What would you require for backcountry navigation?

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For backcountry navigation, having a map and compass is essential as both tools work together to help you find your way in wilderness areas where landmarks may be sparse and GPS signals can be unreliable. A map provides detailed information about the terrain, including trails, bodies of water, elevation changes, and other important features, while a compass is crucial for setting direction based on the terrain.

Having a compass allows you to orient yourself irrespective of your electronic devices, which may run out of battery or lose signal in remote areas. Learning how to use the map in conjunction with the compass enables effective navigation through unfamiliar territories and enhances safety while traveling in the backcountry.

While smartphones can indeed be helpful due to their GPS capabilities and mapping apps, they should not be solely relied on for navigation. In contrast, being equipped with both a map and a compass ensures that you have redundant systems that do not depend on technology and can function in all weather conditions. This combination promotes self-reliance and preparedness in outdoor adventures.

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