Safety Gear
3 guidesBest Hiking Gaiters (2026)
Keep mud, debris, and water out of your boots. The best hiking gaiters for wet trails, brush, and snow.
Best Bear Canisters for Backpacking (2026)
Required in some wilderness areas. Lightweight, durable, and large enough to carry several days of food.
Dog Safety on Trail
2 guidesBest Dog Life Jackets (2026)
For kayaking, river crossings, and the Oregon coast. Ranked by buoyancy, visibility, and handle placement.
Best Dog First Aid Kits for Hiking (2026)
Be prepared for trail emergencies. Paw cuts, snake bites, and exhaustion are real risks on remote hikes with dogs.
FAQs
Do I need a satellite communicator for hiking?
Not for every hike, but yes for any route where cell coverage is unreliable. That includes most Cascade wilderness routes, high-elevation trails, and anywhere more than a couple of miles from a trailhead. A satellite communicator is the only device that works when your phone has no signal, and the subscription cost is far lower than a search and rescue bill.
What Garmin device should I get for hiking safety?
For backcountry safety specifically, the inReach Mini 2 is the best choice: two-way satellite messaging and SOS in a small, lightweight package. If you want a GPS watch that also handles navigation and fitness tracking, the Garmin Instinct 2 is the best starting point. The Fenix 7 series is the step up for larger screens and full mapping.
Are hiking gaiters worth it?
Yes, for wet and muddy conditions. Gaiters keep mud, debris, water, and snow out of your boots, which prevents the boot interior from deteriorating and keeps your feet dry longer. On dry, well-maintained trails they’re unnecessary. On anything wet, brushy, or snowy they make a meaningful difference. Low-cut trail gaiters are the most versatile option for three-season hiking.
Are bear canisters required in Oregon?
Not statewide, but they are required in some Oregon wilderness areas during bear activity season. The Three Sisters Wilderness, Mount Jefferson Wilderness, and some areas near Crater Lake have had bear canister requirements or strong advisories. Always check the specific wilderness permit or land management agency rules before your trip. Even where not required, a canister is significantly more reliable than a hang in dense forest.
How to insulate a tent for winter camping?
Start with a four-season tent with a low profile and strong pole structure. Use a sleeping pad with a high R-value (at least R-4 for three-season, R-6 or higher for winter) since ground insulation is where most heat is lost. Place a footprint under the tent to block cold and moisture. Close vents partially to retain warmth while still allowing condensation to escape. For extreme cold, an inner tent liner can add several degrees of warmth.
Can you bring a power bank on a plane?
Yes, with restrictions. Power banks must go in carry-on luggage, not checked bags. The TSA and FAA allow power banks up to 100Wh without approval, and banks between 100Wh and 160Wh with airline approval. Most hiking power banks (10,000 to 20,000mAh at 3.7V) fall well within the 100Wh limit. Always check the watt-hours printed on the device or calculate them as mAh multiplied by voltage divided by 1,000.