Staying Safe on Holiday in the Wilderness

Escaping the relentless 24/7 existence has never been more popular. Fortunately, there are still plenty of unexplored areas that are off-grid and off-line. You can commune with nature and get right away from it all. 

However, there can be more to wild holidaying than first meets the eye. No one wants to have a miserable or even dangerous experience when they are on vacation.

Taking some simple and sensible measures will ensure your wild adventure is memorable for all the right reasons.

Stay Connected

One of the main reasons for an escape to the wilderness is to get away from it all. However, it always pays to have a backup plan for unforeseeable emergencies.

Embracing the non-24/7 digital lifestyle is all good and fun until someone gets hurt, a vehicle breaks down, or unexpected thunderstorms come rolling in to ruin a weekend getaway. People are still surprised when they have a problem, and the usual communication channels are unavailable.

The problem is that digital technology has become so integrated into our lives – it’s that ‘go-to’ resource until you are without a signal or your phone battery has died. Isn’t that the point, though?

A radio scanner UK is one way to stay in touch with essential information that could impact your safety, like severe weather events. Plus, an analogue scanner works well in areas where the digital signal is weak or non-existent. 

Some analogue radio scanners are also ergonomically designed to act as walkie-talkies which can help keep you in touch with your party if you are all out and about.

Let There Be Light

Lack of light can pose a real problem, and no, you can’t necessarily rely on the torch on your mobile phone.

Always have several light options, including a flash lamp, head torches and matches. Matches can quickly get damp, so ensure you keep them in a dry location. Otherwise, they’ll be useless.

When choosing a flashlight, you must weigh multiple options, including the lumens, beam distance, run time, and more. Compare these factors while keeping in mind how long you plan to camp.

A light source is invaluable in an emergency and can be used to signal and help alert people to your location.

Prepare for All Weathers

Never rely solely on what the forecast predicts. In some climates, you can experience all four seasons in one day. Make sure you pack clothing for all eventualities. 

It’s essential to keep out the rain, keep off the sun and stay windproof. Whether your plan is camping in the remote countryside or planned walks off the beaten track, the proper clothing can make or break your trip.

It’s not just planning for the weather you expect but also bringing gear for unexpected situations. Water at 41 degrees Fahrenheit (5 degrees Celsius) might not sound too cold, but swim in it for 15 minutes, and you could develop fatal hypothermia.

Good footwear is crucial. If you intend to do a lot of walking, be prepared to change your shoes two or three times a day for comfort.

Final Thoughts

Off-grid holidays, wild escapes, whatever you want to call them, there is a movement afoot to ditch the over-stimulating and crowded package holiday for something bleak and remote, a total disconnect from our 24/7 digital world.

Prepare to get the most out of your stripped-back experience and guarantee all the right memories.