This article is a basic introduction to navigation with a compass and GPS. First, lets cover some basic terms.
Compass – A compass, is a tool for finding directions on the Earth. The basic compass uses magnetic north to give direction. The dial of a compass is usually divided into 360 degrees.
Bearing – The direction you want to go.
Heading – The direction you are going.
Before you leave your base camp, turn the compass on and save your position as a way point. Then set the compass so that you are going back to the way point you just saved. This will let you know how far off your way point is before you leave. This also assures that you saved the way point correctly and that the GPS is working.
The GPS should be set on “Bearing.” as that is the direction that you want to go to get back to your base camp.
Before taking the GPS and compass out into the wilderness, you should take the time to practice honing your navigation skills in a safe situation. You should be able to turn the GPS on, get a position fix and save the location as a waypoint without having to look at the instruction manual of the GPS unit.
A good location to practice navigation skills is around the neighborhood, in a field, in a parking lot or just up and down the street you live on. During the first steps to learning how to use a compass GPS combination, you should always be within sight of your target – what ever that target is.