And if you do, it can be deadly.

These are their key tips.

Retain mental resilience

“Being lost, if you’ve never been lost — it can be the most discombobulating thing. So it sounds like [Hadi’s] managed that because he’s done some very sensible things.”

“You could be equipped with all of the fancy survival gear you like, but if your attitude [is one] of giving up or quitting within the first couple of nights of no shelter … none of the other equipment is good,” said Petersen, who is a bushcraft and survival instructor based in Queensland.

It can take just minutes to become lost

“Before you know it, your circumstances are very different.”

If you realise you’re lost, stop walking

“You stand a much better chance of being found and a much better chance of being found early.”

“If you’re lost, don’t keep walking.”

Don’t be afraid to call for help

“In fact, a great quote I heard from Sergeant Dal Atkinson up here in the Blue Mountains was: ‘If you think you need to call for help, you probably do’, and there is no shame and there is no embarrassment in doing that.”

Familiarise yourself with the terrain

Beacons cost around $300 to $400 and can be hired for free in some national parks.

Don’t try and fight the elements

“Whatever his biggest threat was, if it’s the heat, then get out of the heat. If it’s needing water, then address that priority with the acquisition of water,” Petersen said.

“Food is the very last thing on the list,” she said.

“It’s amazing how long we can actually survive without food. I think I went for about three weeks on Alone before I had my first food.”

Don’t go alone

“When you do go out on a bushwalk or hike, you can be so focused on wanting to get out in the bush, or wanting to be hanging out with mates. One thing, always go out with friends, go out with other people.”

The multi-agency search for Hadi Nazari involved hundreds of people, including volunteers and some of the missing hiker’s friends and family. Credit: NSW State Emergency Service

Remember: TREK

Ryan said a helpful acronym can help you if you’re ever in a sticky situation in the bush: TREK.

• T: Take what you need. In particular, food, water, warm layers and a first aid kit. 
• R: The ‘R’ stands for ‘register your intentions’, or in other words, tell someone where you are going.
• E: ‘E’ stands for emergency communication, or ensuring you have a device that allows you to contact emergency services.
• K: The ‘K’ stands for ‘know your route’, and ensure you plan your hike according to your skill level.