How I understand it is: 3km-8km=-5km. So if you want to see this visually draw a number line from -5 to +3. Start at +3 and subtract (walk backwards) 8 spaces. This will lead you to -5. :) Don't forget to include 0 in the middle of your number line!
Hope this helps! :)
If you still don't understand it ask me for more advise, I'd be happy to help!