The risks associated with wild camping

Wild camping is not without risk, which is why it is important to be suitably prepared before setting out on a trip.

This includes mapping the route to the chosen camping location and bringing a map and compass with you to reduce the risk of getting lost. Even remembering that the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, or that moss and lichens will grow best on the north side of an exposed tree or rock can sometimes help!

Wild campers should also inform people where they are going and when they expect to be back, so someone can alert local search and rescue authorities if you don’t return home when expected.

Then there is the risk of being a long way from medical help if something goes wrong, as well as being out of range of a mobile phone signal to call for assistance. It's imperative to take basic first aid supplies with you.

It's also important to double-check supplies before leaving, as once you're in the middle of nowhere, you'll have to do without any supplies you might have accidentally left behind.

If you park up somewhere remote before your trek, there's also the risk that your car might be broken into. It's a good idea to find a safe and secure car parks nearby whenever possible. Motorhome owners should likewise ensure their motorhomes are locked before going to sleep or wandering off exploring.

While out and about, there's always the risk that you'll struggle to find clean water, so you should always plan a location where water is nearby, and have water supplies and purification treatments with you.

Then there is also the possibility that poor weather will set in (surely not). Ideally, you'll check weather forecasts and only go wild camping when the weather is good. However, sometimes poor weather occurs suddenly or is unavoidable, in which case you should be prepared with suitable clothing and shelter.

Finally, insects such as midges can quickly turn a fun camping trip into a miserable one, so packing insect repellent and wearing long trousers and long-sleeved shirts is essential.