In an age where GPS and smartphones seem to guide us everywhere, is learning to use a map and compass just an outdated skill? Join me, a full-time land navigation instructor, as I tackle this question head-on and explore why these traditional skills might still matter for anyone venturing into the hills.
Many dismiss map reading as a relic of the past—after all, why bother when your phone does it all? But here’s the twist: even with the best GPS or mapping app, you still need to know how to read a map. Without those foundational skills, the tech is just a screen full of confusing symbols and lines.
This video isn’t about scare tactics like “What if your battery dies?” or “What if you lose your phone?” Instead, we’ll dive into the real benefits of traditional navigation: gaining independence, understanding the terrain, and making decisions based on your unique situation—not a computer’s algorithm.
Plus, let’s not forget—it’s pretty cool to master a skill that feels like a superpower! Whether you’re avoiding slippery ridges in bad weather or simply enjoying the confidence of knowing where you are, navigating with a map and compass offers control and adventure no GPS can match.
Ready to explore the balance between tech and tradition? Hit play and decide if learning to navigate is the next step in your outdoor journey!
