Backpacking, hiking, hunting, canoe trips all have one thing in common. It is possible to get lost. However, there seldom is an excuse. To avoid getting lost first know what direction you went into the woods and where you expect to get to. Basic maybe, but that is where most mistakes are made. Then learn to walk a straight line. To do that line up several objects in the distance and as you reach the first one, line up additional objects. A good compass is essential for direction finding.

Ok, so you did all that but you are still misplaced. A digital compass from Brunton can get your direction back on track. Trust it, the compass wasn’t the one that got lost, and the sun isn’t setting in the wrong direction today. The option to have a lighted background makes it easier to read under poor light conditions.

Know where the sun is supposed to set the day you get misplaced. In the fall or winter the sun sets southwest. Keep that in mind even on long biking trips when you are trying to get back to camp.