New Gadgets for Nature-Lovers to Enjoy Hiking

Summer is a good time to take to the hiking trail. Not too long ago, people went on a hiking trail to get one with nature, get exercise and see something new. Today, hikers are using gadgets throughout their experience.

Besides global positioning systems and smart phones, they are expanding their hiking experience with virtual reality and cloud connections. Gadgets that in one way or another promise to connect or enhance hiking into a digital frame, even while we are out on the trails.

For example, virtual reality headsets are making their way into the hiking experience. To make it work, you attach your smartphone to the headset to get a 360 view. Hikers use the VR headsets to look at the trails they are planning to hike to become familiar with the landmarks, resources, huts and difficult parts before lacing up their boots.

Hikers also use VR headsets on the trails. They get extra information about the trail. They can learn about weather or send a SnapChat conversation with friends. These are displayed as layers over the trail right before their eyes.

This year, Google plans to launch a stand alone VR headset, which will be more desirable for hikers.

In addition to virtual reality, hikers are staying connected even while they go up the mountain. Gone are the days when back to nature meant unplugging and eliminating the electronic noise in their lives. Hikers are now connected online throughout their hike. These cloud-connected hikers are watching the trail while scanning their phone. They are getting inundated with information and updates about weather and treacherous conditions on the trail.

Although hiking used to be a way to relax by following the trail, it now allows people to have everything at their digital fingertips through cloud connections. Hundreds of virtual hiking guides will help novices connect with more experienced hikers on a trail. The cloud also will give hikers information, trail nuances, knowledge, perspectives, risks and stories as people move along the trail.

The connected hiker also can download applications on his or her phone tailored to his or her challenges. Hikers who are connected do not get lost as easily. They have a resource if they get into trouble. Using phones, other hikers can keep track of fellow trailblazers or family members keep in contact while hikers are climbing.

Besides these gadgets, hikers are getting more from their hike with waterproof headphones and wireless earbuds. On the trail, hikers sweat, come in contact with water or are caught in the rain. Having headphones alone that resist all those problems helps them enjoy their trip more thoroughly. They can listen to their phones while they are connected without worrying about getting them wet.

Hikers are employing gadgets to provide clean drinking water. They have a choice of either using the Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter System or the CamelBak All Clear Bottle. With both of these, hikers pure in dirty water and it is filtered and clean. They are good for long hikes. The clear bottle comes with a charging pack, but the system keeps its charge for 80 cycles.

Connected travelers can use fancy flashlights that double as a charging station. These allow hikers to see where they are going while keeping updated on weather reports without losing a charge.

Those hikers who are used to working at StarBucks will appreciate the Handspresso Wild Hybrid, which gives hikers their coffee shot every morning. This will come in handy for hikers who need a caffeine boost throughout a trip.

Hikers who have to sit by the waterfall and listen to music will enjoy the LifeProof waterproof Bluetooth speakers. These are the perfect combination with the waterproof headphones.