Since 2020, I’ve used two different (and less expensive) tents that I prefer much more to the Zpacks products: (1) the Nemo ‘Hornet 2P’ (semi-free standing tent) that I used for the entire AT, as well as my recent AZT thru-hike, and other 3-season adventures; and (2) the Gossamer Gear ‘The One’ (single wall tent) that I only use when I want to go fast and light without too many worries about the weather – like on my Timeline Trail hike last fall. Steady 20 mph winds blew the snow into my tent and the wind continued to change direction and swirl around me.

Having this little device on my adventures would provide a safety net that worked virtually anywhere. And so, I reluctantly flipped open the cover on the SOS button my my inReach Mini and I got ready to press it to trigger a rescue. I don’t take undue risks or throw caution to the wind just because I have the safety net of a SOS button. Essentially, the cost is often part of their budget just like responding to other major accidents in the frontcountry. Eight hours after I pressed that SOS button, I was climbing into the helicopter and found myself being strapped in by one of the pilots.I’d broken down my unstable tent to meet the helicopter, and now there was no way I could possibility get my it set back up again in this wind. Windbreaks aren't just for blocking out the wind (though as the name suggests, they're very good at it) they're also an ideal way to add a little privacy to your camping setup. I wouldn’t have to face the shame of being rescued, or the sidelong glances from other long-distance hikers.

I’m sure I’ll be hitting the trail again soon – and I know the one gear item that definitely be coming along for the next adventure! I wedged myself between the boulders and flipped my tent upside down (so the thicker bathtub floor was toward the sky).I had my headlamp on to pinpoint my location, and I was using the flashlight from my iPhone to wave back and forth so they could see me on the ground.