How to get coverage in the mountains?
Losing signal in the mountains can be more than an inconvenience; in many cases, it's a safety risk. However, staying connected while enjoying the great outdoors is not impossible. With some preparation and the right tools, you can make sure your devices keep working even in the most remote locations.
To begin with, it is essential to plan before setting off. Although we often associate the mountains with disconnection and peace and quiet, it is crucial to bear in mind that, in an emergency, a call or a message can save your life. Operators often offer online coverage mapsIt is a good idea to consult them to identify areas with little or no signal before setting out on an adventure.
In addition, having the right tariff is key. For example, in the case of unlimited tariffs From companies such as Vodafone, there is more possibility to select tailor-made tariffs by adding fibre optics and television, even with the option of including a handset from 0 euros. But that's another matter, the important thing is to get a tariff with unlimited data for when you are away from home, whether in the mountains or anywhere else. That way you'll never run out of data to surf at the maximum speed possible from your location.
But what if you are in an area without coverage? Technology has advanced to help you there too.
Essential mountain equipment
Carrying the right equipment can make the difference between being cut off and staying connected in a critical situation. Consider investing in devices such as satellite phoneswhich offer communication where there is no mobile signal. Although not cheap, they are a safe bet for those who frequent remote areas.
Another interesting option is the 4G signal repeaters, devices that amplify coverage in areas with weak signals. They work well in camps or shelters and can be a very useful resource for large groups. In addition, devices such as the GPS beaconscapable of sending emergency messages or sharing your location without the need for a mobile signal, they are an excellent investment if you plan demanding routes.
Of course, none of these devices will do much good if your phone runs out of battery. Always include a high-capacity power bank or compact solar panel on your device. Both are lightweight and ensure you can recharge your devices wherever you are.
Strategies for finding signal in the mountains
Even without additional devices, there are a few tricks you can apply to increase your chances of finding coverage. The first is to seek open and elevated groundThe peaks or cleared areas tend to have better reception than deep valleys or dense forests. In addition, manually set your phone to search for other networks can help you connect with alternative operators available in the area.
In extreme situations, send an SMS can be more effective than trying to make a call. Text messages require less signal and often arrive even when calls are not possible. If you need to contact the emergency services, some countries allow you to send a message to 112. This system uses any available network, increasing the chances of your message getting through.
Apps and tools to keep you safe
Today, there are many applications designed to facilitate navigation and communication in the mountains. One of the most popular is What3Wordswhich divides the world into 3-metre grids and assigns each grid a unique three-word code. This tool is particularly useful for sharing exact locations with rescue services.
In addition, do not underestimate the value of downloading offline maps from Google Maps or specialised applications. Having a detailed map that doesn't rely on mobile signal can be vital. And if you plan to share your location in real timeuse services such as Google Maps or WhatsApp so that friends and family can follow your movements.
What to do if you lose signal
Sometimes, even with the best planning, it is possible to run out of coverage. In these cases, the first thing to do is not to panic. Look for open or elevated areas and try to manually reconnect to other networks. If this doesn't work, move slowly to areas where signal is more likely to be available, such as roads or shelters.
Another option is to ask mountain rangers or other hikers if they know of nearby locations with coverage. Many huts have radio communication systems or even WiFi access, which can be an unexpected lifesaver.
If the situation is critical and you have no way to communicate, remember the international emergency codes, such as flashing a torch three times or making repeated audible signals.
The key: prevention
Staying connected in the mountains should not just be a matter of convenience, but a safety priority. Before you leave, let someone know your plan, including the routes you will take and your estimated time of return. Always carry a portable charger and learn how to use the tools at your disposal.
Ultimately, enjoying the mountains safely doesn't mean being connected all the time, but it does mean being prepared for any eventuality. With the right tools and some planning, you can combine the best of both worlds: the tranquillity of nature and the security of being just a click away.
