So you have your base gear down. What about the awesome items you didn’t know you needed that take your backpacking experience to the next level?  We’ve compiled a list of the coolest backpacking gadgets of 2020.   

1. Thermacell MR150 Portable Mosquito Repeller 

This portable mosquito repeller provides a 15 foot protection zone against the little blood suckers.  It’s also DEET-Free, scent-free, and mess-free.  It’s sleek, lightweight design makes it a great addition to any trip where bugs might be present.   

2. External Backup Battery

This Ultra High Capacity Solar Charger has a built-in 25000mAh Li-polymer battery, it’s enough to charge an iPhone XS over 7 times.  With the solar panel on one side, the other side is covered in 36 LEDs featuring low, medium, high beam settings.  Even comes with a carabiner to secure to your pack while charging or hang from your tent as a light source.  This is a great way to keep your phone, navigation devices, and smart watch charged while on the trail. 

3. Stanely Classic Travel Much French Press 16oz

You don’t have to give up high-quality java while on the trail.  This vacuum insulated mug will keep your morning joe hot for hours and has a built in french press so it not only stores, but also brews your morning coffee. 

4. Garmin inReach Mini GPS Satellite Communicator

This little guy will give you peace of mind while outside of cell coverage zones. The small, rugged, lightweight satellite communicator enables two way text messaging using the 100 percentage global Iridium network (satellite subscription required). You can even use it to trigger an interactive SOS to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center. You’ll also be able to access downloadable maps, U.S. NOAA charts, color aerial imagery and more by using the free Garmin Earthmate app and compatible devices.

5. Garmin Instinct, Rugged Outdoor Watch with GPS 

Double Garmin gadgets on the list. Smart watch with built-in 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter, plus multiple global navigation satellite systems (GPS, GLONASS and Galileo) support helps track in more challenging environments than GPS alone.  Track your physical performance through your hike  by monitoring your estimated heart rate, activity and stress.  Up your game and train with preloaded activity profiles.  Built to to U.S. military standard 810G for thermal, shock and water resistance (up to 100 meters). 

6. MPOWERD Luci Outdoor 2.0 Pro

The Outdoor 2.0 is a clean, reliable source of light with mobile charging that will let you go further than ever before.  The same lightweight, solar powered, inflatable LED lantern as the original, but now with two way USB charging to keep your devices powered and your tent lit.  When not using on the trail, also makes for a great tool to have on hand for power outage situations. 

7. Nikon Trailblazer 10×25 ATB Waterproof Binoculars

These are truly amazing to have on the trail for wildlife viewing or even to enhance stargazing.  They’re made using high-index BAK4 Roof Prisms and fully multi-coated optics.  What does that mean?  Extra high-resolution images and  maximum light transmission for brighter views and improved color fidelity and contrast.  They are also water and fog-proof – truly trail ready. 

8. BEARZ Outdoor Beach Blanket

Versatile, lightweight, durable and compact.  This waterproof, puncture resistant and sand proof blanket can also be used as a tarp or improvised shelter.  When using as a blanket the built in corner pockets can be filled with rocks or sand so it doesn’t blow away in the wind.  Each corner also has loops for stakes. 

9. Valtcan Titanium Long Handle Spork

Upgrade your utensil game with this long-handled titanium spork.  Ultralight design and long handle for easy use with dehydrated meals.  It even has a clever keyring at end for carabiner and paracord attachment for easy carry on hikes and camping.  This one is so cool you might end up even using it at home. 

10. Combat Wipes Active Outdoor Wet Wipes

Designed with battle-field experience. Stay fresh & clean while on your adventures with outdoor wet wipes developed by elite military soldiers. Unlike regular wet cleaning wipes that easily tear and never give you a clean feel, COMBAT WIPES ACTIVE are extra thick, conveniently large (7.1” x 8.3”), have a unique textured cloth design for a thorough wipe, and are extensively lab-tested for a superior clean.  The wipes are also sensitive on skin and 100% BIODEGRADABLE!  Plus, the company offers a satisfaction guarantee so you can’t go wrong.