A Simple Trip Plan Stopped Search and Rescue From Launching
Ever finished a hike only to find out search and rescue was looking for you?
That’s exactly what happened to me in 2014.
I’d just wrapped up an 8-day remote hike in Tasmania with a few mates. We were feeling great…. until we reached phone signal… and saw a flood of missed calls.
Turns out, the local lodge owner (who had seen us head out on our trip) had called the police. Search and rescue was already spinning up.
The only thing that stopped a full-scale emergency?
📄 A single document my wife had at home.
What Happened?
Even though we’d explained the plan and logged it with the lodge owner, one misunderstanding almost triggered a rescue.
Thankfully, my wife had a full itinerary:
Our route + exit day
Alternate tracks in case plans changed
Satellite messages I’d sent from the bush
Group details + our GPX files
That was enough for police to stand down the callout.
Why I Never Hike Without a Trip Plan
I’ve used a version of this document since high school outdoor ed. It’s not overkill, it’s peace of mind.
Here’s what my current trip plan includes:
✅ Entry + exit points
✅ Possible campsites + bailout routes
✅ Group members + emergency contacts
✅ Permit info, transport logistics
✅ How + when we’ll check in
✅ GPX links + map layers
Quick Start:
Just starting out? Keep it simple:
Where you’re going
Who’s with you
When you’ll check in with someone
Then… send it to three people. Ideally, one should know the area you’ll be in well.
🧠 Pro Tip:
Include someone at home and someone with local knowledge, that combo can save hours in an emergency.
🎁 Want My Editable Template?
It’s the exact one that helped shut down a rescue mission before it began.
➡️ Download the Trip Plan Template Free
💬 Your Turn:
Have you ever had a close call—or a trip plan that saved the day?
Hit reply and share your story—I read every single one
Planning for the unexpected doesn’t take long. But it makes all the difference when the unexpected happens.
THAT’S ALL FOR THIS WEEK
Thanks for reading Mowser’s Musings. I hope it gave you something to think about (or pack for).
Until next week, keep exploring.
Mowser
Discover more. Hike further.
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P.S. If you haven’t yet, take the Hiking Readiness Quiz to see your Hiking Readiness Score. It’s only 3 minutes and shows you where you’re strong and where to focus before your next adventure.
👉 Take the Quiz Here
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