The use of the palaeomagnetic method in stratigraphy is based on the evidence of geomagnetic field polarity changes (inversions) as well as the existence of excursions, short-term (up to 10 ka) deviations of the virtual geomagnetic pole from its usual position, which occurred sometimes only on a regional scale. The excursions as magnetostratigraphic benchmarks are a powerful tool in the correlation of the Quaternary deposits. In 19601990 particular attention was paid to them as important correlation markers across the regional chronostratigraphic scales of the Quaternary. However, the quantity of the Brunhes chron excursions, their stratigraphic position and ages have been debatable. In recent years, many papers have been published clarifying the nature, age, and duration of excursions in various deposits. In the first part of the article a detailed overview of the Brunhes chron excursions is provided, considering the current state of the issue of determining their suitability.