There’s a lot more to map reading than not getting lost (though it can certainly help with that too!). Find your inner explorer with our latest ‘Have a go’ guide to… navigation.
Maps can tell you a lot about the landscape you’re travelling though, and it is incredibly satisfying to plot and complete your route from A to B just using some basic tools and your newly learned knowledge.
To help point you in the right direction, is Paul Beauchamp from Ordnance Survey who can get you started quicker than you can say “where did I put my compass?”
Why do I need map reading skills in the age of GPS?
GPS gadgets are a fantastic addition to outdoor life, and you can even buy ones that include Ordnance Survey mapping giving you the best of both worlds. But any outdoor expert will tell you that they’re still no substitute to the ever reliable paper map. A paper map doesn’t need batteries, it doesn’t need a satellite signal and even more importantly, it doesn’t break if you drop it! If you’re thinking about getting out and about you should always carry a map with you and learn the basics of navigation, it could just save your life and is great fun too.
So what basic kit will I need?
Water is the most important thing you can take, and some high calorie snacks, just in case you end up being out longer than you had planned. Chocolate is ideal. Some sturdy boots are also a must if you’re thinking of doing any kind of serious walking. They’ll support your feet and ankles and help lessen the risk of developing any nasty blisters! More generally you should always make sure you are dressed for the conditions so check the weather forecast before heading out. Other than that, a decent map and compass and the ability to use them are a must. The OS Explorer Map series is the most popular amongst walkers as they show plenty of detail – including the nearest pubs!
Is it very technical and how long does it take to learn?
Map reading can be quite overwhelming at first simply because of the amount of information, but the important thing is not to panic! It’s actually not that difficult and can be great fun. Familiarising yourself with the legend is a good first step to demystifying the colours and symbols. It doesn’t take long to pick up the basics and there are plenty of resources available online.
Should I buy a book or do a course?
To start with I’d recommend looking at the resources that are freely available on the web. For example, there is a downloadable guide called ‘Map Reading Made Easy’ on the Ordnance Survey website. If you want to pick up some more advance skills then there are courses and books available. It all depends on how far you want to push yourself!
What are the top 3 things I should consider when planning my journey?
-Tell someone where you’re going and when you plan to be back. That way they can raise the alarm if you get lost or hurt. Remember, there’s no guarantee you’ll have a mobile signal our on the moors!
-Make sure you’ve got plenty of water and food, and are dressed properly for the conditions. Leave the flip flops at home and if you’re climbing to any altitude it will be a lot colder than you think.
-Even if you’re using a GPS, plan your journey out on a map and carry it with you just in case.
Got any top navigation tips for planning your weekend routes? Share with us in the comments section.
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Hi and welcome. I'm a freelance travel and lifestyle copywriter and editor, with a passion for the great outdoors. This is my personal blog all about getting out in the fresh air and reconnecting with our green spaces and countryside.
