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S.T.O.P. (stop, think, observe, and plan) -

The first thing to do when you're lost is to stop walking. Sit, catch your breath, and assess the situation.

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Anxious times -

If you're totally disorientated, you're also very likely to be anxious and suffering from the symptoms associated with anxiety— lightheadedness, trembling, and confusion.

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Eat, drink, and focus -

As you take stock of your predicament, be sure to eat and drink—sparingly if you're short on rations. As you calm down, you'll be able focus again and think rationally.

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Think carefully -

After you've come to terms with your plight, it's time to think... carefully. Whatever you do, remain composed. Panic is your greatest enemy.

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Revisit your footsteps -

Ask yourself some basic questions. Go over in your mind how you got to where you are.

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Picture a landmark -

A good starting point is to revisit the last landmark you recognized. How long ago was that? What time was it, and how far have you come since?

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Work out a timescale -

As a rule, most people hiking on a trail with a backpack travel about 3.2 km/h (2 mph). This is a useful guide in determining distance traveled from any given point and working out a timescale.

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Observe your surroundings -

Take a good look around: can you see any landmarks? Does anything appear familiar?

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Consult a map -

Even if the topography looks foreign, try and pinpoint on a map what you see around you.

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Use a compass -

Reinforce your position by using a compass and determine the directions based on where you're standing.

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Look back over the route -

If you've been taking photographs using a digital camera, it may be worthwhile scrolling back through the pictures and trying to match any landmarks and geography with those on your map.

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Consult your GPS -

You're probably traveling with a mobile device, in which case you can recall images in a similar fashion. Alternatively, a GPS or navigation app will pinpoint your position without the need for a cellular or internet connection.

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Use your cell phone -

Of course if you have a signal (rare in remote locations), use your cell phone to call or text for help. But make sure you can tell the receiver where you are, even if it's an approximate location.

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Time is not on your side -

If you're truly lost, time will not be on your side. You'll need to start thinking about what the weather might do, and how long before sunset.

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Seek shelter -

Do not stray too far from where you first became lost. That said, it may be necessary to seek natural shelter away from your original location, in a cave perhaps or under an overhang.

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Survival instinct -

If you're skilled in survival techniques, start thinking about building your own temporary shelter.

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Stay warm and dry -

It's vital to stay warm and dry. Look for dry fuel to make a fire, and use your matches or a magnifying glass to focus the sun's rays to get it going (if the sun's still out).

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Still lost? -

If after 24 hours you're still lost and no help has arrived, you'll need to plan your own way out of the situation. But don't move until you've worked out a strategy.

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Walking out of the wilderness -

Based on your thinking and observations, act on your best plan. Walking your way out of the wilderness is not something to be taken lightly. Be very sure you have the physical and mental capacity to undertake such a trek.

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Summon assistance -

At this point, you should consider using your emergency whistle to summon assistance. Use it every half hour or so. Someone might hear you.

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Wildlife threat -

Depending on your location, your presence may well attract the unwanted attention of a wild animal, a grizzly bear perhaps, or a mountain lion. These are dangerous beasts, and you're trampling through their territory. Be on your guard at all times. Bear spray is a useful accessory to carry.

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Keep hydrated -

You may well run out of food, but it's more important to keep hydrated. If you're able, purify water from natural sources. If you're out of water purification tablets, drink from fast flowing streams. This is no guarantee of avoiding bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants that can be harmful to human health, but it's a better bet than drinking from a lake or stagnant pond.

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Pace yourself -

Stop and rest when you start to feel tired. Don't wait until you're exhausted to take a break. And if you're out in the open with little natural shelter, avoid walking between 11 am and 4 pm on hot days.

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Stick to your plan -

It's important to stick to the game plan. Being lost will not feel comfortable, but resist the urge to wander aimlessly.

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Head downhill -

Walking downhill, especially in forests and mountains, will often lead you back to civilization. But it'll be tough going. Expect to bushwhack your way through wild backcountry until you hit a trail or an old track.

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Follow water downstream -

If you come across a stream, follow it. But be careful. This is often a difficult and unstable route to follow. But likewise, it could lead to a trail or footpath.

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Back on track -

Getting lost can be a traumatic experience. It can also be a humbling one, especially if you consider yourself an experienced hiker. But here's the golden rule. The best tool needed for survival in the event you get lost outdoors is your skill of advanced planning.

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Planning and preparation -

Make sure you gear up properly. Essentials should include a compass that you know how to use, a GPS device, and a cell phone. Also pack an appropriate map and guidebook.

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Equipment and supplies -

Pack clothes that you can layer depending on weather conditions. Avoid anything in denim—it's not at all comfortable when wet. You'll also need sunglasses and sunscreen, plus enough food and water for the duration of your hike.

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Survival kit -

Carry a water-resistant survival kit. Include in it items such as a knife, flashlight, fire starter, whistle, first aid kit, and water purification tablets.

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Tell them where you're going -

Once you've planned your outing, tell someone. Sign in on trailhead registers, give them exact details of where you're going, the trail you plan to follow, and when you will return. And it's always wise to travel in pairs or as part of a group.

Sources: (National Park Service) (National Geographic) (Medical News Today) (Gripped Outdoors) (Time) 

See also: The best hiking trails in the USA

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