WHY TELLING SOMEONE YOUR CAMPING PLANS COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE!

Camping is an incredible way to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature. Picture this: you’re in the great Aussie bush, surrounded by gum trees and birdsong, when suddenly you realise you’ve gone walkabout without a plan. It’s a funny thought until you’re actually lost. That’s why letting someone know your plans before you go is not just a good idea – it’s your ticket to a safe and stress-free adventure. However, even the most seasoned campers understand that the wilderness can be as unpredictable as a roo on a sugar high. This is why it’s crucial to inform someone about your plans before heading out. Sharing key details with a trusted person can be a life-saving measure in case of an emergency.

WHY IT’S IMPORTANT

The outdoors, while beautiful, presents risks such as sudden weather changes, injuries, getting lost, or encounters with wildlife (like that one kangaroo that thinks it owns the place). If something goes wrong and you’re unable to call for help, having someone aware of your whereabouts can ensure a timely rescue. Search and rescue teams rely on accurate information to locate missing persons quickly, and every minute counts in an emergency. For instance, in 2021, an Australian hiker was rescued within hours because they left detailed plans with a friend, allowing rescuers to pinpoint their location efficiently. Stories like this highlight how critical it is to share your plans before heading out.

KEY INFORMATION TO SHARE

When preparing for your camping trip, make sure to communicate the following details with a trusted friend, family member, or neighbour:

1. YOUR DESTINATION

Provide the exact location of your campsite, including trail names, landmarks, and GPS coordinates if possible. If you plan to move around (e.g., hiking or exploring), outline your intended route. Don’t just say “I’ll be somewhere in the bush” – rescuers aren’t psychic, mate. Instead, provide clear details like "I’ll be camping at Blue Gum Reserve, starting at the trailhead near Wombat Creek, and heading east towards Koala Lookout." These specifics can make a world of difference if you need help.

2. YOUR RETURN DATE AND TIME

Specify when you plan to be back home or when someone should expect to hear from you. This gives your contact a clear timeline for when to raise the alarm if they haven’t heard from you. If you’re late because you decided to have one more cuppa under the stars, let them know.

3. NAMES OF ALL CAMPERS

List everyone who will be joining the trip. In an emergency, rescue teams will need to know how many people they’re looking for and their ages or any relevant medical conditions. Don’t forget the dog if you’ve brought your four-legged mate along.

4. CONTACT METHODS

Share how you’ll stay in touch during your trip, whether it’s a mobile phone, satellite phone, or radio. Mention areas where you might lose signal. Remember, Telstra doesn’t cover everything – especially that remote gorge you’ve set your sights on.

5. EMERGENCY PLAN

Outline your plans in case of an emergency, such as a designated meeting point, first aid measures, or when you’d attempt self-rescue. Let’s hope you never have to use it, but it’s better than yelling “cooee” into the void.

6. VEHICLE DETAILS

Provide the make, model, color, and license plate number of your vehicle. This can help rescuers identify your starting point or confirm your presence at a trailhead. Plus, no one wants to mistake your ute for someone else’s and go looking in the wrong place.

7. SUPPLIES AND EQUIPMENT

Let someone know what supplies you’re taking, such as food, water, shelter, and safety gear. This information helps rescuers assess how long you might sustain yourself in the wild. If you’ve only packed two cans of baked beans and a slab of beer, they’ll know you’re in strife sooner rather than later.

TIPS FOR RESPONSIBLE COMMUNICATION

• Choose a Reliable Contact: Ensure the person you’re informing is someone responsible and reachable during your trip. Your mate who always forgets their phone at the pub might not be the best choice.

• Stick to Your Plan: Avoid changing your route or schedule without notifying your contact. No one wants to be searching the wrong track because you decided to get adventurous.

• Check-In Post-Trip: Don’t forget to inform your contact once you’re back safe to prevent unnecessary panic or rescue efforts. Nothing says “oops” like a search party looking for you while you’re tucking into a meat pie back home. This is why checking in post-trip is crucial – it’s the final step in your safety plan and ensures everyone knows you’ve made it back safe and sound. Plus, it saves you from the embarrassment of an unnecessary rescue effort!

TOOLS TO HELP

Technology can assist in keeping others informed:

• GPS Devices and Trackers: Devices like SPOT or Garmin inReach allow you to share your location in real-time and send SOS signals if needed.

• Mobile Apps: Some apps enable you to share your trip details and provide offline maps.

• Paper Backup: Leave a written note with your trip details on your dashboard or with a park ranger. Sometimes old-school works best.

• Camping Gear from AdventureCampHub.au: For excellent quality camping tents, swags, bedding, and heaps of comfort items at a great price, check out AdventureCampHub.au. They have everything you need to make your trip comfortable and stress-free.

CONCLUSION

Camping should be an enjoyable and enriching experience, but safety must always come first. By informing someone about your plans, you’re taking a simple yet essential step to protect yourself and your group. So, before you head out on your next adventure, take a moment to communicate your plans. It’s a small action that could make all the difference. And hey, if it all goes smoothly, you’ll have a cracking yarn to tell when you get back.