Hinterland

Essential outdoor companions: 7 must-have apps for your adventures

from hinterland.camp

From plant identification to surfing and hike planning, these practical apps will make your next (camping) trip even more relaxing.

Frau hält Handy in der Hand, Gegenlicht

When we're out and about in the Hinterland, we find it especially relaxing to completely block out everyday life and focus only on the nature around us. Even the smartphone can go into "do not disturb" mode! But there are some digital companions that make the outdoor experience even more intense, bring us closer to flora and fauna or are simply super practical, so that we like to have the phone with us on the road. Here are our seven favorite outdoor apps:

  1. PeakFinder: Mountain know-how for your next hike. 

On the way in the mountains, the view is great, but you have no idea which peak you are looking at? With PeakFinder you can find out in no time which mountains you can see from your current location. The app uses your smartphone's camera to scan your surroundings and then identifies the mountains that are currently around you. You also get other useful information about the altitude and distance of the mountains. Best of all, the app also works completely offline - worldwide. Perfect for your next backcountry hike! Approximately 5 Euros, available for Apple and Android.

2. SkyView: One of the best apps for stargazers.

SkyView allows you to identify stars and planets in the sky by simply holding your smartphone up to the sky. The app then shows a live video of the sky with the names of the stars and planets that are currently above you. It's especially useful in the backcountry, where it usually gets really nice and dark, so you can see the stars clearly. In our story on stargazing, we've put together some more tips and revealed how you can even take great cell phone photos of the night sky. 

Lite version free for Apple and Android.

  • Apps PeakFinder & SkyView auf Handy screen

3. MSW Surf Forecast: For all those who want to jump into new waves!

On the road in unknown waters? Then this app is indispensable. It gives you accurate forecasts for wave conditions, tides, and wind conditions at beaches around the world. This is especially useful for surfers, who always want to discover exciting new surf spots while traveling. 

Free for Apple and Android.

4. PlantNet: A practical tool for all nature and plant lovers.

The most beautiful plants always grow in the middle of the backcountry! With this app, you now also always know quickly and reliably which plants are in front of you. Simply take a photo and discover details such as the family, flowering time and distribution of the plant. 

Free for Apple and Android.

  • Apps MSW, PlantNet & Merlin Bird auf Handy screen

5. Merlin Bird ID: What's that chirping? Find out!

 Similar to PlantNet, Bird ID helps you identify different bird species through a photo. The app contains information on over 10,000 bird species and offers a variety of features that make birdwatching even more exciting. Especially if you're traveling with kids, it's great fun to discover the different birds together - and you can even add your own observations and create a kind of bird list. 

Free for Apple and Android.

6. Toilet Finder: The bladder presses? Rescue is at hand!

Whether in the city or in the country - with this app you can quickly find all the toilets in your area when there is no quiet place (or suitable bush) in sight. Smaller facilities in the hinterland are also listed. Additional information is also helpful, such as the cost of using the toilet or whether it is equipped for the disabled. 

Free for Apple and Android.

  • Apps Toilet Finder & My Little Plastic Footprint auf Handy screen

7. My Little Plastic Footprint: Helps you reduce your plastic footprint. 

With this app, you can quickly find the best plastic-free alternatives for various products and everyday items. In this way, "My Little Plastic Footprint" also helps to keep the hinterland even cleaner. The different areas to click through are particularly practical - bathroom, kitchen, travel, leisure, household and garden. So you can tackle one area at a time and see where there's potential to reduce plastic waste in your life. 

Free for Apple and Android.

... and last but not least, we would like to take this opportunity to recommend our Hinterland app, which makes it even easier for you to plan and book your next camping and outdoor adventure. Discover the most beautiful tent and camping sites, Tiny Houses and Co. in Europe and book your trips comfortably and spontaneously on the go. 

Free for Apple and Android.