Hiking Gear Must-Have: Satellite Communicator or Locator Beacon

One of the most crucial pieces of hiking gear is a satellite communicator or personal locator beacon (PLB). In areas with no cell service, these devices connect you to satellites so you can send out messages, or in emergencies, activate an SOS alert. Mike highlighted the Zoleo satellite communicator, which pairs with your phone to let you stay connected even in the most remote backcountry.

While a PLB is more limited, functioning only as an SOS signal and it doesn’t require ongoing subscription fees. A communicator like Zoleo, on the other hand, may cost about $20 per month for a basic plan. Both options provide peace of mind, and either can be a literal lifesaver when venturing far from civilization.

Gear Essential: Portable Water Filter

Even if you think you’ve packed enough water, things can change quickly in the wilderness. That’s why a portable water filter is one of the smartest additions to your hiking gear. Unlike larger filtration systems that can be bulky, compact filters, like the Platypus model Mike recommends, are lightweight, simple to use, and small enough to forget they’re even in your bag.

In an emergency, you can scoop up water from a creek or river, attach the filter, and safely drink. For an item that takes up so little space, it offers huge benefits in terms of safety and peace of mind.

Reliable Headlamp: Hiking Gear You Shouldn’t Skip

The third must-have item is a dependable headlamp. While rechargeable models are environmentally friendly, they can leave you stranded if you forget to recharge before a trip. That’s why Mike suggests carrying a hybrid headlamp that works with both rechargeable packs and replaceable AAA batteries.

Being able to swap batteries on the trail ensures you’re never stuck in the dark. A reliable light source should live in your pack at all times, even for short day hikes—you never know when plans will change or emergencies will arise.

Safety Starts in Your Pack

Every outdoor adventure comes with unknowns, but carrying the right hiking gear can make all the difference. A satellite communicator or PLB, a portable water filter, and a hybrid headlamp are three compact, lightweight, and potentially life-saving tools worth keeping in your pack year-round.

As Mike emphasizes, it’s not about the length or difficulty of your hike, things happen. Having the right gear ensures you’re ready when they do.

To ensure you’ve got all the essentials and room to carry them, check out this quick guide on choosing the right backpack size for your adventures.

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AllTrails+: User-Friendly and Feature-Rich

AllTrails+ is the big name in hiking apps, and for good reason. It’s incredibly user-friendly and features a huge active userbase that writes regular reviews, shares photos, and rates trails. With AllTrails+, you can easily search for trails by distance and diffuculty, and on more popular trails, you can find up-to-date info by digging through recent the trail reviews. The app is perfect for those who are looking for well-trodden paths and want to avoid any unexpected surprises.

One standout feature of AllTrails+ is the Wrong Turn Alert. Imagine this: you’re deep in the woods, maybe chatting with a friend or just lost in your thoughts, and suddenly your phone buzzes. That’s AllTrails+ letting you know you’ve strayed off the trail. It’s like having a hiking buddy who keeps you from wandering too far off course. This is super helpful for new hikers, but might be a pain if you intend to stray off the beaten path.

Another great feature is the Live Share button, which lets you share your location in real time with selected contacts. It’s a nice safety net, ensuring someone knows where you are at all times. Whether you’re a casual hiker or a seasoned trekker, AllTrails+ offers a simple, reliable experience that’s hard to beat. Next up, AllTrails vs Strava, how does Strava compare?

Strava: The Athlete’s Companion

Next up is Strava, an app that’s very popular among athletes, particularly cyclists and runners. Strava’s approach to hiking is a bit different from AllTrails+. It’s less about the trails and more about the activity itself. Strava is known for its social media-like features, where you can track your hikes, share your progress, and even compete with friends.

One of the key features of Strava is its Route Builder tool. While not as robust as some might like, it’s great for mapping out a trail in advance, especially if you’re hiking in an urban environment or planning a mixed activity outing. Another feature, Beacon, allows you to share your real-time location with others, similar to AllTrails+’s Live Share.

Strava shines when you’re interested in more than just hiking. If you also cycle, run, or engage in other distance-based sports, Strava is a great all-in-one app. Plus, it adds a competitive edge to your adventures—who doesn’t like a bit of friendly (or unfriendly) rivalry?

OnX Backcountry: The Hardcore Adventurer’s Tool

Finally, we have OnX Backcountry, the app I personally favor. OnX is less about finding pre-made trails and more about creating your own adventure. It’s like having a cartographer in your pocket, ready to help you chart a course through the wild.

OnX is especially useful when you’re planning multi-day trips or need to navigate complex routes. It offers point-to-point measuring, which helps you figure out distances as the crow flies—a handy tool when you’re exploring less-traveled areas. One of its most impressive features is the ability to customize your offline maps. You can zoom in and out, choose different levels of satellite detail, and download exactly the region you need.

For those who hike, bike, ski, or climb, OnX Backcountry offers tailored functionality that makes it easy to view trails and routes specific to your activity. While it may be a bit intimidating at first, once you get the hang of it, OnX Backcountry becomes an indispensable tool for serious adventurers.

Which Hiking App Is Right for You?

AllTrails+ is perfect for the casual hiker who wants a user-friendly app with plenty of trail options and safety features. When comparing AllTrails vs Strava, Strava is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of activities and like to add a social or competitive element to their outings. OnX Backcountry is the go-to for hardcore adventurers who need detailed, customizable maps and the ability to plan complex routes.

Ultimately, the best app for you depends on your hiking style and needs. Have you tried any of these apps? I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop a comment below and let’s keep the conversation going.

Happy trails!

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Luckily for me, technology has made it easier to keep yourself from getting turned around in the forest. One such piece of technology is the AllTrails app. Whether you're a novice hiker or an experienced trekker, the AllTrails app is a game-changer, offering a wealth of features that enhance safety and enjoyment on the trail.

The Power of AllTrails

AllTrails is the world's number one camping and backpacking navigational app, providing detailed information on over 400,000 trails across the globe. This includes everything from trail length and elevation to community-curated photos and reviews from fellow hikers. And the best part? All of this is available for free. But you might be wondering, why pay $36 a year for AllTrails Plus, the premium subscription service? Let’s dive into the features and see if it’s worth it.

AllTrails Plus: A Closer Look

The primary limitation of the free version of AllTrails, like any navigational app, is its reliance on internet connectivity. When you're deep in the wilderness, far from the nearest cell tower, this can become a problem. This is where AllTrails Plus steps in with its standout feature: downloadable interactive maps. With AllTrails Plus, you can download maps and use them offline, ensuring you always have access to vital navigational information, no matter how remote your location.

Key Features of AllTrails Plus

Downloadable Maps

This feature allows you to download trail maps ahead of your hike and access them anytime, anywhere. It’s incredibly convenient and provides an extra layer of security, ensuring you never lose your way, even in areas without internet access.

Wrong Turn Alerts

One of my favorite features is the wrong turn alert. If you stray off the designated path, the app will buzz to notify you, helping you stay on track and avoid getting lost. This is especially useful for new hikers or in complex trail systems.

Lifeline

This is an emergency contact system that lets you share your planned route with multiple people. You can update your contacts about your status during your hike, providing peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. Lifeline is easy to set up and use, making it a valuable tool for any hiking trip.

Smartwatch Compatibility

For those with smartwatches, AllTrails Plus allows you to view your map on your wrist. This means you don’t have to take out your phone every time you want to check your location, adding convenience and efficiency to your hike.

Advanced Map Details

The app offers various filters such as air quality, light pollution, pollen, and heat maps, which show population densities on the trail. These details can help you plan your hike better, whether you're looking for a quiet trail or the perfect spot for stargazing.

Curated Guides

With over 200 guides available from the desktop site, AllTrails Plus provides collections of interesting trails and scenic views. These guides are perfect for planning trips and discovering new destinations.

Printable Maps

Although we live in a digital age, having the option to print a map can be handy (and is, in my opinion, 100% necessary for maximum safety). AllTrails Plus allows you to print maps in PDF format, adding another layer of preparation for your adventures.

Sorting Trails by Distance

This feature lets you find trails based on their proximity to your location, making it easier to plan spontaneous hikes.

Is AllTrails Plus Worth It?

For me, the safety features alone make AllTrails Plus worth the investment. Knowing you have a reliable, interactive map and the added security of wrong turn alerts can boost your confidence and enhance your enjoyment of the outdoors. These features are invaluable, whether you’re a beginner navigating new trails or an experienced hiker exploring complex routes.

However, it's important to remember not to over-rely on technology. Always carry a paper map as a backup, as phones can get wet, break, or run out of battery. Technology should complement your skills, not replace them.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, I highly recommend AllTrails Plus for its robust safety features and enhanced navigation tools. It offers a level of confidence and preparedness that can significantly improve your hiking experience. So, get out there, explore, and enjoy the beauty of nature with the peace of mind that AllTrails Plus provides. Happy hiking, and stay safe!

The post AllTrails+ Review: Navigating the Outdoors with Confidence appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Coros Vertix 2 Watch

GPS watches for backpacking

Historically, I have not been a techie guy when it comes to backpacking gadgets. When it comes to watches, I usually prefer something simple. A watch that could tell me the time and maybe point me in the right direction with a basic compass. After a season of using the Coros Vertix 2 smartwatch, I've come to appreciate its wide-ranging utility for a backpacker.

Vertix 2 has terrain elevation and ping my campsite

Some of my favorite features for the backcountry include the thermometer readings, the map with tracking functions, sunset and sunrise time, terrain elevation, heart rate, sleep data, and training data. One of the things I enjoy the most is the ability to “ping” my campsite location. I don't have to worry about finding my way back in the dark, should I decide to wander off for some reason. I can just ping my campsite location.

Coros Vertix 2 Battery Power

And best of all, the Vertix 2 has 60 days of battery power! That's pretty ridiculous.

Any drawbacks to the Coros Vertix 2?

One potential drawback is that the entirety of the watch's platform is a little complex. Be prepared to read the instructions if you want to explore beyond the standard stuff. Also, at $700 (USD), this is a big-ticket item. If you're an athletic-adventurer who is into geeking out on specs, then a feature-rich GPS watch is totally worth it for hiking. 

Ledlenser Neo 1R Headlamp

Light headlamp for running

Ledlenser Neo 1R headlamp was made with long-distance trail runner's in mind. The lightweight headlamp also works beautifully for backpacking and casual camping. It weighs only 39 grams but still pumps out up to 250 lumens. The headlamp also has several softer settings. The headlamp also has the ever-so-important red light feature which preserves your night vision. The red light is great because it doesn't tip off the bugs and doesn't tick off your tent neighbors.

The stated runtime is 4 hours. I know it doesn't sound like much. That will easily get you through a 3 or 4 day backpacking trip. The runtime doesn't mean that after 4 hours the headlamp dies. Rather that the max output will start to fade.

Lower intensity and moderated bursts of use

If you use it in moderated bursts, and at lower intensities, you'll get tons of life out of this thing. When it does end up needing a boost, you can plug it into Ledlenser's specific charger.

Any drawbacks to the Neo 1R as backpacking headlamp?

It would be nice if it could accept a more universal charger. We all have so many of those chargers lying around these days. That's about my only knock on the Neo 1R.

Great pricepoint for this light headlamp

But to end on another positive note, this little guy is only $45 (USD)! This has it sitting pretty when compared to much of the performance headlamp market. 

Vosteed Nightshade Camp Knife

Should you carry a knife backpacking?

Having a trustee pocket knife in the backcountry goes a long way. My personal favorite is the Vosteed Nightshade. I love the super slick shape of the 154cm blade.

The wide, curved design is great for cutting up vegetables, practicing your whittling skills around the campfire, slicing through paracord, etc.

It can even tag in as a basic screwdriver for when my camera gear needs some tweaking. This sucker goes for $69 (USD), which strikes me as a high-value price-point for a useful piece of backpacking gear. 

Grand Trunk Stool for Camping

What are the lightest camping chairs?

I usually don't bother carrying chairs into the backcountry, but some of them are so light, it's hard to resist. The Compass 360 Stool by Grand Trunk is only 1 pound! That's significantly lighter than your standard foldable chair. The next closest one that I've seen would be the Big Agnes Skyline UL Stool, which clocks in at 1 pound, 3 ounces (but to be fair, it's bigger than the Compass 360).

Camp chair that is all about the swivel

What caught my eye about Grand Trunk's option (other than than the weight) is that it can swivel. This means that I can turn my attention from my camping stove, to my camera gear, to the lovely mountain views – all without ever getting up. Not too shabby for under $60 (USD), especially considering that most ultra-light chairs are in the $100+ range.

Weight max best under the recommended weight

After using it for a little while the only thing I would caution future owners on is that while the stated max capacity is 330 pounds, I think the Compass 360 Stool is best suited for people under 200 pounds. It doesn't crumble under the extra weight, but it does start to struggle a bit. 

Zoleo Satellite Communicator

How do you communicate while hiking?

Given that cell-service is often dubious in the wild, I always bring my Zoleo Satellite Communicator in case of emergency (just hit the SOS button on your phone or the Zoleo unit), or for sending little updates to loved ones when I arrive at camp. I also check the weather religiously, which the Zoleo accurately provides by checking in with the nearest reporting station.

Satellite device pairs to phone

The pocket-sized rig pairs with my phone, making all of this super straight forward. There are other excellent options out there, but the Zoleo comes in a little cheaper than Garmin and Spot, both in terms of the unit ($199 USD) and then the corresponding subscription service.

No navigation function

The only drawback is that the Zoleo doesn't have any map or navigation functions (but that's what I use my smartwatch for).

Communication and weather

This is simply a communicator and a weather-checker. It is a worthy backpacking gadget to communicate with loved ones and to check the weather.

Pale Blue Rechargeable Batteries

Are Pale Blue batteries worth it?

The last piece of gadgetry that I wanted to talk about are Pale Blue rechargeable AAA batteries. I use these in my microphone while filming my BackpackingTV outings, in my tent's lighting system, and in a lot of electronics around the house. I'm not affiliated with Pale Blue at all, I just like using them and I think they can help cut down on the bagillions of batteries that we collectively throw away. 

No affiliation with Pale Blue but like the product

They perform admirably and they are easy to charge (four can be plugged in at once to the micro-USB charger that Pale Blue provides). Sometimes I am supported by the brands I talk about, but in this case, even though I have no affiliation with Pale Blue, I just really like this product and want to spread the word. 

Backpacking gear and gadgets reviews

Those are the little bits n' bobs that boost my backcountry experience. Make sure to check out their respective websites for more information, the links are in the article.

Come the spring, you may just find yourself extra teched-out, and all the happier and healthier for it.

As always, head on over to BackpackingTV for more awesome hiking-related content, and subscribe to the Hazeadventure newsletter so you can be notified about all our latest overland, waterbound, and family-friendly adventures. 

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Thankfully, these methods/gadgets don't cost an arm and a leg, and most of them are exceptionally packable. I review and compare some of the best selling brands on the market. Several of these water filters or purifiers just so happen to be my preferred approaches. So raise your glass of fresh water and cheers with me to the wonders of modern backpacking technology. Let's begin.

The difference between water filters and water purifiers?

The key difference is that backpacking water filters generally do not treat viruses. They're great for getting out bacteria, protozoa, sometimes things like micro-plastics and heavy metals. Purifiers, on the other hand, will take care of those viruses, as well as many of the aforementioned buggers. The exact profile and effectiveness will vary depending on the product. It's best to check each brand's website for full details. 

Does the Rapidpure water filter really work? 

The Rapidpure filtration system is a newer product on the market. The purifier acts within an insulated, stainless steel water bottle. This makes it a little on the heavy side but the advantage is that it is durable and can handle freezing temperatures better than some of these other guys – in some cases much better, as certain filters become unusable if they freeze, even once.

The Rapidpure's removable filter can withstand those chilly nights and still treat the quadruple-threat of viruses, protozoa, parasites, and bacteria. This makes for a reliable system that improves overall peace of mind. With one of those more vulnerable models, you would have to be conscious of the conditions. Probably sleep with it beside you. Be aware that if it freezes while in storage, it may not do its job come your next adventure. The advantages of the Rapidpure do come at a cost. Aside from the extra weight, the $99 (USD) price tag is also on the upper end. 

Does Grayl filter pesticides? 

I've had the Grayl GeoPress Purifier in my arsenal for a few years now and have been very pleased with its performance. This latest model ($99.95 USD) is a little bit smaller; down from just under a liter to a sleaker 710 milliliters volume. I have to say, I actually preferred the larger capacity. It saved having to refill it as often (even if that meant carrying a bit more weight). Nonetheless, the system uses an effective and unique plunger method to filter water. It takes a bit of strength to do, but nothing crazy.

The GeoPress is a purifier and not a backpacking water filter. It purifies viruses (as well as bacteria and protozoa) and filters pesticides, chemicals, heavy metals, and micro-plastics. This system makes for a great international travel buddy. Buying bottled water is a common practice in many countries. If you're not a fan of the waste/cost, the Grayl GeoPress can help whenever you're uncertain of the water quality. The advantage of the GeoPress over a straw style (which requires sipping) is that you can redistribute the clean water. So that you can filter multiple liters at a time, or pour a cup for your partner. 

What is a SteriPEN and how does it work? 

The Katadyn SteriPEN is a completely different system than any other item on this list. The other filters/purifiers work by pulling the contaminants out of the water. The SteriPEN instead relies on UV light to neutralize backcountry goons like bacteria, protozoa (including giardia and cryptosporidia), and yes, even viruses. The light is battery-powered (4AAs), so make sure to pack extras for a longer trip, and does its thing while being stirred around in your water bottle.

Note that the pen needs to be able to fit in your bottle, and so something with a wide cap (like a Nalgene) is needed. Also, be sure to check the time that is needed to purify different quantities of water. Finally, understand that the SteriPEN, on its own, will not remove debris from your water. If you're not a fan of the extra textures, you can use the prefilter when obtaining the water. Or take special care to collect your batch from clean-looking, faster-moving water sources. 

The SteriPEN once again rings in at $99 (USD). Its packability is certainly an advantage (though the weight with batteries is comparable to other products). I said before, there can still be some particulate in your water. If any invisible nasties are hiding behind bigger pieces, then they may not come in contact with the light, and therefore may not be entirely wiped out. If your water is clear, you can have confidence in the purification quality. I am left wondering and crossing my fingers. The SteriPEN has been on the market for a long time and has certainly built up a more trusting group of followers. 

Can you drink any water with LifeStraw?

The Lifestraw falls into the classic backpacking water filter category, and so it can be relied upon for bacteria, parasites, and microplastics, but not viruses. This will cover many water sources in the wild, but not the full-spectrum of real-world ones. Because of its packability, Lifestraw is another long-standing, popular choice amongst hikers. You've probably seen the ads with someone plopped down by a river, sucking straight from the source.

I can attest that the straw does not require much effort to draw up the water. I don't look forward to getting down on my belly every time I need a drink. The Lifestraw can also attach to a water bag hoze and do a slower-burn gravity filter while you wait around at camp. Otherwise, you can always just scoop the water into something else and dip the straw in there instead. This option is by far the cheapest on this list ($20 USD). That advantage can't be overlooked. I'm not personally as big of fan of the Lifestraw. I can see its utility, especially if used throughout the day in conjunction with one of these other purification/filtration methods. 

What does Katadyn BeFree filter do?

The Katadyn BeFree removes bacteria (including giardia), cysts, and sediment, but not viruses. Again, since this covers much of the backcountry spectrum, the easy-to-use and collapsable BeFree backpacking water filter is a favorite amongst thru-hikers. At only $45 (USD) this is also one of the more economical choices when it comes to treating water.

I like how the bottle is both suction operated (like the Rapidpure) and squeezable. This speeds up the flow and allows for transfering the water to other outlets. The drawback, by my assessment, is that the flexible bottle is vulnerable to punctures and slices. Be sure to keep an eye out for where and how you're stowing it, and have a patch kit with you in case it fails. 

I hope this rundown helped you make sense of the various water filtration/purification options that are out there. As with all backpacking gear, there are pros and cons to just about everything. Thankfully, buying a new treatment device is nowhere near as expensive as shopping for a new tent, pack, sleeping bag, etc. So test out what works best for you, and maybe even consider multiple approaches if your adventure calls for it. In any case, stay hydrated!

For more tips, reviews, and backpacking goodness, check out BackpackingTV.

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links in which Eric Hanson earns a small commission at no additional cost to you, but it is a great way to show your support. Thanks!

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