As an active senior and outdoor enthusiast, chances are good that you already have a nice tent, top-of-the-line hiking boots, a good selection of sturdy fishing poles and whatever else you need to enjoy some quality time with Mother Nature. Now, in order to bring your outdoor experiences to the next level, you might want to consider investing in some great gadgets and gear. The following items are top-of-the-line as well as really useful for seniors:
A Solar Backpack
Even if you are bound and determined to unplug and get away from it all when you are in the great outdoors, there are still times when having power is a great—and safe—idea. The Voltaic Converter Solar Backpack from Amazon is a terrific way to ensure that you will have a reliable power source when you need it. The 3.5 W/6V solar panel that comes with it is lightweight and waterproof, and after letting it sit in the sun for about half an hour, it will provide you with about an hour of power. If you want to use your smartphone to check weather conditions or GPS, or to call for help in case of a medical emergency, a solar backpack can be a real life saver.
A Crossbow
If you enjoy target shooting, you might want to think about investing in a crossbow. For many seniors and retirees, a crossbow is even easier to use and carry around than a compound bow and arrow and it shoots really quickly and is much simpler to maintain. Cabela’s sells a great selection of crossbows in a variety of price ranges. For example, the Carbon Express X-Force 454 Crossbow Package features carbon-infused parts and a short length that make it both durable and easy to carry and use.
Brunton Flip-n-Drip Portable Coffee Maker
Just because you are out in the wild, it does not mean you have to say farewell to really good tasting coffee. After all, you drank more than your fair share of weak coffee during your working days at the office—now that you are retired, you deserve great coffee every day, even when you are in the wild. Thanks to the Brunton Flip-n-Drip portable coffee maker—which you can pick up at a local retailer or even on eBay, you can still have your cup o’ Joe in the great outdoors.
In order to use it, simply pour some hot water into the brewing half and then attach the reusable mesh filter with the coffee grounds. Screw on the mug—yes, it even comes with its own coffee mug—and flip it over and in about 10 minutes you’ll have a delicious cup of java waiting for you. The mug is insulated and made from stainless steel so it is sturdy but will still protect your hands from the heat.
JakPak
Billed on the website as the world’s first all-in-one waterproof jacket, tent and sleeping bag, the JakPak is a great addition to your traditional tent. Made with ripstop nylon polyester, the JakPak is a light and durable way to stay safe, dry and warm should you encounter a downpour or need a place to rest during a long hike or maybe trip down a river by boat. While it won’t replace the need for a regular tent, the JakPak does serve a definite purpose; weighing in at less than three pounds, the tent and sleeping bag portions can easily detach from the main jacket. It can also be used when you are not in the woods but rather at a chilly and rainy ball game.
Senior Outlook Today is your go-to source for information, inspiration, and connection as you navigate the later years of life. Our team of experts and writers is dedicated to providing relevant and engaging content for seniors, covering topics such as health and wellness, finances, technology and travel.
