Stepping into the great outdoors no longer means leaving technology behind. The latest generation of smart gadgets is designed to enhance your adventure, providing safety, convenience, and the ability to capture memories without weighing you down. From ensuring you never lose your way to keeping your devices powered deep in the backcountry, these tools are built for the modern explorer.
For 2025, we’ve selected ten standout products that represent the best in outdoor innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a weekend camper, or someone who simply enjoys a night under the stars, this roundup features essential gear to make your next excursion more secure, comfortable, and connected. Prepare to upgrade your outdoor kit with intelligence built for the elements.
Essential Smart Gear for Your Next Adventure
- Garmin eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS Navigator
- TREKOLOGY Trek-Z Collapsible Hiking Poles
- Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator
- BioLite FirePit+ Smokeless Fire Pit and Grill
- EF ECOFLOW RIVER 2 Pro Portable Power Station
- GoPro HERO12 Black Waterproof Action Camera
- Anker 521 Portable Power Station with LiFePO4 Battery
- Thermacell E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller
- SUUNTO 9 Peak Pro GPS Sports Watch
- Garmin Instinct 2X Solar Tactical Edition Smartwatch
Garmin eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS Navigator
When your adventure takes you off the grid, reliable navigation is non-negotiable. The Garmin eTrex 10 is a rugged, no-frills GPS unit built for this exact purpose. It comes preloaded with a worldwide basemap and uses both GPS and GLONASS satellite networks for fast positioning and a reliable signal, even in challenging environments like deep valleys or dense tree cover.
Its simplicity is its strength. The 2.2-inch monochrome display is easy to read in sunlight, and the device is waterproof to IPX7 standards, meaning it can withstand immersion in water. With WAAS-enabled accuracy and HotFix satellite prediction, it gets you a fix quickly and helps you mark waypoints, track your path, and find your way back with confidence, all on long-lasting AA batteries.
TREKOLOGY Trek-Z Collapsible Hiking Poles
Increase your stability and reduce strain on your knees with the TREKOLOGY Trek-Z poles. These collapsible trekking poles provide essential balance support on uneven terrain, making them suitable for hikers of all experience levels. The ergonomic cork-texture grips wick away sweat for a secure hold, while the included mud stops offer extra traction in soft ground.
Lightweight and highly adjustable, they are designed for convenience. The innovative flip-lock system allows for a 20cm height adjustment, catering to users from 4’11” to 6’5″. Made from strong, aircraft-grade aluminum, each pole is remarkably light—under 11 ounces—making them easy to carry all day. They collapse down small and come with a holder bag, perfect for stowing when not in use.
Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator
For remote adventures beyond cell service, the Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a critical piece of safety gear. This compact and lightweight device enables two-way text messaging via the global Iridium satellite network, allowing you to stay in touch with family or coordinate with your group from anywhere on the planet.
Its most vital feature is the interactive SOS function, which connects you to a 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center in an emergency. You can also share your live location with a secure MapShare page and use TracBack routing to navigate your way back to the trailhead. While an active satellite subscription is required, the peace of mind it provides is invaluable for any serious backcountry traveler.
BioLite FirePit+ Smokeless Fire Pit and Grill
Enjoy the classic campfire experience with significantly less smoke. The BioLite FirePit+ uses an integrated, battery-powered fan to force air into the base of the fire, creating a more efficient burn that reduces smoke by up to 90%. This means you can gather around the flames comfortably without constantly shifting to avoid the smoke.
It’s incredibly versatile, functioning as both a fire pit and a grill. The included grate allows for easy cooking over wood or charcoal. Designed for portability, it features folding legs and carry handles, and its compact footprint makes it ideal for camping trips, beach outings, or evenings in the backyard. The USB-rechargeable powerpack provides up to 30 hours of fan runtime on a single charge.
EF ECOFLOW RIVER 2 Pro Portable Power Station
Keep all your essential devices powered during extended outdoor trips. The ECOFLOW RIVER 2 Pro is a high-capacity portable power station with a 768Wh LiFePO4 battery, known for its safety and longevity. It can be recharged from 0% to 100% in just 70 minutes using an AC outlet, getting you ready for your next outing quickly.
With a total of 11 outlets, including four 800W AC outlets (which can surge to 1600W with X-Boost), it can run a wide variety of appliances, from mini-fridges and electric griddles to cameras and drones. The LFP battery chemistry allows for over 3000 charge cycles before capacity reduces to 80%, promising nearly a decade of regular use. It’s a reliable hub for off-grid power needs.
GoPro HERO12 Black Waterproof Action Camera
Capture your outdoor adventures in stunning detail with the GoPro HERO12 Black. This waterproof action camera records ultra-high-definition 5.3K60 video and 27MP photos, ensuring you preserve every moment with crisp, vibrant clarity. High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology improves performance in challenging lighting, balancing shadows and bright spots for true-to-life results.
The camera’s standout feature is its Emmy Award-winning HyperSmooth 6.0 video stabilization. It effectively eliminates shake and vibration from activities like trail running, mountain biking, or kayaking, delivering incredibly smooth, professional-looking footage. With features like live streaming, webcam mode, and a rugged, waterproof design, it’s the ultimate tool for creating dynamic outdoor content.
Anker 521 Portable Power Station with LiFePO4 Battery
For reliable, compact power, the Anker 521 Power Station is a strong choice. Its 256Wh LiFePO4 battery is built with InfiniPower technology, designed to last for up to 10 years of use. Advanced temperature control and a durable exterior make it a dependable power source for camping, tailgating, or as a home backup.
Despite its moderate size, it offers robust output. SurgePower technology allows it to support devices up to 600W, enough for many small appliances. It features six versatile ports—including two AC outlets, USB-A, a 60W USB-C PD port, and a car outlet—letting you charge multiple phones, laptops, lights, and other gear simultaneously from a single, portable unit.
Thermacell E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller
Reclaim your outdoor space from biting insects without sprays or flames. The Thermacell E55 creates a 20-foot zone of protection against mosquitoes, using a heat-activated mat that releases a scent-free repellent. It’s scientifically proven and EPA-registered, offering a robust alternative to messy bug sprays and citronella candles.
Operation is simple and clean. A push of a button starts the rechargeable lithium-ion battery, and the device reaches maximum protection in about 15 minutes. There’s no smoke, no open flame, and no need to apply anything to your skin. With up to 5.5 hours of runtime per charge and 12 hours of refill included, it’s perfect for evenings on the patio or at the campsite.
SUUNTO 9 Peak Pro GPS Sports Watch
Built for endurance athletes and adventurers, the SUUNTO 9 Peak Pro is a premium multisport GPS watch. It offers exceptional battery life, providing up to 40 hours in its best GPS mode and an incredible 300 hours in tour mode. A quick 10-minute charge can give you 2 hours of GPS tracking, which is ideal for last-minute outings.
It delivers precise navigation and tracking by utilizing four different satellite systems, ensuring accuracy in complex environments like forests or mountains. The watch is handcrafted in Finland with military-grade durability, featuring a titanium bezel, stainless steel buttons, and scratch-resistant sapphire glass. It also provides advanced health monitoring, workout analysis, and recovery insights to support your training.
Garmin Instinct 2X Solar Tactical Edition Smartwatch
Designed for maximum durability and extended operation, the Garmin Instinct 2X Solar Tactical Edition is a rugged smartwatch built for extreme environments. Its key feature is a Power Glass solar charging lens that extends battery life indefinitely in smartwatch mode with sufficient sunlight, making it perfect for multi-day expeditions where charging isn’t an option.
This tactical version includes specialized features like night vision compatibility, a stealth mode to disable wireless connectivity and data sharing, and preloaded tactical activity profiles. It meets U.S. military standard 810 for thermal, shock, and water resistance (up to 100 meters). With built-in multiple global navigation satellite systems, a built-in LED flashlight, and comprehensive health tracking, it’s a versatile tool for serious outdoor and tactical use.
Buying Guide: Picking Your 10 Smart Gadgets for the Great Outdoors in 2025
Choosing the right smart gadgets for the great outdoors in 2025 can feel overwhelming. With so many options promising to make your hikes, camps, and adventures better, it’s easy to get lost in the specs. I’ve found that focusing on a few key factors helps me pick gear that actually adds value instead of just being extra weight in my pack.
First, think about battery life and power. A smart gadget is just a paperweight if it dies on day one of a three-day trip. I always look for devices with long-lasting batteries or, even better, multiple ways to charge them. Solar charging is a huge plus for multi-day excursions, and gadgets that can double as power banks to charge my phone or other essentials are at the top of my list. Durability is non-negotiable. Anything coming outside with me needs to be tough. I check for IP ratings for water and dust resistance, and I prefer devices with a solid, rugged feel. A gadget that can survive a drop on a rock or a sudden downpour is a gadget I can trust.
Next, consider connectivity. Does it need a constant cell signal, or does it use satellite or mesh networking? For true backcountry travel, I lean toward gadgets with satellite SOS features or offline capabilities. A weather radio that caches forecasts or a GPS unit with pre-loaded maps is far more useful than an app that needs 5G. Also, think about how it fits into your existing kit. I prefer gadgets that serve multiple purposes. A GPS watch that also tracks my health metrics is better than two separate devices. A lantern that can also charge my phone saves space and weight.
Finally, the “smart” features should feel intuitive and genuinely helpful. Complicated menus and finicky apps are the last thing you want when you’re tired and setting up camp. I look for gadgets with simple controls, clear displays, and apps that are easy to use. The goal is to make your time outside easier and safer, not to give you a new tech problem to solve. By focusing on battery life, durability, smart connectivity, and multi-use design, you can build a kit of 10 smart gadgets for the great outdoors in 2025 that you’ll actually use and rely on.
FAQ
Are these smart gadgets reliable enough for serious backcountry trips?
Many are, but you must check the specs. For serious off-grid travel, prioritize gadgets with satellite connectivity (like an SOS beacon), proven ruggedness (high IP ratings), and long battery life. Don’t rely solely on consumer-grade tech for critical safety functions; dedicated devices from reputable outdoor brands are often more dependable in extreme conditions.
How do I keep all these gadgets charged on a multi-day adventure?
This is the biggest challenge. My strategy is to use a combination of a high-capacity power bank, a compact solar panel, and choosing gadgets with efficient batteries. Some gear, like certain solar-powered lanterns or hand-crank radios, can charge themselves. Planning is key: calculate your total power needs and bring about 20% more capacity than you think you’ll need.
Won’t using smart gadgets take away from the “off-the-grid” experience?
It can, if you let it. I use them as tools for safety and convenience, not entertainment. A GPS can help you navigate safely in fog, a water purifier ensures you stay hydrated, and a weather alert radio warns of incoming storms. The idea is to use technology to support your adventure, not to be the center of it. Setting boundaries, like keeping your phone on airplane mode, helps maintain the feeling of being disconnected.
What’s the most important smart gadget I should get first?
If I had to pick one, it would be a modern personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger with SOS. No other gadget has the same potential to save your life in an emergency. After that, I’d look at a reliable GPS device or smartwatch with offline maps and a durable, long-lasting power bank. Safety and navigation come before everything else.
Are there privacy concerns with these connected outdoor gadgets?
Yes, it’s something to think about. Devices that track your location, especially those that sync to a cloud account, create a data trail. Review the privacy policies of the manufacturers. I opt for gadgets that let me control what data is shared and when possible, use devices that store data locally until I choose to sync them when I’m back home.