Being lost is a frightening experience no matter how experienced you are at being in the wilderness. Having a plan in place can make it a lot easier to bear, and it could save your life.
1) Be prepared: It’s not just the Boy Scout motto, it’s what every hiker and backpacker needs to be. Even if you are just going on a day hike, take along a survival kit. A decent knife, water, matches (if appropriate) and a space blanket are essential. Other things may be needed depending on the time of year and area you’re hiking in. 2) Tell someone your plans: Make sure that there is at least one person who knows what you are doing, where you are going and when you expect to be back. That information can get a search party organized a lot sooner than just hoping someone notices you’re gone several days later. 3) Never go alone: No matter how many times this information is put out, people still hike and backpack alone. If something happens on the trail, you’re going to want someone to help you and/or to go and get help. 4) Know the rules: Different parts of the country have different rules regarding their wilderness areas. Most of Southern California has a “no burn” policy, unless it is in a recognized area. That’s because of the possibility of wildfires. Find out what you can and can’t do if you get lost before it happens. 5) Quit walking: Once you realize you’re lost, quit walking. Find a spot you can shelter in, if possible, but don’t keep moving. Searchers can find a still body much faster than one that is constantly moving. If you’d like that still body to still be alive, keep that in mind when the temptation comes up. 6) Water: After your knife, water is the most important thing you can bring. However, it could run out. Stick some water purification tablets in your survival kit in case you have to make use of what’s available and you can’t boil it. 7) Shelter: In some areas, the space blanket is going to be all you have for shelter. However, if you’re in the woods, you may be able to build a lean-to. Leaves or dirt can provide some warmth if it’s cold at night. If a fire is allowed, either stay awake with it or make sure it can’t escape the fire ring. You don’t want to be the flashpoint for a forest fire.
These seven tips can help you come out of a frightening situation in fairly good health. As you can see, a little advance work can make a big difference in the outcome.