Baked beans have saved us a couple of times. The tinned food is a staple on camping trips because they’re easy to warm up over a fire, or can be eaten cold in a pinch. But it only works if you can actually get the can open…
Using a can opener is, of course, first prize; but if you don’t have one on hand, there are some other creative methods that can pry that tin apart.
A Spoon
This one may take a while, but we assure you, it will work… eventually. Grasp the head of the spoon and use the handle to create a dent along the edge of the lid. Using pressure, make a hole in the tin, and repeat until you can open the can.
Chef’s Knife
Chefs need pretty sturdy knives for all the chopping they have to get done. If you have one on hand, it can be used as a makeshift can opener. Place the heel of the knife along the inner edge of the lid, using the other hand to keep the can steady. Carefully, but firmly, use the corner of the knife to break through the surface. Continue slowly moving the heel along the edge until the lid can be lifted.
Rock
Rock beats scissors, and, apparently, cans. Rub the top of the tin on a flat edge of a rock to break its seal. Disclaimer: lots of patience is required. Wipe away the metal shavings from the lid before removing it, so as to not hurt yourself.
