Why Should You Choose Garmin's inReach Messenger Over the Mini 2?
Garmin's new small satellite communication tool is simpler, but it's their new app that makes the real difference
From outdoor cameras and GPS units to headlamps and more, the gear experts at Backpacker Magazine test the latest electronics in real backcountry conditions to bring you comprehensive gear reviews.
Garmin's new small satellite communication tool is simpler, but it's their new app that makes the real difference
Document your adventures in a whole new way with the 4K Skydio 2+ drone
This portable solar panel offers an endless supply of renewable energy so you can unplug without powering down on your next adventure
The Ultra gets a titanium case, sapphire face, significantly better battery life, and better GPS and off-grid route-tracking features, making it a much more robust backcountry tool
There’s a great new wearable for every kind of athletic goal
These lights have your back when the sun goes down.
It's small enough to fit inside a stocking, but this satellite communicator and GPS tracker is no stuffer.
Get a scorching deal on a the latest adventure camera.
When you can’t count on the sunshine, these products come in handy.
Keep your phone, camera, and more humming along with these smart, trail-ready power sources.
Say goodbye to your massage therapist.
The outdoor mapping app, launched in 2009, is now as necessary as a pair of hiking boots.
Save even more on our favorite affordable satellite communicators.
This packable power bank packs a punch.
Save even more on this already affordable—and praiseworthy—device.
The best sleek solar panel of 2021.
The best ultralight powerbank of 2021.
The most affordable PLB of 2021.
The best overall lighting of 2021.
Find paradise with this guide to campsites around the U.S.A.
Keep the tunes rolling on long trail days with one of our favorite sets of earbuds.
Grab a rare deal on this two-way satellite messenger.
Intuitive beacon
Durable radio
Just enough device to keep you safe.
From cell phones to GPS devices to headlamps, rechargeable electronics are becoming increasingly common on the trail. Stay powered with this strategy guide.
This simple backcountry messaging device was a hit with our tester.
Save on this feature-packed watch.
The latest generation of satellite communicators is better than ever, ensuring that you can stay informed, connected, and safe wherever you go. Here are our favorites.
Easiest to use
Biggest battery
Most affordable
Make sure that you are prepared and have a solid GPS in hand before venturing into the backcountry.
Snag a rugged GPS watch at a wallet-friendly price.
Channeling your inner Jimmy Chin is easier than ever thanks to light, affordable camera gear. Here's what you need to get started in adventure photography.
Juice box
Stay safe and connected on the trail with these lightweight, durable electronics.
Here are the best solar chargers for your next trip.
Capture that special moment on the trail with the best cameras on the market.
They'll help you navigate, measure your hikes, and sometimes even hold your texts for you.
Let these versatile lights illuminate your path.
Make your Apple Watch into a ski day-tracking command center with this free app.
These smart gadgets help you make the most of your hike without keeping you too connected.
This full-featured beacon is easy to use.
This light avalanche beacon is easy to carry.
Satellite communicator
Bluetooth speaker
GPS smartwatch
Weather detector
360-degree camera
Weatherproof battery pack
Rechargeable headlamp
Turn your phone into a star chart, a 360-degree camera, a botany expert, and more with these handy programs.
Active smartwatch
Do-it-all GPS
Ultralight POV camera
Hiking app
Power-generating phone case
Slim solar charger
Feature-rich lantern
Check out jsrashkin's author page.
Everyman camera
All-weather Camera Pack
Adventure-Proof Action Cam
Quickdraw smartphone holster
This powerful headlamp is the brightest option in its weight class.
This is the most durable (and waterproof) portable battery we’ve seen.
Get total protection for your iPhone without compromising sound quality.
This lightweight helmet cam brings quality POV filming to the masses.
This is the first GPS watch to show actual relief maps.
We used this new take on the old school light as a backup for headlamps and also to revive dead smartphones on multiday trips.
For the size and weight of an energy bar (and the cost of a box of them), you get 6,400 mAh (enough for four iPhone 4 charges).
This 20,400 mAh brick is ideal for people going out for more than a weekend but who don’t want to fuss with solar.
This rugged, waterproof 7,800mAH portable power pack survived all the abuse we could throw at it in the backcountry.
This watch's long-lasting battery makes it easy to collect a wealth of data.
This GPS unit is rugged, reliable, and comes with preloaded maps.
This all-in-one lens is lighter—and has a larger zoom range—than its predecessor (which we’ve long loved).
You don’t have to be a pro to covet this camera's impressive features.