{"id":6279,"date":"2012-08-29T11:43:38","date_gmt":"2012-08-29T18:43:38","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/offgridsurvival.com\/?p=6279"},"modified":"2026-02-10T23:49:09","modified_gmt":"2026-02-11T07:49:09","slug":"navigationgear","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/offgridsurvival.com\/navigationgear\/","title":{"rendered":"Emergency Navigation Gear: Finding your way with GPS, Paper Maps, and Navigational Tools"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

In today’s world of GPS devices and mobile map apps, navigation is something that most people don’t have to think about on a daily basis. But when it comes to survival and emergency preparedness planning, the subject of navigation is definitely something that needs to be taken into consideration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Should the grid go down, the cell networks become compromised, or GPS satellites targeted in a large-scale attack, many of today\u2019s younger generations would struggle to find their way around their own towns, let alone try to bugout to a location outside the danger zone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At minimum, you should always carry a compass, and of course learn the basics of navigation. But let’s take a look at some of the other navigation items that you may want to think about stocking up on, or including in your list of emergency preparations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why paper maps are still important<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Mom<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

In today’s digital age, it’s easy to assume that paper maps have become obsolete, replaced by GPS systems and smartphones that offer real-time directions. However, despite the proliferation of digital mapping technologies, paper maps still play an essential role in our lives \u2013 especially when it comes to emergency preparedness!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Paper Maps Offer a Bigger Picture<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

One of the primary benefits of paper maps is that they offer a larger view of the world than digital maps. While digital maps allow you to zoom in and out and navigate your way around, they can be limiting in terms of the amount of information they can display on a single screen. On a paper map, however, you can see an entire region or even a country at once, which can be useful for getting an overview of an area and understanding how different places relate to each other.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Paper Maps Are Reliable<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another advantage of paper maps is that they are extremely reliable. Unlike digital maps, which can be subject to glitches, errors, and technological failures, paper maps don’t require batteries, an internet connection, or any other external power source. You can navigate any terrain if you have a map and a compass.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Paper Maps Don’t Depend on Technology<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In addition to being reliable, paper maps also don’t depend on technology. This means that they are particularly useful in remote or wilderness areas where there may be no cell service or Wi-Fi. In these situations, a paper map can be a lifeline, allowing you to find your way back to civilization in case of an emergency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Paper Maps Offer a Different Experience<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

There’s something special about using a paper map that you can’t replicate with a digital map. Holding a map in your hands, unfolding it, and tracing your finger over the contours of the land can be a meditative and satisfying experience. It can also be a way to disconnect from the constant stimulation of technology and engage more fully with the natural world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Paper Maps Can Be Artifacts<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, paper maps can be artifacts that have historical, cultural, or sentimental value. Old maps can tell us about the way the world was perceived and understood in the past, while maps that have been passed down through families or collected over the years can hold memories and associations that are deeply personal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

MAPS: Preparedness Maps to Stockpile<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If the grid goes down and your fancy electronic devices stop working, you may have to rely on good old-fashioned paper maps. Roadmaps, trail maps, and topographic maps can all be extremely valuable, especially in an off-grid SHTF situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Road Maps<\/strong> – I suggest having a number of different road maps<\/a>. A national driving atlas, a local road map, and maps of your surrounding areas are all good items to keep inside your vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Google Maps<\/strong> – A great way to be prepared is to map out your evacuation routes<\/a> on Google Maps<\/a>, and then print them out. The great thing about Google Maps is it gives you the ability to plan out multiple different routes, including walking routes and back country trails that may not be listed on regular maps. Take advantage of their satellite view, and print as many different route options as you see fit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Topographical Maps<\/strong>  – TOPO maps are great for those times that you may have to bug out on foot, and are packed full of useful information. They can be found online<\/a> or at most outdoor hiking stores.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Topographical Maps can help you find things like:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n