Stephanie is a cherished member of the Sampling America writing team, dedicated to crafting captivating narratives that transport readers to thrilling adventures across the country and beyond.
Although hiking is an experience best enjoyed without the noise or distractions of technology like phones, iPods, or laptops, there are plenty of tech gadgets that can make your hiking experience easier and safer.
There are plenty of techy gadgets that have been invented throughout the years that many people will say you absolutely need but turn out to be totally useless.
Follow our list to find the gadgets that will actually improve your hiking experience or keep you even safer on those backcountry trails.
Headlamp
Anyone experienced in hiking overnight will tell you that having a reliable light source is essential to keeping safe at night and in the early morning hours.
Many modern headlamps are battery-less and can be charged via a USB cable. They’re also very lightweight and won’t weigh down your backpack. Seeing a trail late at night or keeping your morning coffee illuminated is a huge benefit.
Personal Locator Beacon
These small gadgets can be a lifesaver on the trail. A personal locator beacon is a satellite locator that will come in handy in an emergency. It can load a map or weather forecast and beam your location in case you become lost.
Many people could be saved when they stray off the trail if they were to have one of these handy little gadgets. Although they might not be the cheapest item, if you need it, it could seriously save a life.
Binoculars
Although binoculars are not necessarily a new invention, they remain a useful and popular item to take hiking. For anyone who likes to freestyle their path or take backcountry trails, seeing the terrain from long distances is handy.
Binoculars can also be incredibly useful if you become lost or can’t find your way back to the trail. Spotting a stream, trail, or parking lot through a pair of powerful binoculars can mean the difference between becoming lost in the wilderness or finding your way back to safety.
Trekking Poles
Although trekking poles seem like an item that only older hikers need to use, they’re actually helpful for hikers of all ages.
Especially when hiking on rough terrain, trekking poles can be a lifesaver to help traverse rough ground, climb rocky mountains, and pass through deep streams. They keep the hiker balanced while they’re able to take risks and get through difficult spots on a trail.
Solar Charge Power Bank
It might seem obvious, but you’re going to need a power source to keep your cell phone and all of your gadgets powered.
If you’ll be gone for more than one night, it’s wise to bring a portable solar charging power bank. It can be used to change anything that uses a USB cable.
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