In this modern era of smartphones and GPS devices, you might wonder why you would need a compass for hiking. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a beginner, one essential tool you should never leave behind is a compass. A compass is an essential tool for outdoor navigation and can be incredibly valuable in many situations.

Here’s several reasons to use a compass for hiking

Directional orientation

A compass helps you determine the four cardinal directions – north, south, east, and west. This is especially useful when navigating through unfamiliar terrain, such as dense forests, remote wilderness areas, or when visibility is poor due to weather conditions.

Route planning

With a compass, you can plan and follow a specific route or bearing to reach your destination accurately. It allows you to navigate along trails, across open fields, or over mountains by following a predetermined direction.

Backup navigation

In outdoor environments, technology such as GPS devices or smartphones may not always be reliable due to battery life, signal loss, or other technical issues. If you don’t use a map and compass as your primary navigation tools, a compass serves as a reliable backup navigation tool that does not require batteries or signals and can be used in remote or off-grid locations.

Emergency situations

In case of emergencies, a compass can help you find your way back to safety or locate nearby landmarks, roads, or water sources. It can be a lifesaver if you become lost or disoriented during an outdoor adventure.

Declination correction

A compass allows you to correct for declination, which is the difference between true north and magnetic north. This is crucial for accurate navigation, as failure to account for declination can result in incorrect bearings and lead you off-course.

Off-trail navigation

When venturing off-trail or exploring areas without well-defined paths, a compass can help you maintain your sense of direction and avoid getting lost. It enables you to navigate through rugged terrain, dense forests, or open deserts where landmarks may be scarce.

Wilderness skills

Learning how to use a compass is an essential wilderness skill that can enhance your outdoor knowledge and self-reliance. It empowers you to navigate with confidence, explore new areas, and develop a better understanding of the natural environment.

Map reading

Hiking with a compass also requires understanding how to read a topographic map. Together, a compass and a map form a powerful navigation system. You can use the compass to orient the map, plot your location, measure distances, and determine the direction of your destination. Map reading skills combined with compass navigation can significantly enhance your hiking experience and open up new opportunities for exploration.

Your own safety

Hiking trails can be complex, and it’s easy to get disoriented, especially in unfamiliar terrain. A compass can provide you with a sense of direction and help you stay on track. If you happen to lose your way or encounter an unexpected situation, a compass can be a lifesaver. It can help you navigate back to the main trail or find the nearest road or civilisation.