Welcome to a world where every step on the hiking trail is not just a stride forward but a leap into adventure, made better with the right gear. This guide is dedicated to bringing you closer to nature with an edge of sophistication and utility. Today, we’re exploring the top 24 cool hiking gadgets, meticulously selected to enhance your outdoor experiences. Whether you’re scaling a rugged peak or meandering through serene forest trails, these gadgets offer both functionality and flair. From a simple sitting mat to high-tech essentials, each item on this list has been handpicked to enrich your hiking experience. So, gear up and get ready to transform your next hike into an extraordinary journey with these must-have cool hiking gadgets.
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At a Glance
In a hurry? Check the table below summarising the 24 cool gadgets for hiking. I go into more detail about each one of them in this article.
| Category | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Sitting Mat | Gear | $ |
| Flint & Steel | Safety | $ |
| Quick Dry Towel | Hygiene | $ |
| Quick Dry Sandals | Outfit | $$ |
| Camp Shoes | Outfit | $$ |
| Hand Warmer | Electronic Device | $$ |
| Solar Charger Powerbank | Electronic Device | $$ |
| Hydration Bladder | Drink | $ |
| Water Filter Bottle | Drink | $$ |
| LifeStraw Water Filter | Drink | $ |
| Collapsible Cup | Drink | $ |
| Thermos Food Jar | Food | $$ |
| Headlamp | Electronic Device | $$ |
| Leatherman Multi-Tool | Gear | $$$ |
| Buff Neckcover | Outfit | $$ |
| Garmin GPS Watch | Electronic Device | $$$$ |
| Mobile Phone Tripod | Photography | $ |
| Waterproof Phone Case | Photography | $ |
| Pair of Gaiters | Outfit | $ |
| Silk Liner Gloves | Outfit | $ |
| Expresso Maker | Drink | $$ |
| Portable Speakers | Electronic Device | $ |
| Spork | Food | $ |
| Cooling Towel | Outfit |
Cool Hiking Gadgets
Embark on your next outdoor adventure equipped with the latest in hiking technology. From innovative gear that enhances comfort and safety to gadgets that streamline your journey, our curated selection of cool hiking gadgets is designed to elevate your hiking experience to new heights. Discover tools that blend functionality with convenience, ensuring every trek is memorable and efficient.
1 – Sitting Mat
Elevate your hiking experience with the quintessential sitting mat, a game-changer that distinguishes seasoned hikers from novices. No longer must you sacrifice your coat to the cold, damp ground during lunch breaks. Instead, deploy your sitting mat and enjoy your warm thermos meal comfortably, with your coat snugly wrapped around you. It’s a modest investment that significantly enhances your outdoor adventures.
2 – Flint and Steel
Being prepared with a fire starter is a non-negotiable part of the 10 Hiking Essentials, prioritizing safety over style—though, with a flint and steel kit, you can achieve both. The sparkles created by the friction between the striker and rod not only light a fire but also captivate onlookers. This kit, boasting waterproof capabilities and up to 3000 strikes, comes with a bonus: an integrated whistle for those just-in-case moments, because it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
3 – Quick Dry Towel
Crossing streams or staying overnight at campsites necessitates the convenience of a quick-dry towel. This indispensable tool, crafted from super-absorbent microfiber, dries in half the time of traditional towels and is incredibly easy to pack. Available in various sizes, it ensures you have the perfect towel for your body, hair, and face, streamlining your packing without sacrificing comfort or functionality.
4 – Quick Dry Sandals
The terrain encountered during hikes can vary greatly, from grassy paths to rocky trails and even water crossings. Having a pair of quick-dry sandals at your disposal allows for an effortless transition between environments. These sandals feature a practical hook-and-loop system with adjustable Velcro for swift changes, and their recycled fabric construction ensures rapid drying, preventing the discomfort of wet footwear in your backpack.
5 – Camp Shoes
Transitioning from the trail to the campsite is made all the more enjoyable by slipping into comfortable camp shoes. The Teva Reember, with its collapsible heel, offers versatility and comfort, allowing it to be worn as a slipper. Available in a range of 18 colours, these shoes ensure you can express your style around the campsite and in town, merging functionality with fashion.
6 – Hand Warmer
For those chilly hikes when gloves alone aren’t enough to keep your fingers toasty, a hand warmer becomes an essential gadget. Chargeable via USB, this compact device provides up to 12 hours of warmth at the click of a button. It’s a small but critical piece of gear for cold-weather hiking, ensuring your hands remain warm and ready for whatever the trail throws your way.
7 – Solar Charger Powerbank
In today’s digital age, keeping your devices charged while exploring the great outdoors is crucial. A solar charger power bank is a small, yet mighty companion that can charge multiple devices simultaneously, ensuring your GPS, camera, and phone remain powered. Its waterproof and shock-resistant design, coupled with a built-in flashlight and compass, makes it an indispensable gadget for any adventure.
8 – Hiking Reservoir
Stay hydrated on the move with a hiking reservoir, a sleek alternative to bulky water bottles. This convenient hydration solution allows for easy sipping via a tube clipped to your chest strap, ensuring you can drink without stopping. Available in capacities ranging from 2L to 3L, it fits seamlessly into your backpack, facilitating effortless hydration throughout your hike.
Related article: Hydration Bladder vs Water Bottle
9 – Water Filter Bottle
Access to clean drinking water is vital during hikes, and the Water-To-Go bottle provides peace of mind with its triple-layered filter system. Whether you’re drawing water from a lake, river, or stream, this bottle ensures safety from waterborne diseases, allowing you to hydrate without worry. The filter’s lifespan can be tracked via a red button sticker at the back, ensuring you always know when it’s time for a replacement. If you’re an avid hiker, consider subscribing to receive replacement filters regularly.
10 – Lifestraw Water Filter
For a lightweight and portable water purification option, the Lifestraw water filter is an excellent choice. It removes 99.99% of harmful bacteria and parasites, as well as plastic traces, ensuring the water you drink is safe. Capable of filtering up to 4000L of water, it’s a powerful ally in maintaining hydration without the bulk of a bottle.
11 – Collapsible Cup
Enjoy your coffee on the go without the inconvenience of carrying an empty cup all day, thanks to the Stojo collapsible cup. Made from recycled materials and BPA-free, this environmentally friendly option collapses down for easy storage. With 24 colours to choose from, it’s as stylish as it is practical, perfect for both trail and city life.
12 – Thermos
Avoid the disappointment of a soggy sandwich on cold hikes with a Thermos. Not only does it keep your meals hot and delicious, but it also serves as a conversation starter with fellow hikers envious of your steamy, aromatic lunch. With six carb-packed Thermos meal recipes specifically designed for hiking, there’s no excuse not to elevate your mid-hike meals.
13 – Headlamp
Don’t let the darkness catch you off guard, whether it’s due to shorter daylight hours or losing track of time at the post-hike pub. The Biolite 330 Lumen headlamp, featuring a moisture-wicking fabric that prevents slippage, ensures you’re always prepared. Rechargeable and offering up to 40 hours of light, it’s an essential tool for navigating in the dark.
14 – Cooling Towel
Experience relief from the heat with our Cooling Towel, crafted from microfiber hyper-evaporative breathable material for a soft, super absorbent, and breathable touch. This innovative towel provides instant cooling for several hours by simply soaking, wringing, and snapping it into the air, along with UPF 50 sunscreen protection. It can be worn as a scarf, headband, or bandana and easily folds into a portable pouch, making it a versatile addition to your outdoor gear.
15 – Swiss Army Knife
Channel your inner MacGyver with the Leatherman Free P2 Multitool, a Swiss army knife that packs 19 essential tools into one compact device. From a wire cutter to a screwdriver and the crucial bottle opener, this multitool ensures you’re prepared for any situation. Its single-handed operation and magnetic locking system add a layer of cool to its undeniable utility.
16 – Buff
But what is a BUFF? If you have never heard it, Buff is the main brand which gave its name to the common neck cover tube. But it is more than that; it’s a versatile accessory that can be worn in multiple ways, from a hair band to a mask or even a hood. Ideal for securing your cap on windy hikes or serving as a wrist sweatband, the Buff is an adaptable and fun addition to your hiking gear.
17 – GPS Watch
Upgrade your navigation with the Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar, a GPS watch that doubles as a personal trainer. With a battery life extended by solar charging and 30 built-in workout apps, it tracks your performance, sleep, and heart rate, offering insights far beyond traditional navigation tools.
18 – Tripod
Don’t miss the perfect shot due to a lack of stable ground. The Joby GorillaPod Mobile adapts to any environment, ensuring your photos are always Instagram-ready. With its flexible legs and remote control, capturing memories on the trail has never been easier.
19 – Waterproof Phone Pouch
Protect your phone from the elements with a waterproof phone pouch. Whether capturing underwater photos or navigating through a downpour, this pouch ensures your device remains safe and functional. Its floating design adds peace of mind, preventing your phone from sinking to the depths. For your adventures inland and at sea, don’t forget your phone pouch!
20 – Gaiters
Keep your trousers clean and protected from mud, dust, and rain with a pair of gaiters. These accessories not only shield your clothes but also offer protection against insect bites and unwanted debris in your shoes, enhancing your hiking experience with added comfort and confidence. Hike in confidence and comfort with a pair of gaiters on!
21 – Silk Liner Gloves
For extra warmth during winter hikes, silk liner gloves are a lightweight and breathable solution. Easily worn under regular gloves, they provide a double layer of protection against the cold, ensuring your hands stay warm and responsive. And if it is not enough, check out the electric hand warmer on number 6!
22 – Expresso Maker
Wake up to a barista-quality coffee in the wilderness with the WACACO Nanopresso portable coffee maker. Manually operated, it requires no batteries or electricity, offering a robust start to your day before hitting the trails.
23 – Speakers
Let your music echo through the wilderness with the Altec Lansing Mini H20 portable Bluetooth speaker. Durable and waterproof, it’s designed for adventure, providing up to 6 hours of music to enhance your hiking experience. This little device is designed with adventure in mind: it is not only waterproof but also has a built-in carabiner to hook it to your backpack. Let’s get the party started!
24 – Spork
Simplify your dining on the trail with the Humangear GoBites Uno spork, combining a spoon and fork in one tool. Its ergonomic design and eco-friendly construction make it a practical, sustainable choice for every nature enthusiast. Bon appetit!
Final Thoughts on Cool Gadgets for Hiking
As we wrap up this comprehensive guide on the top 24 cool hiking gadgets, it’s clear that the right equipment can profoundly enhance your hiking experience. Remember, hiking is not just about reaching the destination; it’s about relishing the journey. With these cool hiking gadgets, you’re not only prepared for the unexpected but also equipped to enjoy every moment of your trek. They bring a blend of convenience, safety, and enjoyment to your outdoor explorations.
If you’re keen to dive deeper into the world of hiking and explore more innovative gear, we invite you to browse through our other articles. We have a wealth of information on hiking gear, tips for outdoor adventures, and insights into making the most of your time in nature.
What To Wear For A Day Hike: 10 Best Essentials
Wild Camping Packing List UK: Don’t Forget These Essentials
Hiking First Aid Kit Checklist: What You Need To Pack
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