Tech & Batteries in the Cold
Lithium-ion chemistry and Arctic temperatures are natural enemies. At -20°C, a smartphone's internal resistance spikes, causing "voltage sag" that can shut down a fully charged device in minutes.
The Chemistry of
Cold Discharge
Low temperatures don't just "drain" your battery—they temporarily disable its ability to move ions. The power is still there, but the delivery system is frozen.
Safe Recovery Range
Never charge a "frozen" device. Allow it to acclimate to indoor temperatures for 30 minutes before plugging it in to avoid permanent cell damage. For field recovery supplies (chemical warmers, spare batteries) buy locally — see the Supermarket Guide.
Power Protocol: 01-03
Body Heat Storage
Keep your phone in an inner pocket, close to your chest. Never use outer jacket pockets or backpacks for active devices.
Jacket Charging
Carry a power bank inside your mid-layer. Charge your phone while both remain warm within your clothing insulation system.
Delayed Restart
If a device shuts down, resist the urge to force a restart outdoors. This can stress the circuitry. Wait until you are back in a heated environment.
The Condensation Trap
Moving a cold camera into a warm cabin causes immediate moisture buildup inside the lens and sensor. This can lead to mold, hardware failure, or ruin tomorrow's shoot.
The Ziploc Strategy
Place your camera in an airtight bag before entering a building. Let it reach room temperature for 1 hour before opening the seal.
Camera Care:
Pro Field Tips
Spare Batteries
Keep 2-3 spare batteries in an armpit pocket. Cycle them out when the active one gets too cold.
Silk Glove Liners
Touching metal camera bodies at -30°C can cause skin to stick. Use thin glove liners to operate buttons.
Chemical Warmers hack
Tape a disposable chemical hand warmer to the back of your phone (over the battery location). It acts as a heater that can extend battery life from 2 minutes to 2 hours in extreme cold.
tips_and_updates Recommended for Northern Lights photography