Why is a route plan important?
A route plan is a simple yet effective way to ensure help can reach you if something goes wrong. Weather can change quickly, the trail may be tougher than expected, or plans might shift. If someone knows where you’re supposed to be and when you’re due back, any search effort can begin promptly.
Inform someone close to you about your trip details
- The best option is to inform someone close to you – such as a family member or friend who isn’t joining the hike.
- Please note that Metsähallitus nature centres no longer accept route plans.
Remember to notify your contact once you’ve returned – it lets them know everything went well.
What should a route plan include?
- Date
- Names of participants
- Whether children are included
- Planned route and destination
- Return time
- Safety equipment, e.g. phone, map, compass, matches, shelter, sleeping pad, snow shovel, and food for the trip (how many days it is planned for)
- Name and phone number of your contact person at home
A small action with a big impact
Creating a route plan doesn’t take much time, but its importance can be critical. Nature offers freedom, but safety comes from care and connection.