A decade ago, hikers could head out on expeditions without a mobile phone. Back then, they would set off with a compass and a distress flare — or sometimes nothing at all. Today, a mobile phone on a hiking trip has become practically an essential piece of kit. Some hikers rely entirely on their smartphones: for navigation via GPS, as a torch when needed, and to call the emergency services in a dangerous situation. That said, there are a few rules to know about using a mobile phone when you head out hiking.
Mobile phones on a hiking trip: saving emergency contacts
Going hiking also means anticipating potential problems. In the event of getting lost or having an accident, you will need to call for help without delay. A mobile phone on a hiking trip is clearly the best tool for this. However, panic often sets in during emergency situations, and there is a good chance the hiker will not remember the emergency numbers. It is therefore important to save the various emergency numbers in your phone's contacts in advance. Better still, note them down in your phone but also on a waterproof document kept in your first aid kit.
Emergency numbers: which ones do you need?
112: this is the emergency number for all European Union countries. Simply dial the number and you're connected. Your information is also transferred directly to 112 when you call. If you have a SIM card registered in France, 112 will connect you directly to a French-speaking operator.
114: this is the European emergency number, equivalent to 112 but intended for people with difficulties speaking or hearing. Simply send your emergency message by SMS to 114 and help will be dispatched as quickly as possible.
18 and 15: these are respectively the emergency numbers for the Fire Brigade (Pompiers) and the SAMU in France. These numbers are always active and allow you to contact the relevant emergency services directly. However, they can sometimes be busy, which is why it can be worth calling 112 instead, as the call will be given priority.
Your contacts' numbers: whenever you head out hiking, never forget to share your route with your loved ones, along with the expected duration of your hike. You can then call them if you run into trouble and are having difficulty reaching the emergency services. What's more, they know your route and can alert the rescue services if you fail to check in within a reasonable time. This allows rescuers to find you more quickly by tracking your expected progress along your route.
Mobile phones on a hiking trip: what about network coverage?
A mobile phone on a hiking trip is very handy for calling the emergency services. But you need to have a signal first. When you go hiking, you may pass through areas with no mobile coverage, regardless of your network provider. Here are a few useful habits to keep in mind:
Send an SMS to the emergency services or your contacts and move to higher ground. The advantage of SMS is that messages are sent automatically as soon as the phone picks up a signal.
Keep your phone switched on, as it exchanges information with relay masts while searching for a signal. Rescuers can then use this data to attempt to locate you, even if you have not had any coverage.
Try calling the emergency numbers listed above. In some cases, your phone may be able to reach these numbers via networks other than your own provider's when your screen displays "Emergency calls only".
If you are going hiking in remote or potentially dangerous areas, consider carrying more capable devices such as satellite phones or personal locator beacons. On treks abroad, if you do not have a guide, check whether it is possible to use a local SIM card and research the network coverage. In some remote parts of the world, a satellite phone is a necessity.
What about battery life?
A smartphone is extremely handy. However, it is worth remembering that GSM signal, mobile data and the GPS sensor can quickly drain your phone's battery on a hiking trip. It is therefore essential to take steps to address this issue.
You may be tempted to bring two or three phones with you. However, do not forget that this adds weight to your pack. Instead, take just one mobile phone on your hiking trip but bring two or three spare batteries. You will then have all the battery life you need without adding unnecessary weight to your pack.
You may also want to pack a power bank. Even if you are carrying two or three spare batteries, there is no guarantee that will be enough — you can never know how many days you might be stranded in an emergency. With a power bank in your pocket, you can recharge your smartphone's batteries and significantly extend your autonomy. Also consider small hand-crank devices that can recharge your phone via USB on a hiking trip. They will never fully charge your battery, but 5 to 10 minutes of cranking will give you a good extra minute of battery life — more than enough to signal for help or contact your loved ones.
