Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
How to Use a Compass
For simplicity, this basic introduction doesn't take magnetic variation into account. Before using a compass we re-
commend you get further instruction.
Reading a Compass
Hold the compass flat in the palm of your hand. Rotate the bezel so the red end of the needle points to the N
(north point) on the bezel. The bearing is read from the dash under the bezel.
Orienting the Map
To orient the map so that it aligns with the ground, place the compass flat on the map. Rotate the map until the
needle is parallel with the map's north-south grid lines and the red end is pointing to north on the map. You can
now identify features around you by aligning them with labeled features on the map.
Taking a Bearing from the Map
Draw a line on the map between your starting point and your destination. Place the edge of the compass on this
line with the direction of travel arrow pointing towards your destination. Rotate the bezel until the meridian lines
are parallel with the north-south grid lines on the map and the N points to north on the map. Read the bearing
from the dash.
Following a Bearing
Rotate the bezel so that the intended bearing is in line with the dash. Place the compass flat in the palm of your
hand and rotate the base plate until the red end points to N on the bezel. The direction of travel arrow will now
point in the direction you need to walk.
Determining Your Bearing
Rotate the bezel so the red end points to the N. Place the compass flat in the palm of your hand and rotate the base
plate until the direction of travel arrow points in the direction in which you have been walking. Read your bearing
from the dash.
GPS
Originally developed by the US Department of Defense, the Global Positioning System (GPS) is a network of
more than 20 earth-orbiting satellites that continually beam encoded signals back to earth. Small, computer-driven
devices (GPS receivers) can decode these signals to give users an extremely accurate reading of their location - to
within 10m, anywhere on the planet, at any time of day, in almost any weather. The cheapest hand-held GPS re-
ceivers now cost less than $100 (although these may not have a built-in averaging system that minimizes signal
errors). When purchasing, also consider a GPS receiver's weight and battery life.
A GPS receiver is useful only when used with an accurate topographical map. The receiver gives your position,
which you must then locate on the local map. GPS receivers only work properly in the open. The signals from a
crucial satellite may be blocked (or bounce off rock or water) directly below high cliffs, near large bodies of water
or in dense tree cover and give inaccurate readings. GPS receivers are more vulnerable to breakdowns (including
dead batteries) than the humble magnetic compass - a low-tech device that has served navigators faithfully for
centuries - so don't rely on them entirely.
Altimeter
An altimeter gives one piece of information: the elevation. Watch altimeters can be easier to use than traditional
models with a needle and dial. They help keep track of your progress and pinpoint your location on the map. By
noting the elevation of points along the way, it is easier to find these unmarked places again. It is also useful to
note progress: if in the first hour you gained 800ft and only 500ft in the second, you can predict your pace for the
