Do I need a Paper Map and Compass?
Short answer; yeah, you do… Long answer, read on:
I came across a crazy (at least to me) idea of not taking a map with you when you go on long hikes in the backcountry probably only a few years ago. I knew most people rely on their cell phones for primary navigation, but it wasn’t until I started really looking into the ultralight hikers that I found out that a lot of them never take a secondary GPS, a map, or even a COMPASS(!) when going out into the wilderness on multi-day hikes.
Maps are like, so 80s…
Get out your neon headband and dust off your compass, you’re going out into the wilderness.
Too be clear, I’m nobody special. I’m no survival expert. I’m not a Search and Rescue veteran or even a trans-dimensional Sasquatch that can pop in and out of existence at any point in space and time. I’m just a guy that goes into the woods. I do, however, live my life by the quote that “a smart man learns from his mistakes and a wise man learns from other peoples mistakes.” No idea who to attribute that too and I’m not gonna look it up, but it’s a good one.
Now, I do really enjoy seeing the ultralight crowd’s resourcefulness when it comes to only packing necessities or finding a way to pack lighter. It’s probably one of the most interesting styles of outdoorsmanship I’ve seen to be honest, as they trade comfort (typically sleeping is less comfortable) for comfort (lightweight packs make the hiking more comfortable) in an opposite way most others do. But I think it is missed that navigation tools, like a map/compass, IS a necessity. How do I know? Because I’ve broken a phone before. It’s not hard to do, and it’s even easier when you’re making your way through uneven terrain in the wilderness. Ask me how I know ☹
Still doesn’t work, WTH?
New phones are tougher and more waterproof these days, but shit happens and having a backup might just be worth the few ounces on your delicate legs.
A cell phone works great and has been my navigation tool for an incredible amount of time in the wilderness. I have also always had a compass with me and a paper map as backup. I also normally have a backup handheld GPS unit OR my Garmin InReach so that I can contact help in case of an emergency. It sounds excessive, but when you are going into the wilderness alone, you have to make damn sure that you’re ready because a small mistake that would otherwise be inconsequential at home could cost you your life.
The nice thing is that paper maps weigh next to nothing, they don’t cost much, and they’re much harder to break than your cell phone. Just keep them somewhere you can get to them. This way you have redundancy when you may need it most. I consider a map/compass combo an absolute necessity to have on me at all times while out in the mountains, even if I never take it out.
Also, make sure you pick up a good compass that you know how to use. I use a Cammenga Compass that cost me over 100 bucks… Yes it’s heavier but that weight is the tradeoff for being super tough. I prioritize my compass as a “Never Fail” item so it’s a no-brainer for me. If you’re into the ultralight side of the house and I can’t convince you to get a beefy Cammenga military style compass, check out Silva or Brunton Compasses. They’re at least a little tougher and definitely more reliable than a cheapy. Just please have it with you.
Last bit of advice, learn how to use a map and compass if you don’t know already. This could save your life if you ever need to resort to it in an emergency situation. During emergencies we’re not usually thinking straight, that tends to be what makes them emergency situations.
This blog isn’t all doom and gloom though, I have a simple (and CHEAP) method that I use to make paper maps for anywhere in the Continental USA. I download PDF quads of the locations I’m going and print them on Rite in the Rain paper which is totally waterproof. I made a quick video of it if you’d like to watch that instead of exploring it yourself, check that out below.
Now you have no excuses because it’s cheap, easy, and it actually doesn’t weigh that much. So please, don’t learn from me, learn from the thousands of people that get lost every year or the thousands that have lost their lives getting turned around in the forests.
The website for maps is here: https://www.natgeomaps.com/trail-maps...
The paper for Laserjet printer: https://amzn.to/4jNiOip
An even tougher paper option for Laserjet printers: https://amzn.to/4lFBXUZ
An even tougher paper option for Inkjet printers: https://amzn.to/3RsgnWf
My Compass: https://amzn.to/3H88MdL
Same Compass but with Tritium (Glows for Years without light): https://amzn.to/3F8O5Oc
Garmin InReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator: https://amzn.to/3Fq2OEp
Note that the links are Amazon Affiliate links but I used this stuff long before I got that badge. So if you like the idea, please use the links above and I will get a small kickback from Amazon and you don’t spend anything extra. It just helps me continue to do these types of videos and blogs.