This article is part of Verizon’s Hidden Gems Of The West content series.
If appreciating the outdoors meant eschewing technology, we’d all still be traveling across the Rocky Mountains in covered wagons wearing wool coats. The right gear is what transforms a rugged experience into a memorable adventure—and we have modern technology to thank for that (that means you, Gore-Tex).
Technology can both enhance your exploration and help keep you safe so you can return to civilization rested and recharged. From helping you forecast the weather to navigating remote wilderness, here are six tech tools you won’t want to leave home without.
1. Samsung Galaxy S25
This powerhouse device serves as your all-in-one outdoor companion. Built-in Galaxy AI functions like a personal assistant, providing weather alerts so you’ll know when to grab a rain jacket or secure your tent before an incoming storm. After sunset, Nightography capabilities capture stunning footage of starlit skies and campfire moments, while the audio eraser function ensures nature’s sounds—not your heavy breathing while hiking—take center stage in your videos. It also boasts superior photo quality, impressive battery life, and durability. Pro tip: By pairing with Verizon’s myPlan, you gain enhanced connectivity through free satellite text messaging, allowing you to stay connected in your favorite backcountry adventure destinations.
2. Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
Samsung’s newest smartwatch knows how you feel before you do. Enhanced by Galaxy AI, it provides performance metrics to optimize your hiking or climbing experience. The energy score feature helps you gauge your readiness for the day’s adventures, while comprehensive GPS capabilities ensure you stay on track during backcountry explorations. Built with a rugged titanium design, the Ultra withstands everything from mountain biking to ocean swimming. Water-resistant and durable, it’s the perfect blend of outdoor functionality and smart technology.
3. Anker SOLIX 522 Portable Power Station
If you’re heading out on an extended adventure, this Solix 522 Portable Power Station is a must. It’s a compact 300W/299Wh generator that doesn’t mess around, capable of bringing six devices back to life at once with enough energy for up to 3,000 charging cycles to 80% of full power. You can be the campground hero because it even powers small appliances, like a mini-fridge. Whether you want to charge your phone or tablet, it provides reliable power. Plus, it features a power-saving mode to help reduce energy waste. The built-in LED light and smart display make nighttime operation simple, ensuring you’re never left searching for a power source in the dark.
4. Nimble CHAMP Portable Charger
There’s nothing worse than making it to the summit, pulling out your phone to take a photo, and realizing it’s been dead for hours. Enter the Nimble CHAMP Portable Charger, which is perfect for day hikes or when you need to travel light – making it the perfect backpacking accessory. This eco-friendly portable charger delivers quick power when you need it most, and is capable of charging two phones simultaneously to 50% in just 30 minutes. This small but mighty accessory ensures your essential communication tools—not to mention your camera—stay functional. Made with up to 90% certified recycled plastic and weighing in at a mere 6.2 oz, it’s the environmentally conscious choice.
5. OtterBox Defender Series Cases
When you’re miles from civilization, a broken phone is more than an inconvenience—it could compromise your safety. OtterBox Defender Series cases provide military-grade protection against drops, dirt, and the unpredictable elements of outdoor adventures. The multi-layer defense system shields your device from the harshest conditions, whether you’re scrambling up rocky slopes, crossing streams, or just letting your sticky-fingered kids play games. With precise cutouts for ports and functions, these rugged cases maintain full usability while providing peace of mind that your crucial communication device will survive, regardless of what the elements—or your kids—throw at it.
6. JBL Clip 5
Disconnecting from the grind, doesn’t mean you have to disconnect from your favorite tunes. Set the vibe at your campsite with the JBL Clip 5. This speaker packs incredible sound quality into an ultra-portable design. Featuring a carabiner attachment which makes it easy to hang the speaker from a tent or canopy, or from your pack for music on the go. Plus, there’s no need to worry the JBL Clip is water and dust proof so whatever your camping trip throws at you it can take.
Armed with these six essential tech tools, you’ll enjoy what those settlers in covered wagons couldn’t even dream about: safety, comfort, and plain old fun in the wilderness.
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