2. Packing WRONG: Stash some water and an energy bar in your pack, then hit the trail. You're only going to be gone for a few hours. RIGHT: "When you're packing, ask yourself, 'Do I have enough gear that I could spend the night out if I had to?'" advises Christopher Van Tilburg, author of Mountain Rescue Doctor and a veteran SAR physician. Know and carry the 10 Essentials: map (make it waterproof), compass and/or GPS, headlamp, food, water, extra clothes, first-aid kit, matches, firestarter, and raingear. Also pack a basic survival kit containing an emergency blanket or a large plastic garbage bag for shelter, an extra firestarter (flint and waterproof matches and/or butane lighter), a signal mirror, and an 8-by-8-inch square of heavy-duty aluminum foil for making a cup or cookpot.
3. Planning WRONG: Test your brand-new navigation skills on a tricky route–alone. Many hikers who find themselves in trouble got there by overestimating their abilities. RIGHT: Know your limits and plan trips that feature mileage, elevation gain, and terrain that you can handle. Set out with a map and compass or GPS and a good description of your route. Before you go, determine a safety bearing: a direction guaranteed to lead you back to civilization should you lose your way.
4. Inform WRONG: Head out for an impromptu day hike without informing anyone of your plans. It's just a five-miler–what could go wrong? RIGHT: Always leave your itinerary with friends, family, or rangers when you go into the backcountry. Include your intended route, expected return, and what time they should initiate a rescue if they haven't heard from you. Even on a routine dayhike, at least tell someone where you're going.
