How to Use a Map and Compass Easy Family Guide
How to Use a Map and Compass
A simple and fun family guide to map reading and navigation. Learning how to use a map and compass might sound old fashioned but it is one of the most useful outdoor skills your family can have. Phones and apps are brilliant until the battery runs out or the signal disappears. A paper map and a compass never fail and using them turns an ordinary walk into a proper adventure. This guide is perfect for map reading for beginners, navigation skills for kids, and learning basic compass use in a fun and friendly way.
Why learn to read a map and compass
A compass always points north and a map shows you where everything is. Put them together and you can walk anywhere with confidence. Families love it because:
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It keeps everyone safe if technology fails
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Kids feel proud when they can find the way themselves
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It makes a walk into a treasure hunt with landmarks to spot
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It is great for the mind because it keeps you focused on the outdoors instead of screens
Step 1. Choose the right map
In the UK the Ordnance Survey Explorer maps are perfect for family adventures. They show footpaths, rivers, woods, car parks and viewpoints in wonderful detail. The OS Maps app is handy too but we always recommend carrying a paper map in your bag.
We always carry an Explorer map on our walks. You can order your own OS map straight from the Ordnance Survey website here
Step 2. Learn the map symbols
Maps are like secret codes. Once you know the symbols you can unlock the story of the land.
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Blue lines show rivers and streams
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Green patches show woodland
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Black squares show buildings
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Dotted lines show public footpaths
Turn this into a family game. Ask the children to race to find a church symbol or a picnic site on the map.
Step 3. Get to know the compass
A compass is simply a small tool that points to north. The red end of the needle is always drawn to the north. That is all you need to remember to begin with.
Step 4. Make the map match the world
Hold your map flat in front of you. Look around and choose something you can see, use landmarks like trees, rivers or hills you already know. Find the same feature on your map. Turn the map until what you see outside lines up with what you see on the paper.
Now the map is the right way round. What is in front of you on the ground is also in front of you on the map.
Step 5. Follow your path
Find your chosen path on the map. Look up and follow it in real life. The map tells you what is coming next such as a gate, a bend in the path or a bridge. Spot each landmark as you walk and celebrate when you find it.
Step 6. Let the kids take the lead
Children love being the navigator. Give them the map and ask them to find the next bridge or stile. It gives them confidence and turns your walk into a fun family challenge.
Step 7. Use your compass to point the way
When you are unsure which track to take the compass is there to help.
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Place the edge of the compass on the map along the path you want to walk
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Twist the dial until the arrow inside matches north on the map
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Hold the compass flat in your hand
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Turn your whole body until the red needle sits neatly inside the arrow
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The big arrow on the base now shows you which way to walk
Simple rhyme to help children remember. Line it up, turn it round, red in the shed, walk where it points.
Step 8. Practice in a familiar place
The best way to learn is to try it somewhere you already know. Head to your local woodland, park or country trail. Start at a clear feature such as a car park sign or a bridge. Find it on the map and turn the map to match what you see. Walk a short loop and tick off features as you reach them. Keep it short, keep it fun and reward yourselves with a hot chocolate or an ice cream at the end.
Quick family checklist
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Map in a waterproof case if it might rain
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Compass in an easy to reach pocket
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Charged phone for photos and a backup
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Drinks, snacks and a spare layer
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Tell someone where you are going if you plan to head into the hills
Safety made simple
Check the weather before you set off. Choose a route that suits your family. If you are unsure, turn back. There will always be another day.
Ready to give it a go
Learning map and compass skills is one of the best things you can do as a family. It keeps you safe, it makes walks more exciting and it teaches kids skills they will keep for life.
👉 You can pick up your own Ordnance Survey Explorer map and compass here
Frequently Asked Questions about Map and Compass Skills
What is the easiest way to use a compass?
Hold the compass flat, turn your map until it matches the world around you, and then line up the red needle with north. Follow the big arrow on the base to walk the right way.
How do beginners read a map?
Start with simple symbols. Blue lines show rivers, green patches show woods, and dotted lines show footpaths. Match what you see on the ground to the same symbols on your map.
How do you teach kids to use a map and compass?
Keep it fun. Ask them to find features like bridges or gates on the map and then spot them outside. Give them the compass and show them that the red needle always points north.
Why should I learn map reading if I have GPS on my phone?
GPS is useful but batteries run out and signal can vanish. A paper map and compass always work and give you more confidence outdoors.
Where is the best place to practice map reading?
Choose somewhere safe and familiar, like your local woodland or country park. Walk short loops, line the map up with the world, and tick off features as you spot them.
What compass should I buy as a beginner?
A simple baseplate compass is best for learning. Look for one with a clear rotating dial, a red needle that points north, and a straight edge you can line up on your map.
How do I keep a map safe in the rain?
Use a clear waterproof map case. You can fold your map inside it so the part you need is on show, and you can still write on it with a dry-wipe pen if you want to mark your route.