protecting you from the elements while waiting for rescue or help.

Survivalists

Finally, for survivalists, these emergency shelters are a must-have item.

t can be used in various survival situations, from providing emergency shelter to trapping heat to staying dry in wet conditions.

Its compact size makes it easy to carry in a bug-out bag.

In summary, whether you’re a camper, hunter, prepper, or survivalist, owning a bivy sack can be a valuable investment for outdoor activities and preparedness.

Brief History Of The Bivy Sack

The history of bivy sacks, or bivouac sacks, is a fascinating journey through the evolution of outdoor survival gear.

Military Origins

Bivy sacks trace their roots back to military use, where soldiers needed portable and efficient sleeping solutions during wartime.

The concept was simple:

Create a shelter that was easy to carry, quick to set up, and offered protection from weather and the environment.

These early versions were rudimentary, often just basic waterproof covers, providing minimal insulation and comfort but critical protection.

Mountaineering Adoption

The true development of bivy sacks began with their adoption by mountaineers.

In the early to mid-20th century, climbers tackling high alpine routes needed lightweight, compact shelter options that could be used on ledges or in other situations where traditional tents were impractical.

The alpine bivy sack answered this need, offering a way to spend nights on the mountain without the bulk and weight of a full tent.

Material Advancements

A significant leap in bivy sack design came with advancements in materials.

Initially made from canvas or other heavy, minimally water-resistant fabrics, the introduction of nylon in the 1960s was a game-changer.

This lighter, more durable, and water-resistant material made bivy sacks more practical and comfortable.

Later, the development of Gore-Tex and similar breathable, waterproof fabrics further revolutionized bivy sacks.

Making them not just a survival gear but a viable alternative to tents for solo adventurers seeking to reduce their pack weight.

Popularity Among Solo Adventurers

In the latter part of the 20th century, bivy sacks gained popularity among solo hikers, backpackers, and mountaineers.

The appeal was clear:

Bivy sacks offered a way to experience the wilderness in a more direct, unencumbered way.

They facilitated a deeper connection with nature, offering the ability to sleep under the stars while being protected from the elements.

Modern Bivy Sacks

Today’s bivy sacks are marvels of design and technology.

They come in various styles, from minimalist covers to more advanced, hooped designs that offer extra space.

Modern bivies balance the need for weather protection, breathability, and low weight.

They incorporate advanced fabrics, waterproof zippers, bug nets, and even small poles to create a more spacious head area.

Final Thoughts

For a solo traveler, efficiency is critical, and a bivy sack is a great way to cut down on the bulk and weight of a tent in your pack.

They provide a fast and light shelter in a wide range of conditions.

Plus, they’ve been proven as a core piece of survival gear for our military.

With the wide range of options on the market, there’s one for nearly any budget.

If you haven’t checked them out yet, do it now!

Why Trust Skilled Survival…

Go here now to review a full breakdown of:

Who We Are

Our Credentials

Our Mission

& Product Recommendations…

Here are a few highlights of our teams credentials & certifications:

• Certified Member of a Mountain Search & Rescue Organization
• Plant Emergency & Safety Leader for a Major Food Manufacturer
• Member of the 10TH Mountain Division Hut Association
• Certifications: Avalanche 1, WFR, CPR
• Official Gear Tester for Numerous Outdoor Gear Companies
• Countless Multiday Backpacking trips into Remote Wilderness
• Bachelor’s Degree In Mechanical Engineering 
• Bachelor’s Degree In Civil Engineering
• Bachelor’s Degree In Biomedical Engineering

“It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it.” – Warren Buffett

We’re fully aware that TRUST is NOT something you GET but is EARNED.

And we’ll continue to earn YOUR trust through our forthright and honest approach with each new Blog Post, Guide & Product we create…

Jason K.

Born & Raised In The Remote Woods Of Michigan

Engineering Degree From A Major University

Long Standing Member Of Mountain Search & Rescue

Offical Gear Tester For Several Outdoor Companies

Avid Outdoorsman: Backpacking, Camping, Fishing

Years Researching & Writing About Survival & Gear

P.s. Do You Live In A ‘Danger Zone’ County?

Find out now using my Danger Zone County List & Special Report it’s absolutely FREE. In minutes you’ll know EXACTLY where you stand and if you should be worried or not..

So click here to get my FREE Danger Zone County List & Report…. Click on the image to get the List & Report for FREE and find out if YOU live in a ‘Danger Zone’ County…”

Top Image Credit

The post Best Bivy Sacks To Survive Freezing Cold Temperatures appeared first on Skilled Survival.

Today I’ve got something really cool to share…

A List Of The Best Cool Camping Gear For Your Next Adventure

Once you’ve acquired your camping essentials, it’s time to add some cool camping gear.

Gear that’ll impress your friends and take your adventures to a whole new level of awesome!

Which means more convenience, comfort, and fun!

Want a free camping essentials checklist?

Click here to instantly download this Complete Checklist PDF. No purchase necessary.