Keep Your Compass Level
Remember that a compass does not work if it’s not level with the ground or floating! This is an important step in learning how to use a compass, as being accurate is crucial when trying to determine where you are going. If your needle isn’t floating, then try spinning it around a little bit until the top of the needle can freely move from side to side. You should also make sure your compass is level within its base so that it doesn’t tip over and mess up your reading.
Now, keep your compass level as you walk facing forward without straying left or right. Make sure the red end of the needle points north as discussed before, and then turn yourself 90 degrees to either the right or left by lining up east or west, respectively. Hold your compass out in front of you and look down until you can see the degree lines. The line that corresponds with where you are facing is the direction that you need to go!
Additional Tips
There are other methods for reading a compass as well such as knowing which way is north from the stars but these tips will help those who are just starting out. In addition to using your compass, it is important that you have a good map of the area along with an accurate watch so you can tell how long you have been walking in a particular direction for.
This will help ensure that you keep moving in the right direction and not wasting time going around in circles! Another tip is If you happen to get turned around while finding north, simply line up north with west instead and vice versa if east is incorrect. These two directions won’t change no matter what happens, so they make a great backup.
Conclusion
A compass is a tool that is used to determine which direction you are facing and help navigate without any other tools. Unlike what some people may think, compasses need to be level with the ground or at least float freely for them to work properly. There are many different types of compasses on the market, but knowing how to use a compass correctly will always produce accurate results! Follow these simple steps, and hopefully, they will be helpful when you find yourself lost outdoors again!
