Even those who do not consider themselves seasoned hikers likely are familiar with the plethora of gadgets designed to make hiking “easier and more enjoyable.” Outside of the basic hiking gear, which includes a backpack, hiking boots, and a waterproof jacket, a few additional gadgets, if chosen correctly, can enhance safety and make the time spent outdoors more entertaining. Regardless of whether someone is a novice or seasoned hiker, there are a handful of tools that every person, including children, can benefit from and easily store in their hiking backpacks. These testimonials claim that there are five hiking gadgets that will enrich every hiker’s experience, be it a short stroll or days-long excursions.
Garmin inReach Mini 2
The first recommended gadget is the Garmin Inreach Mini 2. Described as a satellite communicator, this tool serves as portable safety equipment for off-the-grid travelers, hikers, or individuals taking extended trips. The Garmin inReach Mini 2 enables users to send messages and enables friends and family to pinpoint their locations, all while traveling through areas with limited cellular network reception. In cases where the user is positioned in a no-signal area, the device allows for the dialing of emergency services as well. Alternatively, this source suggests that the Garmin Fenix 7X smartwatch may be a better fit for these functionalities.
LifeStraw
A LifeStraw serves as one of the most useful gadgets an individual can have in their hiking gear, especially when it comes to longer hikes or particularly hot days when natural sources of water are abundant, increasing the need for hydration. LifeStraw is purported to be so effective users can drink directly from streams and lakes by filtering the water. It is said that LifeStraw filters out 99.999999% of harmful bacteria and 99.999% of parasites. One LifeStraw is said to last for up to 4,000 litres of filtered water. It is also mentioned that LifeStraw Peak Solo is another product that can be attached at the end of a hiking water bottle and used to refill the bottle directly from any water source, further increasing convenience.
Head Torch
Lastly, a head torch is a recommended gadget that is a burn-the-wick-at-both-ends type of gadget. It isn’t particularly flashy or interesting, but it sure is a practical gadget to have, especially if a person is planning to go on long or more strenuous hikes that will take them beyond the sunset. It is claimed that while a regular flashlight can be packed away, the benefits a headtorch offers in hands being able to assist with map reading, climbing, and terrain navigation ensure safety during nighttime is greatly enhanced.
Multi-Tool
A multi-tool or a camping knife is the fourth recommended gadget that fits the described criteria perfectly. Multi-tools are lightweight gadgets that provide a solution to myriad problems a hiker may face while on trails. Because of its many noted uses, a multi-tool eases the burden of carrying several individual items that every hiker needs to pack for a trip. Examples include preparing meals, making gear repairs while on the trail, or simplistic tasks like removing a stubborn splinter. It is described as one of those gadgets that is well worth bringing, owing to its all-in-one design that furthers the axiom of ‘being prepared for the worst.’
Power Bank
The power bank is the gadget that comes in fifth place in the ranking. According to the referenced source, a hiker with a fully charged phone will still wish to bring along a portable charger later, especially if they enjoy taking pictures and filming videos while outdoors. Although there are solar power banks, these types of batteries are said to take longer to charge and require optimal weather to work. Because of this, it is better to stick to a regular power bank, like the BioLite Charge PD 80 or the Anker PowerCore+, exemplified in the source for weekend hiking trips, so that other mobile devices can be used and will not run out of power.
