How to Use a Compass: 7 Steps to Navigate Without GPS
How to Use a Compass Without GPS
When your phone is dead or has no signal, a compass and a map are reliable. Here are seven steps to find north, follow a bearing, and navigate safely.
1. Hold the Compass Level
Keep the baseplate flat and the direction-of-travel arrow pointing the way you want to go. Let the needle settle.
2. Find Magnetic North
Turn the housing until the orienting arrow lines up with the magnetic needle. The direction-of-travel arrow now points magnetic north.
3. Account for Declination
Look up the magnetic declination for your city and adjust the bearing so you follow true north or the map north. This step prevents walking in a curve over long distances.
4. Take a Bearing
Point the direction-of-travel arrow at your target or along the path on the map, then rotate the housing to match the needle. Follow that heading.
5. Read the Map
Orient the map to north, identify landmarks, and match them to what you see. Count paces or use terrain features to track progress.
6. Practice Night and Low Visibility
Practice in daylight first. At night, use a headlamp with a red filter so you do not ruin night vision.
7. Carry a Backup and Checklist
Bring a spare compass, a waterproof map, and a simple checklist of these steps. Practice once a month so the skill stays sharp.
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