Are you trying to find gps locator for hiking 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 hiking 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 30 hours of research and did 26 gps locator for hiking 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 hiking you can buy today
- 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.).Special Feature:Bluetooth.Water Resistant: Yes
- 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
- 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
- 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 Subscription Required
- 406 MHz Emergency Distress Signal / Homing signal
- LED Strobe and Infrared Strobe
- Global Coverage / Cospas-Sarsat / MEOSAR
- GPS and Galileo GNSS
- 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.
- Global Satellite Coverage: Inreach Garmin Mini 2 Utilizes the Iridium satellite network for global coverage, ensuring you stay connected in remote areas where cell phones can't. Garmin Mini 2 Satellite communicator enables two-way messaging and interactive SOS globally, Send and receive text messages or emails with anyone, anywhere, even without cell coverage. You can also post to social media or communicate directly from inReach to inReach in the field.
- Interactive SOS Alerts: InReach Mini 2 features in emergencies, trigger an SOS to the Garmin Response coordination center, staffed 24/7, for prompt support and coordination of your rescue. Flexible Satellite Airtime Plans Offers both annual contracts and month-to-month plans, making it easy to choose a satellite subscription that suits your needs. Control your inReach Mini 2 remotely via compatible Garmin handhelds, wearables, or mobile devices for added convenience and versatility.
- Compact and Rugged Design: Garmin Inreach Mini 2- Satellite communicator small size (4” x 2”, weighing 3.5 oz), it's built tough (MIL-STD-810) and water-resistant (IPX7), designed to withstand the elements. Up to 14 days of battery life in the default 10-minute tracking mode, extending up to 30 days on a 30-minute tracking interval, supporting longer adventures. Access detailed weather updates directly on your device or a paired device, ensuring you stay ahead of changing conditions.
- TracBack Routing: Inreach mini 2 satellite communicator Features Trackback Routing, If you lose your way, it helps navigate you back to your starting point using the same route you came. Easily share your journey location with loved ones via your Garmin MapShare page or embed your coordinates in messages, so friends and family can follow your adventures in real time. In addition, Digital Compass Provides accurate heading information even when stationary, enhancing navigation capabilities.
- Bundle Includes: Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator With GPS (Flame Red) + 10ft USB Type A to USB Type C Cable - Black + USB Charging Adapters + USB Car adapter + 6Ave Microfiber Cleaning Cloth + P-Bank Portable Battery Charger
- 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)
- 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
- 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
- Small, rugged, lightweight satellite communicator enables two-way text messaging even in areas with no cell coverage (Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices)
- Send two-way messages globally; easily text back and forth directly with friends via the Garmin Messenger app, even when you’re out of cellular coverage. (Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices.)
- Group messaging via the Garmin Messenger smartphone app lets you share your adventures with multiple contacts simultaneously — and have group text chats with friends and family
- Check in with contacts directly by using preset messages that do not count toward your allotted text messages (Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices)
- Share your GPS location (Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices)
- Trigger an interactive SOS to the Garmin IERCC 24/7-staffed monitoring and coordination center for help in an emergency (Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices)
- Optimize the way your message is sent through both cellular and satellite communication options (Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices)
- Pair with select smart devices and other Garmin handhelds, wearables and marine equipment
- Internal, rechargeable lithium battery gives up to 28 days of battery life in 10-minute tracking mode — and provides safety charging to help recover a depleted phone
- 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
- Service plans required - as low as $4.99 per month for SOS satellite assist
- Provides advanced 2-way satellite-enabled messaging. Compatible with iOS 14 and Android 10 and later smartphones
- Stay in contact wherever you go—reliable satellite coverage keeps you firmly on the grid even if you're off the edge of the map, ensuring you're in touch with those who matter
- Simply press the check-in button and send your coordinates or a message to your loved ones, giving them peace of mind whilst you do your thing
- SOS assist allows you to check in and trigger SOS without a connection; unlimited SOS included with every service plan
- SYNC WITH BLUETOOTH: Connect to SpotX to cellphone so you can communicate with family or even search and rescue; Use as a standalone communication device with it's own dedicated US mobile number to receive messages
- PEACE OF MIND: Send S.O.S. to 24/7 Search & Rescue service, message back and forth about the nature of your emergency, receive confirmation when help is on the way; Message any cell number or email address virtually anywhere
- 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: SpotX Device, strap and carabiner, micro usb data/power cable, quick start guide, SOS mirrored sticker, warranty card and kickstand
- PURCHASE, ACTIVATE, EXPLORE: Grab a Spot X 2-way Satellite Messenger; Activate by selecting your service plan; Get out there and explore the world with peace of mind
- Mini gps store up to 16 POI bring you back to any point conveniently The device receives satellite signal and works only in open areaoutdoors with no buildings within 15° elevation! The Mini GPS is with built-in lithium battery. Please charge fully beforeusage. While charging, the blue LED backlight is on and it will beoff automatically after being fully charged. lt takes around 4 hoursfor fully charge if the battery power is exhausted.
- Turning On Mini GPS To turn on and off: POWER/ENTER 1.In power off mode, Press and hold m for 3 seconds to power on theunit; when the unit turns on, a welcome page "Mini GPS" appears,followed by main page12.Press and hold m in any mode to power off the unit.3.USB charging slotTo charge your unit by linking to your computer with USB cable.Charging time: about 4hours to full. While charging blue back lightis on, and it will be off automatically after being fully charged.4.Smart Back light on/off Press and hold " for 3 seconds to turn on or off back light the unitin any mode. The backlight can setting by user.
- Selecting Options and Entering DataAUP TDOWN Press a/ to highlight, select, or choose an item in a list or a fieldon the screen.From the starting page, press ▲/▼ key to cycles youthrough the six main pages. 1.From any page, press m to view the options menu.2.Press / to move the highlight up and down on the menu. To select an option,pressto activate an option3.Press and hold 2 seconds to exit a menu or return to the previoussetting.
- This Personal Locator Beacon is pre programmed for registration with the US country code. Whilst it will function anywhere around the world, the initial point of contact during an emergency situation would be the US Search and Rescue authorities with whom the PLB would be registered.
- If you require registration outside of the US, please purchase our alternative listing for 'McMurdo Fast Find 220 PLB - Programmed for Rest of World '. We include at no charge a reprogramming service on this alternative listing to ensure the device can be registered in the country of your choice.
- Registering your Personal Locator Beacon is required by law in most countries. Registering is very important because should your beacon ever be activated, it is how Search and Rescue Teams will know who you are, and contacts provided may be able to supply information about your specific travel plans. In the absence of this information, it may take longer for a search-and-rescue operation to begin.
- PLBs have been proven, tried and tested in some of the world's most remote locations and treacherous conditions. Even in extreme conditions and situations, the FastFind 220 activates easily. Just deploy the antenna, pull the anti-tamper seal and press the ON button.
- This PLB should only be used in situations of grave and imminent danger to life. False alerts endanger lives and cause expensive disruption to Search and Rescue services. Deliberate misuse of the device could result in a penalty.
- 【Various scenarios】easy to deal with, accurate positioning, logistics transportation/fleet supervision/electric motorcycle anti-theft/pet anti-lost/car safety, etc.
- 【Long-lasting battery life】 long standby time, built-in high-energy lithium battery, longer battery life. (Compatible with Micro-USB interface, when the power is lower than 20%, the device will automatically send a low battery alarm to the host to remind charging)
- 【Silicon mark noise reduction】 automatic recording, when the sound around the locator is greater than 30 decibels, it will automatically record the sound and upload it to the cloud for storage.
- 【Small in size】 easy to carry, the volume is equivalent to the size of a coin, easy to carry, and can be placed in more places. Track playback, you can display the time, speed, track, location, etc. of the device through the track playback function on the APP. (electronic fence/multiple alarm)
- 【Strong magnetic adsorption】 no need to install, built-in strong magnet, direct adsorption and installation, not easy to fall, more convenient to install and use.
- IN THE BOX: 1x Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator (Flame Red); 1x USB cable; 1x Carabiner; 1x Wearable4U Power Bank; 1x Car Charge; 1x Wall Charger
- Compact, lightweight satellite communicator enables two-way messaging and interactive SOS globally. 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.
- Wearable4U USB Power Bank 2200 mAh, Wearable4U Car Charger, Wearable4U Wall USB Charging Adapter. Keep your device charged at all times with our Wearable4U Power Bank and the duo of the Wall & Car USB Charging Adapters!
- Return Link Service (RLS) Functionality
- No Subscription Required | 5 year battery life | 24+ hours Operational Life**
- GPS | Galileo GNSS | Global Coverage | MEOSAR Compatible
- Built-In Buoyancy | Small and lightweight | Strobe and Infrared Strobe
- Multifunction Clip System Included
- Quality optics with stunning HD clarity
- 100% quality materials used and tested extensively
- Beautiful design and durability built to last
- Sleek, pocket-sized GPS Locator stores up to 3 locations; comes with a fastening ring
- As easy to use as 1-2-3: mark the spot, go anywhere, and the BackTrack Point-3 will guide you back
- High sensitivity uBLOX GPS receiver and self-calibrating digital compass
- Weather resistant construction; backlit LCD for viewing in any light
- Larger screen with smaller overall size; 1-year limited warranty
- This Bundle Contains: 1 Garmin eTrex SE GPS Handheld Navigator, Extra Battery Life, Wireless Bluetooth Connectivity, Multi-GNSS Support, Sunlight 2.2 Inch Readable Screen, Garmin Explore App + 1 Signature Series Protective EVA Travel Case for Garmin eTrex Handheld Messenger
- READY. SET. HIKE. WITH ETREX: Adventure easily with this simple-to-use GPS handheld with extra battery life, wireless connectivity and multi-GNSS support — so you can enjoy exploring more. Bright sunlight is no problem with the high-resolution 2.2” screen. Need accurate tracking? You got it, even in challenging environments with multi-GNSS support. Into geocaching? Get automatic updates from Geocaching Live to find your next cache.
- MULTI-GNSS SUPPORT: Access multiple global navigation satellite systems (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou and QZSS) to track in more challenging environments than GPS alone. Get automatic cache updates from Geocaching Live, including descriptions, logs and hints. When connected to the Garmin Explore app, each find will upload to your Geocaching.com profile.
- GARMIN EXPLORE APP: Connect with the Garmin Explore app for wireless software updates, cloud storage, trip planning, smart notifications and additional mapping. When connected to the Garmin Explore app, you can get real-time forecast information, so you’re aware of the changing conditions. Follow your bearing on the digital compass, which provides an accurate heading even when stationary.
- DIGITAL COMPASS WITH LONG BATTERY LIFE: Follow your bearing on the digital compass, which provides an accurate heading even when stationary. 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).
How to choose a good gps locator for hiking
Does the idea of finding a fantastic gps locator for hiking 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 hiking. 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 hiking 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 hiking 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 hiking 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 hiking 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 hiking 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 hiking, 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 hiking.
Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting gps locator for hiking 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 hiking. 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 hiking 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 hiking.
