Heading out to remote places where your phone doesn’t get any signal can be both super exciting and a bit challenging. Imagine hiking through beautiful mountains, wandering in dense forests, or embarking on a thrilling desert adventure.
Sounds fun, right? But to make sure your trip is safe and enjoyable, you need the right gadgets. These gadgets will help you stay connected, find your way, and keep you safe even when you’re off the grid.
Let’s look into the best gadgets you should bring along for communication, navigation, power, and emergency situations. So, let’s get into it and make sure you’re all set for your next big adventure!
Communication Devices
Satellite Phones
When traveling to areas without cell service, a satellite phone is an invaluable tool. Unlike regular mobile phones, satellite phones communicate directly with satellites, ensuring connectivity in remote locations.
Top Picks:
- Iridium 9575 Extreme: Known for its global coverage, rugged design, and reliable service.
- Inmarsat IsatPhone 2: Offers excellent voice clarity, GPS tracking, and an SOS button for emergencies.
Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs)
Personal Locator Beacons are crucial for emergency situations. When activated, they send a distress signal to rescue authorities, providing your exact location via GPS.
Top Picks:
- ACR ResQLink 400: Compact, lightweight, and highly reliable with a built-in GPS.
- Garmin inReach Mini: Not only a PLB but also offers two-way messaging and weather updates via satellite.
Two-Way Radios
For group communication in out-of-network zones, two-way radios (walkie-talkies) are essential. They allow you to stay in touch with your group members over short distances.
Top Picks:
- Motorola T600 H2O: Waterproof, with a range of up to 35 miles, and comes with NOAA weather alerts.
- Midland GXT1000VP4: Features 50 channels, a range of up to 36 miles, and emergency weather alerts.
Navigation Tools
GPS Devices
A dedicated GPS device is more reliable than a smartphone in remote areas. These devices are designed to work without a mobile network, using satellite signals to provide accurate location data.
Top Picks:
- Garmin GPSMAP 66i: Combines GPS navigation with inReach satellite communication, offering topographic maps, weather forecasts, and SOS functionality.
- Garmin eTrex 32x: Affordable, durable, and comes preloaded with TopoActive maps.
Compass and Map
While electronic devices are fantastic, having a traditional compass and a physical map is a must for any adventurer. They serve as a reliable backup in case your electronic devices fail.
Top Picks:
- Suunto MC-2G Compass: Highly accurate and durable, with global needle and adjustable declination.
- National Geographic Adventure Maps: Waterproof and tear-resistant maps for various regions.
Power Solutions
Portable Solar Chargers
Keeping your gadgets powered is crucial during extended trips. Portable solar chargers are an excellent solution for charging devices in the wild.
Top Picks:
- Goal Zero Nomad 7 Plus: Lightweight, foldable, and efficient, suitable for charging small devices.
- Anker PowerPort Solar Lite: Affordable and reliable, with high conversion efficiency.
Power Banks
High-capacity power banks are essential for storing power and recharging your devices when solar charging isn’t an option.
Top Picks:
- Anker PowerCore 26800: Massive capacity with three USB ports, capable of charging multiple devices multiple times.
- RAVPower 20000mAh Solar Power Bank: Combines solar charging with a high-capacity battery, ideal for emergency power.
Lighting and Safety
Headlamps
A good headlamp is essential for nighttime navigation and camp activities. Look for models with long battery life and adjustable brightness.
Top Picks:
- Black Diamond Spot 350: Offers a strong beam, waterproof design, and multiple brightness settings.
- Petzl Actik Core: Rechargeable, lightweight, and provides excellent brightness.
Multi-Tools
A multi-tool can be a lifesaver in many situations, from repairing gear to preparing food.
Top Picks:
- Leatherman Wave Plus: Features 18 tools, including pliers, knives, and screwdrivers.
- Gerber Suspension-NXT: Affordable and versatile, with 15 tools for everyday tasks.
Emergency Blankets
Emergency blankets are compact and lightweight, providing essential warmth and protection against the elements.
Top Picks:
- Swiss Safe Emergency Mylar Blankets: Durable, waterproof, and capable of retaining up to 90% of your body heat.
- SOL Emergency Bivvy: Offers more coverage and protection than standard blankets, made from tear-resistant material.
Health and Safety Gadgets
First Aid Kits
A comprehensive first aid kit is vital for treating injuries and illnesses in the field.
Top Picks:
- Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .9: Lightweight, waterproof, and includes supplies for common injuries.
- Surviveware Small First Aid Kit: Well-organized, with a wide range of medical supplies and tools.
Water Purification Systems
Access to clean water is crucial. Water purification systems ensure you can drink safely from natural sources.
Top Picks:
- Sawyer Mini Water Filter: Compact, easy to use, and can filter up to 100,000 gallons.
- LifeStraw Personal Water Filter: Lightweight, portable, and capable of filtering bacteria and parasites.
Portable Stoves
Portable stoves allow you to cook meals and boil water, which is essential for sustenance and hygiene.
Top Picks:
- MSR PocketRocket 2: Lightweight, compact, and highly efficient.
- Jetboil Flash: Integrated stove system with rapid boiling time, perfect for quick meals and drinks.
Entertainment and Comfort
Portable Speakers
Enjoying some music or podcasts can make your downtime more enjoyable. Look for rugged, waterproof speakers suitable for outdoor use.
Top Picks:
- JBL Flip 5: Durable, waterproof, and delivers excellent sound quality.
- Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 2: Compact, waterproof, and provides 360-degree sound.
E-Readers
Bringing a lightweight e-reader can provide entertainment during your trip without adding much weight to your pack.
Top Picks:
- Kindle Paperwhite: Waterproof, with a long battery life and a glare-free display.
- Kobo Clara HD: Compact, with adjustable brightness and a wide range of e-book formats.
Final Thoughts
Traveling to out-of-network zones presents unique challenges, but with the right gadgets, you can enhance your safety, navigation, and overall experience.
From satellite phones and GPS devices to portable solar chargers and emergency blankets, these tools are essential for any adventure in remote areas.
Prioritize safety and preparedness by equipping yourself with reliable gear, and you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy the beauty and thrill of exploring off-the-grid destinations.
