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BY  Sibashree Jan 27, 2026

Getting lost in the forest or mountains is an unpleasant prospect that can ruin even the most exciting hike.  However, modern technology allows travelers to feel more confident far from civilization.  A smartphone, properly prepared and equipped with the right apps, can replace bulky navigators and become your reliable companion even where there is no cell signal at all.  Use the capabilities of digital maps and GPS to stay on track and enjoy your route without unnecessary stress. So, if you are wondering how the GPS navigator system works, I have got the perfect guide. Here, I will delve into the diverse aspects of the GPS on smartphones. So, keep reading to know more! How To Assess The GPS Navigator System’s Capabilities On Smartphones? A smartphone with a GPS module can perform most tasks that were previously available only on specialized devices.  Its advantages are obvious: always at hand, easy to use, supports many navigation apps, and weighs less than a classic GPS navigator.  However, the phone has its limitations. That is, it is more vulnerable to— impacts,  moisture, low temperatures, and  draining battery. A specialized GPS navigator has better battery life and durability, but is less convenient in terms of interface and is more expensive.  GPS watches can be useful for tracking activity and basic navigation, but their screen and functionality are limited.  If your route runs along popular trails and you are ready to thoroughly prepare your smartphone, a separate navigator is not necessary.  In challenging conditions, on long autonomous hikes, or in extreme climates, it is better to take both devices. How Does The GPS Navigator System Work On Smartphones? Many people think that GPS on a phone works only when there is a mobile signal. In reality, the smartphone receives coordinates directly from satellites, not from cell towers.  This means that even in the remote taiga or high mountains, you can determine your location. Topographic maps are used for navigation—  special diagrams showing terrain,  trails,  bodies of water, and  other important features. A GPX track is a digital route that can be loaded into an app and followed. To avoid being left with a useless dot on a blank screen, download the necessary offline maps in advance.  Without them, the phone will show only your position but won't provide information about trails and landmarks. Choose The Best GPS Navigator System For Your Hike The market for navigation apps for smartphones is rich and diverse. Here is a brief overview of the most popular solutions: • Gaia GPS — user-friendly interface, many maps, supports creating routes and waypoints. Downside: some features are paid, and sometimes there are privacy concerns. • Topo Maps+ — aimed at iPhone users, easy map downloading and printing, and detailed elevation profiles. Downside: iOS only, takes time to learn. • CalTopo — a powerful tool for advanced users, supports complex layers and terrain analysis. Downside: complex interface, some features require a subscription. • OnX — informative maps with a focus on land ownership and access, convenient for multisport. Downside: fewer specialized tools for hiking. • Goat Maps — new app for iPhone developed by enthusiasts, focuses on simplicity and essential features. Downside: currently limited in functionality. • FarOut — leader among apps for long-distance routes and trekking, contains data on key points and verified tracks. Downside: most routes are paid. • OutMap — 3D maps, slope and avalanche risk analysis, fast synchronization between devices. Downside: relatively new product, not all regions covered. • Maps.me — convenient for car routes and short hikes, works completely offline. Downside: limited terrain detail. Things To Keep In Mind With The GPS Navigator System Prepare your smartphone for the hike and download everything you need in advance. So, here are a few things to keep in mind while using the GPS in your phone— • Download detailed topographic and satellite maps of the area you need for offline use. • Find and download GPX files of the route and points of interest (campsites, water sources, junctions). • Check GPS functionality in your chosen app without internet access. • Get familiar with the interface, try building a route, and viewing the elevation profile. • Make sure all necessary maps and tracks are available offline. How To Keep Devices Charged And Protect Them During Hiking? In the wilderness, it is important to use your phone's battery wisely. Use airplane mode and power-saving mode to turn off unnecessary functions.  Do not record tracks constantly so as not to drain the battery. Close all unused apps and turn off your phone when you are not using it. People often get distracted by short gaming sessions and forget to close games.  This is according to data from experts we consulted while preparing this article.  According to data we find on the playplinkogames.com, gaming sessions in Plinko can last for hours.  Often, nothing happens in the game itself, which indicates open but unused apps. Such apps consume battery power, including due to their constant internet connection. Keep your device in your sleeping bag at night — cold quickly drains the battery. Take a power bank with you to recharge your phone on the go.  Protect your smartphone from moisture and impacts with a waterproof and shockproof case. Use straps on backpack shoulder straps for quick access to your gadget. What Are The Safety Measures To Take While Hiking? To ensure you are embarking on a safe journey while planning the hike, you need to consider a few things. So, some of these key considerations include— 1. Check All Settings And Test Your Apps Before The Hike Technology is not something you can trust blindly. So, better to take it on a test hike before considering it for the final plan. That is, you can test out the GPS navigator system with a simple walk around the block or a known hiking ground. This way, you can test its capabilities before fixating your trek plan on it. So, you need to check how the tool works without any internet connection, location determination, and rerouting as needed. This way, the actual features and capabilities of the tool can be tested and verified. Making it easier to use the navigation without facing any sudden issues. 2. Keeping Manual Maps And Compass Handy Moreover, do not completely trust the technology. It can be quite foolish to trust only the GPS and go ahead with a trek plan. Rather, keep paper maps, a compass, and manually manageable topographic maps handy. So, when technology fails, you can still have something to find your way back. In addition to this, learn to read a topographic map. So, you can instantly find your location on the paper. Also, you need to keep it waterproof. So, put on a plastic cover over the paper map. This will protect the paper map from dust, dirt, and rain during the trail. 3. Ensure Safety And Emergency Communication In The Mountains Again, safety measures should not completely rely on technology. What if your battery drains? Or worse, the device stops working due to a malfunction. So, make sure you carry separate devices to send SOS signals over the satellites. This way, you can manage emergencies with a proper device that comes with two-way communication. SPOT Gen4 only sends messages, but it is simple and reliable. Garmin inReach Messenger offers advanced features, including color maps and a digital compass.  These devices often save lives in difficult situations when regular communication is unavailable. Before heading out, thoroughly prepare your smartphone and check all settings. Always take a paper map and compass with you.  Don't forget a power bank and a waterproof case. Combine modern technology with traditional navigation skills — and any adventure will bring joy, not stress.

BY  Sibashree Feb 20, 2026

Delta Connection DL3543 emergency landing happened on 7th July, 2025. A pressurization-related issue happened, and the flight returned to Minneapolis immediately after takeoff.  It was a safe landing as the crew took all the necessary precautions. Furthermore, there were no reports of injuries.  However, when the news of the Delta Connection DL3543 emergency landing surfaced, people were worried. It is obvious because any emergency landing or any technical fault in the air is unsettling.  In this context, we want an honest explanation and a realistic understanding of how aviation safety works. It is especially important for us, who are always on the move and have to take short and long flights.  Hi, in today’s blog, I will talk about the Delta Connection DL3543 emergency landing incident and explain what happened and why the crew had to make an emergency landing decision.  Moreover, I will have a thoughtful and clear discussion about what this emergency landing meant for passengers.  What Happened With The Delta Connection Flight DL3543? An in-flight emergency was declared on Delta Connection flight DL3543 on 7th July 2025, a little after takeoff.  So, it had to return to Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport (MSP). The flight was flying to Chicago from Minneapolis. However, it returned immediately so that the aircraft could be inspected properly on the ground.  Fortunately, the passengers had a safe and usual disembarkation thanks to the planned, controlled, and precautionary landing. Moreover, there was never a loss of control.  Why Was The Delta Connection DL3543 Emergency Landing Declared?  As I have mentioned, pressurization-related issues were the reasons behind the landing of the DL3543 aircraft.  When a plane goes up, the aircraft's pressurization systems maintain or control the air pressure in the cabin.  Furthermore, there is a sensor to read the air pressure. When the sensor reads the air pressure outside the desired limits, it is a serious technical concern.  The plane can still fly smoothly under this condition. However, the pilot has to take immediate action based on the reading.  In other words, the pilot does not take unnecessary risks by flying the plane in this situation. Moreover, when the crew declares an emergency, it helps them to take the following safety measures.  Emergency Landing for Safe Disembarkation and Inspecting the Aircraft Emergency Handling from Air Traffic Control Having the Emergency Services as a Standby.  However, when pressurization-related issues occur and lead to an emergency landing, there is no need to panic.  An emergency landing is a part of the discipline and training of the aircraft crews.  What Does An Emergency Landing Mean?  An emergency landing is not as dramatic as we see in movies and series. An emergency landing in commercial aviation may indicate a lot of things. Those are: A Medical Issue Happening with a Passenger Any “Cabin System Alert” A Warning about Technical Faults that Need Inspection And, A Sensor Reading Outside the Limits.  In most cases, emergency landings happen as precautionary measures. In such situations, the aircraft is in full control.  However, the pilot and the crew members want to eliminate the uncertainty and get back to the ground as soon as possible as a safety measure.  This same process or discipline is followed for the landing of DL3543. Why Did The DL3543 Plane Return To Minneapolis?  Returning to the Minneapolis Airport was the most efficient and safest choice after some pressurization-related issues happened.  Also, when the plane returned, the Minneapolis Airport offered the following assistance. Readiness for Emergency Response Immediate Help from the Maintenance Teams Quick Passenger Assistance and Prompt Rebooking Familiar and Safe Runways with Adequate Ground Operations  The pilot and crew could avoid the complexity and risks related to the pressurization issues thanks to the emergency return and landing. Who Operated The Delta Connection DL3543? Endeavor Air operated the Delta Connection DL3543 flight. It is a subsidiary of Delta Air Lines.  As a regional subsidiary, it follows the same safety oversight, federal regulations, and training standards as Delta Airlines.  So, there is no deviation in the standards for passenger safety.  What Did The Passengers Experience On Board?  The passengers experienced calm and clear communication from the pilot and the crew. So, though a little panic was obvious, the situation was under control.  Furthermore, they had a shorter flight and a shorter descent than expected. Moreover, there was a brief waiting period before the inspection began.  All the actions were aligned with standard protocols, and they were well-rehearsed. What Happened After DL3543 Made A Safe Emergency Return?  When Delta Connection DL3543 made a safe and emergency return, it was no longer in service, and an immediate inspection took place.  Then, the maintenance teams checked the problematic system.  In such cases, the aircraft can only return to service if the maintenance teams issue clearance. It was the same with DL3543.  So, the passengers got the rebooking for the previous flight. Also, they got this priority service without additional charges, according to the policies of the airlines.  Overall, when an aircraft makes an emergency landing, aircraft safety and passenger care get the most importance.  Why Should The Incident Of Delta Connection DL3543 Emergency Landing Reassure Air Travelers?  You must not take the case of DL3543 Emergency Landing as a failure. It shows how the aviation industry is sincere about its safety culture.  Once the crew noticed a potential issue, they practiced precaution, clearly communicated the issue to the passengers, and planned an emergency landing.  This proactive measure ensured the safe disembarkation of the passengers.  Moreover, the proactive measures of the crew members show why commercial aviation is one of the best and safest modes of transport in the world. Delta Connection DL3543 Emergency Landing: Establishing The Practice Of Caution Over Convenience  Delta Connection DL3543 emergency landing is all about being confident about the safety measures of commercial aviation and getting rid of fear.  It also shows why prevention is always a smarter choice than reaction.  Furthermore, pilots have the training to land an aircraft as fast as possible, the moment they find anything wrong. It is a no-question-asked practice.  Moreover, this is the mindset that saves many passengers every day without making headlines.  Delta Connection DL3543 Emergency Landing: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the DL3543 emergency landing.  1. Was The DL3543 Emergency Landing Hazardous?  No, the DL3543 emergency landing was not hazardous. It had a safe landing thanks to the proactive measures taken by the pilot and crew members for an emergency landing. Also, all the passengers disembarked safely and got a rebooking of the next flight at the Minneapolis Airport.  2. Is Delta Connection Not As Safe As The Mainline Delta Flights?  No, Delta Connection is as safe as the Mainline Delta flights. As a subsidiary, Delta Connection follows the same aviation policies and safety guidelines. You can take the case of the DL3543 emergency landing as an example. No chance was taken to ensure a smooth emergency landing and safe disembarkation of passengers. 3. Does A Pressurization Issue Make The Plane Unsafe? No, a pressurization issue does not make the plane unsafe. Some alerts are related to the sensor, and they are minor issues. However, as part of the safety practice, a pilot usually plans an emergency landing to ensure the safety of the aircraft and the passengers. 4. Why Were Emergency Vehicles Present After The DL3543 Emergency Landing? The DL3543 aircraft had an emergency landing, and in such cases, emergency vehicles are automatically present for easy access. So, the presence of the emergency vehicles was part of the precautionary measures and standard practices. 5. Is A Detailed Public Report Issued On Emergency Landings?  There is no mandatory rule to issue a public report on an emergency landing. If the issue is severe and people are harmed, the airlines, of course, will issue a public report. However, in cases such as the DL3543 Emergency Landing, a public report on findings may not be released.  Read Also: Discount Codes Ttweakflight: How Can You Save A Few Dollars On Your Upcoming Air Trip? Do You Qualify For Cancelled Flight Compensation On Connecting Flights? 15 Airport Hacks Every Traveller Should Know Before Their Next Flight

BY  Sibashree Dec 17, 2024

For someone fed on Hollywood staples, a visit to Los Angeles can be the biggest calling. Visiting Universal Studios Hollywood or hiking to the Hollywood sign are some of the best things to do in LA for a movie buff. Further, Los Angeles has been a tourism hub since the late 1800s. With the foundation of the Merced Theatre and transportation systems, the city started attracting travelers. It is fascinating to see the city maintain the same craze in the age of socials. Today, you type #losangeles and will find 86.8 million posts popping up. So, I have been thinking of sharing a to-do list in the city for the longest time. On the web, there are even threads like once in a lifetime things to do in Los Angeles Reddit! 😮😮😮😮 So, we could not stay behind, and here goes the brief guide, mentioning the things you can explore for a lifetime experience.  At Tour and Travel, we wanted it to be different than the regular “12 once in a lifetime things to do in Los Angeles by a local” or “once in a lifetime things to do in Los Angeles 2025” guides.  We wanted to keep it all hearts as the Hollywood movies have taught us!  Things To Do In LA For Once In A Lifetime Experience | Make The Movie Buff In You Happy  Los Angeles is the “Entertainment Capital of the World.” It is the Mecca of movie lovers, with names like Al Pacino, Clint Eastwood, and Marilyn Monroe gracing the city and its corners.  In other words, “Hollywood” is the biggest draw for the visitors to this city. So, among the things to do in LA for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, I have included activities like hiking to the Hollywood sign or walking along the Hollywood Walk Of Fame.  1. Hike To The Hollywood Sign | Once In A Lifetime Things To Do In Los Angeles Are you up for a scenic hike? You can take a walk to the Hollywood sign. Throughout the hike, you will enjoy a breathtaking view of Los Angeles.   Further, once you reach the Hollywood sign, you can take the most beautiful photos of yourself or the surroundings.  Completing a hike to the Hollywood sign and taking some photographs, there is something preserved for posterity. You can share the memories with your future generations.  Hiking to the Hollywood Sign or Mount Hollywood through the Charlie Turner Trailhead is easy. You can cover a distance of 5.3 miles here within 2 hours and 30 minutes.  2. Visit The Universal Studios Hollywood Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City Contact No: +1 800-864-8377 Open Hours: 9 AM to 7 PM, Weekends: 8 AM to 10 PM For all the Potter Heads and Minion lovers, a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood will be an immersive experience. Here, you can enjoy thrilling g rides and explore the sets of many famous movies.  If you are about to visit Universal Studios Hollywood this winter, you must not miss the Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood. The event has already started on 29th November 2024 and will continue till 6th January 2025. You can even be a part of the Ring in the New Year with EVE. It is the biggest New Year celebration in Hollywood.  Moreover, Universal Studios Hollywood has year-round attractions like “Jurassic World - The Ride,” “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash, etc. So, a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood is one of the topmost once in a lifetime things to do in Los Angeles with kids. 3. Enjoy A Stroll Along The Hollywood Walk Of Fame A walk along Hollywood Boulevard is one of the best things to do in LA for once in a lifetime. You will find golden stars dedicated to your favorite star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Moreover, you will feel the glamor of Tinseltown. Despite names like Julia Roberts, Leonardo DiCaprio, Madonna, and Clint Eastwood refusing to have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, it remains a landmark of intrigue and awe in Los Angeles.  4. Spend Some Time At Venice Beach You can visit Los Angeles and, for the most relaxing time, head to Venice Beach. However, if soaking in the Sun is not the only thing you want, you can try a rollerblade or bike ride along the beach. Further, you will find various street performers and unique shops on the beach. The vibrant atmosphere here makes it feature on our list of “once in a lifetime things to do Los Angeles.” Moreover, Venice Beach has a skatepark where the best skaters in the area show their skills amidst the cheering of the onlookers.  5. Visit The Griffith Observatory Address: 2800 E Observatory Road, Los Angeles Contact No: +1 213-473-0800 Hours Open: Tuesday - Friday (12-10 PM), Saturday and Sunday (10 AM to 10 PM), Monday - Closed Are you an observer of the sky? Are you passionate about celestial bodies? Exploring the Griffith Observatory is one of the best things to do in LA for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Irrespective of your day of visit, you can be a part of the daily programs at the Samuel Oschin Planetarium. There will be live shows and live demonstrations of the Tesla Coil.  Moreover, there is a public telescope for you to look at the sky.  The Griffith Observatory in Griffith Park is located on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood. You can hike to the park or enjoy a bike ride to this famous California hotspot.  Furthermore, if you are traveling with family, you can take a drive or shared ride. Be an early bird if you want a spot for your car at Downhill. You can even keep your car at the paid parking near the observatory.  6. Take A Helicopter Tour Of The City https://www.instagram.com/p/BvsIGM9hQmj/ Do you want to explore a bird’s eye view of Los Angeles? You can take a helicopter tour of the city. While taking a helicopter tour, you can explore the famous coastlines and hotspots of California. Also, the cityscape looks amazing from the helicopter. A helicopter tour of Los Angeles will be around 1.5 hours, and it’s going to cost you something between $220-520 for each person.  7. Take A Tour Of The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens https://www.instagram.com/p/C5q5d_Ur2_-/?img_index=1 Address: 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino Phone Number: +1 626-405-2100 Hours Open: 10 AM to 5 PM (Closed on Tuesdays) The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is the best amalgamation of all three elements mentioned in the name.  It is an excellent place for researchers as they can explore as many as 12 million exhibits here. Further, these exhibits span between the 11th to 21st centuries.  Further, the Art Museum bustles with 45000 works of art and has the best British, European, American and Asian work.  Along with sculptures, the Art Museum also has paintings, photographs, decorative arts, and prints.   Moreover, the Botanical Garden stretches over 130 acres, and it has more than 80000 living plants. Some of these are even endangered. So, if you are a nature lover or interested in plants, a visit to this Botanical Garden will be one of the once in a lifetime things to do in Los Angeles this weekend.  8. Drive At The Christmas Tree Lane https://www.instagram.com/p/C1vuavPuOuf/?hl=en If you are in Dallas in December or January, a drive at the Christmas Tree Lane is one of the most festive things you can do.  The festive lights go on at the Christmas Tree Lane from 7th December after an illumination ceremony. The lights remain put till New Year’s Eve. And guess what! A drive at the Christmas Tree Lane is one of the free once in a lifetime things to do in Los Angeles. Taking a drive through Christmas Tree Lane or Santa Rosa Ave feels great, with the cedars gracing the road lines.  Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.