Accidents can happen fast on the trail. Carrying high-tech outdoor gadgets helps keep you safe and prevent emergencies, which is why so many hikers rely on modern gear.
High-tech hydration gear for hiking
While nutrition is key on the trail, hydration is even more critical. You need to drink at least half a litre of water per section of your hike. However, finding reliable drinking water on high summits or deep inside nature reserves is never guaranteed. Carrying a rugged water bottle or thermal flask is essential, but can add unwanted weight to your hiking pack. Fortunately, high-tech hydration gear solves this problem.
For just a few pounds, soft flasks—similar to compact CamelBak systems—let you carry ample water while significantly cutting down pack weight. You can also opt for all-terrain filtered bottles, like LifeSaver filtration systems. Using a filter bottle provides a safe, eco-friendly way to stay hydrated on the trail by eliminating parasites, viruses, bacteria, and chemicals commonly found in natural water sources.
A high-tech map
On the trail, safety always comes first. The first essential rule is to know your route thoroughly, and carrying a physical map is always recommended. Trail awareness is critical throughout the hike. While most hikers carry paper maps, rain and wear can quickly destroy them. That is why outdoor brands developed durable maps designed for mountain sports: made from microfibre, they withstand moisture and repeated folding effortlessly.
Hikers can also use a handheld GPS to track routes and navigate safely if disoriented. Thousands of portable models are available, offering high reliability, pinpoint accuracy, and trail-ready practicality.
Hiking with high-tech gear
Using instruments like a pedometer or an electronic altimeter gives you a real advantage on the trail.
A pedometer measures distance covered over flat terrain. Advanced models track cadence and stride count alongside heart rate, while others calculate speed and calories burned. Weighing around 50 g, it clips securely onto your waistband with a spring clip.
An electronic altimeter is invaluable for tracking elevation performance during mountain trekking. A compact barometer at core, this gadget monitors altitude gain and distance covered, with advanced models tracking average group pace.
Pair these high-tech devices with the classic Swiss Army knife to complete your essential hiking accessories kit.
