Getting lost in the wilderness is no joke. Every year, search and rescue teams respond to thousands of calls from hikers who can't find their way back. The good news? With the right navigation gear, you can dramatically reduce your risk of becoming a statistic.
I've put together this comprehensive gear list after years of backcountry travel and conversations with SAR volunteers. Items are organized by priority level: Essential (carry on every trip), Recommended (for remote or multi-day trips), and Optional (nice to have for specific situations).
Primary Navigation: Your Smartphone
For most hikers, a smartphone is the primary navigation tool. It combines GPS, maps, camera, and communication in one device you're already carrying. But to use it effectively in the backcountry, you need supporting gear.
Offline Map App Subscription
Your phone is only useful for navigation if you've downloaded maps before losing cell service. Choose an app with good offline support and download more area than you think you need.
Portable Power Bank
GPS tracking and frequent screen use drain batteries fast. A power bank with 10,000+ mAh capacity can fully recharge most phones 2-3 times. For multi-day trips, size up to 20,000+ mAh.
Waterproof Phone Case
Phones and water don't mix. A waterproof pouch lets you check maps in rain or near water crossings without worrying about moisture damage. Look for cases that still allow touchscreen use.
Sturdy Phone Mount
Attaching your phone to your pack strap or hip belt keeps it accessible without fumbling in pockets. Quick glances at the map become easy without stopping.
Secondary Navigation: Paper Maps & Compass
Electronics fail. Batteries die. Phones get dropped in rivers. Paper maps and a compass are your backup—the navigation tools that work no matter what.
Topographic Map of Your Area
A waterproof topo map of your hiking area is essential insurance. Even if you never need it, knowing you have a paper backup provides peace of mind. Print or buy maps that cover your planned route plus escape routes.
Baseplate Compass
A simple baseplate compass is all you need. It helps orient your paper map, take bearings, and maintain direction in low visibility. Skip the fancy features—basic navigation compasses are reliable and affordable.
Map Case / Holder
A clear waterproof map case lets you check your paper map without unpacking it. Some hikers attach cases to pack fronts for quick reference while walking.
Dedicated GPS Devices
While smartphones work great for most hiking, dedicated GPS units offer advantages for serious backcountry travel: longer battery life, rugged construction, and specialized features.
Handheld GPS Unit
Dedicated GPS devices offer 16+ hours of navigation on AA batteries, military-grade durability, and button controls that work with gloves. The GPSMAP series adds multi-band GPS for improved accuracy in canyons and heavy forest.
GPS Watch with Mapping
A GPS watch with onboard maps provides always-glanceable navigation on your wrist. Less detailed than phone apps but extremely convenient for staying on track. Also useful for tracking pace, elevation, and fitness metrics.
Emergency Communication
When things go wrong in the backcountry, you need a way to call for help. Cell phones don't work in most wilderness areas, but satellite communicators do.
Satellite Messenger / PLB
Satellite communicators provide two-way messaging anywhere on Earth via satellite networks. In an emergency, they can summon search and rescue. PLBs (Personal Locator Beacons) are simpler—one-button emergency alert only—but require no subscription.
Emergency Whistle
The simplest signaling device. Three whistle blasts is the universal distress signal. Whistles carry further than shouting and don't require batteries. Attach one to your pack where you can always reach it.
Supporting Navigation Tools
Altimeter Watch
Barometric altimeters provide accurate elevation readings useful for tracking progress and identifying position on topo maps. Many GPS watches include this feature.
Binoculars / Monocular
Useful for scouting routes ahead, identifying distant landmarks, and reading trail signs from a distance. Compact monoculars (8x25) are lightweight and pack easily.
Headlamp with Red Light Mode
Getting caught after dark happens to everyone eventually. A headlamp helps you navigate trails, check maps, and set up camp. Red light mode preserves night vision.
Sample Gear Lists by Trip Type
Day Hike (Marked Trails)
- Smartphone with offline maps downloaded
- Small power bank (5,000 mAh)
- Emergency whistle
- Headlamp (just in case)
Backcountry Day Hike (Remote Trails)
- All day hike items, plus:
- Paper topo map
- Baseplate compass
- Larger power bank (10,000 mAh)
Multi-Day Backpacking
- All backcountry day hike items, plus:
- Satellite communicator (highly recommended)
- Large power bank (20,000 mAh) or solar charger
- GPS watch or dedicated GPS unit
Off-Trail / Mountaineering
- All multi-day items, plus:
- Dedicated GPS unit with detailed topo maps
- Altimeter watch
- Advanced navigation skills (map/compass proficiency)
Final Thoughts
The best navigation gear is the gear you know how to use. A fancy GPS watch won't help if you don't understand its features. A compass is useless if you've never practiced with it.
Start with the essentials—smartphone with offline maps, paper backup, basic compass. Practice navigation in familiar areas before venturing into remote wilderness. Build your skills alongside your gear collection.
And remember: the most important navigation tool is your brain. Pay attention to your surroundings, check your position regularly, and always have a plan for getting home.