Navigate by dead reckoning

Step-by-step

1. 1

   Note your start point exactly — grid coordinate, prominent landmark, or known location.

2. 2

   Record the bearing you're traveling on with a compass — write it down, don't trust memory.

3. 3

   Track distance by pace count or estimated time × speed as you move.

4. 4

   Whenever you change bearing, log the new heading and reset your distance count.

5. 5

   At any point, you can plot the current estimated position on the map by drawing each leg in sequence from the start.

Tip: Dead reckoning accumulates error. Confirm and reset your position at every known feature (a river crossing, trail junction, distinct peak) you pass.