Make a plan and stick to that plan. Let others know your plans even if its the same thing you have done every year. Deffinately set a time that if you havn't talked to anyone they call the authorities and come a lookin! I do this everytime I go hunting or hiking on public land. If I have someone going with me I still let a 3rd party know.
If no one knows where you are going and when you are expected back they won't have a clue on where or when to look!