Fiona Outdoors logo My independent guide to the best of Scotland outdoors

Outdoor tech and gear that’s worth investing in

Written by Fiona

December 19 2025

Technology is fast evolving and while there are some areas that many people wish would slow down, like AI, there are others that can be incredibly useful – and this applies to outdoor tech and gear.

We take a look at some items of modern tech that can be worth the investment.

Credit: Alin Gavriliuc / Unsplash

Portable Solar Chargers

Wherever we go these days, it’s just a given now that our smartphones go with us. However, it can be a daunting notion for some people to be stuck outdoors somewhere and have no access to a charger. Hiking or camping outdoors in a beautiful but remote place can be amazing. Getting stuck there or having an emergency and no way to call for help, much less so. 

However, portable solar chargers are a terrific way to overcome this issue. Even if there is no plug point available, all you need is some sunlight and you can pretty much keep your phone or other device fully charged over and over. Portable solar chargers also make an ideal companion for people who want to be outdoors without missing indoor comforts. Wherever you are, you can still stream your favourite shows or keep up with your favourite content creators. 

Gamers also love these devices. If you have a good connection, you can play an online game. Fans of alternative gaming experiences, like non gamstop casinos can also enjoy them. Sites like these are becoming a massive trend among locals for their lack of restrictions, seamless gameplay, and convenient payment methods. For players who love using them even when they’re enjoying the outdoors, portable solar chargers offer an easy way to stay connected. 

Credit: Irfan Syahmi / Unsplash

Weather-Resistant Clothing and Storage

If you’re after a proper outdoors experience and expect to run into some tricky weather, water-resistant backpacks and storage accessories are a must. Aside from keeping all your essentials dry, they are purposefully built to be rugged to ensure they can handle rough conditions. If you happen to be carrying electronic devices like your phone or laptop, they can also come in handy to ensure these aren’t damaged if you experience inclement weather. 

On the other hand, if you’re going to be hiking through frigid or rainy regions, waterproof clothing like jackets and gloves is also very important. This isn’t just to keep you dry but warm and insulated. Staying comfortable in this way can also help prevent you from struggling with issues like Raynaud’s Syndrome. Look for fabrics that are both waterproof and breathable, including Gore-Tex.

Waterproof storage containers and other accessories, like flasks, are also very handy. Usually carried by hikers and campers, they can store food items and other essentials and help keep them safe from the weather. They’re also just practical, since they help make it easy to carry food items around with less chance of a spill. 

Portable Water Filters and Cooking Gear

If you manage to keep your food safe, that can all count for nothing if you have no means of preparing your meals outdoors. That’s where portable cookware shines, as they help provide convenient and safe ways to eat well. These can mean the difference between subsisting on snacks and other dry goods and being able to enjoy proper and hearty warm meals. Portable stoves and lightweight cookware make it possible to prepare meals efficiently. Combining hydration and food preparation tools adds comfort and energy for long trips.

Safe drinking water is also essential, especially when camping or hiking in remote areas. Compact water filters allow you to fill bottles from rivers or lakes that are otherwise teeming with bacterias

Credit: JJ Shev / Unsplash

Personal Safety and Lighting

Enjoying the great outdoors can be an amazing way to connect with nature or even yourself. There’s just something about being out there in the middle of nowhere that can be so refreshing and uplifting. However, without personal safety and other comforts like lighting options, a well-meaning trip can easily turn calamitous. 

Keeping safe outdoors is just as important as convenience. GPS trackers, GPS watches and personal locator beacons can make a huge difference to route finding, locating where you are and being found if you should end up requiring emergency support.

Reliable lighting, such as headlamps or lanterns, ensures visibility at night. Some devices can be charged via USB or solar power, providing practical solutions for any situation.

Multi-Tools and Comfort Accessories

A multi-tool combines several useful functions into one compact device. Pliers, knives, screwdrivers, and can openers fit in one small package. Portable seating, foldable chairs, or compact hammocks reduce fatigue and make breaks more enjoyable. Lightweight and durable designs make these items easy to carry and set up anywhere.

Conclusion

Investing in outdoor tech and gear makes trips safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable. Solar chargers, water filters, and multi-tools are examples of items that provide convenience without weighing you down. Focusing on practical and durable equipment allows you to enjoy the adventure itself, confident that you are prepared for whatever the outdoors presents.

More Like This

Adventure

Review: Decathlon Wedze ski bag for 2 pairs of skis or 2 snowboards

Adventure

Review: Berghaus Women’s Summit Seeker Gore-Tex Jacket

Kit

Waterproof fabrics: Hydrostatic Head (HH) and breathability (RET) explained

Adventure

Review: Montec Fawk women’s ski jacket and bib pants

Adventure

Patagonia Worn Wear Snow Tour arrives in the Scottish Highlands

Activity

Sustainable hydration: Why a Waterdrop thermal bottle is great for hiking in Scotland