I always had the picture of them strung out, undisciplined and without formation during their flight. This of course contrasted with their earlier talks, prior to the Others arrival, of having the advantage of discipline vs. the sheer numbers of the Wildlings. Hell, at one point one of Sam's "brothers" takes his horse, on of the last remaining. In the book they get hit hard and don't fully regroup until they make it to Craster's. Of course, once they regroup the shit REALLY hits the fan but we'll see what happens. Aren't they also harried in the book by wights and the Other that Sam earns his nickname from?