Backpacker's Survival Guide

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Heading into the open wilderness is exciting, but can be dangerous. But you can be part of the wild outdoors and be safe as well if you take the proper precautions. Once you have made proper preparations, you can relax on the trail and have a great time.

Don’t Get Lost—Prepare

Traditionally, hikers and hunters have relied on waterproof paper topography maps and a compass to find their way. Although these maps are light, they cannot do what modern mapping software and a GPS hand held unit can do.

Many GPS units weigh less than ten ounces, can upload mapping software with topo maps and points of interest, work as walkie-talkies, include a compass, can track your current location on the trail, point you in the right direction and are waterproof. A loaded GPS unit can be your communicator, navigator and experienced trail guide, all wrapped into one package.

Understand the Navigation Equipment

But the best GPS system and mapping software in the world can’t help you if you have no clue how to use them. Spend some time getting to know your equipment and how to read topo maps before you get out on the trail and your life depends on them.

To test your equipment and your ability to use it, go to a familiar area and learn to identify features such as ridges, valleys, meadows, and streams on your GPS unit and mapping software. Once you know what these features look like on your GPS screen, you will be able to identity similar features in unknown territory.

Remember to bring extra batteries or a solar battery charger with compatible rechargeable batteries if you plan on a long trip. Nothing is worse than having the right equipment in your hands but no power to use it.

Leave an Itinerary with a Friend

Plan your trip with mapping software, and then print your map and itinerary to leave a copy behind with a trusted friend in case of emergency. Give your friend a specific time that you’ll get in touch.

Such preparations may seem paranoid, but letting someone know where you plan to be and when you’ll be back have saved the lives of many unfortunate solo hikers who have become injured and cannot hike out. Better yet, don’t travel solo. Always take along friend.

Pack Well

Once you have figured out how to navigate and not get lost, decide what to bring. Consider the weather and how long you plan to be on the trail. Here’s an all-purpose list to choose from: ( Printable Version )

Once your backpack is full, you have left your itinerary and maps with a friend and you have become accustomed to using your GPS unit and mapping software, you’re ready for the trail and should have a safe trip with no worries about getting lost.