As a regular backpacker, I've been pretty happy using my phone as a primary source and paper maps as backup. On my phone, if you use the right settings (aggres

As a regular backpacker, I've been pretty happy using my phone as a primary source and paper maps as backup. On my phone, if you use the right settings (aggressive battery saver, airplane mode), turning GPS on only when checking location, and turning it off at night, I can get a solid week of battery life. (A backup battery pack does not weigh much.) Clearly, I'm not using it for much else than reading a bit before bed and taking many pictures. If you go this route, practice using whatever app you're using in off-line mode to verify your map cache data!!! That being said, definitely practice with paper maps and maintaining a sense of direction. This sounds easy but in an emergency situation this can be a weak link. Nothing sucks more than hiking down the wrong trail for a couple hours when you're racing against sunset. I've also been in many canyons and valleys with screwy GPS and heading readings so it's good to be able to recognize when that tool is going awry. As far as apps, I mainly use the original Backcountry Navigator. Not the prettiest but it's been solid for me and the author was responsive back in the day when I messaged them.