Hiking can be a great way to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in nature. But with the increasing reliance on technology in our daily lives, it's not uncommon for hikers to use their mobile phones to navigate routes, track their progress, and take the odd photo along the way.
While there are benefits to using your phone as a hiking tool, there are also some drawbacks too. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the pros and cons of using a mobile phone to help navigate when hiking.
Pros of Using a Mobile Phone for Hiking:
Navigation: One of the most obvious benefits of using your phone to navigate when hiking is the ability to access maps (various styles), trails routes, and other helpful information right at your fingertips. Many hiking apps offer detailed maps, trail descriptions, and even GPS tracking, which can help you stay on course and avoid getting lost. I wish I had this when I first started off hiking.
Safety: In case of an emergency, having a mobile phone with you can be a lifesaver. You can use it to call for help, check the weather, and get updates on trail conditions. Plus, some apps offer safety features such as emergency contact lists, location sharing, and even first aid tips.
Convenience: Let's face it, carrying a paper map and a compass can be bulky and awkward to handle. (The bit of map you want to look at is always on a fold.) With a mobile phone, you can have all the information you need in one device, and even take photos along the way to document your journey.
Cons of Using a Mobile Phone for Hiking:
Battery life: Depending on how long your hike is, your phone's battery may not last for the whole walk. This can be a real problem if you're relying on your phone for navigation or in case of an emergency. It's a good idea to bring a backup battery or a portable charger just in case.
Signal loss: In some remote areas,(a lot of the national parks) your phone may not have a strong enough signal to access maps or make calls. This can mean you don't have the important information or communication options when you need them the most.
Distraction: It's easy to get distracted by your phone when hiking, whether it's checking social media, taking photos, or responding to messages. This can take away from the experience of being present and enjoying the nature you went out to experience. It can even be dangerous if it causes you to lose focus on the trail.
In conclusion, using a mobile phone to navigate when hiking has its pros and cons. While it can be a helpful tool for accessing maps, staying safe, and documenting your journey, it can also be a distraction and may not always be reliable in remote areas. Ultimately, it's up to each hiker to decide whether or not to use their phone for hiking.
Having tools to help you when you need them is great but tools do have their limitations too. Having the ability to map read is a great skill to have and gives great peace of mind when I'm out on the hill, especially if things don't go to plan.
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