Hiking is a fantastic way to see the great outdoors. Plus, many people are starting to hike to stay fit and healthy. After all, hiking is not just a stroll.
This also explains why you need to consider your safety.
Whether you are a newbie or an experienced hiker, there is an abundance of cool hiking gadgets that can level-up your adventure:
1. Headlight
Many people go hiking to get away from their stressful daily life and relax.
It is effortless to lose track of time in such an environment and have the night catch you almost by surprise. Yet, it is never a good idea to hike during the night without having something to light up your path.
A flashlight is an obvious solution, but it will take up your hands, which you’ll need when using your trekking poles.
A headlight can help illuminate your path and make your night hiking much safer. The best part? No need to keep your hands busy.
2. Power Bank
Nearly every hiker will take at least one electronic device with them when hiking.
Electronic devices mean you’ll need full-powered batteries. Nonetheless, batteries tend to become empty at the worst times.
Since you’re less likely to see power outlets when hiking, you need an alternative to charge your device. This is where a power bank comes in.
At a very efficient rate, it lets you charge your devices anywhere you are. With a maximum output of 3.2A, it will be able to charge almost any device you take with you.
3. Personal Locator Beacon
Knowing your location is one of the most critical pieces of information for a hiker, especially in case of an emergency.
Fortunately, we have modern devices like personal location beacon that lets you pinpoint your location. With precise coverage, these devices allow people to locate you with ease anywhere in the world.
Besides its location features, a beacon is equipped with an emergency 406 MHz distress and homing signal. It is also equipped with a LED strobe and an infrared strobe to make pinpointing your location more accessible.
4. Compact Camera
As much as possible, it would be best to pack light when hiking. Hence, we tend to use our smartphone camera when snapping pictures.
But why compromise on quality?
You can opt to pack a compact camera instead. That’s because it is lightweight and produces high-definition photos. Bonus if it is waterproof.
It is the hiking camera that makes photos you will be proud of.
The only caveat is that compact cameras are expensive. But consider it an investment if you are a frequent hiker.
5. Compass
Navigating in nature can be difficult due to poor visibility and uneven landscape. Luckily, handheld GPS devices can help with navigation. The only problem is that your devices can be useless if it runs out of battery.
Therefore, it would be best to bring an “old-school” compass with you. Aside from navigation accuracy, a compass is lightweight and does not depend on batteries.
You can also use it to do triangulation to determine your location. What you need is a map and basic navigation skills.
6. Rechargeable Pocket Fan
Any fan of the outdoors also loves basking under the sun. The problem is that rising temperatures can be irritating and pose a health problem.
Thus, it is essential to keep yourself hydrated. Aside from drinking enough water, you can also keep your cool using a rechargeable pocket fan.
There are different types of fans. Regardless, the best travel fan should be robust, lightweight, and have long battery life.
7. Hiking Watch
Hiking watches are built to endure the harshest of environments. But they are also packed with extra features.
The most common features are:
- Altimeters to measure elevation
- Barometers that monitor changes in air pressure
- Compass to keep you on track.
Although hiking watches aren’t always comfortable on the wallet, their plethora of features means you can use it other than hiking.
8. Waterproof Flashlight
Let’s face it: Anytime there is water involved, you are risking your flashlight.
Whether you are fishing, hunting, or out on the lake, a great waterproof light will work whether it is wet or dry. The same thing goes when you are hiking, and the weather suddenly turned for the worst.
Conclusion
Whether you are new to hiking or not, it would be best to plan your adventure. This includes identifying what gadgets you should bring.
That’s because the right hiking gear ensures your safety. Thus, it allows you to focus on your hike and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Sure, the gears listed above can be expensive. But think of it as an investment, especially if you intend to make hiking as a hobby. This means that you only need to buy once and use them over and over.
