If you’re going to hit the slopes, you need to make sure your electronics are safe. Most of us are used to bringing our personal devices with us just about everywhere we go — and that applies to snowy trails and mountaintops as well. There are lots of reasons to bring your electronics along for the ride. You can enjoy the thrill of skiing while listening to music or connect with your friends and family in between each descent. You can also bring along a GPS to make sure you’re heading in the right direction.
So, how are you going to keep your electronics safe? From waterproof pouches to using Bluetooth ski helmet speakers, use this guide to learn how to protect your digital devices while skiing.
Table of Contents
guide to protect your digital devices while skiing
Know the Risks
Every device is different. Before you take it on the trail or ski lift, look at your owner’s manual to learn more about your devices and how they should be used. There are generally two hazards you need to watch out for moisture and extreme temperatures.
Water is considered cancer to electronics. Even brief exposure to moisture can leave you without a charge. However, some devices are inherently waterproof.
Most electronics are sensitive to moisture and cold. The manufacturer will usually include information about storage and operating temperatures. If the local weather is outside of this range, you may need to insulate the device to keep it warm or leave it behind just to be safe. Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures (below 32°F or 0°C) can cause the screen on the device to crack. Most consumer devices also use lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, which cannot be charged at subfreezing temperatures without causing damage.
Do your research ahead of time to make sure your devices can weather the cold.
Keeping Your Devices Warm
The best way to protect your electronics from the cold is to keep them warm and limit how much time they spend outdoors. You can temporarily store your phone or GPS device in an insulating pouch or case. Some cases and covers come with extra padding and layers to protect against the cold. The package should contain information in terms of how well it works in different temperatures.
You can also use a special heating charger to raise the internal operating temperature. Make sure your electronics are compatible with the charger, or it could damage the battery.
You should also store your devices in an easily accessible location that’s out of the cold. You can keep it in the inner pocket of your jacket or an insulating container. Make sure you can close the container or pocket, so the device doesn’t fall out.
Also read 5 Reasons You Should Switch To A SIM Card Only Plan.
Keeping Your Devices Dry
Now let’s move on to the second part of the equation. Keeping your device dry is fairly easy, as long as you keep it behind at least one layer of plastic. You can use a waterproof case for extra protection, or, if you don’t feel like spending a lot of money, put it in a plastic sleeve or Ziploc bag with a secure closing mechanism. Ideally, you should be able to use and interact with the device through the sleeve or bag, so you’re not tempted to take it out.
Make sure you are wearing the right kind of gloves, so you don’t accidentally drop your phone. They should have ridged grips for holding onto objects. Try finding gloves that will work with your touchscreen device, so you don’t have to remove your gloves. If your hands get too cold, you might lose feeling in your fingers, which makes it hard to hold your device.
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Using a Wireless Communication Device
Regardless of how you plan on storing your device, you can limit the number of times you take it out by using a skiing communication device that wirelessly connects to your phone or GPS. The intercom lets you use your voice to access the features of your phone hands-free, so you can stay focused on the trail. It only takes a few seconds to send a message or check the direction. The longer your personal device stays in the pouch, bag, or container, the less likely it is to get damaged.
Learn how to communicate while skiing using a wireless communication device to make sure you can speak freely on the trail. You should be able to coordinate with your companions or coach in real time without taking your hands off the poles.
Plan for the Worst
Don’t assume everything will go as planned when you’re on the trail. There’s always a chance your device could end up in the snow, leaving you without a way to communicate in the middle of your trip.
Have a backup plan ready to go in case one of your electronics fails. Use paper maps, radios, and other markers to keep track of your location. Stay in touch with the local park rangers and watch out for sudden changes in weather.
You shouldn’t have to hit the trail without your devices. These electronics can be essential when it comes to safety and navigation. But you shouldn’t have to put your valuables at risk, either. Use these tips to make the most of your time in the snow.
