When on an alpine expedition, having electronic equipment can help you navigate, respond quickly to emergencies and keep track of your progress. From durable GPS systems to emergency position indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs), buy your alpine GPS and electronics from Paddy Pallin.

FAQs

What are some navigation options for my alpine expedition?

For navigation, a trusty map and compass are great, but there are even better options from trusted brands including Garmin and Coros. Fullscreen GPS options with color maps, birds eye satellite and qwerty keyboards deliver the ultimate in GPS navigation, some brands also offer waterproof GPS and shockproof GPS options. Buying additional detailed maps for alpine areas and alpine expeditions is also recommended, as they offer detailed topographic features critical to your journey. Many GPS have one or two-way communication options, normally on a subscription basis, that allow you to communicate to your friends and family whilst on expedition. 

What satellite communication options do I have?

Communicating via satellite is a great way to keep in touch with loved ones on the road, or even contact emergency services whilst on your alpine tour. Keeping up to date has never been easier with Garmin products which allow you to one or two-way message. These brief messages can help you organize food drops, convene with alpine helicopter pick ups or communicate non life threatening emergencies. Some GPS communication devices can also send weather notifications, a great addition for long term alpine expeditions. For the simplest mode of communication, a PLB or EPIRB is a great way to signal an emergency and highlight your position, allowing for emergency services to find you in the Alpine. Ocean Signal creates durable PLB’s designed for alpine mountaineering, boating and remote trekking, keeping you a button away from help. 

I’m heading to a cold alpine environment, what portable charging options do I have?

Portable chargers are great to have on expeditions, keeping your camera, phone and GPS device charged. Camping chargers and hiking battery packs from brands including Biolite, Knog, LedLenser and PowerTraveller are lightweight and durable. On alpine expeditions, be mindful of colder environments affecting batteries as they tend to slow the charging rate. Larger portable charger packs can power up laptops, meaning you can keep all your hiking electronics charged with one portable battery back.

What are the benefits of a hiking watch?

Depending on the model, lightweight and durable hiking watches are a great addition to your hiking and alpine mountaineering gear. Hiking watches can monitor your heart rate, act as a portable GPS, assess elevation, have a compass, use as communication on the go and did we mention tell you the time? Coros creates workout watches as well as mountaineering watches that are low profile and can be worn daily, with operating temperatures of -10 degrees celsius. 

What warranty do I get on my hiking and camping electronics?

Every brand is different, and offers a wide variety of warranties. Always retain your receipt and warranty cards, as claiming warranty can only occur with a proof of purchase. If you ever encounter a problem or question about your expedition electronics, call or head into Paddy Pallin stores to chat to our friendly staff. Our staff are trained in multiple hiking electronics including Garmin, Coros, Ocean Signal and more.

How can I protect my hiking and electronic equipment?

With some of our electronic gear being a lifeline in an emergency, it’s important to have durable electronic protective gear. For waterproof electronic protective cases, Fidlock have created soft, see through and waterproof electronic pouches using ingenious magnet placing to protect your hiking gear. Sea to Summit also creates waterproof phone pouches, waterproof map pouches and expedition accessory waterproof pouches. Many delicate expedition electronics come with cases, or are shock proof, therefore always check the durability of your hiking electronics to make sure they last all your adventures. 

How long does an EPIRB or PLB last?

Each EPIRB has a different battery life, and manufacturing guidelines should be checked. The Australian government recommends replacing the battery of your EPIRB or PLB every 5 -10 years or purchasing a new one. Boating and Expedition EPIRB’s and PLB’s should be serviced and the battery replaced by the manufacturer. If the beacon has been activated, it is advised to contact a servicing agent of the manufacturer, as activation severely drains the battery or can damage the PLB or EPIRB. Due to the changing nature of the technology world, some EPIRB and PLB locator beacons are on a subscription service basis, so always check your subscription is up to date and test the activation test beacon before your alpine expedition. These expedition electronics and camping safety devices are an important addition to anyone's expedition gear, as you never know when it could save a life!