A hide site is a temporary concealed location used during military evasion. An isolated person uses it to assess the situation and available equipment, conserve strength and prepare the next movement. The location therefore needs concealment, opportunities for observation and a way out. The term describes the site's function: an existing terrain feature or dense vegetation may provide it without a shelter being built.
Military use
Evasion involves periods of movement and concealed occupation. Movement provides access to other areas, but consumes energy and increases visible activity. A hide site allows a halt during which the person can observe the surroundings, assess physical condition and organise the next actions. Rest and sleep preserve the physical ability needed for the next leg.
Observation is part of this function. Approaches should remain observable so that enemy activity can be noticed before it reaches the occupied location. Ways out prevent the person from being trapped between dense concealment and an impassable obstacle. Concealment, observation and accessible exits are therefore assessed together.
Initial concealment, hide site and hole-up
In US usage, the different terms emphasise immediate concealment, preparation for onward movement or a halt for recuperation and meeting survival needs.
| Term | Function |
|---|---|
| Initial concealed point | Get out of open view immediately after recognising isolation. From there, observe the surroundings and enemy activity, assess physical condition and available resources, and decide what to do next. |
| Hide site · US Army | A secluded location for taking stock, camouflage, rest and planning the next movement. It combines a concealed stay with the ability to continue evasion. |
| Hole-up area · US Army | A concealed area used primarily for recuperation and meeting survival needs. Such a halt becomes necessary when physical condition calls for water, food or rest, or when equipment needs maintenance. The location of available resources therefore becomes a major selection factor. |
| Hole-up site · US multiservice usage | A location for reassessing the situation and physical condition after initial concealment: inventory equipment, establish the current location, review priorities and the plan, and improve camouflage. This usage emphasises reorganising the next actions. |
Obtaining and preparing food creates additional journeys and signs of activity. Within a hole-up area, these functions are therefore kept separate from the resting place. Movement throughout the occupied area remains limited.
Location and signs of occupation
A hide site is preferably away from populated areas and likely routes used by other people. These include roads and trails, as well as terrain features that channel movement. A water source may help meet the evader's needs while also attracting people or animals. Its value is therefore considered alongside the traffic expected there.
The BLISS mnemonic groups the site's visual characteristics: blending into the surroundings, a low silhouette, an irregular shape, small size and a secluded location. Existing terrain and vegetation are used with as little disturbance as possible. Visibility from both the ground and above needs consideration. Protection from the environment also matters; a concealed drainage, for example, may become a watercourse during heavy rain.
Occupation changes the site. Repeated movement can create an access trail, cut foliage wilts and shadows shift. Unnecessary movement, noise and shiny equipment can also reveal a presence. Assessment therefore covers both the original concealment and the additional signs produced by occupation.
Connection to onward evasion
The next movement depends on physical condition, observed enemy activity and the evasion plan. A possible recovery influences that decision when communications or agreed opportunities actually exist. A changing threat, inadequate supplies or a usable opportunity to return may justify relocation.