Keeping your gadgets and your clothes dry is an absolute necessity as we enter the winter months. There is nothing more depressing than opening your rucksack to discover your spare warm clothes are soaking wet, along with your precious iPhone which you can’t now use to call for help. Your feet are soaking wet from hiking through the snow and sadly, you can’t even write a few notes on your laptop, because that too is wet. Oh well, at least you can record your misery on your video camera. Oh wait – that’s soaking wet too!!

But fear not. All is not lost. We’ve pulled together the five must-have waterproof gadgets and pieces of camping gear that will ensure your days of adventuring don’t leave you and your camping supplies soggy and wet!

LifeEdge iPhone waterproof case

In this day and age of the Millenials, where our cellphones have become our best friends, the moment you drop your phone in a river, let it get wet in the rain or accidentally get thrown in a swimming pool with it – can spell tragedy. And an expensive replacement. So the LifeEdge iPhone case is must-have quality waterproof gadget-protection. It’s somewhat pricey, but when you think about all you use your iPhone for and where you take it, it’s totally worth it. I’ve been using one for the past 6 months with my iPhone 5S and it’s been a lifesaver. 100% waterproof and shockproof, it’s taken quite a few knocks – but my phone is still as good as new. You can even take photos underwater (it’s been tested in three feet of water for 30 minutes) or use it on a hike when it’s raining. This waterproof gear gives you more piece of mind, since, should you need to call for help, your iPhone is more likely to be intact and functioning!

$99.99

Sea to Summit Dry Sack

If there was one item of kit that’s almost totally essential, it’s a dry sack. Sure, you could use a trash bag if you wanted to save your dollars. However, if you want to ensure all your gear stays dry, a dry sack is the way to go. Waterproof gear bags are also essential for watery adventures – kayaking, canoeing and more. Plus, they are a lot more puncture-resistant than trash bags, don’t let water in at the top like a bag would do, and are much easier to carry. Whether it’s in your backpack or on your kayak, waterproof gear bags are invaluable. There are lots of different sizes to choose from and of course, different brands. But I’ve been using the Sea to Summit dry bags for many years, and they’ve served me well.

Cost varies based on what size waterproof gear bag you buy.

Peli S100 Sport Elite Laptop Backpack

 Peli is known the world over for their rugged, waterproof cases that protect your precious camera equipment and more. But the larger models can be a bit on the unwieldy side of things – certainly not something you can haul out into the woods. However, they’ve come up with a solution for those wanting to hike in the mountains but keep their laptop protected, just in case they need to send an urgent email! The Peli S100 Sport Elite Laptop Backpack might be the answer to your waterproof gear bag needs. As well as offering a waterproof, crushproof laptop case, it also has 20l of storage – more than enough for a day hike. Or commuting to work on your bike! Peli also makes micro cases for cameras, GPS devices, phones and more.

Prices vary based on dealers in your area – visit the website to get a quote on the waterproof gear bag or case you’re interested in.

Merrell Waterproof hiking boots

No one likes getting their feet wet. But sometimes, it’s inevitable – like rainy or muddy treks, crossing a river or falling into one accidentally. In which case, having waterproof boots is crucial. You also want something that drains and dries quickly in case you get water in over the top of your boot (grab some gaiters to avoid this as much as you can). If you’re off on a winter hike, the Merrell Polarand 8 boots are a godsend. With the waterproof and breathable membrane, these insulated hiking boots ensure your socks remain dry and your toes stay warm. They’re also super comfortable. So much so, you won’t even notice the miles passing by.

$175

GoPro Hero 4

When it comes to filming yourself surfing, hiking, or mountain biking, waterproof action camera supremos, GoPro, are undoubtedly the market leaders. This is one little waterproof gadget the action athlete won’t want to be without. But with so many new entrants coming to the market, GoPro can’t afford to rest on their laurels. Which is why they’ve brought out the GoPro Hero 4 Black and Silver editions. The Black edition boasts 4k video resolution at 25 FPS, while the Silver edition has a built-in LCD on the rear. More powerful, ergonomically more streamlined, more user friendly and significantly lighter, the GoPro Hero 4 has matched and raised the bar to the point where any adventurer wouldn’t be caught dead without one of these waterproof gadgets!

GoPro Hero 4 Black – $499
GoPro Hero 4 Silver – $399