In 1999 I attempted an AT thru hike, unsuccessfully. Back then all I used to navigate and get trail info was Wingfoot's guidebook, which seemed adequate enough, for the most part, although there was always an opportunity for uncertainty to arise in some situations. The only device I carried was a compact Olympus film (!!!) camera, as cell phone technology was pretty much non-existent.
Fast forward to 2022, and of course the world has changed, to say the least. I'm headed out for a big section hike in October, SOBO from Duncannon, PA to (hopefully) Daleville, VA, and I am wrestling with the question of how much tech I ought to have, i.e. should I get Far Out's Android app for my phone, or go sort of old school and just use paper? I've already bought a paper guidebook, in loose-leaf format, so that all I have to carry is the pages related to my hike.
I don't mind spending the money for Far Out but I'm wondering if I really need it, and would it detract from the adventure somewhat when most trail topics are no longer in doubt.
What say you? I'd like to know what people think. Thanks!