Top 7 Best Waterproof Phones for Hiking & Outdoor Adventure [2025 Guide]
Looking for a phone that can survive rainstorms, river crossings, or rugged trails? In this 2025 guide, we’ve rounded up the best waterproof phones that are not only tough but also deliver great performance, long battery life, and solid cameras — perfect for your next hiking or outdoor adventure! Whether you’re scaling mountains, camping in the wild, or exploring new terrains, the last thing you want is a phone that gives up on you. This guide helps you choose devices that are proven to withstand water, dust, and shocks — giving you peace of mind wherever your journey takes you.
Contents
Top 7 Best Waterproof Phones for Hiking and Adventure
🥾 1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
IP Rating: IP68
Why it’s great for hiking:
Dustproof, waterproof up to 1.5m for 30 minutes, and armored with Gorilla Glass Victus 2. Excellent cameras help you capture breathtaking landscapes in ultra detail.Specs highlight:
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, 200MP camera, 5000mAh battery, 6.8” Dynamic AMOLED.Price: $1,199 – $1,299
✅ Perfect for those who want flagship performance without compromise—even on the trail.
🥾 2. iPhone 15 Pro
IP Rating: IP68
Why it’s great for hiking:
Sleek yet tough, it survives water splashes, drops, and bad weather. Bonus: the Action Button is super handy during climbs.Specs highlight:
A17 Pro chip, Titanium body, amazing camera system, iOS 17’s offline maps.Price: $999 – $1,199
✅ A solid pick for Apple lovers who hike with AirPods and Apple Watch in tow.
🌿 3. Fairphone 5
IP Rating: IP55 (splash resistant)
Why it’s great for hiking:
Modular design means you can replace parts easily on the go. Made from recycled materials, ideal for eco-conscious adventurers.Specs highlight:
OLED display, 4200mAh battery, dual 50MP cameras, long-term software updates.Price: $699 – $749
✅ Great for environmentally aware explorers.
💪 4. CAT S75
IP Rating: IP69K (highest rating for water & dust)
Why it’s great for hiking:
Built to survive drops, water immersion, and even high-pressure water jets. Satellite messaging for emergencies adds huge safety.Specs highlight:
Mediatek Dimensity 930, 5000mAh battery, MIL-STD-810H certified.Price: $600 – $650
✅ Engineered for serious outdoor professionals and survivalists.
🛰 5. Ulefone Armor 23 Ultra
IP Rating: IP68/IP69K
Why it’s great for hiking:
Offers emergency satellite messaging, thermal imaging (yes, for spotting wildlife), and dual 50MP cameras. 5G ready.Specs highlight:
Dimensity 8020, 6.78” FHD+, 512GB storage, 7000mAh battery.Price: $500 – $599
✅ Packed with features for serious adventure tech fans.
🔧 6. Samsung Galaxy XCover6 Pro
IP Rating: IP68
Why it’s great for hiking:
Rugged shell, removable battery, and glove-friendly screen make it perfect for mountain conditions.Specs highlight:
Snapdragon 778G, 4050mAh removable battery, 6.6” display.Price: $599 – $649
✅ Samsung’s pro-grade rugged phone—ideal for professionals or field workers.
🔋 7. Doogee V30T
IP Rating: IP68/IP69K
Why it’s great for hiking:
Massive battery, shockproof, and can charge other devices. Built-in barometer and compass help in remote areas.Specs highlight:
Dimensity 1080, 10800mAh battery, 256GB storage, 20MP night vision camera.Price: $399 – $499
✅ Budget-friendly outdoor warrior.
🔍 Product Comparison
| Phone | IP Rating | Battery Life | Key Strength | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | IP68 | Up to 2 days | Flagship rugged & powerful | $1,199 – $1,299 |
| iPhone 15 Pro | IP68 | All-day use | Waterproof + ecosystem | $999 – $1,199 |
| Fairphone 5 | IP55 | 1.5 days | Eco-friendly + modular | $699 – $749 |
| CAT S75 | IP69K | 2–3 days | Extreme durability | $600 – $650 |
| Ulefone Armor 23 Ultra | IP68/IP69K | 2 days | 5G + Satellite SOS | $500 – $599 |
| Samsung Galaxy XCover6 Pro | IP68 | All-day rugged | Enterprise-grade tough | $599 – $649 |
| Doogee V30T | IP68/IP69K | Up to 3 days | Outdoor battery beast | $399 – $499 |
🌄 Final Thoughts
When you’re out in the wild, your phone shouldn’t be the weakest link. Whether you’re a weekend hiker or a full-on adventurer, these waterproof phones for hiking offer the durability, battery life, and connectivity you need to explore without worry.
For more all-around waterproof options beyond just hiking, check out our 10 Best Waterproof Phones for Outdoor Use in 2025.
❓ FAQ – Waterproof Phones for Hiking & Outdoor Use
Q1: What IP rating should I look for in a waterproof phone?
A: For hiking and outdoor use, IP68 or higher is recommended. It means the phone can survive being submerged in water for up to 30 minutes and is fully protected from dust.
Q2: Can I take waterproof phones swimming or diving?
A: Most are safe in rain and shallow water (pools, rivers), but not for deep diving unless specifically rated. Always check manufacturer guidelines.
Q3: Do rugged phones work with gloves or wet hands?
A: Yes! Phones like the XCover6 Pro or CAT S75 are built to respond to gloved hands and work in wet conditions.
Q4: Is battery life affected by water resistance?
A: Not directly. But phones designed for outdoor use often come with larger batteries to last longer during trips with limited charging.
Q5: Are waterproof phones more expensive?
A: Not always. There are great budget options like Doogee V30T under $500 with excellent water protection.
🔚 Final Thoughts & What to Read Next
Exploring the outdoors is better when you don’t have to worry about your phone getting soaked or smashed. With one of these rugged waterproof phones, you’re set for rain, rivers, dust, and everything in between.
📌 Next, check out these helpful guides: