What navigation tools should you carry as backup while snowmobiling?

Carrying a map and compass as backup navigation tools while snowmobiling is essential because they provide reliable navigation assistance in various conditions, particularly when electronic devices may fail due to cold, low battery, or lack of signal. A map offers a broad overview of the terrain, allowing for greater situational awareness and route planning, while a compass helps ascertain direction when visibility is poor or when signs and markers may be absent.

While smartphones and handheld GPS devices offer convenient navigation features, they rely on technology that can be vulnerable in extreme weather or battery drain. In contrast, a traditional map and compass do not depend on any power source or signal and can be critical for orienting oneself and making informed decisions about travel routes. Additionally, a trail marker guide, while helpful, may not provide the comprehensive coverage and flexibility that a map and compass do in unfamiliar or unmarked areas.