Quick Answer
When lost in the woods, avoid panicking, staying in one spot, and following animal tracks. Panicking leads to poor decision-making, while staying in one spot increases the risk of dehydration and hypothermia. Following animal tracks can lead you further from civilization.
Don’t Panic
Panic is a natural response to being lost, but it can be a deadly one. When you start to feel anxious or scared, take a deep breath and focus on your surroundings. Look for landmarks, such as a river or a ridge, and try to get your bearings. If you have a compass, use it to take a bearing on your assumed location. Panic can lead to poor decision-making, so it’s essential to stay calm and think clearly. Give yourself a 10-minute “cool-down” period before starting to navigate.
Don’t Stay in One Spot
Staying in one spot can lead to dehydration and hypothermia, especially if you’re not prepared with enough water and warm clothing. When you’re lost, it’s essential to keep moving and find a new location with better shelter, water, and visibility. Aim to move at least 1-2 kilometers per hour, and take regular breaks to rest and rehydrate. If you’re in a cold climate, look for a spot with some natural shelter, such as a group of trees or a rocky outcropping.
Don’t Follow Animal Tracks
Animal tracks can be tempting to follow, but they often lead to more wilderness and less civilization. Animals often travel in straight lines or follow game trails, which can be misleading and take you further from your goal. Instead, focus on finding natural landmarks, such as a river or a ridge, and use your compass to take a bearing on your assumed location. If you do need to follow animal tracks, make sure to keep a safe distance and be aware of potential hazards, such as steep slopes or fast-moving water.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.