Hitting Reset
Words by Perry Mack
For some of us, “getting away from it all” really does mean getting away from everyone. Exploring on your own—whether it’s hiking deep into the landscape or wandering through forgotten places like ghost towns and abandoned mining sites—can be the ultimate reset. Cutting the cord sometimes includes taking a break from family and friends, too.
But heading out solo means preparation matters even more. When you’re properly equipped, those unexpected moments become interesting stories to tell later, not medical emergencies or full‑scale search‑and‑rescue operations in the backcountry.
Perry & Cindy Mack
Preventing incidents shouldn’t be something we only think about after something goes wrong. The strongest field‑safety programs bake preparation into everyday routines instead of treating it like an emergency‑only exercise. Here are three practical habits that make a real difference for remote and isolated explorers.
A standard first‑aid kit is fine for everyday scrapes, but remote hikers need gear that helps them handle situations that can escalate quickly. That means packing items like:
- Pain relief: enough ibuprofen or acetaminophen to last the duration of your planned hike
- Allergy support: antihistamines in multiple doses
- Wound care: gauze, antiseptic, and medical tape
- Stabilization tools: splints for sprains or potential fractures
Most backcountry incidents aren’t dramatic—they’re small issues that snowball when they’re ignored. You should be trained to stay ahead of the most common problems by managing:
- Hydration and electrolytes throughout the day
- Temperature exposure, including early signs of heat exhaustion or hypothermia
- Minor injuries before they turn into major ones
A little prevention goes a long way. An extra water break or a quick rest can prevent multi‑day injuries and significantly reduce risk.
When something serious does happen, responders need accurate information right away. Every backcountry explorer should carry a simple, accessible document—paper or digital—that includes:
- Medical history and any known allergies
- Emergency contacts, with roles clearly listed
- Their route plan, and expected check‑in times
Having this information ready can dramatically speed up response time and improve outcomes.
There are some rock‑solid ways to stay connected to the outside world when you’re off the grid, and portable satellite communicators are at the top of that list. One of the most reliable options out there is the ZOLEO. It lets you send texts through satellite straight from your smartphone, and it’s got a dedicated SOS button for those moments when things go sideways—whether that’s a medical emergency or, say, finding yourself treed by a grizzly.
Hit that SOS button and ZOLEO immediately alerts Global Rescue with your GPS coordinates and kicks off emergency response coordination. No guessing, no delays.
Perry Mack & Jason Tansem
The best part? ZOLEO works anywhere on the planet. Whether you’re ripping through the Canadian backcountry or trekking through Caribbean rainforests, you just clip this little unit to your pack and you’ve got a lifeline ready to go. It brings real peace of mind to anyone who likes to wander solo. For more info visit zoleo.com.
Because truly getting away from it all—including getting away from everyone—is one of the best ways to reset. And when you’re prepared, those quiet escapes feel even better.