If you’re someone who enjoys going off-grid or camping, then it’s important to be aware of all the potential dangers that are out there. There are small mistakes that can happen and add up fast if you’re not being careful.
From misjudgment of time to poor hydration management, here are some mistakes to avoid when it comes to wilderness survival.
- Misjudgement of time and distance
Setting out late in the day is not going to be helpful when it comes to long hikes and exploring areas that might not always be the most stable of climates or environments in general.
When the hike takes longer than expected, nightfall arrives before you’ve had the chance to navigate yourself to a safe spot to set up camp. This can also lead to issues with navigation and getting lost, perhaps going off the beaten track. Without the proper gear, too, you may end up risking injury or even your life.
It’s always good to set off early, especially for long hikes, and to know how much distance you’ll need to cover before nightfall.
- Relying solely on technology
While technology is a great piece of tech to take advantage of, it’s not something you should be relying on solely. Therefore, trusting your GPS app or smartphone device in general is not something you want to be too fixed exclusively on.
Instead, make sure you have a backup option, in case your phone dies or you don’t have the signal available to navigate wherever you are exploring.
- Poor hydration management
Not drinking enough water can be a problem, and if not willing to stop to drink or you’re tackling some hot weather conditions, then that can lead to impairment of judgement and physical performance.
It can also intensify dehydration further and result in heat exhaustion, which for some, can be fatal if not addressed before it’s too late.
- Underestimating weather changes
For some parts of the world that you might be keen to explore, weather changes can be common. Packing light clothing because you anticipate it to be warm or it was sunny before setting out, can sometimes be the wrong move.
If the area is known for sudden weather changes, then it’s a good idea to pack some emergency clothes to stay warm, just in case.
- Neglecting minor injuries
Minor injuries can occur when it comes to hiking and exploring the wilderness. However, a small blister or minor cut can often evolve into something more if not treated properly. While enduring the pain might seem like a good thing to begin with, infections and possible sepsis are not something you want to get.
The inability to self-rescue can also result in an emergency where you require help fast.
When it comes to wilderness survival, it’s good to be switched on and remember to be mindful of everything and anything when it comes to protecting yourself.
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