fbpx

Tools For Savvy Adventurers: 10 Essential Hiking Gadgets

Any seasoned hiker, from lightweight warriors to overpacked sherpas, can agree that a good hiking gadget can make or break a wilderness adventure.

The marketplace for hiking gadgets and gizmos is flooded, so many hikers fall into the trap of buying and packing more than they need.

Tools for savvy adventurers: 10 essential hiking gadgets

So today, let’s remove some confusion around hiking gadgets — out of the countless items out there, which ones do you really need?

Let’s dive into ten essential gadgets for hikers of all skill levels to ensure your next hike is safe and, most importantly, fun….

10 hiking gadgets every outdoor lover needs

#1. GPS-enabled smartwatch 

All the traditional instruments you’d need for a hike in the past are available in a single gadget — the smartwatch. Top-of-the-line smartwatches come equipped with:

  • GPS tracking;
  • Topographical maps;
  • Health metrics like heart rate, HRV, and step count;
  • Compass;
  • Access to mobile apps;
  • Solar charger.

#2. Solar-charging power bank

No doubt you hike with a decent power bank, but you’re relying on a finite amount of power for your entire hike. 

Instead, bring a solar-charging power bank to ensure your only limiting factor is the sun. These are great for longer hikes where you want to maximize your device batteries.

#3. Water filtering bottles

Another incredibly finite resource you have while hiking is water — each gallon is over 8 pounds you need to carry on your back.

Swap out the extra weight for a water filter straw or purifying water bottle. Simply fill up from your nearest stream and never run out of your most precious resource.

#4. The classic multi-tool

Sometimes, the old saying holds: if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. The same can be said for the hiker’s all-time best friend — the ever-handy multi-tool.

With anything from a couple of tools to 30, find a multi-tool that suits all your needs. You might be surprised at how often you actually need it.

#5. Emergency communicator

Let’s face it — you can’t guarantee that you’ll never be in an emergency while in the wild. On those very rare occasions, you’ll wish you had a satellite communicator.
They track your GPS location and even allow you to send text messages over a subscription satellite network. Most importantly, it can send out a much-needed SOS in an emergency.

Tools for savvy adventurers: 10 essential hiking gadgets

#6. Premium trail apps

During the prep stage before your hike, a trail app is your strongest asset. They allow you to explore libraries of routes with plenty of reviews by other hikers.

Best yet, you can use the apps while you’re on your hike to ensure you never veer too far from the path. Just ensure you know what a VPN is if you try to access these apps from public Wi-Fi connections.

#7. Camping stove

Even if you’re only on a half-day hike, a camping stove is a must-have. Heat soups, brew coffee, or even fry up some leftovers. 

If you’re not so keen on carrying gas canisters, you can even buy portable wood-burning stoves for a truly rustic experience.

#8. Emergency tarp/heat blanket

Out of the various elements out of your control on a hike, the weather can be the most unpredictable. Rain, hail, heat, or frost — you need to be prepared.

If inclement weather interrupts your hike, an emergency tarp can be a lifesaver. Many even double up as a heat blanket so you don’t freeze overnight.

#9. Portable speaker

Whether you’re chilling around a campfire or pushing your legs to their breaking point, one thing that perfects a hike is a good playlist.

Portable speakers come in tiny sizes now and pack a punch. Clip one onto your pack, and you can listen to your glorious tunes as you reach the summit.

#10. Rechargeable insect repellent

One of the least desirable parts of hiking has to be the insects. Especially in summer, you’ll often wish for a break from the constant mosquito bites.

Equip yourself with a rechargeable insect repellent and toss out that gross DEET spray. Simply turn it on, and the device will slowly repel most insects within a 20-foot radius.

Wrapping up…

The list of awesome hiking gadgets can go on and on, but those listed here are easily the most essential.

Now, you just have to make sure you don’t overpack for your next hike!

Leave a Comment

Share to...