Using a compass for hiking involves aligning the compass with your map to determine a bearing (the exact direction of travel). It works alongside a topographic map to guide you to your destination. [1]

1. The Anatomy of an Orienteering Compass

Before you head out, familiarise yourself with the basic components of your compass: [1]

 

• • Baseplate: The clear plastic plate your compass sits on, usually featuring rulers for measuring map distances.
  • Direction of Travel Arrow: An arrow on the baseplate pointing away from the compass that shows the direction you should walk.
  • Rotating Bezel (Dial): The numbered ring (0 to 360 degrees) around the capsule.

• Magnetic Needle: The red end that always points to magnetic north.
• Orienting Arrow: An arrow inside the dial (often called the "shed") that you use to align the magnetic needle. [1, 2]

 

 

1. Hold the compass flat in front of your belly, with the direction of travel arrow pointing straight ahead in the direction you are walking.
2. Rotate the bezel until the "N" (for North) aligns with the red end of the magnetic needle.
3. Read the exact degree number located on the bezel at the index line (the little tick mark on the housing). This is your heading. [1, 2, 3]

 

1. Lay your map flat and place the compass on it. [1]
2. Line up the straight edge of the compass baseplate so it connects your current position to your destination. [1]
3. Ensure the direction of travel arrow is pointing toward your destination. [1]
4. Rotate the bezel until the orienting lines in the dial are perfectly parallel with the north-south grid lines on your map. [1]
5. Pick up the compass and hold it flat in front of you. Turn your entire body until the red magnetic needle rests inside the orienting arrow ("putting red in the shed"). [1, 2]
6. Look in the direction your Direction of Travel Arrow is pointing, pick a distant landmark (like a distinct tree or rock), and walk to it. Repeat until you arrive. [1]

 

• Watch for metal interference: Keep your compass away from metal objects, smartphones, and magnetic clasps on jackets, as these will throw off the needle. [1]
• Stay accurate with a target: Instead of constantly staring at your compass while walking, use your direction of travel arrow to find a visible landmark in the distance (e.g., a specific peak) and walk toward that landmark. [1]
• Always bring a map: A compass is most useful when paired with official hiking resources. You can review topographic guides from organisations like the Ordnance Survey for UK trails or national guidelines from bodies like the REI Expert Advice library in the US. [1, 2]