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The 8 Best gps locator for hikers of 2025

Are you trying to find gps locator for hikers among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!

We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling gps locator for hikers on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 10 hours of research and did 61 gps locator for hikers tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!

An overview of our top picks

Table of contents

The best gps locator for hikers you can buy today

No. 1
ACR ResQLink View - Buoyant Personal Locator Beacon with GPS for Hiking, Boating and All Outdoor Adventures (Model PLB 425) ACR 2922
  • Once activated, an SOS distress signal with GPS position is sent direct to Search and Rescue forces worldwide using the 406 MHz Emergency Distress Signal with 121.5 MHz Homing Signal (No Subscription Required)
  • Small, rugged, lightweight personal locator beacon that is buoyant and includes attachment clips including a belt clip, oral inflation tube clip, straps and lanyards for increased wearability for hikers, boaters, campers, climbers, RVing and all your outdoor adventures
  • Send pre-canned non-emergency self test and GPS test messages to multiple contacts via text message (SMS) and email with a customized message using the optional 406Link testing subscription
  • Global Coverage using the 3 satellite constellations of COSPAS-SARSAT, which sends your distress message directly to Search and Rescue agencies worldwide without the need for a rescue monitoring center
  • A bright LED Strobe light as well as an Infrared Strobe light ensures multiple visual signals to rescuers
No. 2
ACR ResQLink 400 - SOS Personal Locator Beacon with GPS and Global Coverage - Designed to Alert Search and Rescue Efforts for Any Outdoor Emergency - Ideal for Hiking, Hunting, Boating, Fishing
  • No Subscription Required Enjoy peace of mind with no ongoing fees, knowing you're always ready for rescue with reliable, subscription-free coverage.
  • 406 MHz Distress and Homing Dignals Providing powerful alerts to rescuers, ensuring your location is quickly identified for a fast and accurate response.
  • LED Strobe and Infrared Strobe Ensures maximum visibility in low-light and nighttime conditions, making it easier for rescuers to find you in any environment.
  • Global Coverage / Cospas-Sarsat / MEOSAR Offers global coverage, ensuring rescue capabilities via Cospas-Sarsat and MEOSAR satellite systems.
  • GPS and Galileo GNSS Featuring GPS and Galileo GNSS, this device ensures precise location tracking, providing accurate position data to support efficient and timely rescue operations.
No. 3
Bushnell BackTrack Mini GPS Navigation, Portable Waterproof GPS for Hiking Hunting and Backpacking
  • Don't have cell coverage or battery dies on your smartphone when you are out hiking, backpacking, or hunting? The Bushnell BackTrack Mini GPS will help you get back to your basecamp or trailhead.
  • The Bushnell Backtrack Mini uses GPS technology to capture your trip or waypoint so you can guide back to your starting position. Battery lasts up to 35 hours. Rugged and waterproof to handle anything you put the Bushnell BackTrack Mini GPS through
  • Want to store or share your trip or waypoints? The Bushnell BackTrack Mini GPS has Bluetooth to view and sync trips and waypoints to the Bushnell Connect app on your smartphone
  • The easy to read display and large glove-friendly buttons make the BackTrack Mini a must-have for hitting the trail. BackTrack Mini gives you elevation gain and decline as well as barometric pressure. It also gives you the day's sunrise and sunset as well as moonrise and moonset
  • No expensive batteries required with the BackTrack Mini. Simply charge it with any Micro USB and you're ready to go.
SaleNo. 4
Spot Gen 4 Satellite GPS Messenger | Handheld Portable GPS Messenger for Hiking, Camping, Outdoor Activities | Globalstar Satellite Network Coverage | Subscription Applicable
  • MEANT FOR ADVENTURE: Spot Gen4 provides critical, life-saving line of communication when you travel beyond cell towers; Let family know you're ok or push the SOS button to send your GPS to emergency responders if you need help
  • NO CELL PHONE OR SERVICE-NO PROBLEM: With the Tracking feature Gen4 can transmit location updates when you are moving and when you stop; Keep one in your child's backpack for the walk home
  • GLOBALSTAR SATELLITE & SPOT products use GPS to determine location and transmit GPS coordinates to others; SPOT users can notify friends, family or emergency rescue their exact GPS coordinates
  • WHAT'S IN THE BOX: SPOT Gen4 device, Strap and Carabiner, USB Cable, Batteries and quick start guide; Subscription required; Two service plans available
  • PURCHASE, ACTIVATE, EXPLORE: Grab a Spot Gen4; Activate by selecting your service plan; Get out there and explore the world with peace of mind
SaleNo. 5
Garmin inReach Mini 2, Lightweight and Compact Satellite Communicator, Hiking Handheld, Black
  • Compact, lightweight satellite communicator enables two-way messaging and interactive SOS globally (Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices.)
  • Navigate back to where you started by using TracBack routing
  • Share your location with loved ones back home at any time (active satellite subscription required) by using your MapShare page or with your coordinates embedded in your messages
  • Get accurate heading information using the digital compass — even when you’re not moving
  • Sync with the Garmin Explore app and website on your compatible smartphone for trip planning and topographical mapping, and create waypoints, courses, activities and collections you can sync to your device
  • Pair with Garmin devices, such as wearables and handhelds, and use them to send and receive messages and trigger an SOS (active satellite subscription required)
  • Battery life: up to 14 days in 10-minute tracking mode
SaleNo. 6
Garmin eTrex® SE GPS Handheld Navigator, Extra Battery Life, Wireless Connectivity, Multi-GNSS Support, Sunlight Readable Screen
  • The 2.2” high-resolution display is easy to read, even in bright sunlight
  • Get long battery life of up to 168 hours in standard mode and up to 1,800 hours in expedition mode with 2 field-replaceable AA batteries (not included)
  • Pair with the Garmin Explore app on your compatible smartphone for wireless software updates, trip planning, Active Weather, smart notifications and additional mapping
  • Get automatic cache updates from Geocaching Live, including descriptions, logs and hints when paired to the Garmin Explore app on your compatible smartphone
  • Multi-GNSS support gives access to multiple global navigation satellite systems (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou and QZSS) to track in more challenging environments than GPS alone
  • Plot your bearing with the digital compass, which provides an accurate heading even when stationary
  • Hike in any weather with the water-resistant design (rated to IPX7)
SaleNo. 7
ZOLEO Satellite Communicator – Two-Way Global SMS Text Messenger & Email, Emergency SOS Alerting, Check-in & GPS Location – Android iOS Smartphone Accessory
  • Global satellite messaging: Stay connected beyond cell coverage, use ZOLEO with your smartphone to transmit text messages and e-mails over the Iridium satellite network, cellular or Wi-Fi using the lowest-cost network available (service plan required)
  • Emergency SOS: Send an SOS alert with your GPS location to 24/7 emergency monitoring center if something goes wrong, or access Medical Assist for non-emergency help
  • Dedicated SMS number: An assigned ZOLEO SMS number and email enables contacts to reach out directly when you're off the grid
  • Check-in: Send unlimited check-ins via the ZOLEO device or app, included in your plan
  • Location sharing: Include GPS coordinates in a message or check-in, or share waypoints at regular intervals (optional add-on)
  • Rugged with long battery life: IP68-rated for superior durability; over 200 hours of battery life
  • Affordable monthly service: Airtime monthly plans from just $20; unlimited SOS, check-in, and Wi-Fi messages included
  • Plus: Supports weather forecasts, easy device sharing, and long messages (900 characters)
No. 8
ACR ResQLink View RLS - SOS Personal Locator Beacon - Digital Display, Return Link Service, GPS Global Coverage to Alert Search and Rescue - Outdoor Emergency, Ideal for Hiking Hunting Boating Fishing
  • RLS (Return Link Service) confirms that Search and Rescue has received the emergency distress signal, alerting the beacon owner.
  • Digital display with infrared strobe for clear visibility and enhanced signal detection in emergency situations.
  • No subscription required, 5-year battery life, and 28+ hours of operational life for reliable performance in emergencies.
  • GPS, Galileo GNSS, and MEOSAR compatibility provide global coverage for reliable and accurate positioning in any emergency situation.
  • Built-in buoyancy, compact and lightweight design, with a multifunction clip system for easy attachment and portability during outdoor adventures.
No. 9
RESCUEME PLB1 GPS, SOS Personal Locator Beacon - Global Coverage, Small, Lightweight, Waterproof with High-Intensity Strobe, Mounting Clip, 7-Year Battery Life, Search & Rescue - Outdoor Emergencies
  • 7 Year Battery Life | 7 year warranty
  • 24+ hour operational life
  • Free to use, no subscription charges
  • High brightness strobe light >1 candela
  • 66 channel GPS receiver / Unique mounting clip
No. 10
Unlimited Range GPS Tracking Device Item Locator for Car, Purse, Pet, Key Work with Apple Findmy No 3rd App Needed - Black
  • 【Locate Anywhere】: This GPS tracker has unlimited range, so you can track your items location globally. You will never lost your suitcase or have trouble finding your car again.
  • 【Easy to use】: You don't need to install any additional app to use this tracker. It compactible with Apple Findmy. You can then locate the tracker on the map at any time and set up a geofence to receive notifications when the tracker enters or exits the designated area. Up to 32 GPS trackers can be added and monitored simulately in an phone.
  • 【Long Battery Life】: Battery life can last up to one year. In addtion, the device can be turnof when not in use to save battery.
  • [Privacy Protection] : No one but only you can track your location. The items is also compact and lightweight to fit in any items or pet you want to keep track of.
  • 【Multiple Trackers】: You can add up to 32 trackers to a phone to monitor. If you lose your phone or the tracker is out of range, you can still locate your device with your Icloud account.
  • [User friendly] : This GPS tracker has it user manual written in comprehensive English that makes it easier to follow instruction.
No. 11
Mini GPS Tracker for Vehicles/Mini Magnetic GPS Device Real time Car Locator Full USA Coverage, No Monthly Fee, Long Standby GSM SIM GPS Tracker for Trucks/Person 2024
3 Consomer Reviews
Mini GPS Tracker for Vehicles/Mini Magnetic GPS Device Real time Car Locator Full USA Coverage, No Monthly Fee, Long Standby GSM SIM GPS Tracker for Trucks/Person 2024
  • 【Track Record】-Use magnetic Mini GPS tracker to record 24 hours, sound monitoring, mini tracker is easy to conceal, combine security, tracking, monitoring, emergency alarm, management and many other functions, support cell phone remote control, provide a secure tracking device for your vehicle assets, elderly, children, spouse, pets, etc.
  • 【Real-Time Location】-Dial the SIM card number, you can hear the sound around this tracker, in the absence of light and noise, you can monitor what is happening around the tracker device, quietly and secretly.
  • 【Mini Magnetic Design]- GPS tracker small (1.57x0.91x0.61in) light (1.06oz), magnetic housing waterproof and rainproof, built-in two strong magnetic magnets, firmly attached to the vehicle, will not fall off easily.
  • 【Easy To Use】-All you need to do is prepare a valid SIM card (Note!!! Our product does not include SIM card,you need to prepare it yourself), then insert the car tracker and you can track and map in real time via the Internet (with Google Maps)
  • 【Long Life Practical】-Long life, tracking device works with smartphone, updates location every 30 seconds, 1, 5, 10 minutes, superb battery life, designed to track the location of lost elderly, children, pets, luggage, purses and vehicles (rental cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, etc.)
  • 【100% Customer Satisfaction】-Your high-quality buying experience and good use experience are our goals. of course, If you have any questions after purchasing our products . We will solve your problem immediately.
SaleNo. 12
Garmin GPSMAP 66i, GPS Handheld and Satellite Communicator, Featuring TopoActive mapping and inReach Technology, Multi
  • Large 3 inch Sunlight-readable color display for easy viewing
  • Trigger an interactive SOS to the geos 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center, two-way messaging via the 100% Global Iridium satellite network (satellite subscription required)
  • Preloaded Garmin TOPO mapping with direct-to-device Birdseye satellite imagery downloads (no annual subscription), includes multiple global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) support and navigation sensors
  • Cellular connectivity lets you access active weather forecasts and geocaching live
  • Compatible with the Garmin explore website and app to help you manage waypoints, routes, activities and collections, use tracks and review trip data from the field
  • Internal, rechargeable lithium battery provides up to 35 hours of battery life in 10-minute tracking mode and 1-minute tracking mode (display off), 200 hours in Expedition mode with 30-minute tracking
  • Notice: some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communications devices. It is the responsibility of the user to know and follow all applicable laws in the jurisdictions where the device is intended to be used
SaleNo. 14
Mini GPS Tracker Smart Anti Loss Portable GPS Tracker Bluetooth 5.0 Mobile Key Tracking Waterproof Locator GPS Smart Finders for Pet,Carkeys, Wallet, Vehicles, Luggage (OR)
  • Portable gps tracking, bluetooth 5.0 mobile key tracking smart anti-loss device, pet gps locator bluetooth tracer
  • Bluetooth 5.0 technology, extremely low power consumption, button battery power supply, standby time is estimated to be more than 6 months, easy to replace
  • Our location tracker not only tracks keys, pets and wallets, but can also be used to search for cell phones.
  • This wallet tracker works with Apple iOS (7.0 or above) devices with Bluetooth 4.0
  • We are committed to providing you with the best products and after-sales service. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.
SaleNo. 15
GPS Tracker for Vehicles, Mini Magnetic GPS Real time Car Locator, Full USA Coverage, No Monthly Fee, Long Standby GSM SIM GPS Tracker for Vehicle/Car/Person
  • [Tracker Recording,Sound Monitoring]Use GPS tracker Recording, Sound monitoring, tracking, etc. Set multiple functions of security, tracking, monitoring surveillance, emergency alarms and management in its entirety, Support remote control of mobile phone. Perfect for tracking vehicles, kids, spouses, elderly persons or assets.
  • [Easy To Use] - All you need is a working SIM card (Attention:Sim is not included) to insert into the car tracker, NO installation required, then you can track and map (with for Google Maps) in real-time over the Internet.
  • [Real-Time Positioning] - Dial SIM card number, then you can hear voice around this tracker, with no light and no noise, you can monitoring what's going on around the tracker device silently and secretly.
  • [Super Small and Magnetic]This GPS Tracker is super small (1.57x0.91x0.61in) and super light (1.06 oz). works worldwide with two powerful magnets inside, easy to attach to vehicle firmly.
  • [100% Customer Satisfaction] -Your high-quality buying experience and good use experience are our goals. of course, If you have any questions after purchasing our products . Please feel free to contact us. We will solve your problem immediately.
No. 16
Garmin inReach Mini, Lightweight and Compact Handheld Satellite Communicator, Orange (Renewed)
  • Small, rugged, lightweight satellite communicator enables two-way text messaging using the 100% global Iridium network (satellite subscription required)
  • Trigger an interactive SOS to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center (satellite subscription required)
  • Access downloadable maps, U.S. NOAA charts, color aerial imagery and more by using the free Garmin Earthmate app and compatible devices
  • Optional inReach weather forecast service provides detailed updates directly to your inReach Mini or paired device; basic and premium weather packages available
  • Send and receive inReach messages through compatible Garmin devices, including connected wearables and handhelds
  • NOTICE: Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communications devices. It is the responsibility of the user to know and follow all applicable laws in the jurisdictions where the device is intended to be used.
No. 17
Garmin 010-00970-00 eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS Navigator
  • Rugged handheld navigator with preloaded worldwide basemap and 2.2 inch monochrome display
  • WAAS enabled GPS receiver with HotFix and GLONASS support for fast positioning and a reliable signal
  • Waterproof to IPX7 standards for protection against splashes, rain, etc.
  • Support for paperless geocaching and Garmin spine mounting accessories. Power with two AA batteries for up to 20 hours of use (best with Polaroid AA batteries)
  • See high and low elevation points or store waypoints along a track (start, finish and high/low altitude) to estimate time and distance between points
SaleNo. 18
Garmin 010-02256-00 eTrex 22x, Rugged Handheld GPS Navigator, Black/Navy
  • Explore confidently with the reliable handheld GPS
  • 2.2" sunlight-readable color display with 240 x 320 display pixels for improved readability
  • Preloaded with Topo Active maps with routable roads and trails for cycling and hiking
  • Support for GPS and GLONASS satellite systems allows for tracking in more challenging environments than GPS alone
  • 8 GB of internal memory for map downloads plus a micro SD card slot.Battery life: up to 25 hours in GPS mode with 2 AA batteries
No. 19
GPS Tracker for Vehicles, Mini Magnetic GPS Real Time Car Locator, Micro GPS Tracking Device, Full Global Coverage Long Standby GSM SIM GPS Tracker for Vehicle, Car, Person Location. No Subscription
  • 【Tracking Record】 Use magnetic GPS tracker for 24-hour recording, location and sound monitoring, mini tracker with compact and undetectable design, combine security, tracking, monitoring, emergency alarm, management and many other functions, support cell phone remote control, provide secure tracking device for your vehicle assets, elderly, children, spouse, pets, etc.
  • 【Easy to Use】 All you need is a working SIM card (Attention:Sim is not included) to insert into the car tracker, then you can track and map in real-time over the Internet (with Google Maps)
  • 【Magnetic & Mini Case】 GPS tracker small (1.37x0.78x0.55inch) light weight(1.05oz), magnetic housing waterproof and rainproof, built-in two strong magnetic magnets, firmly attached to the vehicle, will not fall off easily.
  • 【Real-Time Location】 Full Global Coverage, no subscription required and free for life. Mini tracking device is designed for real time tracking the location of the lost elderly, children, pets, luggage, wallet and vehicles (renting car, truck, motorcycle, freezer, boat, etc).
  • 【100% Customer Satisfaction】If you have any questions,please feel free to contact us. We will solve your problem immediately.
SaleNo. 20
GPS Tracker for Vehicles, Mini Magnetic GPS Real Time Car Locator, Anti-Lost GPS Tracking Device, Full Global Coverage Long Standby GSM GPS Tracker for Vehicle, Car, Person Location. No Subscription
  • 【Track Record】 Use magnetic GPS tracker for 24-hour recording, location and sound monitoring, mini tracker with compact and undetectable design, combine security, tracking, monitoring, emergency alarm, management and many other functions, support cell phone remote control, provide secure tracking device for your vehicle assets, elderly, children, spouse, pets, etc.
  • 【Easy To Use】 All you need is a working GSM standard SIM card (Attention:Sim is not included) to insert into the car tracker, then you can track and map in real-time (with Google Maps)
  • 【Magnetic & Mini Case】 GPS tracker small (1.37x0.78x0.55inch) light (1.05oz), magnetic housing waterproof and rainproof, built-in two strong magnetic magnets, firmly attached to the vehicle, will not fall off easily.
  • 【Real-Time Location】 Full Global Coverage, Attention: GSM standard SIM card requires a balance. Mini tracking device is designed for real time tracking the location of the lost elderly, children, pets, luggage, wallet and vehicles (renting car, truck, motorcycle, freezer, boat, etc).
  • 【100% Customer Satisfaction】 If you have any questions,please feel free to contact us. We will solve your problem immediately.

How to choose a good gps locator for hikers

Does the idea of finding a fantastic gps locator for hikers make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!

Your presence here indicates that you are interested in gps locator for hikers. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top gps locator for hikers products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?

First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top gps locator for hikers on the market right now!

The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:

Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top gps locator for hikers brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.

Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top gps locator for hikers based on those.

Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.

Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.

Customer ratings:  Would it be accurate to suggest that the gps locator for hikers were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.

Customer Reviews: Like ratings,  provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.

Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good gps locator for hikers, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.

Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your gps locator for hikers.

Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting gps locator for hikers for months and years to come.

Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.

Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.

These are the standards by which we selected our gps locator for hikers. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.

Why should you believe us?

There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what gps locator for hikers should you purchase in 2022?

This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on gps locator for hikers.