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Camping is all about unplugging and reconnecting with nature, right? For some people, yes. But for others, disconnecting isn’t so easy. From navigating trails with GPS to snapping stunning sunset pics, there are many great ways that tech can enhance your outdoor experience. Of course, tech and the great outdoors don’t always mix. No power outlets, limited connectivity and weather damage can all render your gadgets useless. That’s why it’s important to come prepared. Below are just a few tips for successfully using electronics while camping. 

Master battery conservation

Running out of battery is always a risk when camping. By mastering ways to conserve battery life, you can prevent your gadgets dying at critical points when you need them. Tricks like dimming screen brightness and turning off bluetooth and Wi-Fi when not in use can often help to stop devices getting drained so fast. 

Pack the right portable power bank

Another solution to extend the battery life of your electronics is to invest in a portable power bank. Such devices won’t allow you to charge up your devices infinitely, but could give you a few extra full charges for multi-day camping expeditions. High capacity models with 20,000mAh are some of the best choices. Some of these have multiple ports for charging multiple devices, while others offer fast charging. 

Embrace solar charging

There is a way to charge devices infinitely while on the go, and that is to use solar charging. It’s possible to buy portable solar chargers with folding panels that power up a phone in a few hours. Some of these double up as power packs, allowing you to harvest electricity in the day and charge at night. Make sure that you have direct sun for efficient charging, but try to keep the devices you’re charging in the shade to stop them overheating.

Choose adventure-ready electronics

Some electronics are built for withstanding wind, rain and dirt. These can be worth investing in for certain adventures. For example, when taking photos while kayaking and mountain biking, you might want to consider rugged options like GoPros that have tough cases. Meanwhile, you can buy waterproof GPS watches that are excellent for outdoor activities where you may get soaked. Specialist cases may also be possible to buy for devices like phones and tablets. 

Safeguard devices with a dry box

A weatherproof dry box is a handy piece of kit that could be worth investing in to protect your tech – especially if you think you may go camping in extreme weather conditions. These boxes keep out all moisture and dust to shield your electronics. Some can even float – if you’re doing a water activity like kayaking and you capsize, the box won’t sink to the bottom and your electronics will still be dry inside. Just make sure that it doesn’t float away (straps can be used to secure these boxes to your wrist or to your kayak). 

Stay connected with a satellite phone

In some remote areas, you may find that you’re unable to get any phone signal. Satellite phones are a lifesaver in these situations – they rely on communication via global satellites, allowing them to be used from any point in the world. You can use them to communicate via voice or text. The cost of these phones can vary, but expect to pay several hundred dollars at least. Consider taking a satellite phone if you’re exploring areas with little to no human civilization around – especially if you’re travelling alone. If you get into an accident or get trapped somewhere, such a phone could be essential to helping you get saved. 

Download some of these useful apps

Smartphones can be turned into handy multi-tools when camping – especially if you’ve taken the time to download all the right apps. What types of apps can help you when camping? A few useful apps to consider include:

  • Gaia GPS: This app contains a massive library of maps that can be downloaded ahead of time. These maps show details such as private land boundaries, slope angles and community trails uploaded by users. 
  • AllTrails: AllTrails is an excellent app for those hiking and wild camping. It has an extensive trail database and offline maps. 
  • AccuWeather: This app prides itself as the most accurate weather reporting app. Download this app for detailed granular minute-by-minute forecasts.
  • Red Cross First Aid: In the event that you or a camping buddy get in an accident, the Red Cross First Aid app could be useful to have on your phone to help you provide any emergency first aid. 
  • iOverlander: This roadtripping app is excellent for finding local campsites