How Can I Use My Smartphone as a Best Backpacking GPS?

By Anna Duncan

Backpacking can be a great way to explore the outdoors and reconnect with nature. But if you don’t have experience in the area, it’s important to know how to use your smartphone as a GPS device for backpacking.

With the right apps, you can make sure that you stay on track and never get lost.

Downloading Apps

The first step is to download a few apps that will help you navigate your way through the trails. MapMyHike, AllTrails, and Gaia GPS are all popular choices for backpacking apps.

Each one offers different features, so it’s important to look into which one works best for your specific needs.

Planning Ahead

Once you’ve chosen an app, it’s important to plan ahead and make sure that you know exactly where you’re going. You should create a detailed itinerary of your route and mark off any landmarks or points of interest along the way. This will help ensure that you stay on track and don’t get lost while out on the trail.

Using Your GPS

When out on the trail, it’s important to keep an eye on your smartphone’s GPS system. Your app should be able to give you precise directions on where to go and when to turn off certain paths. It can also provide useful information about elevation changes so that you can plan accordingly.

Staying Safe

It’s also important to remember safety when using your smartphone as a backpacking GPS device. Always keep your phone charged, as running out of battery could leave you stranded in the wilderness without any way of contacting help. Additionally, make sure that someone knows where you’re going before setting off on your adventures.

Conclusion

Using your smartphone as a backpacking GPS device can be an extremely helpful tool when exploring the outdoors. By downloading the right apps, planning ahead, monitoring your GPS system, and staying safe at all times – you can make sure that no matter where your journey takes you –you’ll always find your way back home.