If you’re camping in the woods and you happen to lose your way, you need to navigate your way back to civilization. What if you don’t have any equipment or maps that can indicate the right direction?
Getting lost is scary. It can make you panic, and if that happens, more often than not, you won’t be able to think straight. The important thing is to try to calm yourself. Without a guide map and the help of technology, here are some tips to find your way back when lost.
Sun Compass
If you don’t have a compass, find a straight stick that’s more than twelve inches long. Stick it in the ground, which will create a shadow with the help of the sun. Mark the tip of the shadow; this will serve as your compass’ marker for the west. Wait fifteen minutes and mark the tip of the shadow again; this will mark the east. You can use this compass as a survival guide when lost in the woods.
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Sky
You can also use the sky to differentiate direction. The sun rises in the east, so if you’re faced with an overcast sky, always remember that the brightest patch of the sky is the east.
Land Topography
Finding the highest ground is also essential for survival when lost. From there, it’s easier to find the nearest town. You can also see from the highest ground where danger awaits. Be wary when climbing hills because you could even get yourself into more trouble if you hurt yourself.
Survival is the key when lost in the woods, so follow the steps above and do your best not to panic. Be a man and navigate your way back to civilization by employing survival methods through the use of a stick as a compass, the brightness of the sky, and land topography.