Avoid This Hiking Tech Disaster (Easy Fix Inside!)

Back in 2017, I was on an overnight hike when the weather turned. Rain, wind, and worst of all, thick fog. We were off-track in a remote area, trying to make the 2-hour return to the car. My phone became nearly unusable from cold fingers, then died completely in the freezing weather. We were cold and needed to keep moving. Fortunately, we had a hard-copy map and compass and, in the end, that’s what got us home.

⚠️ Why Relying on One App Is a Bad Idea

After 30+ years of guiding hikers, I’ve seen tech save the day…. but also ruin it. Apps like Gaia GPS, AllTrails, Avenza maps and CalTopo are great tools BUT, they are not guarantees. Here’s why using just one is risky:

📱 Tech Fails
Batteries die in the cold. Apps crash. Phones freeze. It happens fast, and usually at the worst moment.

📶 Weak Signal & GPS Errors
Hiking in remote areas, especially in Tasmania, can sometimes mean poor GPS signal. GPS drifts in thick forests, gorges, and rugged terrain.

🗺️ Outdated or Incomplete Maps
With some apps, user submitted data can be wrong, old, or missing crucial hazards, reroutes, or closures.

🧭 Lost Navigation Skills
Over-reliance on apps dulls your basic navigation. If your phone dies, are you ready?

🌧️ Bad Weather = Bad Tech
Rain, fog, cold—your phone’s screen becomes unreadable or unresponsive, especially when you are layered up in gear that doesn’t work on a touch sensitive screen. Funny side note here - In these conditions I can often be seen tapping my phone screen with my nose in order to look at data as I go 😂.

🛡️ How to Hike Smarter and Safer

✅ Use Multiple Apps
I like to download offline maps from at least two (e.g., Gaia + Avenza/CalTopo).

✅ Carry a Paper Map & Compass
Reliable, no battery required, always works. Plus, there’s something about sitting around at camp, perousing the map over a nice warm drink.

✅ Preload Everything
Download maps and data before leaving service AND check that it’s all working currently when your phone is in airplane mode.

✅ Check Trail Updates
Get current info on conditions, closures, and hazards.

✅ Have a Backup Plan
Know your exit routes and safe turnaround points. Always.

🎥 Want to See How I Do It?

I’ve recorded a quick video showing exactly how I use Gaia GPS to plan and stay safe on hikes. Plus, I’ve scored a 10% discount off GAIA GPS for subscribers.

👉 Watch the Video by clicking here.

Claim Your Gaia GPS Discount below 👇

Thank you for reading Mowser’s Musings. I hope you found it helpful.

Upgrade your subscription for an ad-free experience and exclusive perks.

Explore the new tiers here.

Until next week.

Stay well,

Mowser

Helping hiking enthusiasts explore the great outdoors