Hot take: I spent $80 on a detailed map set for the Wind River Range and never opened it

I bought the Earthwalk Press maps before a 5 day trip near Pinedale, thinking I needed the extra detail. My phone with Gaia GPS and a basic paper backup was totally fine, and the fancy maps just added weight. Has anyone else bought gear for a route that turned out to be a complete waste?

4 comments

4 Comments

thomas_torres2d ago

I mean, that "still in the wrapper" thing is pretty spot on. But idk, at least with paper maps you don't have to worry about your phone dying or losing signal, which can happen even with downloaded stuff. Not saying you're wrong, just that it's not always a total waste.

nguyen.lily2mo ago

Been there. I bought a whole set of waterproof trail notes for a section hike, still in the wrapper. My rule now is if the phone app and one good paper map cover it, the extra stuff stays home. Saves a ton of space and weight.

miles_burns2mo ago

That "still in the wrapper" feeling is way too real.

max_torres442mo ago

Exactly. That wrapper is basically a tax on future you. My move is to test any new gear on a local overnight before it ever touches a real trip. If it doesn't get used or feels wrong, it goes back in the closet. Saves you from finding out your fancy new thing is useless when you're miles from the trailhead.