
The watch will track your journey as you hike, making it easy to retrace your steps. And since it offers access to three satellite navigation systems-GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo-it’ll make a valuable addition to your outdoor adventures. The watch makes it easy to track your favorite activities (like running, cycling, swimming, and more). Garmin’s Instinct Solar is a classic fitness-tracking smartwatch that’s incredibly useful to have while hiking. Programs and capabilities may be tough to learn and understand for beginners

Price at time of publication: $700 Key Specs: Style: Handheld | Navigation Systems: GPS and Galileo | Battery Life: 18 hours (in GPS mode), 7 days (in Expedition mode) And since the device is customizable, you can choose whether you want to spring for messaging capabilities and/or a built-in camera. The unit’s battery promises to keep you going for up to 18 hours in GPS mode, and for up to a week in Expedition mode. And since the device is water-resistant, you won't have to worry about getting caught in the rain. Its large touchscreen promises to be incredibly easy to read. And it also comes equipped with realistic topographical maps. The device is GPS- and Galileo-enabled, so it’ll give you more than one navigation system to rely on. It’s customizable so you can stock up on the features you care about, and skip out on the ones you don’t really need. Garmin’s Montana 700i is a well-rounded GPS unit which is why we selected it best overall. Here are the best hiking GPS trackers on the market.īattery life is long, but shorter than many other options And many come with additional features, like built-in cameras, satellite messaging capabilities, fitness tracking, and more. We researched and reviewed hiking GPS trackers for our list based on style, battery life, navigation systems, and extra features like water-resistance or weather tracking capabilities. Handheld devices are larger and easier to see and read but smartwatches offer the flexibility of hands-free use. GPS units typically come in one of two forms: a handheld device or a GPS-enabled smartwatch. “But all it takes is a little bit of wandering in the wrong direction with no trail road in sight before panic kicks in.” Since cell service isn’t always reliable in the great outdoors, your phone may not be as handy as a GPS unit in helping you find your way home during a hike. “People don't think they will get lost until it happens,” he says.

Mark Evans, a summer camp guide at Summer Camp Hub, says GPS units can be useful for any hiker. That way, in case technology fails you, you have an analog backup.GPS units are devices that help you figure out where you are when you’re hiking. Nevertheless, it's still good to know at least one other type of navigation, like using a map and compass. However, with the development of GPS technology, you can now use a receiver and multiple orbiting satellites to find your way around. The second way is through the use of a compass and some maps.

There were only two ways to navigate in the past-the first is celestial navigation, where you use the stars as references to find your bearing and location. That's why a handheld GPS, even a simple one, is crucial if you're going around in the backcountry. This can be dangerous, especially if there are wild animals around or if the weather sets in. When you're in a sparsely populated area, you run the risk of getting lost, especially if you're not familiar with the region. Q: Do You Need a GPS Device When You're Hiking? Furthermore, most GPS devices are tougher and more rugged than most smartphones, so you're that it can last through the most demanding of expeditions. Yes, handheld GPS devices are more accurate than phones, especially if you're in an area with spotty or no cellular service.
