Are cell phones important to carry on your backpacking trip, specially after hearing their incessant ringing in your everyday schedule? Are they a practical tool or are they an annoyance to those looking for a communion with nature in India? These electronic devices are becoming a common sight on Indian trails as a way of reaching for help in an emergency, but they can also fail or be misused

To be or not to be

If there is an emergency, such as an injured hiker on a remote trail, someone with a cell phone can call the local land manager instead of hiking down to the nearest hotel or camp to get help. This can save valuable time in a serious medical situation.

A lot of times though, a cell phone cannot get a signal from a cell tower, especially in remote areas or in valleys surrounded by high mountains. In addition, the battery may not be powerful enough, and can lose its energy if the weather is cold, especially in places like Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, and so on.

Utilise your cell phone

Here are some tips to take full advantage of your cell phone while backpacking. First, have a fully charged battery before leaving for the trail, so that there is less chance of the phone dying soon. Second, have all important phone numbers readily available. Many land management agencies in India are responsible for search-and-rescue efforts in their area, so have their phone number with you. Dialing 911 can also work.

Next, if making an emergency call, have the necessary information ready before making the call. This includes location, events leading up to the accident, condition of the patient and the plan of action.

If you are on a multi-day trip, sleep with the cell phone battery at night to keep it warm. Keeping the battery warm, especially during the cold months, will extend the life of the cell phone.

Finally, keep the phone dry and protected from the elements. Use either a zip lock bag or a small dry box, especially during river or ocean trips, to keep the phone safe from water.

Know the low tech options

Before leaving home, always leave a note with someone with the hike plan, route and the expected time of return. Also, carry the necessary equipment and know the relevant skills to be successful in a backpacking trip to India, such as hiking, camping, navigation and survival skills, so that it is not necessary to call out for help.

Be quiet

If making a call on a crowded mountain peak, walk away from others and speak quietly, so that they too can enjoy their outdoor experience.