Being lost in the woods is a terrifying feeling
The old advice for being lost in the woods can never be overstated: stay put, build a shelter, conserve your energy, and stay calm. These are all things that you should learn how to do because they’re important. This tip is concerns the people who are looking for you, and is an easy way for them to find out exactly where you are.
These days most of us camp with our phones. They can take high quality photographs and video, store animal and and plant identification apps, and so much more. There’s another thing that most of them do that could save your life: geolocation from a laptop (or another phone).
Here’s the tip: make sure that someone you trust has your login information to access the “Find My Phone” feature, and that they know when you should return.
Both Apple and Android phones have this feature. Even in remote areas, your phone will often be in and out of service, so they may be able to locate you. This obviously assumes that your phone still has battery, as long as you still have battery. If you get lost in the woods you’ll need all the help you can get, and this is simple precaution you should take in advance.
Bonus Tip: Make sure you download a map of the entire area you’ll be in to your Google Maps – before you leave the house. It’s free, and you’ll be able to locate yourself with zero reception. Drop a marker at the trailhead before you head out and you’ll virtually eliminate the chance of spending a night lost in the woods.
