Survival

Survivalhttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-wiser/survivalSurvivalhttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-wiser/survival/is-turbulence-dangerousThe recent incidents of severe turbulence on flights has highlighted how bad the impact can be, but it’s worth remembering that such cases are rare. Learn about the causes and risks of turbulence. 2024-06-04T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-wiser/survival/is-turbulence-dangeroushttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Anyone who’s undertaken air travel knows that turbulence is par for the course. A few bumps, a reassuring message from the captain with a request for everyone to fasten seatbelts and it’s usually over before we know it – even if a few <a href="/travel-wiser/wellness/how-to-overcome-a-fear-of-flying">nervous travelers</a> might have had a white-knuckle grip on their seats for that short time.</p> <p>But last month, turbulence <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c9xx5pj095jo" target="_blank">hit the headlines</a> when a Singapore Airlines flight traveling London-Changi hit an extreme episode, dropping nearly 180 feet in less than five seconds, with 104 passengers needing hospital treatment and one passenger sadly dying from a heart attack. Early investigations have found that the airplane rapidly accelerated up and down, and passengers not wearing seatbelts were thrown up out of their seats before dropping again, causing their injuries.</p> <p><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/01/world/americas/air-europa-flight-turbulence.html">Another incident occurred on an Air Europa flight</a> from Spain to Urugay on July 1, 2024, causing injuries to more than two dozen passengers.</p> <p>While stories like this are rare, research has found that incidents of turbulence are increasing due to the impact of climate change. Here’s the lowdown – but remember that commercial air travel remains the safest form of transport, and globally airlines safely carry some 4.5 billion people each year.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#what">What is turbulence?</a></li> <li><a href="#forecast">Can we forecast turbulence?</a></li> <li><a href="#pilot">The most crucial tool is the pilot</a></li> <li><a href="#climate">How is climate change affecting turbulence?</a></li> <li><a href="#seatbelt">Why it’s important to wear seatbelts throughout the flight</a></li> <li><a href="#infants">What about traveling with infants?</a></li> <li><a href="#common">How common is severe turbulence?</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="what">What is turbulence?</h2> <p>Turbulence is essentially unstable air movement, which can be caused by a change in wind speed and direction that causes changes for the aircraft in altitude and airspeed. The severity of impact can range from low with a slight bumpiness, through to larger more abrupt changes, and in the case of the Singapore flight, an extreme level causing loss of control.</p> <p>Typically, turbulence is caused by jet streams, thunderstorms, and traveling over mountains where the air can break up into strong and disruptive currents.</p> <h2 id="forecast">Can we forecast turbulence?</h2> <p>Turbulence in mountain regions can be predicted “reasonably reliably”, says Joji Waites, the head of flight safety at the <a href="https://www.balpa.org/" target="_blank">British Airline Pilots’ Association</a>, because the terrain remains a constant.</p> <p>However, Clear Air Turbulence (CAT), which is associated with jet streams and is among the most severe type of turbulence, is much more difficult to forecast with accuracy and doesn’t show up on the flight deck weather radar. Pilots often must rely on reports from other pilots who have flown through or close to such turbulence.</p> <p>Thunderstorms around the equator are also known to be very powerful.</p> <p>At planning stages, pilots will have weather briefings and maps showing areas of likely turbulence. However, weather forecasts can change. During flights, pilots rely on information shared by other aircraft in the area and from air traffic control.</p> <h2 id="pilot">The most crucial tool is the pilot</h2> <p>“Well-trained and highly skilled pilots are the first tool onboard to help deal with issues like turbulence,” says Waites. Most aircraft are equipped with sophisticated weather radar systems, which pilots use to identify weather build-ups and make decisions to avoid thunderstorms. Pilots also train regularly in simulators and are tested in dealing with turbulence.</p> <h2 id="climate">How is climate change affecting turbulence?</h2> <p>Professor Paul Williams, professor of atmospheric science in the department of meteorology at the University of Reading, says fatalities caused by turbulence on commercial flights are “fortunately rare”, with the last case in 2009. He says there’s strong evidence, however, that turbulence is increasing because of climate change which is affecting wind speed at higher altitudes because of the warmer air.</p> <p>“We recently discovered that severe Clear Air Turbulence in the North Atlantic has increased by 55 percent since 1979,” he says. “Our latest predictions indicate a doubling or trebling of severe turbulence in the jet streams in the coming decades, if the climate continues to change as we expect.”</p> <p>The <a href="https://www.reading.ac.uk/news/2023/Research-News/Aviation-turbulence-strengthened-as-the-world-warmed" target="_blank">university’s research</a> has also shown significant increases in turbulence in routes over Europe, the Middle East and the South Atlantic. “We should be investing in improved turbulence forecasting and detection systems, to prevent the rougher air from translating into bumpier flights in the coming decades,” Professor Williams says.</p> <h2 id="seatbelt">Why it’s important to wear seatbelts throughout the flight</h2> <p>The onset of CAT can be sudden, so passengers are advised to always keep their seatbelt fastened while seated, whether or not the fasten seatbelt sign is lit. “People who are seated and strapped in when turbulence is encountered are extremely unlikely to be injured at all,” says Waites.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-wiser/turbulence-seatbelt.jpg" alt="A mother helps her child with his seatbelt on a commercial airplane." /> <figcaption>Turbulence can happen without warning, so it's wise to stay buckled up whenever seated. Image credit: Getty Images / eyesfoto</figcaption></figure> <p>Pilots always keep their seatbelts fastened while at the controls. Cabin crew are trained to move around in light turbulence but will head to their crew seats if it reaches a certain level. Once pilots have switched on the seatbelt sign in the event of possible turbulence, cabin crew will check passengers have returned to their seats and fastened seatbelts and will report back to the captain that the cabin is secure.</p> <h2 id="infants">What about traveling with infants?</h2> <p>Depending on an airline’s specific policy and federal regulations, infants up to a certain size or age may be allowed to be carried in the lap of a parent. They must be secured by an infant seatbelt attached to the seatbelt of their parent. However, the US Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) doesn’t allow restraining devices for lap-held infants during takeoff or landing. As a parent’s arms may not be strong enough to hold an infant securely during heavy turbulence, the FAA <a href="https://www.faa.gov/travelers/fly_children">recommends using an approved child restraint system device</a> (which requires buying a separate seat for the infant).</p> <p>Some vehicle car seats designed for infants can be strapped into a normal airline seat, or infant cots or bassinets can be secured to the cabin in approved locations. Parents should discuss arrangements for carrying infants with the airline at time of booking the flight.</p> <h2 id="common">How common is severe turbulence?</h2> <p>Joji Waites says fatal or serious injuries during air travel are very rare in any circumstances, not just turbulence.</p> <p>“Severe turbulence is very rare, and pilots have extensive training,” he says. “Safety is always the number one priority for every pilot.”</p>Getty Images / AlexeyPetrov 11393079315 Getty Images A commercial airplane flies over high mountains in Switzerland.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-wiser/survival/wildfire-safety-tipsIncreased temperatures have caused more frequent and severe wildfires in destinations around the world. Here’s how you can prepare and stay fire-safe on your travels.2025-05-08T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-wiser/survival/wildfire-safety-tipshttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Escaping to warmer weather is a tradition for many travelers. Whether camping in the mountains or heading to the beach, it used to be the most common worries were swatting mosquitoes or <a href="/travel-wiser/wellness/sunblock-or-insect-repellent-first">dealing with sunburn</a>.</p> <p>Recent years have brought a new and significant danger to summertime destinations as far-ranging as <a href="/travel-insurance/destinations/turkey">Turkey</a>, Greece, Croatia, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Australia, Canada, and the United States. Precedent-setting wildfires have emerged as the newest threat to leisurely vacation days. Resulting in mass evacuations and the burning of millions of acres of wilderness and thousands of structures, they’ve <a href="/travel-insurance/whats-covered/natural-disasters">ruined long-planned trips</a> and sent tourists fleeing.</p> <p>And these threats are no longer confined to summer or fall. In January 2025, <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/media/before-after/greater-los-angeles-wildfires-january-2025">a series of devastating wildfires</a> burned more than 40,000 acres near Los Angeles, California, the result of dry conditions and high winds. More than 180,000 people were forced to evacuate.</p> <p>While all of this might sound like motivation to pick a place known for rain, you don’t have to give up on sunny destinations. Whether you're planning a trip to a wildfire-prone area or find yourself in the midst of a bushfire event, these tips can help you stay safe and informed.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#threat">Anticipating the threat of wildfires</a></li> <li><a href="#safe">How to be fire-safe while traveling</a></li> <li><a href="#evacuate">If you are evacuated due to wildfires</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="threat">Anticipating the threat of wildfires</h2> <p>Fires have become increasingly common in many parts of the world due to global warming driven by climate change, leading to extreme heat and droughts that contribute to dry vegetation. Combined with factors like increased thunderstorms, or human activities such as smoking or campfires, these conditions have resulted in intensified wildfire activity.</p> <p>To adapt to this new reality, the first step is to understand how your destination might be changing. "We know the Earth is heating up," says Jessica Harcombe Fleming, a PR professional with Tartanbond who assists destinations with emergency preparedness and crisis management. "And maybe traveling to Greece in the middle of August (for example) isn’t a good idea anymore."</p> <p>Making these kinds of decisions has two parts. First, as visitors, we have an increased responsibility to pay attention to what’s going on. "Make sure you understand what August looks like in your destination – reach out and actually ask," she says. Secondly, destinations themselves need to be more honest. "They should say, ‘if you come in August, recognize that’s our wildfire season,’" and she suggests asking them to explain what that means. "Even if the area you’re going isn’t affected, maybe government plans include taking over hotels for evacuees from other areas."</p> <p>As your trip approaches, Harcombe Fleming suggests staying informed – not just on a national level, but right down to the town. "People cancelled trips to Hawaii during the August 2023 wildfires. But if you looked closer, it wasn't the entire state of Hawaii. It was one portion of one island."</p> <p>She points to Destination British Columbia’s <a href="https://www.hellobc.com/know-before-you-go/" target="_blank">Know Before You Go</a> information page as a great example of the kind of resource travelers should be demanding from destinations. With important updates and step-by-step advice, it demystifies a variety of potential emergencies.</p> <h2 id="safe">How to be fire-safe while traveling</h2> <p>Staying updated on wildfire conditions can be challenging, especially if you're unfamiliar with the geography or language, or if your hosts are too reassuring. However, it's important to monitor local news, official emergency sources, or use locally supported apps like <a href="https://alertable.ca/signup/index.html" target="_blank">Alertable</a>, <a href="https://app.watchduty.org/" target="_blank">WatchDuty</a>, the <a href="https://readiapp.com.au/" target="_blank">Readi App</a>, or the <a href="https://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/use-fema-app-take-charge-your-disaster-recovery" target="_blank">FEMA app</a> to stay informed.</p> <p>While you travel, be fire-safe by respecting fire bans, properly disposing of smoking supplies and reporting any signs of fire you see.</p> <p>If there are fires in your region, get prepared. But don’t panic <span>– </span>life often goes on as normal during fire season, with a few exceptions:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Check air quality:</strong> Wildfires can create hazardous air, so keep an eye on the Air Quality Index and take precautions if it gets bad, especially if you have respiratory issues or are active in the outdoors.</li> <li><strong>Put together an emergency supply kit:</strong> Pack a flashlight, <a href="/travel-wiser/survival/first-aid-kit">first-aid kit</a>, medications, masks, and food and water – just in case you’re evacuated or stranded by road closures. Have a backup power source or portable charger for your devices. If you are driving your own vehicle, keep the gas tank filled or battery charged.</li> <li><strong>Have an evacuation plan:</strong> Learn the evacuation routes or procedures for bus or boat evacuations. Have a designated meeting point for your group in case you get separated. This is also a good time to buy a paper map and download offline maps for your phone. Some evacuation routes may take you out of cellular range.</li> <li><strong>Stay flexible with your plans:</strong> Wildfires can disrupt one region while leaving an adjacent one perfect for visitors. Be prepared to change your itinerary at short notice if conditions worsen.</li> </ul> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-wiser/wildfires-evac-pac-getty.jpg" alt="A man fills his backpack with a first-aid kit and other safety supplies." /> <figcaption>Keep an emergency supply kit stocked and ready. Image credit: Getty Images / olegkalina</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="evacuate">If you are evacuated due to wildfires</h2> <p>You may receive an evacuation alert before an evacuation order is issued. But when the order comes, it’s crucial to take immediate action. Before leaving, dress in pants, a long-sleeve shirt, and your heaviest closed-toe shoes to protect against heat and flying embers.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Follow instructions:</strong> Depart as soon as possible – conditions can change rapidly and traffic may get heavier if you wait. If you’re being evacuated by buses or boats, bring your emergency supply kit (and permitted luggage). If you’re driving, load up with supplies, double-check the designated route, and inform others of your plans.</li> <li><strong>Be cautious:</strong> Stay alert for downed power lines, road closures, and other hazards while driving. Keep your car windows closed and headlights on. Tune into the local radio station (or apps) for updates.</li> <li><strong>Don’t stray or speed:</strong> Stay calm and drive at a steady, safe speed (emergency personnel won’t want to stop their duties to pull you from a ditch). Stick to the evacuation route and don’t be tempted by potential short cuts. Deviating can lead to unknown hazards and delays in reaching safety.</li> </ul> <p>Once you reach safety, inform others, and, if necessary, contact your insurance or travel company. If you require additional support, head to a designated evacuee reception center. These centers provide food, clothing and shelter; assistance with finding or reuniting with family or friends; and other services.</p> <p>While going through a fire is nobody’s idea of a good trip, by staying informed, prepared, and flexible, you can safely navigate wildfires while traveling. And don’t let the risk of fires deter you from visiting a destination – especially one that’s <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/post-disaster-destinations-is-it-safe-to-go">already experienced a disaster</a>. These places need visitors as they recover and will be eager to welcome you.</p>Getty Images / Andrew Merry 11192659783 Getty Images / Andrew Merry An out-of-control bushfire in the Blue Mountains of Australia.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-wiser/survival/what-to-do-if-you-get-lost-in-the-wildYour pleasant outing turns into a nightmare – you’re lost and have no way to navigate. Tim Neville reports on what you should do if you’re stuck without a map or compass, and how to get yourself found.2024-03-19T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-wiser/survival/what-to-do-if-you-get-lost-in-the-wildhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Full disclosure: If you’re ever truly lost and needing directions, I’m the last person you want to ask. I can get off the highway to refuel and get lost trying to get back on. There is a 100 percent chance that I will turn the wrong way coming out of a hotel elevator.</p> <p>The one place I never get lost, though, is in the wild. I’m too paranoid not to bring maps, a GPS, and an emergency satellite communicator. Bad things can happen when you’re not prepared, even if you aren’t in the back of beyond. Rescuers routinely save people who wandered off looking for mushrooms. You ditch your pack to find a tree to pee but get turned around on your way back. No compass. No map. It happens.</p> <p>What do you do then? Travis Johnson knows. As the owner of the Northwest Survival School in Washington state, he has trained government agents, soldiers, and executives in the skills they need to get found (or at least un-lost) the quickest. Here are some tips to consider if you ever need to find your way back.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#lost">You’re lost. Now what?</a></li> <li><a href="#move">Move with purpose</a></li> <li><a href="#direction">How to tell direction without a compass</a></li> <li><a href="#source">Use more than one source to get your bearings</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="lost">You’re lost. Now what?</h2> <p>It’s an awful feeling. You’re lost and you know it. The panic sets in. The best thing you can do right away, Johnson says, is nothing.</p> <p>“You’re already lost and if you go wandering around, you’re going to make yourself really lost,” he says. You also don’t want to hurt yourself aimlessly roaming. Instead, Johnson says take a knee, collect yourself and look around. Maybe something will pop out.</p> <p>“Maybe you’ll remember that big stump over there,” he says. Maybe you won’t recognize a thing.</p> <p>Next, after you’ve calmed down and have a sense of your immediate surroundings, you’ll want to broaden your knowledge of what Johnson calls your perimeter – an imaginary area around you from which you can always find your way back. You do this to get a sense of what the land’s doing around you. This is <a href="/travel-wiser/practical">practical</a> as well as mentally beneficial. “The more you explore, the more you know about the area and the more secure you’ll feel,” he says. “Then you can create a goal to keep in mind, like: ‘Go head up that hill to see if you can see a roof or a chimney.’ ”</p> <h2 id="move">Move with purpose</h2> <p>You don’t want to set off willy-nilly into the forest because that’ll get you more lost. Instead, you need to do a couple of things.</p> <p><strong>Mark your path.</strong> As you explore, take the time to mark trees or disturb vegetation in a way that makes it obvious to would-be rescuers which way you’re traveling. Johnson always carries a few survival items on his person and not in his pack, and that includes a knife that he can use to “blaze” his path on trees. Every so often, he removes a small swatch of bark to expose the eye-catching pale wood beneath it, on both sides of a tree, so he can find his way in reverse if needed. No knife? Break branches that all point in the direction you’re going.</p> <p><strong>Understand how you walk.</strong> A big reason people get lost in the first place is they assume they moved off-trail through the forest in a straight line. This is never the case, Johnson says. Instead, we tend to drift in a large circle.</p> <p>“You have a dominant foot that will try to push you around things in a certain way,” he says, and that puts a bend in your path. “Break that cycle by forcing yourself to go left around a tree, right around a tree, left around a tree, right around a tree,” he says. That will hold you in a straighter line.</p> <p><strong>Stay focused.</strong> It’s easy to let your mind wander as you live this nightmare but it’s critical to keep your thoughts focused. Stay active, Johnson says. “The feeling of actively trying to rescue yourself is much better than that feeling of helplessness.”</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-wiser/lost-blaze-getty.jpg" alt="A woman uses a knife to cut a trail marker in the bark of a tree." /> <figcaption>A woman cuts a "blaze" into the bark of a tree. Image credit: Getty Images / schankz</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="direction">How to tell direction without a compass</h2> <p>Hopefully you have some sort of map in your mind thanks to the research you did before you got lost (you did research it, right?). Knowing how to find north, south, east, and west without a compass will help you navigate that imaginary map.</p> <p>Finding directions during the day can begin with finding east and west, even if you didn’t see where the sun rose (which is in the east of course). Take a stick, stand it upright in the earth, and place a rock in the dirt at the tip of the shadow cast by the stick. Do that a few more times every ten minutes, and the line of rocks will run west to east. Knowing that will give you north and south, too.</p> <p>If you have a watch with hands on it, you can use it to find south. Holding your watch flat, point the hour hand at the sun. (For our purposes, pretend it’s 10:23 a.m., so the 10 would be pointing at the sun). Find the point on the clock that’s halfway between 12 o’clock and the hour hand, and that way will be dead south. (In this case, 11 o’clock.) If you have a digital watch, use a flat stone or some similar object to help you imagine a clock face. If you have no watch at all, you can get a rough estimate of the time by holding your four fingers parallel to the horizon and counting how many hands the sun is off the horizon. That’s roughly how many hours it’s been since sunrise. Each finger is about another 15 minutes.</p> <p>Johnson suggests never moving at night unless you have to. It’s just too easy to get hurt. Create a path to your loo and stomp it down well so you can tell by feel if you step off it at night. Use the darkness to find Polaris, the north star in the Northern Hemisphere (Google it before you leave for your adventure, if you don’t already know how).</p> <h2 id="source">Use more than one source to get your bearings</h2> <p>It’s best never to rely on just one method either. Instead, Johnson will piece together clues as a way to fact-check his work. You can tell a lot by looking at the trees, he says. For that, you don’t even need the sun.</p> <p>All plants will follow the light, as we know, which means limbs on trees will tend to be more robust on the southern side (in the Northern Hemisphere) where the sun would track. It can be a subtle thing to spot, he says, so try to find a tree in a clearing that would get lots of light.</p> <p>“And I say southern and not south,” he says. “That tree might get more morning light than afternoon light.” And that would skew the limbs. The old adage that moss only grows on the north side of a tree isn’t really true, either. Moss will grow where there’s little light.</p> <p>“The idea is to do everything you can to help yourself get found,” Johnson says. “And remember a lot of this could have been avoided if you just paid attention.”</p>Getty Images / Muriel de Seze 1601368739 Getty Images A lone hiker stares up at a forest of identical trees.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-wiser/survival/how-to-stay-safe-and-hydratedWith heatwaves becoming the norm around the world, here’s how to cope and stay safe when traveling in extreme heat conditions.2024-07-09T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-wiser/survival/how-to-stay-safe-and-hydratedhttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#hydrated">Stay hydrated</a></li> <li><a href="#snacks">Travel with snacks</a></li> <li><a href="#breaks">Take regular activity breaks</a></li> <li><a href="#sunscreen"> Wear sunscreen </a></li> <li><a href="#clothing">Sun-protective clothing and headwear</a></li> <li><a href="#midday">Avoid the midday sun</a></li> </ul> <p>The world is seeing hotter temperatures, year after year. In June 2024, temperatures in Mecca reached 125°F (52°C), causing hundreds of fatalities among Hajj pilgrims. And the western and southern US experienced record-breaking heatwaves in late June and early July this year. It goes without saying that when the weather heats up, it’s important to stay hydrated; but water isn’t the only factor in staying cool in the extreme heat. Here’s what you need to know about staying safe and hydrated when traveling in hot climates and unusually hot weather.</p> <h2 id="hydrated">Stay hydrated</h2> <p>Regardless of how long you’ll be in the sun, it’s crucial to always to <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/bottled-vs-filtered-water">bring sufficient water along</a>. If you <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/hiking-travel-insurance">do a lot of hiking</a>, you may even want to invest in a hydration pack, which is basically a mini backpack with a removable “water bladder” inside. A tube connects the water bladder to a mouthpiece, which runs up and along one of the backpack’s straps so you can easily sip while walking. These hydration packs come in different sizes and can usually accommodate some snacks, your phone, and perhaps a light jacket. Many large backpacker-style backpacks also have a hydration sleeve to slide the bladder in, so you don’t have to purchase separate bladders for different backpacks.</p> <p>If a hydration pack isn’t your style (or it’s not in your budget), there’s nothing wrong with packing good old-fashioned reusable water bottles. If you’ll need more water than you can or want to carry that day, bring a high-quality water filter so you can drink from streams, rivers, and questionable public water sources. Some travelers like to bring one large water bottle or canteen, but I like to bring several small ones since I think they’re easier to whip out and drink from. </p> <p>Most backpacks have side pockets that can accommodate water bottles; if not, you can throw them inside if they are leak-proof. You could also attach bottles to your backpack or hip pouch using a carabiner if your bottles have handles. If you want to combine the convenience of small water bottles and the easy access of a hydration pack’s sip tube, you can buy a holster attachment for your backpack’s front strap to store your bottle right on your chest. And, while insulated bottles aren’t necessary, ice-cold water is especially refreshing during a long hot hike.</p> <p>Also, remember that as important as drinking water is when you’re active outdoors, it’s just as important to replenish electrolytes if you’re doing strenuous activities. Electrolyte supplements help restore the salt and minerals lost through sweat, which helps prevent fatigue. Instead of buying pre-made energy drinks, which are full of artificial colors and flavors and which come in earth-destroying plastic bottles, you can purchase small electrolyte tabs that you simply drop into your water to dissolve.</p> <h2 id="snacks">Travel with snacks</h2> <p>Though overeating can make you feel extra sluggish and uncomfortable in extremely hot weather, getting enough calories in your system to fuel your adventures is important. Always eat breakfast if you’re heading out on a hike or an action-packed day, and bring along snacks to munch on when you get hungry. While headaches and dizziness are often a symptom of dehydration, they can also be a symptom of low blood sugar. If you begin to feel lightheaded, it’s time to drink and eat up. In fact, it’s past the time you should have been drinking and eating, so you really need to pause, take a break, and start sipping and snacking.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/learn/travelsmarter/travel-heat-in-article-image.jpg" /> <figcaption>Traveler admiring Plaza de Espana, Seville, Andalucia, Spain. Credit: Getty Images / Francesco Riccardo Iacomino</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="breaks">Take regular activity breaks</h2> <p>If an adventure is really that good, it’s possible you might not take enough breaks. After all, the trail is just another mile long, you want to finish before sunset, or you’re having so much fun that you simply forget to stop. If it’s very hot outside, it’s imperative that you stop regularly, even if you don’t feel tired, hungry, or thirsty. If there is shade, find it and sit down for a few minutes; you’ll be surprised by how refreshed you can feel after only a few minutes of resting in the shade. Use the break to throw another electrolyte tab in your water, eat an apple or granola bar, or just relax and breathe. If you’re out with someone who moves faster than you, don’t feel embarrassed to let them know you need a break. It may not occur to them that you’re tired or overheated, and it doesn’t help anyone if you push yourself too hard and suffer heat stroke.</p> <h2 id="sunscreen">Wear sunscreen</h2> <p><a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/sun-safety-tips-for-travelers">Sunscreen is important anytime you’re in the sun</a>, and if you’re traveling in a hot climate, it’s extra important to re-apply frequently since you’ll likely be sweating it off. According to <span><a href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/sunscreen-and-your-morning-routine">Johns Hopkins Medicine</a>,  SPF 30 may be good enough for day-to-day use, but if you are outdoors, they recommend using SPF 60 or greater and reapplying it about every two hours. If you’re sweating a lot or if you’ve been swimming, <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/sunblock-or-insect-repellent-first">you may need to reapply even more often</a>. Also, remember that even if it’s cloudy out, the sun can still burn, so wear sunscreen regardless of what the skies look like.</span></p> <h2 id="clothing">Sun-protective clothing and headwear</h2> <p>No sunscreen is perfect and it can be annoying to apply and reapply every two hours, so wearing sun-protective clothing can be very convenient. Sunglasses may protect your eyes, but wide-brimmed hats provide additional coverage for the eyes and also shield your neck and face. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants are also readily available, and many hiking pants are “convertible,” so you can zip off the bottoms to easily turn them into shorts. UPF is the clothing-rating equivalent to SPF and for the best protection, choose clothes with a UPF rating above 50.</p> <p>While you might think that wearing long sleeves in the heat is counter-intuitive, know that long sleeves protect your skin from damaging UV rays and also help keep you cool by providing a barrier between you and the sun. The best fabrics are lightweight and wick away moisture, as cotton can trap your sweat and leave you walking around in a hot and soggy shirt all day. Instead, look for light-colored clothing made from wool or synthetics that were specially designed for the heat.</p> <p>Since long-sleeved shirts can be warmer than short-sleeved shirts when you’re indoors or in the shade, I like to pair short-sleeved shirts with detachable UPF arm sleeves. This way, I can easily whip them off, similar to how convertible pants zip off at the bottoms. I use cycling sleeves for biking, hiking, and sightseeing since they are specifically designed to protect you from the sun without causing you to overheat.</p> <h2 id="midday">Avoid the midday sun and extreme heat</h2> <p>Regardless of where you are and what time of year it is, the sun is usually strongest – and the temperature usually highest – right around midday and in the early afternoon. By heading out early (or even late in the afternoon), you can avoid the hottest time of day, which is safer and more comfortable. If you absolutely cannot avoid being out during peak sunshine, aim for activities and itineraries that include shade. For instance, instead of mid-day desert hikes where there is nowhere to duck into the shade, opt for a forested hike where the leafy branches block out some sun. If there’s a river, lake, or water source where you can safely jump in, consider taking a dip to cool down.<br /><br />If temperatures are unusually and extremely high, consider not venturing outside at all. Instead, stay indoors with windows and doors closed, blinds or shades closed, and limit your physical activity.</p>Getty Images / Buena Vista Images 0 A hiker walks on a desert sand dune

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-wiser/survival/travel-survival-skills-world-nomadsIf you're lost in the woods or wilderness, learning these expert skills could keep you alive until rescue comes.2022-02-22T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-wiser/survival/travel-survival-skills-world-nomadshttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#fire"> How to start a fire</a></li> <li><a href="#shelter"> How to build a shelter </a></li> <li><a href="#cook"> How to cook what you catch </a></li> <li><a href="#carry"> What to carry with you</a> </li> </ul> <p><span>Maybe it’s the zombie apocalypse. Maybe you’re just curious about what it would take to <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/north-america/canada/canadas-brimming-adventure-buffet">survive</a> in the woods. If there were one person you’d want to help you with either, it’s Joel Van Der Loon, a South African-born master of bushcraft and former participant in the reality TV series <em>Alone</em>. The 36-year-old survival specialist, who learned his first skills from the Maasai as a boy, now lives in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, where he passes his knowledge on to others with <a href="http://bushsurvivaltraining.com">online courses</a>. Here he takes us through three key things you need to know to make it through your own worst-case scenario.</span></p> <h2 id="fire">How to start a fire</h2> <p>So much depends on a good fire, and not just for warmth. The flames keep predators away and kill parasites in water and meat. The smoke from burning lots of green leaves and pine boughs can also help you get rescued (if that’s your thing).</p> <p>You often need fire most when conditions are the worst, and if you haven’t tried rubbing sticks together in a non-survival situation — the <a href="https://youtu.be/m0bEoVhxFJ8"><span>friction fire method using a bow drill</span></a> — chances are good you’re going to burn precious calories trying and still end up cold.</p> <p><span>Instead, you need a fire-starting device, such as lighter or waterproof matches. “If I had to pick one way to make fire,” Van Der Loon says, “it would be with a </span>ferrocerium rod<span> and synthetic tinder.”</span></p> <p>“Ferro rods” are small metal rods that produce a shower of sparks as hot as 3,000 ºF / 1,650 ºC when struck with a striker or the back of a knife. The rods are indestructible, last for thousands of strikes, and can get wet and still work.</p> <p>First, gather up wood in a range of sizes for your fire – from small kindling up to larger diameter sticks and logs. You’ll also need dry tinder, such as a bunch of dead grasses, the layer of wood between the bark and a live tree, or enough very fine wood shavings from branches to fill your palm. Place the tinder on a flat rock. Cotton balls slathered in petroleum jelly are ideal since they’ll catch quickly and burn for several minutes once ignited. Make them at home before you are shipwrecked.</p> <p>To direct the sparks into your tinder, do the opposite of what you think you should do. Instead of holding the rod still and striking it with a striker or your knife, put the rod against the rock and into your tinder and hold the striker still as you pull the rod away. When you need a lot of sparks, hold the rod firmly against the rock in your tender and rub the striker back and forth to generate sparks on both the push and pull strokes.</p> <p>Once you have a flame, add your kindling in a teepee or asterisk shape, gradually adding bigger pieces of wood until you have an established fire. Using your knife to create fine, hair-like curlicues in the wood of larger sticks increases the surface area and will help them ignite.</p> <h2 id="shelter">How to build a shelter</h2> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/learn/travelsmarter/shelter-building-new.jpg" alt="A man builds a makeshift shelter out of large sticks." /> <figcaption> Never make a shelter too big or it’ll be too hard to keep warm. Photo credit: Getty Images / Cristi Croitoru </figcaption></figure> <p>Van der Loon says the most critical consideration when building a shelter is the same as when buying a home: location, location, location. To avoid a mistake, “pay attention to the Ws,” he says.</p> <ul> <li><span><a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/bottled-vs-filtered-water">Water</a>: you want it to be close but not too close where, say, a flash flood might happen. And, by water, we mean fresh water.</span></li> <li><span>Wood: you need this nearby for building fires as well as your shelter.</span></li> <li><span>Widow-makers: these are dead or unhealthy trees that could fall on you during a windstorm. Stay away. </span></li> <li><span>Wind: find a spot that’s protected from it. </span></li> <li><span>Wigglies: as in insects. “You don’t want to be building your shelter on top of an ant nest,” he says. “Absolutely miserable.” </span></li> </ul> <p>In general, you want to build the smallest shelter possible, too. “A shelter works just like clothing,” he says. Make it too big and it’ll be too hard to keep it warm.</p> <p><span>A “debris hut,” also called an A-frame, is an ideal structure. It requires no tools and should you be unsuccessful at making a fire, it’s small enough to keep you warm(er), too.</span></p> <p><span>Start off by finding two Y-shaped branches that you can interlock to create an entrance that’s wider than your shoulders. Find another branch that’s longer than you are tall and strong. This will be your ridge pole that runs from the intersection of the interlocking Y branches to the ground to form a sloping tripod. You can raise the ridgepole slightly off the ground by placing it on another log.</span></p> <p><span>Before you enclose the sides, gather up pine needles, leaves, grasses, and anything you can find to create a nest inside at least three inches thick when you lay on it. This will insulate you from the earth. “Your body warmth will never warm up the ground,” Van der Loon says. “It’ll keep sucking your body heat from you.” </span></p> <p><span>Use sticks to form the ribs of your shelter, alternating their placements – left side, right side, left, right, etc. – keeping them as close as possible and at a 45-degree angle to the ridge pole to shed water. The tops should only extend a few inches above the ridge pole. Lay other sticks across the ribs in a cross-hatch pattern to fill as many gaps as you can.</span></p> <p><span>Gather up more grasses, leaves, pine needles, or whatever you can find to pile onto your stick structure to act as insulation. Add the layers from the bottom toward the top, making sure each layer overlaps the previous one. Finish the structure off with a layer of tree bark to help keep water out. Looking up from the inside, you should see no light coming through the roof. Ideally, you’d have a jacket or more grasses to help close off the doorway and seal in your heat.</span></p> <h2 id="cook">How to cook what you catch</h2> <p><a href="/explore/north-america/canada/iceberg-hunting">Hunting</a> and trapping are skills that take lots of practice and instruction – even with modern weapons and tools – and Van der Loon teaches students how to build snares and “deadfall traps” used by Native Americans. Hopefully, you have <a href="/stories/discovery/fishing-with-dolphins-in-laguna-brazil">fishing</a> lines and hooks because catching fish can be the easiest way to eat.</p> <p>But let’s assume you got yourself a ground squirrel. Now what?</p> <p>With any sort of ground rodent, fleas are a big concern. “They carry the plague,” Van der Loon notes. To save yourself that fate, however small, build a fire and singe all the fur off your critter, dispatching with the nasties in the process.</p> <p>How to skin:</p> <ul> <li><span>Take your knife and slice off the head and the feet. Claws and teeth aren’t edible</span></li> <li><span>Make a slice across the middle of the back of the animal, perpendicular to the spine – not along it</span></li> <li><span>Tuck a figure into each side of your slice so that one digit is facing the neck and the other facing the tail</span></li> <li><span>Work your fingers in there enough so that you can grab flaps of skin on either side of the incision</span></li> <li><span> Pull your left hand left, and your right hand right, and the skin should come off like a glove</span></li> <li><span>Once your animal is skinless, slice the belly open from throat to crotch and remove the guts</span></li> <li><span>Separate the stomach and intestines from the rest and inspect the liver. It shouldn’t have any discoloration or spots, which means the animal might be diseased</span></li> <li><span>Save the heart, the liver, the lungs, and the kidneys. That’s all good eatin’, with minerals and fat – the stuff that will keep you alive.</span></li> </ul> <p><span>To cook your quarry, you have two options: skewer the animal and roast it over the fire or boil it. Boiling is by far the better method, but it assumes you have a pot. Roasting allows precious fat to drip off into the fire whereas boiling preserves every last calorie and you can drink the broth, too.</span></p> <h2 id="carry">What to carry with you</h2> <p>So, now you know. But what would Van der Loon bring to make all of this <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/worldwide/essential-hiking-safety-kit">much easier</a>?</p> <ul> <li><span>Ferro rod with cotton balls greased in petroleum jelly</span></li> <li><span>Knife</span></li> <li><a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/first-aid-kit">First aid kit</a></li> <li><span>Emergency space blanket</span></li> <li><span>Water purification tablets</span></li> <li><span>A signal mirror and a whistle</span></li> <li><span>Small flashlight</span></li> <li><span>High-calorie energy bar or a jar of peanut butter</span></li> <li><span>Fishing line and fishing hooks</span></li> <li><span>A container, such as a pot for boiling water and cooking.</span></li> </ul> <p><span>Good luck out there.</span></p>Getty Images/ Anton Petrus 1 Getty Images A campfire at night in the forest

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-wiser/survival/walking-safely-livestockWalking in the country inevitably means crossing fields where animals might be present. Here's how to enjoy the countryside without bothering the animals.2021-11-16T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-wiser/survival/walking-safely-livestockhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>A walk in the countryside is a pastime many travelers enjoy when exploring a new place, and in many countries miles of public footpaths criss-cross farmland where livestock can be found. In <a href="/explore/northern-europe/united-kingdom/5-great-hikes-west-midlands-england">England </a>and <a href="/travel-safety/northern-europe/united-kingdom/welsh-pride-and-nationalism">Wales</a> alone there are estimated to be 140,000 mi (225,000km) of public rights of way, including footpaths and bridleways.</p> <p>However, while sharks are responsible for around five deaths a year, horses cause 20 deaths and cows around 22, typically by trampling or kicking their unsuspecting victims, many of whom are out enjoying a countryside walk.</p> <p>To avoid being injured or killed by livestock, walkers can start by following guidelines such as the UK Government’s <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-countryside-code/the-countryside-code-advice-for-countryside-visitors">Countryside Code</a>. This a series of sensible guidelines highlighting the importance of protecting and respecting, people, <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/planet/5-considerations-for-your-wildlife-conservation-holiday">animals</a> and property in the countryside including following signs (such as those for footpaths), making sure you leave gates the way you find them (if they're open leave them that way, and the same if they're closed), taking litter home with you, keeping your dog under control (a farmer can shoot a dog that attacks or chases livestock and may not be liable to compensate the dog’s owner) and giving any livestock you come across plenty of space.</p> <h2>How you can keep yourself, your dog and livestock safe</h2> <ul> <li>If your <a href="/explore/northern-europe/united-kingdom/trekking-hadrians-wall-in-winter">walking</a> route means entering a field where there are livestock, first consider if there is an alternative way to get to where you’re going. if you don't have to go through the field, don't</li> <li>Make sure you have a clear path and exit in sight, so you know where you're heading should there be any issues</li> <li>Stay close to the fence line or hedgerow rather than crossing the middle of the field</li> <li>If there are cows and their calves present, look for an alternative route and if that’s not possible, try not to get between mother and babies</li> <li>Move quickly and quietly and walk around the herd instead of through it</li> <li>Don’t worry if the cows saunter over for a look at you and your dog. If they are walking slowly they are unlikely to be a threat. If you speed up, they probably will too</li> <li>Keep your dog on the lead, and don’t enter a field at all if there is lambing happening</li> <li>Close any gates you enter or exit the field through. </li> </ul> <h2>What to do if the herd approaches at speed or charges?</h2> <ul> <li>Try stretching your hands out wide. If this doesn’t work, clap your hands and maybe shout “Hey, go on!”</li> <li>Let your dog off the lead – the cows will chase the dog instead of you, and it will be faster than the cows. This should give you enough time to get to a safe place</li> <li>Don’t panic or run – there’s a good chance they will lose interest in you and move on</li> <li>Move away to put distance between you and the cattle</li> <li>Report any incidents to the farmer or the police for more serious events such as injury or worse.</li> </ul> <br /><br />Getty Images / Paul Plews 0 Getty Images A family on a country walk with a dog

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-wiser/survival/how-to-explore-volcanic-landscapes-safelyFrom Iceland to Guatemala to Hawaii, active volcanoes are a major tourism draw. The thrill of visiting one is undeniable, but how dangerous is it? Learn about the risks and how to plan your visit safely.2024-07-24T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-wiser/survival/how-to-explore-volcanic-landscapes-safelyhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>In November 2023, after enduring weeks of minor earthquakes in Iceland, Grindavík photographer Ingi Thor and his family were considering a vacation to escape the constant tremors. But the situation escalated dramatically within hours. Large earthquakes shook the area, prompting Iceland’s emergency services to order an immediate evacuation upon discovering a magma chamber forming beneath the town.</p> <p>“As I stood in my house that evening, I could see the walls moving and the grass outside rippling like waves. My daughter was in tears, and I was close to breaking down,” he remembers. “Having faced 12-meter-high waves with a broken engine near jagged cliffs as a sailor, I thought I had experienced real fear. But that was nothing compared to the moments when we were evacuated.”</p> <p>After three years of “tourist eruptions” on the Reykjanes Peninsula, where visitors hiked to marvel at the lava, last November marked a turn for the worse. Continuous magma accumulation beneath the surface has led to several eruptions with severe consequences: cutting off water to the entire peninsula of 20,000 people (now reconnected), forcing evacuations of the Blue Lagoon, and most devastatingly, causing the permanent evacuation of Grindavík.</p> <p>What began as a tourist attraction has now become a serious threat to the livelihood of the Reykjanes Peninsula. But despite the dangers, <a href="/explore/caribbean/montserrat/plymouth-the-capital-closed-to-the-public">interest in volcano tourism</a> continues to surge, not just in Iceland. This raises the question: how safe is volcano tourism?</p> <ul> <li><a href="#risks">Understanding the risks of volcano tourism</a></li> <li><a href="#eruptions">Types of volcanic eruptions</a></li> <li><a href="#predict">How predictable are volcanic eruptions? </a></li> <li><a href="#tips">Volcano tourism safety tips</a></li> <li><a href="#culture">Cultural considerations when visiting volcanoes</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="risks">Understanding the risks of volcano tourism</h2> <p>Visiting active volcanoes can be an exhilarating experience, as I can attest. <a href="/explore/northern-europe/iceland/how-iceland-will-address-its-post-pandemic-tourist-boom#volcano">Visiting the 2022 eruption of Fagradalsfjall on the Reykjanes Peninsula</a> remains one of the most memorable days of my life.</p> <p>But alongside the thrill of seeing new earth literally being molded in front of me, I remember the risks as well. Harmful gases collecting in valleys and being carried by the wind across hiking trails. News of a tourist going missing in the area due to bad weather. Video footage of other people walking across freshly hardened lava, only a thin crust between their feet and the molten lava below.</p> <p>Visiting a volcano obviously comes with significant risks, but the combination of beauty and fear makes it one of the most exciting things you’ll ever do.</p> <h2 id="eruptions">Types of volcanic eruptions</h2> <p>Volcanic eruptions can be broadly categorized into two types: effusive and explosive.</p> <h3>Effusive eruptions</h3> <p>Effusive eruptions involve a relatively gentle flow of lava, often erupting from a fissure with the lava slowly creating a broad, cone-shaped mountain of hardened lava. The main risks of effusive eruptions include lava flows and harmful, invisible gases, which can cause respiratory problems.</p> <h3>Explosive eruptions</h3> <p>On the other hand, explosive eruptions are exactly what they sound like: an explosion that might eject gas, ash, steam, lava, or all the above. On top of potential lava flows and volcanic gas emissions, other risks of an explosive eruption include ash fall, the potential for landslides and rockfalls, and other, more complex risks such as:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Pyroclastic flows:</strong> A pyroclastic flow is a fast-moving and lethal cloud of hot gas and volcanic matter that causes severe burns, fatalities, and destruction of anything in its path.</li> <li><strong>Volcanic blasts:</strong> With an explosive eruption, there’s also a chance of falling rocks that were blasted into the air and powerful ejections of hot gases, steam, and lava.</li> <li><strong>Volcanic mudflows:</strong> Like wet concrete, a volcanic mudflow is a flowing mixture of volcanic debris and water that can sweep away people and buildings and contaminate rivers and water supplies.</li> </ul> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-wiser/guatemala-volcano.jpg" alt="Hikers at the top of Guatemala's Acatenango Volcano watch neighboring Volcano Fuego spew ash." /> <figcaption>Hikers at the top of Guatemala's Acatenango Volcano watch one of the regular eruptions of neighboring Volcano Fuego. Image credit: Getty Images / Neil Walker Photography</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="predict">How predictable are volcanic eruptions?</h2> <p>“Volcanoes are monitored with various sensors, including seismic stations, GPS for ground deformation, and sensors for increases in gas emissions. These measurements help us predict potential eruptions,” says Sara Barsotti, a Volcanic Hazards Coordinator at the Icelandic Meteorological Office.</p> <p>“Access to satellite data and improved instruments has really improved our predictions in the past decade. Our models are also more advanced and far better at interpreting that real-time data,” Barsotti explains.</p> <p>Despite these improvements, predicting volcanic activity remains complex. Each volcano is unique, and warning signs can vary. Volcanoes with long dormant periods leave us little historical data to analyze. And they also shift from calm to highly active rapidly, as seen with the <a href="/travel-safety/oceania/new-zealand/new-zealand-natural-disasters-guide">2019 White Island eruption in New Zealand</a>, which killed 22 people. Although the alert level had been raised weeks before, the eruption's scale and suddenness surprised even those who were monitoring the volcano.</p> <h2 id="tips">Volcano tourism safety tips</h2> <p>Here’s how to prepare for a visit to an active volcano:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Start off with thorough research of your destination.</strong> A good first port-of-call are the websites of local authorities and travel companies, who publish the most up-to-date safety information. <br />“Scientists and local authorities are two parts of the same team, and they work closely together” says Maurizio Ripepe, a professor of geophysics and physical volcanology at the University of Florence. He also collaborates with the Italian Civil Defense on hazard assessments for Italy’s explosive volcanoes, like Mount Etna and Mount Stromboli, both popular tourist destinations. “If there’s a risk of an eruption, scientists will outline the potential scenarios, from which the authorities will plan the necessary actions, whether that’s closing access to part of the volcano or an entire evacuation”.</li> <li><strong>Familiarize yourself with the evacuation routes and procedures</strong>, which again differ between volcanoes. Pack essentials like a face mask, a first-aid kit, and sufficient water and food for your excursion.</li> <li><strong>Visit with a licensed guide.</strong> Guides should be updated on the latest developments and be knowledgeable about their volcanoes of expertise and the emergency procedures. But don't assume – ask them. Some volcanoes require you to go with a guide, including the popular Acatenango Volcano in Guatemala, where you hike to the peak to watch the neighboring Fuego Volcano erupt somewhat regularly every 15 to 30 minutes.</li> </ul> <h2 id="culture">Cultural considerations when visiting volcanoes</h2> <p>It’s also important to take into consideration any local beliefs and traditions when visiting a volcano. Some indigenous communities consider certain volcanoes sacred. The most well-known is Mauna Kea in Hawaii, which holds significant cultural value to the Native Hawaiians as a sacred place of worship and ancestral connection. On the slopes of the volcano, you might find stone and wooden altars, historic burial sites, and other sacred places. Remember to do your research, <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/respectful-travel">and always walk with care and respect</a>.</p>Getty Images / Vladimir Borzykin 11921111744 Getty Images Tourists watch from a distance as iceland's Fagradalsfjall volcano sends molten lava into the air.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-wiser/survival/how-to-avoid-bears-tips-for-wilderness-safetyAn encounter with a bear rarely ends in conflict or death, but it pays to be prepared. Here are five important tips to know before you go to the USA.2019-11-01T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-wiser/survival/how-to-avoid-bears-tips-for-wilderness-safetyhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>If spending time in wilderness areas, many people will encounter a brown or black bear (but rarely polar bears), while traveling in the USA. As a traveler, your first stop should always be the information center or ranger station to ask about bear activity in the area – you can also get maps, trail suggestions, and other safety information.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#camp">How to bear-proof your campsite</a></li> <li><a href="#bear">What if there's a bear in my campsite? </a></li> <li><a href="#hiking">Bear sightings</a></li> <li><a href="#dead">How to play dead for grizzly bears</a></li> <li><a href="#bear-deterrents">Bear deterrents</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="camp">How to bear-proof your campsite</h2> <ul> <li>Leave the sexy smells at home. Bears are drawn to new and interesting fragrances, including deodorants or moisturizers. Don't make yourself an appetizer.</li> <li>Don't keep anything with a scent in your tent. No toothpaste, old candy wrappers, citronella, or a midnight snack. Not even the clothes you cooked in. Nothing.</li> <li>Do your cooking away from your sleeping area, at least 300ft (30m) away so cooking smells do not permeate your sleeping gear.</li> <li>Store your food and trash in a bear-proof canister on the ground, but not in a place where it can roll away. Many campgrounds provide bear-proof containers or lockers.</li> <li>Suspend your food, any toiletries, and trash between two trees, 10ft (3m) up and 4ft (1.2m) out from either tree, away from your sleeping area.</li> <li>Keep food residue out of your fire.</li> <li>Don't dispose of gray water near your campsite.</li> </ul> <p>Cars aren't bear-proof, so if you're car camping or staying in a van, clean out those fallen french fries and don't store food or trash in your car. It's not overkill – bears have an incredible sense of smell and they will open your car or campervan up like a can.</p> <h2 id="bear">What if there's a bear in my campsite?</h2> <p>Bears are usually active from dawn to dusk but may become nocturnal to avoid people or to raid campgrounds. If you're in a tent at night and a bear shows up in your campsite, making your presence known with a cough or clearing your throat will probably be enough to send it scurrying. If you've properly squared away your campsite there shouldn't be a problem. While this type of attack is rare, US National Parks advises that you fight back if a bear does try to attack you while you're in your tent.</p> <h3>What to do:</h3> <p><strong>Black bear</strong>: you can try to drive it away by confronting it, making yourself big, and yelling at it. Make noise by banging on pots and pans, or shaking a tarp or a garbage bag.</p> <p>Just make sure you have left it an avenue of escape.</p> <p><strong>Brown (grizzly) bear</strong>: do not try to drive these guys from your camp. Grab your stuff if you can do so safely and move away slowly towards a building or vehicle if possible. Do not run.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Travel-Safety/USA/brownbear-webguzs.jpg" /><figcaption>North American Brown Bears (Grizzly) catching salmon in Alaska. Photo credit: Getty Images/webguzs</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="hiking">Bear sightings</h2> <p>Things you can do to avoid bears while in the wilderness include:</p> <ul> <li>Obey any closure signage. US national park rangers will close off an area for bear management to reduce the risk of human-bear encounters. This can be due to a high volume of food present e.g bison which attract bears to a location</li> <li>Being noisy while walking the trail</li> <li>Don't hike alone. Remember, there's safety in numbers. Don't be a silent forest ninja</li> <li>Stick to the marked and well-worn trails</li> <li>Keep your eyes peeled for signs of bears such as bear scats, scratches on trees, footprints, new trails, destroyed ant nests, ripped-apart logs and signs of digging</li> <li>Never leave your pack or belongings unattended</li> <li>If you're in your vehicle and a bear approaches, honk your horn to discourage it and drive away</li> <li>Leave your dog at home; a dog will attract the attention of any nearby bear.</li> </ul> <p>What to do if you're hiking a trail and cross paths with a bear:</p> <ul> <li>If you spot a bear in the distance, and it hasn't seen or heard you, keep it that way. Skip the photo op, move away slowly and quietly sideways; reroute your hike, giving the bear a wide berth and if possible, stay downwind from it</li> <li>If the bear has seen you from a distance, retreat slowly and leave the area. Bears can cover a lot of ground very quickly, faster than Usain Bolt</li> <li>If you are much closer, remain calm and assess the situation. Have you stumbled upon a feeding bear? A mother with cubs? Is the bear being predatory or defensive?</li> <li>A surprised bear on the defensive will charge immediately with its head low and ears back. A curious or predatory bear will approach persistently with its head and ears up</li> <li>If a bear is showing predatory behavior – it hasn't been surprised and isn't defending its food or cubs - and has begun following you, it's testing you and you need to stand up to the challenge</li> <li>A bear that is merely curious may become aggressive if you don't confront it. Stare it down, shout at it, make yourself appear larger, wave your hiking stick; let it know you mean business</li> <li>A bear may also rise up on its hind legs; this is not an aggressive act, it's just trying to suss things out</li> <li>If it's a surprise encounter, a bear might display behaviors such as pawing the ground, huffing, woofing, clicking its teeth, and flaring its lips. These are all warnings that you're too close, so you should back away slowly. Do not run, make any sudden movements or eye contact. Climbing a tree is pointless – bears can climb them better than you</li> <li>If the bear decides it wants to charge, and if you're rooted to the ground in terror, no problem - you need to stand your ground anyway. It's most likely a bluff and the bear will veer off at the last moment</li> <li>If you're carrying a canister of bear spray, the time to break it out is just before the charge, aiming slightly above the bear's face from about 20-30ft (6-10m) away. Never fight back against a surprised bear, more often than not, those who do end up with severe injuries or dead</li> <li>If the bear doesn't veer off, it's time to play dead. This rule only applies to Grizzly (Brown) bears. If a black bear is intent on killing you, it won't care if you're playing dead.</li> </ul> <h2 id="dead">How to play dead for grizzly bears</h2> <ul> <li>If you are wearing a backpack, keep it on</li> <li>Lay flat on your stomach with your legs outstretched</li> <li>Lace your fingers together and cover your neck</li> <li>Brace yourself by planting your elbows into the ground, protecting the sides of your face with your arms</li> <li>Keep your legs slightly spread to prevent being flipped over</li> <li>Remain as quiet and still as you can. Don't get up too soon; give the bear time to leave the area. It could take a while, especially if the mama bear needs to collect her cubs who are hiding nearby</li> <li>If the attack becomes sustained or the bear begins to make a meal of you, fight back. Go for its eyes and muzzle</li> <li>DO NOT play dead unless a bear has charged you or acted in some aggressive or defensive way</li> <li>DO NOT play dead with a bear that is protecting its food.</li> </ul> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Travel-Safety/USA/polarbearalaska-BillRaften.jpg" /><figcaption>Polar bear walking in front of Dew Line Station, Alaska. Photo credit: Getty Images/Bill Raften </figcaption></figure> <h2 id="bear-deterrents">Bear deterrents</h2> <p>if you're going to be spending some time in the wilderness, there are a number of effective bear deterrents available including:</p> <ul> <li>Bear pepper spray – non-lethal, non-toxic, and very effective; available for rent at parks such as Yellowstone and Glacier National Park</li> <li>Wildlife deterrent air horn – small, lightweight and easy to use</li> <li>Bangers and scare cartridges – fired from pen launchers and pistols, providing multiple rounds</li> <li>Marine flares – can also be used as a beacon for rescuers but are a fire danger, as well</li> <li>Electric fencing – camp fencing has become very lightweight and portable; perfect for hunters.</li> </ul> <p>However, the US Fish & Wildlife Service advises: "No deterrent is 100 percent effective. But, compared to all others, including firearms, proper use of bear spray has proven to be the best method for fending off threatening and attacking bears."</p> <p>Something is better than nothing, and it's better to be prepared.</p>Getty Images/Bryant Aardema 1 Getty Images A grizzly bear crossing the road

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-wiser/survival/how-to-survive-a-stampedeWhat would you do at a festival or concert, if there was panic in the crowd and it started moving as one? We asked a professional crowd controller for their expert survival tips.2025-01-30T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-wiser/survival/how-to-survive-a-stampedehttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Festivals and concerts draw huge crowds, and are popular with travelers, giving them the motivation to visit a destination. But sometimes a crowd becomes a crush or a stampede potentially putting your life in danger. Paul Wertheimer, one of the world's leaders on crowd safety, gives his expert insight into crowd control, crowd dynamics, and staying safe.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#events">Notable crowd-crush events</a></li> <li><a href="#difference">Crowd crush vs stampede</a></li> <li><a href="#survival">Survival tips to stay safe</a></li> <li><a href="#stampede">How to escape a stampede</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="events">Notable crowd-crush events</h2> <p>On January 29, 2025, at least 30 people were killed in a crowd crush at <a href="https://apnews.com/article/india-maha-kumbh-hinduism-stampede-da4a3423bf2fd1c06f7c730e65dc1350" target="_blank">a Maha Kumbh festival</a> in northern India when pilgrims rushed to bathe in the sacred waters.</p> <p>In July 2024, a crowd crush at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/jul/03/india-deadly-crush-blamed-on-huge-overcrowding-as-death-toll-passes-120">a religious gathering in northern India</a> killed 121 people, as devotees surged forward to touch the Hindu guru leading the event.</p> <p>On 29 October 2022, a crowd crush, <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-68030718">during a Halloween celebration in the Itaewon district of Seoul, South Korea</a>, left 159 people dead and 196 injured.</p> <p>In June 2017, a firecracker sparked panic in Turin's main square as 30,000 fans watched Juventus play a European Champions soccer match. <a href="http://www.newsweek.com/turin-how-false-alarm-left-more-1500-injured-during-champions-league-620910">The stampede that followed</a> caused more than 1,500 injuries.</p> <p>And in September 2015, around 2,400 Hajj pilgrims <a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-3a42a7733a8b476889bb4b7b3be3560e">were crushed or trampled in Mina, Saudi Arabia</a>, as crowds converged at a narrow intersection leading to a bridge.</p> <p>Most of these tragedies have a few elements in common: a bottleneck that prevented people from entering or exiting, poor crowd control, and overcrowding.</p> <h2 id="difference">Crowd crush vs stampede</h2> <p>There are differences between a crush and a stampede.</p> <p>According to Paul, what happened in India was not a stampede. "A stampede is when people or animals are fleeing a perceived danger. They're running from something that scares them. This was a crowd craze… a movement of people towards something of perceived value."</p> <p>The critical error in the 2024 event was underestimating the crowd size. Organizers had planned for 80,000 participants, but more than 250,000 turned up, leaving crowd control efforts and infrastructure woefully inadequate.</p> <p>In Seoul, the number of police assigned to the event was far too low for the size of the crowd.</p> <p>"There's always this perception that if people had just acted rationally they wouldn't have been crushed to death. Panic didn't cause this, the failure to manage this event caused this," said Paul.</p> <h2 id="survival">Survival tips to stay safe</h2> <p>Whether it's a stampede or a crush, here are some tips for increasing your chances of survival.</p> <p>Paul advises you should take a moment to make a mental note of all the exits in a venue as soon as you arrive. The natural urge is to use the same entry when you exit, not because it's safer, but it's familiar. He also adds there may be an alternative exit being used by fewer people that will get you out more quickly – very handy if you already know where it is.</p> <p>"When you start to feel uncomfortable in a crowd, this is the time to start looking at leaving. This is very difficult because, if you've traveled a long distance, or you've waited for a long time, for example in front of a stage, you don't want to leave."</p> <p>Many people leave that decision until it's too late, and find they are trapped in a large, swaying and shuffling crowd. Paul says, in his experience, crowds tend NOT to panic, they tend to be heroic and compassionate.</p> <p>Here are Paul's survival tips:</p> <ul> <li>Stay on your feet</li> <li>Conserve energy – don't push against the crowd and don't yell or scream</li> <li>Use sign language to communicate with those around you (point, wave, even use your eyes)</li> <li>Keep your hands up by your chest, like a boxer – it allows you movement and protects your chest</li> <li>If you're in danger, ask people to <em>crowd-surf</em> you out</li> <li>If someone extends their hand for help, grab hold to keep them up</li> </ul> <h2 id="stampede">How to escape a stampede</h2> <p>Paul has developed a technique for getting out of a crush called the accordion method:</p> <p>"After you're pushed forward, like in a wave, there's a lull. That lull is your chance to move, and the way you move is on a diagonal, between pockets of people. There's always space between people. A couple of steps sideways, another wave surge, then another couple of steps in the next lull. You work your way out that way till you get to the periphery."</p>GettyImages/Girish Mitta 0 A large crowd in an enclosed space

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-wiser/survival/first-aid-kitWhat do you need in a travel medical kit? Our roving medical expert shares the essential first aid items you must carry wherever you go in the world.2025-08-05T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-wiser/survival/first-aid-kithttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Before your trip beings, start planning what you would need in your medical kit. A good travel first-aid kit contains just enough to deal with potential problems, but still light enough to be carried.</p> <p>Before you begin to think about building a travel medical kit, you need to find out a few things:</p> <ul> <li><a href="#how-many-people-are-you-travelling-with-what-are-their-ages">How many people are you traveling with? How old are they?</a></li> <li><a href="#where-are-you-going">Where are you going?</a></li> <li><a href="#how-many-days-are-you-travelling">How many days are you traveling?</a></li> <li><a href="#what-activities-will-you-be-doing">What activities will you be doing?</a></li> <li><a href="#how-far-away-from-advanced-medical-care-will-you-be">How far away from advanced medical care will you be?</a></li> <li><a href="#does-anybody-you're-travelling-with-have-prior-medical-problems">Does anybody you're traveling with have prior medical problems?</a></li> <li><a href="#what-i-use">What I use</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="how-many-people-are-you-travelling-with-what-are-their-ages">How many people are you traveling with? How old are they?</h2> <p>Knowing the number of travelers will allow you to form an idea of the number of items to carry. </p> <p>This generally goes for basic and commonly used items such as simple pain medication, blister treatment, band-aids, and anti-diarrhea medicine. No one can ever be fully prepared for all potential problems, and you should have adequate supplies of all required items.</p> <p>The age of the travelers is important because you'll want to pack appropriate age-related medications, especially if children are involved. Kids are not simply little adults, they require different types and doses of medications, for example. Anybody traveling with kids should have a special kit just for little ones.</p> <h2 id="where-are-you-going">Where are you going?</h2> <p>Location is everything in travel medicine. Knowing the risks of the area you are visiting will help you not only build a viable medical kit, but also prevent illness overall. Find out what the climate, weather and potential health risks at your destination might be and pack accordingly. Will there be mosquitoes, for example, in which case pack <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/sunblock-or-insect-repellent-first">repellent</a> and antibacterial cream.</p> <h2 id="how-many-days-are-you-travelling">How many days are you traveling?</h2> <p>A trip over a long weekend is vastly different from a seven-week adventure. The duration of travel will dictate how much you will need to carry in your first-aid kit, as well as whether you will have opportunities to restock your supplies. If you're going off-grid, you'll need to carry more of the common items that will be used more frequently, for example.   </p> <h2 id="what-activities-will-you-be-doing">What activities will you be doing?</h2> <p>Think about the activities you'll be taking part in and the potential <a href="/travel-safety">risks</a> associated with these events. This applies to all activities, not just athletic or sporty pursuits.</p> <p>For example, carrying medicine for high-altitude and mountain sickness is worthless if you're going on a scuba trip – while carrying a lot of blister treatments and Ibuprofen is very wise for a group planning on a lot of <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-wiser/practical/how-to-choose-the-right-hiking-gear">hiking</a> or walking.</p> <h2 id="how-far-away-from-advanced-medical-care-will-you-be">How far away from advanced medical care will you be?</h2> <p>The more remote your location, the longer you'll need to be prepared to provide care.</p> <p>The other question that needs to be asked is, "What level is the nearest, advanced medical care?" A run-down, poorly-stocked clinic in a developing nation has a good chance of reusing medical supplies. This means a high risk of infection. If you know you're traveling to a remote location where pharmacies are rare and their supplies are minimal, pack items such as antibiotics that might not be available.</p> <h2 id="does-anybody-you're-travelling-with-have-prior-medical-problems">Does anybody you're traveling with have prior medical problems?</h2> <p>Knowing the medical history of your travel companions is very important. A traveler with a history of heart disease will require a few different medications than a pregnant woman or a child with asthma.</p> <p>Travelers that take medications on a daily basis should be carrying their home medications with them on their travels. They should also be carrying an extra supply for a few more days, in the event of delays or extended travel.</p> <h2 id="what-i-use">What I use in my first-aid kit</h2> <p>A medical kit should be customized depending on all of the above factors. I use the <a href="https://www.adventuremedicalkits.com/" target="_blank" title="Adventure Medical Kits">Adventure Medical Kit Mountain Medic</a> as my starter kit and add to that with other items I will need depending on the trip.</p> <p>This kit was a good starting point and saved me the hassle of gathering up a blood pressure cuff, stethoscope, individual packets of Ibuprofen, quick clot, nasal trumpet airways and other useful but hard-to-find items. You can see the kit's basic contents <a href="https://www.adventuremedicalkits.com/medical-kits/travel/world-travel.html" target="_blank" title="World Travel Kit">here</a>.</p> <p>I then set to work adding my own personal touches based on our group, locations visited activities and time away from home. An important side note, however, is that in some countries certain kinds of medicines could breach entry requirements, so make sure you check that the contents of your pack will pass through airport security.</p> <p>If you're carrying a small pair of scissors or nail clippers, remember to put these items in your check-in luggage, not carry them onto the plane – they'll be confiscated.<br /><br />Here are a few essential items to pack:</p> <ul> <li>Band-aids</li> <li>A pair of gloves</li> <li>Compression bandages</li> <li>Antibacterial wipes and creams</li> <li>Antihistamine creams for itches</li> <li>Antihistamine tablets for allergic reactions</li> <li>A small roll of surgical tape</li> <li>Gauze dressings (you can buy individually wrapped squares).</li> </ul> <p>Sanitary pads or tampons can come in handy if you run out of band-aids, and need to mop up blood on a wound.</p>iStock 0 iStock Travel First Aid Kit