Backpacker Magazine – January 2009

Weatherproof Your Electronics

Rain, snow, cold, hard knocks–the backcountry can be tough on trail gadgets. You can either upgrade your devices, or learn how to protect them.

by: Kenneth Wyatt

Tags:
• Winter camping
|
• Gear
|
• Digital cameras
|
• Camcorders
|
• Gps
|

---

SNOW & RAIN

• For prolonged rain (and bashing), nothing beats a hard plastic case. We rely on Pelican's models for our phones, GPS units, iPods, and small cameras (pelican.com).
• Shield your camera while shooting with an Ewa-Marine C-35 Rain Cape ($20; ewa-marine.com). Or try a DIY fix.
• Protect spare lenses in padded bottle insulators, such as Outdoor Research's Water Bottle Parka ($20; outdoorresearch.com).

CONDENSATION

• Put photo gear in a zip-top bag before leaving your house or tent–drops will condense on the bag, not your lens, until temps equalize. Don't blow on lenses or viewfinders; your breath will create more fog.
• Keep desiccant packs in equipment cases to absorb moisture, or try Pelican's reusable 1500D desiccant gel ($13).

COLD

• Swap alkaline batteries for lithium cells, which last up to eight times longer and work down to -40°F.
• Warm batteries and devices function better, so carry them in an inner pocket, or wrap chemical handwarmers around them with a rubber band. At night, put them in your sleeping bag.

Subscribe to Backpacker magazine
Sign up for our free weekly e-newsletter