This Clothing Trick Can Help You Stay Afloat If You Fall Into Water While Adventuring

Some of the most breathtaking nature walks take place near the water. For instance, there are the trails around Blausee, one of the most mesmerizing lakes in Switzerland, as well as the hikes that show off the Great Lakes. Countless other treks can be found all over the world, offering views of rivers, waterfalls, and other H2O stunners. However, it's crucial to know how to stay afloat in the unfortunate event that you fall into the water.

Whether you plan to take a dip during your hike or not, accidents happen, and you might end up in the water when you least expect it — and when you're not even wearing your swimsuit. Thankfully, this can work to your advantage, according to one invaluable survival tip shared by @coachmikenitro on Instagram. In a video, the swimming coach shows how to use your pants to help you float and keep yourself from drowning.

First, @coachmikenitro says to remove your shoes and pants, making sure to take a big breath before submerging your head underwater. Then, create a life vest using your pants. Start by tying the bottoms of the pant legs together in a double knot. Then, inflate the pants by swinging the garment around or splashing air into the top opening. When done correctly, this technique will turn the pants into a floaty of sorts, which can be held in place around the neck.

The social media coach isn't the only one to use the flotation pants hack; Navy SEALs also use the clothing trick to stay afloat in an emergency. Even so, some people have doubts about the technique. On @coachmikenitro's Instagram post, commenters pointed out that it won't work if you're wearing shorts, a skirt, or ripped jeans. Others suggested it would be too difficult to remove your shoes and pants in the water if you're not a skilled swimmer.

One alternative, demonstrated in a video by the West Point Department of Physical Education, uses a shirt instead of pants. If your hiking shirt has a collar, it can be pulled around your neck to create a seal, making it perfect for a DIY life preserver. With the chin tucked, blow air from your mouth into the back of the shirt until it inflates.

If that still sounds a little too advanced, consider bringing some water safety tools when you're packing the safest hiking gear. For instance, consider using an anti-drowning inflatable backpack when hiking near deep waters. And don't forget to bring hiking poles. Not only will they help prevent a fall in the first place, but they can also be used by your hiking companion to pull you back to safety.