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Share your travel plans -

Before embarking on your desert adventure, let someone dependable know your trip route and destination, and when you plan to be back.

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Tell people what you're doing -

You should also list your travel companions, the vehicle description if traveling by 4x4, and what type of emergency supplies you already have with you. Noting down your cell phone number is also useful, but don't count on a signal in remote areas.

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Essential items to pack -

Besides a mobile device, pack an up-to-date map and reliable compass. You might also consider carrying a handheld GPS device (most smart devices have GPS chips).

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GPS - pros and cons -

Be mindful, though, that many GPS navigation systems don't take into account roads that have closed, or trails that have disappeared, as they may be relying on out-of-date topographical information.

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Water, water, water -

Don't even consider venturing into a desert without carrying an adequate water supply. One gallon (three liters) per person, per day, is the absolute minimum.

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First aid kit -

Don't forget the first aid kit. This should include any medications with your emergency supplies, things like antiseptic wipes, analgesics, antibacterial ointment, and handy instruments such as scissors and tweezers.

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Outdoor survival items -

Other items considered essential for a desert trek include a powerful flashlight or headlamp (LEDs last longest), knife, cords or rope, signal mirror, and water purification tablets. Fire starters (a tool to start fires) are also a must-have for your outdoor survival kit.

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Never go alone, take a companion -

It goes without saying: never venture into a desert or any wilderness environment alone. Always take a companion. Better still, travel in a group.

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Dress for the occasion -

You need to wear clothing that minimizes sweat loss, so light-weight clothing that covers as much skin as possible. Look for white apparel that's labeled with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) of 30+.

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Clothing for cooler conditions -

Bear in mind that temperatures can drop considerably at night. Wear layers of clothing for cooler conditions. A fleece is recommended for when it gets really chilly.

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Get it covered! -

Always pack a hat, preferably one with a wide brim with built-in UV protection.

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Protect eyes and skin -

Sunglasses with durable, polarized lenses with excellent coverage and side shields are essential, as is sunscreen with a UPF of 50+. The sun really is a killer, so be prepared.

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Four-wheel drive -

For those considering a desert driving expedition, it's of course not wise to take a vehicle that is not meant for desert terrain off-road. Equally important is having the skills to handle and maneuver such a vehicle.

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Full service -

Before starting out, give the vehicle a thorough once-over. Firstly, make sure it's in good running condition (a full service beforehand makes sense). Check belts, hoses, and connections. Run the A/C to make sure it's functioning properly. Importantly, examine tires and, of course, fill up and carry a jerrican of extra fuel just in case.

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Breaking down -

Once on the go, stay on dirt roads. Don't try to be clever and take off cross-country. Even if the ground appears solid, soft shifting sand can quickly take a vehicle down to its axle.

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Don't leave your vehicle -

If you do break down, remember the golden rule—stay with your vehicle—and raise the hood: it's a universal distress signal that rescuers can easily spot, especially from the air.

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Do you leave your vehicle or stay? -

If you are considering leaving your vehicle and looking for help, weigh up whether you can easily walk to safety and whether you have enough water to do so. It helps if you know your location, but in any case, leave a note for rescuers with your name and the the day, time, and direction you are heading.

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Find shelter -

A vehicle can provide you with shelter from the heat and cold. But it makes sense to always pack a tent in case using a vehicle isn't an option. It may be that you were planning to camp out under the stars anyway, but a tent is always a useful accessory in case of an emergency.

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A desert emergency -

But what happens if you really do find yourself in an emergency situation in a hot desert environment? What do you do?

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Keep positive -

First of all, it's important to maintain a positive mental state. Survival experts all agree that remaining focused and thinking rationally is vital in overcoming a seemingly impossible and potentially life-threatening situation.

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Finding water sources -

Besides protecting yourself from the dangers of the desert sun, your most important priority is to drink water when thirsty. Don't ration it. Stay hydrated! If you do run low, try and seek out water sources. Look for green vegetation. An abundance of flora often indicates a water source.

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Follow river beds -

Another way of finding a potential source of water is to follow canyons or dry river beds upstream. Doing this may also reveal trapped rainfall collected in dips in non-porous rock.

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Do as wildlife does -

A more ingenious method of identifying a water source is to follow animal tracks downhill. Wildlife have a canny knack of sniffing out even the smallest pools of water. Similarly, look skywards and see if any birds are circling. They may only be homing in on carrion, but equally an oasis might be on the horizon.

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Stay energized -

It's best to avoid eating anything, and never something salty. You can survive quite a while without solids, but only a few days without water. However, if you have something energizing at hand—trail mix is ideal—nibble on it sporadically.

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Using a signal mirror -

Remember that signal mirror you packed? Well, this is where it comes in handy. On occasion, stop and hold up the mirror and sweep the horizon with it. You never know, the shimmering flash it creates may well be spotted by someone you can't see with the naked eye.

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Be ready for bad weather -

Strange and as beautiful as a dessert is, it's also a dangerous and unforgiving environment. A prolonged stay in this kind of habitat increases the chances of meeting some very unfavorable weather, including sandstorms. Be on the look out and pull on sand googles if you have them, or secure your sunglasses, if you see one approaching. And make sure to tighten a handkerchief or something similar around your nose and mouth.

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Beware of a desert storm -

Ironically, a desert storm can also bring with it rain. And while this may be blessing, it can also be a curse in that storms like this often cause flash flooding. Be watchful!

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Go nocturnal -

One definite way of avoiding the sun is to travel by night. In a desert survival situation, you don't want to be exerting too much energy during the day. Instead, hike out after dark. You'll need a decent light source and be wrapped up warmly. By going nocturnal, you can save your body about three quarts of a gallon (2.5 L) of water per day.

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Use a cave -

If you do become exhausted during the day, don't lie or sit on the earth—it can be significantly hotter than the air temperature. Try and seek shade, ideally in a cave. But beware: you'll probably not be the only creature using it as a shelter.

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Watch your step -

And therein lies another potential hazard—venomous wildlife. The desert is the domain of some very dangerous critters, things like snakes and scorpions. Usually they'll avoid human activity, but if provoked can strike back. Receiving a bite or a sting in the middle of nowhere could signal the beginning of the end. Keep your eyes peeled.

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A prickly situation -

And it's not just fauna you have to look out for. Flora, too, can be just as unkind. Chances are you'll meet cacti on your travels. If scratched, clean the wound immediately using antiseptic wipes and antibacterial ointment. Then cover with a plaster. Delaying treatment can promote infection.

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It's all about common sense -

By taking precautions and following a few simple rules, you should be able to complete your desert hike without mishap. In the end it's about common sense. Never undertake a trip like this if you don't feel confident nor fully prepared. If in doubt, hire a guide. 

Sources: (DesertUSA) (Yucca-Valley.org) (Winfields Outdoors) 

See also: Extraordinary desert experiences for adventurous travelers

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