I generally use a GPS to mark locations like the car, key features and landmarks, possible stand locations,start of a blood trail, and that kind of thing. When I want to get to one of these places, I consult the GPS to tell me which way to go, and then glance at the compass to see which way to walk to follow that bearing.

I pick a distant landmark along the intended path, and put the compass away until I get there. By picking a distant landmark, I can veer all over the place avoiding obstacles and taking the easiest path, but I know that as long as I get to that landmark, I'm still headed in the right direction. When I get there, I recheck the GPS and compass, pick a new landmark and repeat as necessary.