Although we see value in knowing how to use an orienteering compass, these days, a good compass and a decent GPS (Global Positioning Satellite) receiver will cost almost the same. For the investment, we recommend spending on the GPS. You’ll have more potential use from the GPS than the compass.

The GPS system was set up by the military in the 1980’s to locate targets with great accuracy. When a civilian system was created, the world gained access to a tool that makes it almost impossible to get lost. GPS systems aren’t perfectly accurate though. Signals sent from the 24 civilian satellites are skewed to keep the system from being used for hostile purposes.

Still, a decent GPS will cost about $100, and comes with multiple features. The GPS will tell you your longitude, latitude, elevation above sea level. You can mark waypoints, mark the path before you, and track routes you have taken. You can even join in on the worldwide hide-and-seek game of geocaching. (See GeOrdinates, page top right).

Just remember, if you choose to use a GPS tool for navigation, you must become familiar with it before depending upon it and, you must always carry fresh batteries.

Most often, people get lost because they have lost their navigation tools as well, and are left with only the tools and skills inside their head to get them back on track.

Take note of your surroundings as you travel. Far off mountain peaks, rivers, roads, interesting rock formations, all can be used to orient yourself in the woods.

Of course, the main landmarks of the earth are the sun and the stars. If you know the general time of day, and know that the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, then you can deduce if you have been walking toward the sun or away from the sun in your trekking, and return from whence you came.

If you are traveling at night in the dark, you can mark general north by identifying the North Star, Stella Polaris, which is never more than 2 degrees off from true north (unless you're in the Arctic). Polaris lies between two main constellations, the from the lip of the Big Dipper and the central star of Cassiopeia.

If you do find yourself disoriented, sit down. Rest, relax for a minute and simply look around you. Most people find their way if they simply study their surroundings. If your last known location is nearby, try to track your way back to it.

If still not sure consider walking uphill to a higher point (still nearby) where you can see the lay of the land to orient yourself. Then, if you truly have no idea which way you can from, your best bet is to sit still and wait for someone to find you.

If you do have to wait for rescue, make sure you remain safe until you are found. Try to keep hydrated, and find shelter from any elements of the environment. If you have it, put on bright clothing, and try not to rest on bare ground.