Hiker's survival guide: Preparing for a challenging hike and how to manage when things go wrong

By John Bormolini

If we ignore sound preparation and the right approach to safety, a great hike can quickly turn into a crisis. Here’s how to best prepare before you set off and what to do if things don’t go to plan.

Planning and preparation

For challenging and longer-distance hikes, researching your planned route is an essential starting point. Learn all about the track you’re taking – study maps, get information from websites and local visitor centres, and those who have good first­hand knowledge of an area.
Accurate information about the intended route, the distance, and the terrain will dictate your overall plans and equipment.

A big factor is the likely weather conditions. Do not rely on general weather reports because in localised areas the conditions can vary greatly. For example, it may be 33 degrees in the surroundings of the Kalbarri National Park, but down on the hiking trails at the bottom of the gorges, it can be five to six degrees warmer. The reverse can be true of cooler areas such as the Porongurups or Bluff Knoll, which can be very cold overnight.

These days there are many options in terms of accurate weather apps, often with real-time data if you have network access.

Be wary of areas susceptible to flash flooding and runoff in gorge areas where rapidly rising water levels can leave hikers stranded.

Finally, give a friend or family member your itinerary and expected return time. Also notify the local ranger or police if the area is isolated or treacherous.

Be well equipped

Communications devices can be a lifesaver, so carefully consider what you might need. In more remote areas, having either a satellite phone or Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) is essential.

PLBs are small and easy to carry. When activated, they use satellite to contact emer­gency services and provide your location. These can be hired, but if you’re planning on doing regular hikes it may be worth investing in your own – they start from around $350.

Satellite phones allow you to make calls and send and receive text messages, but they’re expensive to buy and require a subscription, so hiring one is a good option. Also take hardcopy maps with you as a backup.

With the free Emergency+ app on your phone, you won’t be able to call emergency services when out of mobile phone range, but it can still provide you with GPS location details.

A basic First Aid Kit is a must along with a good torch and spare batteries, a multi-tool and waterproof matches or a fire starter kit. Survival kits that contain these items and a lot more are readily available and very worthwhile.

Carry sufficient water and high-energy snacks to cover the duration of the trek. Also research any possible water sources on the route.

What should you do if you get lost?

Along with being very well prepared and carrying the right equipment, it’s important to know how to act if you become disorient­ed or lost.

WA’s renowned survival expert Bob Cooper has some clear advice when it comes to losing your way. If you can no longer find the track, do not go any further.

In most cases you should stay put. Make a variety of signs or signals that can be seen from a distance or above.

Making yourself visible for rescuers is import­ant. This might include wearing a bright item of clothing or using a small mirror to reflect sunlight when air rescue services are nearby.

So, what are the most common problems encountered when hikers get lost? Bob highlights three main mistakes.

“Firstly, a typical reaction is to become emotional and panic. Our first instinct when lost is to run. Instead you should sit down, drink or eat something, and try to remain calm. This can relax you enough to think straight and decide on a plan of action.

“Secondly, save your water but drink enough to stay hydrated. The average human needs a cupful of water just to keep the vital organs functioning. Dehydration can lead to brain fog, resulting in bad decisions. Hikers have been found dead from dehydration with a full water canister in their backpack.

“Thirdly, not making that firm plan and sticking to it and not notifying someone of your movements. Being lost and in a state of panic can tempt hikers to deviate from their original route. This creates more problems for rescuers as the search area increases.”

Doing research on basic survival techniques from reputable sources or even attending a bush survival course could also be a lifesaver. Although nothing can beat good preparation in addition to carrying a device that will provide you with a lifeline if you do need to call for help.