Getting lost in the woods might make for a good campfire story but only if you survive to tell the tale. If you’re heading off the beaten track, particularly if you’ll be out of cell service range, having one of the best handheld GPS for hiking in your kit is a must.

GPS  Hiking Apps map

There are plenty of manufacturers to choose from. The ones that really matter are the likes of Garmin and Magellan. Overall, some of the best Garmin GPS devices are below and leading the pack by some distance. Choosing the right portable handheld GPS device comes down to performance, GPS capabilities, options, wireless connectivity, and your budget.

We’ve looked at some of the best handheld GPS hiking devices on the market with a specific focus on products suitable for backpacking. For more information, we added a Buying Guide below the reviews.


Our Favorite Hiking GPS device

If we were heading off somewhere remote, then we’d want the best handheld GPS, Garmin inReach Explorer+ in our kit.

It’s a solidly built device with decent hiking GPS performance but it’s the two-way satellite comms that clinches it.

Being able to send and receive text messages and your location, especially in an emergency, makes this device stand out.

Best Budget GPS for Hiking

The Garmin Etrex 22x is our best-budget GPS pick. The receiver is excellent, the screen is easy to read (albeit a little small) and there’s plenty of memory to add additional maps.

This is a great entry-level GPS if you don’t have extra money for the bells and whistles and don’t mind that it doesn’t have an electronic compass or barometric altimeter.

Best Handheld GPS for Hiking Reviews


Best Trail GPS for Hiking

Garmin GPSMAP 64s Worldwide with High-Sensitivity GPS & GLONASS Receiver 

Garmin GPSMAP 64s Worldwide with High-Sensitivity...

This great handheld GPS device uses an external quad-helix antenna coupled with very sensitive GPS and GLONASS receivers.

To you and me, that means it’s got better reception in the thick bush than much of the competition.

The satellite systems receiver picks up your position fast and works well even in deep canyons or under dense tree canopies.

Moreover, the Garmin 64s takes the already good performance you got from the base 64 model and adds a 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter into the mix.

Garmin GPSMAP 64s Worldwide with High-Sensitivity...
Garmin GPSMAP 64s Worldwide with High-Sensitivity...

If you like tracking your vitals, then the Ant+ function will allow communication with heart rate monitors, pedometers, and a wide range of other devices.

The Garmin GPS MAP 64s uses two AA batteries to deliver an average 16-hour battery life but only if you turn the Bluetooth and GLONASS off. You could also get the optional rechargeable battery pack that will charge while in the device.

What We Like:

  • Large 2.6? inch sunlight readable color display
  • Large buttons that work with gloves
  • 8GB memory sufficient for plenty of topographic maps
  • Uses Bluetooth to pair with your smartphone to share location via Live Track
  • Comes with 1-year BirdsEye Satellite Imagery subscription
  • 3-axis compass with barometric altimeter

What We Don’t Like

  • Not the lightest or most compact device we’ve seen
  • With all the features on it burns through batteries fast

 


Best Garmin GPS for Hiking

Garmin inReach Explorer+ 

Garmin 010-01735-10 inReach Explorer+, Handheld...

If you’re doing solo trips out of cell phone coverage areas and satellite systems are what you want, to be sure that you can contact help when you need it – this handheld gps device is a great option.

This Garmin inReach GPS unit has two-way comms features like SOS, messaging and personal locator beacon packaged into a device with a 2.3″ color screen.

With the Iridium satellite network you get true 100% global coverage for messaging. It comes preloaded with DeLorme TOPO 24k maps but you can pair it with your smartphone to get more maps with the free Earthmate app.

You can also sync the hiking gps device with your phone to grab your contacts. We really liked the ability to share your position with someone else so that they can track your progress.

Garmin 010-01735-10 inReach Explorer+, Handheld...
Garmin 010-01735-10 inReach Explorer+, Handheld...

To use the messenger and SOS feature you need to pay for a subscription to their service. There are annual options for full-time explorers or monthly plans for casual trekkers.

What We Like

  • SOS messaging and personal locator beacon for ultimate peace of mind for you and your family
  • Able to send global text message with co-ordinates to email or mobile phone with delivery confirmation
  • Global coverage via Iridium satellite systems
  • Location sharing makes it easy for friends to follow your trip in real time
  • Preloaded with 24,000 US and Canadian topographic maps
  • Can download maps via app on smartphone

What We Don’t Like:

  • Navigation features are somewhat limited
  • Won’t sync with Apple devices running OS older than iOS 10
  • Need to sign up for a subscription to activate the global coverage but can cancel thereafter
  • High price tag

Best Backcountry GPS

Garmin eTrex 30 Worldwide Handheld GPS Navigator

Garmin eTrex 30x, Handheld GPS Navigator with...

If you want the best GPS for backcountry coverage, then you need a device that tracks both GPS and GLONASS satellites. The Garmin eTrex series is the first consumer-grade GPS devices to offer this.

What’s more, the position lock happens pretty quickly because the impressive accuracy is down to the receiver being WAAS-enabled.

The housing has a rugged feel to it while the waterproofing allows for submersion at 3 feet for up to 30 minutes.

Garmin eTrex 30x, Handheld GPS Navigator with...
Garmin eTrex 30x, Handheld GPS Navigator with...

The HotFix feature means it gets your location very fast after initial use. This makes it ideal to switch on, get your position quickly, and then switch off to save battery power.

We especially like the “Tracks” feature that plots your current track and makes it a cinch to find your way back.

What We Like:

  • WAAS-enabled receiver with GLONASS support and HotFix for fast positioning
  • Rugged, waterproof housing
  • 2.2 inch full color sunlight-readable display
  • Good battery life of around 25 hours
  • Joystick interface allows for a compact design
  • Latest version has a barometric altimeter

What We Don’t Like:

  • Only comes with a sparsely detailed base map
  • Screen quite small

 


Garmin Oregon 750t Worldwide Handheld GPS 

Garmin Oregon 750T, Touchscreen Handheld GPS with...

This is one of the better touch-screen handheld GPS units we’ve seen. Both the large interface and bright screen on the Garmin Oregon are very responsive.

The menu interface is easy to use while the loading of maps and setting waypoints is simple. Connect it to WiFi and you can upload both your activities and routes. If you don’t mind using your smartphone data, then the “active weather” feature is pretty cool.

This Garmin Trail GPS device runs from 2 AA batteries with a quoted battery life of 16 hours. That’s more than a little optimistic and we’d recommend taking an extra set along because this unit chews batteries. You can also buy the optional rechargeable battery pack that comes standard with the 750t.

What We Like:

  • No buttons means you get a big 3 inch color touchscreen
  • Great accuracy and quick startup
  • Preloaded maps
  • Expanded wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ANT+ capable)
  • Has a 3-axis compass, accelerometer and barometric altimeter
  • Screen is really easy to read even in bright sunlight
  • Very easy to use, even if you are a bit technologically challenged!
  • LiveTrack enabled, so your mother-in-law can see where you are

What We Don’t Like:

  • Hard to use with gloves
  • Battery life is a little short

 


Garmin Montana 680 Waterproof Hiking GPS 

Garmin Montana 680, Touchscreen Hiking Handheld,...

This Garmin Montana great touchscreen display with one of the biggest screens on the best handheld GPS for ice fishing units. The touchscreen is easy to use and the navigation is very intuitive.

It also supports turn-by-turn navigation so you could use it as your vehicle GPS as well. Not the smallest by any means, weighing in at just over 10oz.

Supplied with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack, it will also work with 3 AA batteries as a backup.

The dual-orientation display makes it super-versatile, being usable both horizontally and vertically. Additionally, the 8 MegaPixel camera is good for referencing photos to waypoints.

What We Like

  • Large 4-inch sunlight-readable screen with vibrant colors
  • 3GB memory capacity is more than sufficient for maps and logs
  • GPS receiver is very sensitive and WAAS enabled for great accuracy
  • Rugged, water-resistant design
  • Simple to use touch interface
  • 3-axis digital compass and barometric altimeter

What We Don’t Like

  • Quite large and heavy

 


Best GPS for Backpacking

Garmin Foretrex 401 Waterproof Hiking GPS 

Garmin Foretrex 401 Waterproof Hiking GPS

If you need both hands while skiing, or climbing or you don’t want to reach into your pack, then you might like this wrist-mounted hiking GPS. It only weighs 3 ounces and fits comfortably on your wrist.

The monochrome, large-font display is easy to read in sunlight and is backlit for nighttime use.

Weighing only 3 ounces, the high-sensitivity GPS for backpacking works well even in canyons or in forests and uses Garmin’s HotFix to get a quick lock after initial use. You can both easily create and store routes.

What We Like

  • Strap makes for a comfortable fit when carried on wrist
  • Display is easy to read even in bright sunlight
  • Uses HotFix for quick position lock
  • TracBack feature makes it easy to retrace the route
  • Has an electronic compass and barometric altimeter
  • Price

What We Don’t Like

  • User manual isn’t great
  • Can be a bit fiddly to use
  • Why not just get a hiking watch if you don’t want a handheld?

Best GPS Device for Hiking

Magellan eXplorist 310 Waterproof Hiking GPS 

Magellan CX0310SGXNA eXplorist 310 Waterproof...

While Magellan doesn’t make the high-end handheld GPS devices that Garmin does, they produce solid mid-range budget best handheld GPS unit like this.

For a lot less than a Garmin you get a vibrant color screen that reads easily in direct sunlight, in a rugged, waterproof housing. It may not be the best hiking GPS, but getting great value for your money.

That said, the accuracy is pretty good although getting GPS lock takes a while, and the signal can be a bit weak.

Using the SiRFStarIII GPS chipset along with WAAS, MSAS, and EGNOS, Magellan claims it gives you up to 3-meter accuracy.

The battery life is better than average at 18 hours which is plenty for a few days of careful use.

It comes with preloaded topo maps of the World Edition map but also has 500Mb of internal storage if you want to upload Summit Series topo maps.

What We Like

  • OK entry-level GPS: lacks the quality of Garmin products, but you get what you pay for
  • Simple button and joystick interface
  • Clear 2.2 inch sunlight readable screen with bright colors
  • Preloaded World Edition map with shaded relief
  • Rugged water-resistant housing

What We Don’t Like

  • GPS lock takes too long
  • Weak GPS signal
  • Menu navigation is a little fiddly
  • Instruction manual lacking

Best GPS Device for Beginners

Garmin eTrex 32x

Garmin eTrex 20x, Handheld GPS Navigator, Enhanced...

With the new and improved eTrex 32x, Garmin has increased the resolution of the screen and upgraded the internal memory to 8 GB. If you have been dying to get a hiking GPS device but don’t want to overspend, then the Garmin eTrex 32x is the best budget handheld GPS on the market.

This GPS unit gives you plenty of space to load maps and you can also add a microSD if you need extra storage. Also, a battery life of 25 hours is not too bad when in GPS mode with 2 AA batteries.

The 240 x 320 pixels screen is a bit small but the resolution and colors make it easy to read.

What We Like

  • Entry-level GPS unit with good features
  • Full-color sunlight-readable display
  • Topo map
  • Plenty of internal memory and also supports microSD
  • HotFix, WAAS, and GLONASS support
  • 2,000 way points and 200 routes

What We Don’t Like

  • At 2.2 inches the screen is a little small
  • Slow processor

 


Handheld GPS Buying Guide

The key to understanding some of the specs or jargon you’ll come across is to understand the basics of how the best handheld GPS devices work.

How Do GPS Devices Work

There are about 30 satellites in the GPS network that orbit the Earth at a height of 20,000km. At any point on earth, most GPS devices will have ‘sight’ of at least 4 satellites if you’re out in the open.

Each satellite knows exactly where it is above the earth and transmits its position and a time stamp. Once your device receives position data from at least 3 satellites, it can triangulate its own position in GPS mode.

The speed and accuracy with which this happens will vary depending on the quality of the receiver and processor.

Different GPS units will have different features but they’re not all necessarily going to be essential for your needs.

Hiking GPS Features Explained

Here are a few things to look out for when buying your handheld GPS device.

Buttons or Touch Screen

Touch screens aren’t the novelty they once were but some people still prefer them over buttons.

Having a touch screen does mean you get rid of the buttons and this offers you more real estate for a bigger screen without increasing the overall dimensions. Some touch screens can get a little difficult to use with gloves or with wet fingers.

Buttons mean you get a tactile response so you know you’ve pushed the button even if you’re wearing gloves.

Screen Size and Features

If you want to see plenty of detail without having to zoom in too much then you’re going to need a decent size screen. Having to squint and zoom means you’ll lose perspective, making it tough to know where you are on the map. A bigger screen creates more bulk, and weight as well as shorter battery life, so there is a trade-off.

The handheld GPS screen needs to be sunlight-readable and anti-glare, with backlighting for use at night.

However, having a big screen doesn’t necessarily mean it’ll be easy to read. The resolution is important too. Because the higher the resolution, the finer the detail. Basically, you should aim for the 240×320 or 240×400 pixels range if you want to get full benefit from your topo maps.

Dimensions and Weight

As with anything that goes into your pack, you’re aiming for small and light. The problem is with reduced weight and size comes reduced functionality.

To be useful on the trail, your backcountry GPS device needs to have a decent-sized screen and – crucially – batteries that will last for your whole trip. What’s more, touchscreen GPS devices get rid of weight and bulk by dispensing with the buttons.

If you only need minimal functionality to help you find your way back or simple waypoint navigation, then go as small as possible. If you need full-featured topo navigation then you’ll need something a little bigger.


How Easy Is it to Use a Handheld GPS

Ideally, you want to be able to switch your device on and get going straight away. Realistically, you’re going to have to read the manual or watch some YouTube videos to understand how to get the most out of it.

Some hiking GPS device units are simple to operate, while others feel like you need a PHD to switch it on.

Some manufacturers bury their functions in a maze of deep menu settings, while others have designed their interfaces more intuitively. For more full-featured handheld GPS devices, having a touch screen can make it easier to navigate the menus.

But keyboard accuracy will be reduced in cold weather. At the very least, you want it to be easy to mark a waypoint and navigate to it without too much fuss. That said, you want to get the best trail GPS you can afford.

A note on Speed: Ease of use is closely linked to the speed of the device. How quickly it turns on, draws your map, responds to button presses, and gets GPS lock are all important considerations.

Construction

Whatever handheld GPS device you choose, indeed, at some point you are going to drop it! Guaranteed. Also, Murphy’s Law of hiking dictates that you are most likely to get lost in the most horrible weather.

Make sure you aim for a rugged design GPS device that won’t fall apart at the first bump and can survive being out in the rain. Beveled edges around the screen, rubberized housing, and well-sealed battery compartments will all help it survive a bit of abuse.

Barometric Altimeter

Once your GPS device gets locked on at least 5 satellites it can give you your elevation but it’s not always very accurate. A barometric altimeter uses changes in pressure to calculate your elevation. Also, its accuracy will vary with the weather.

Electronic 3-Axis Compass

With a standard GPS functionality compass, you need to hold the device horizontally in order for it to work. Some of the more expensive GPS units will come with a 3-axis electronic compass.

These will work in any orientation and can be handy if you need to hold the GPS up to get a better signal.’

“HotFix” GPS positioning

When your GPS turns on it takes a good few minutes to locate the position of the satellites. It needs to find 3 satellites to get your position and needs a further 2 to get elevation and speed info.

The HotFix feature built into some Garmin devices kicks in after around 30 minutes of use. It gathers info about the satellites it has got a fix on, and can predict where those satellites will be up to three days later. The advantage is, if you switch your device off and then switch it on a few hours or a day later it gets a fix on your location a lot faster.

inReach Subscription Plan

Handheld GPS navigation has come a long way in recent years. With inReach Subscription satellite technology from Garmin and an active satellite subscription, you can stay in touch globally without fear of getting lost.

You can send and receive messages, navigate your route, and track and share your journey – all with the handheld GPS unit of your choice. If necessary, then you can also trigger an SOS to a 24/7 staffed global emergency response coordination center via the 100% global Iridium satellite network.

In the event of an emergency, send an interactive SOS1 message to the Garmin IERCC, a professional 24/7 manned emergency response coordination center. Their trained personnel are available to respond to your texts, monitor your device, and contact and coordinate with emergency services or others to assist you – giving you peace of mind.

The Garmin IERCC can communicate with you until help arrives or you no longer require assistance.

Choose from 6 plans and monthly or yearly service options to best meet your needs, whether you’re a weekend warrior or an outdoor enthusiast that spends weeks away from civilization.

Compatible Devices with Garmin inReach:

Handhelds

Garmin GPSMAP 66s, Rugged Multisatellite Handheld...
Garmin GPSMAP 66s
$259.99
Garmin GPSMAP 66sr, Hiking Handheld with Expanded...
Garmin GPSMAP 66sr
$598.98
Garmin GPSMAP 66st, Rugged Multisatellite Handheld...
Garmin GPSMAP 66st
Garmin Montana 700, Rugged GPS Handheld, Routable...
Garmin Montana 700
$529.99

Watches

    
Garmin fenix 5S Plus, Smaller-Sized Multisport GPS...
Garmin fenix 5 Plus
$319.99
Garmin 010-02410-10 fenix 6 Pro Solar, Multisport...
Garmin fenix 6 Series
$644.00
Garmin MARQ Captain, Men's Luxury Tool Watch with...
MARQ Collection
$1,399.99
Garmin Instinct Solar, Rugged Outdoor Smartwatch...
Garmin Instinct Series
$249.99
    
Garmin devices that are compatible with inReach Subscription

BirdsEye Satellite Imagery?

There’s only so much you can tell by looking at your regular TOPO maps. You get a sense of direction, and shaded maps give you a fair idea of topography – but that’s about it.

BirdsEye Satellite Imagery gives you high-resolution color satellite map images of the area you’re in providing far more detail than a regular GPS map. This is great for planning a specific spot to set up camp or to do finer route planning. It does kind of spoil the surprise of seeing what a place looks like for the first time when you actually get there.

GPS Waypoints

If you want to plan each step then it’s worth it. BirdsEye Satellite Imagery is a paid product, but some Garmin products come with a year’s free subscription.

Memory?

Most GPS navigator-type devices will come with at least some basic maps. If you want to add extra maps, then make sure that the device has enough internal memory, or that it supports an external SD card.

GPS Receiver Type?

All GPS devices will have at least the standard receiver, but some will have additional receiver functions. Here’s a quick guide to some of the jargon you’ll see in the sales copy:

  • GPS – Global Positioning System comprising a network of US-owned satellites.
  • GLONASS is a satellite positioning system developed by the Russian Federation so they wouldn’t be dependent on the US satellites. A device that also uses GLONASS will get a position lock about 20% faster than a regular GPS.
  • WAAS stands for Wide Area Augmentation System, a system that corrects errors in the data your unit receives from the GPS satellites. A WAAS-enabled GPS device can give you your position accurately to within 3m, 95% of the time. This is on average about five times better than your average GPS accuracy. It only currently works in North America.
  • Iridium – Company that provides global voice and data communication via satellite. Some GPS units incorporate Iridium access for both messaging and SOS functions.
  • Galileo – Europe’s version of GPS. Provides full global positioning using an independent European-owned satellite network.
  • EGNOS – This is another GPS augmentation system similar to WAAS but developed in Europe. It works with both GPS and Galileo satellites to correct for position errors, improving position accuracy.

For some really geeky information on how GPS receivers work, see GPS handheld navigation facts.

Versatility & Accessories

You want the device you buy to be useful in a variety of outdoor activities. Is it light enough for trail running? Does it have the navigational features you need for going off-trail? Can you use it in all weather conditions, or while wearing gloves? Will the batteries last on a long hike?

Try to buy one device that is versatile enough to cater to all your expected outdoor activities. You can also extend the versatility of your device with some nice-to-have accessories such as:

  • Rechargeable batteries and power banks
  • Rugged and waterproof housing
  • Lanyards or arm / wrist bands
  • Dash mount for in-vehicle use

Preloaded or Postloaded Maps?

You’ll see that some gps units have the option of preloaded maps. Garmin uses a “t” at end of model name to indicate that the device has the maps already loaded. You pay extra for this, but it saves you having to go and buy the Garmin maps later and load them onto your gps unit.

Sale
Garmin Rino 755t, Rugged Handheld 2-Way Radio/GPS...
  • 5 w gmrs two-way radio offers extended range,...
  • High-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS satellite...
  • Position reporting Feature shows locations of...

There are plenty of good free maps submitted by contributors on GPS File depot that you can load onto your device. If you don’t mind loading your own, then save yourself some money by buying your GPS without the maps preloaded.

Battery Life?

Most handheld GPS units will use AA batteries with some opting for AAA. Manufacturers will claim battery life figures of between 16 and 25 hours but these are really optimistic.

Used carefully you may get somewhere near those figures but it’s always a good idea to pack extras.

Some GPS units will also support rechargeable battery packs. These are a good idea but you’ll need a way to recharge them. A small solar panel or power bank is a useful bit of kit to have if you’re going to be out for a few days.’

GPS Battery Tips

There are ways to make your GPS battery last longer:

  • Use new Lithium or LiPo batteries with as high a capacity (mAh) as possible
  • Disable features you don’t need like an electronic compass, WAAS, GLONASS, tracking, Ant+ sensor
  • Use the compass and trip computer rather than the map screen. Drawing the map uses more battery power.
  • Turn down the backlight of the screen and reduce the time it stays on
  • Make sure you use “power save” mode if your GPS has one

Wireless Sharing

Other GPS devices allow for wireless connectivity and sharing of routes, tracks, waypoints, and geocache with other compatible devices. Want to share that great route with a friend without fussing with cables? Make sure your GPS has this feature.

Smart Notifications

GPS devices that are capable of pairing with Ant+ bio sensors like heart rate monitors, or smartphones can be quite handy. Instead of grabbing each device separately to check your vitals – or the SMS that came through – a quick look at your GPS screen will display smart notifications for you.

Other Features and Gizmos to Look Out For

  • Trip computer – calculates distance covered, average speed, duration, moving time, stopped time, etc.
  • Display trip data – A simplified version of the trip computer that shows the elevation you’ve achieved and the distance you’ve covered on your trip.
  • Geocache – More and more higher-end devices support geocaching. These GPS units allow for downloading Pocket Queries as well as logging field notes and caches
  • Photo viewer/camera – If you’re spending some time away from your phone then having a camera on the GPS device is handy to capture an image to go along with the waypoint.
  • Profile options – Sometimes you want to know the distance you’ve covered, other times you may want to know the change in elevation you’ve achieved. Being able to select different ways to graph your information on the device – i.e. distance vs. altitude, distance vs. time, etc. is useful if you’re targeting specific training outcomes.

Route Planning and Breadcrumbs

  • Organize and store waypoints – Being able to pre-load and organize waypoints makes planning your trip a lot easier.
  • Route planners – Exploring is fun, but sometimes it’s nice to have someone else suggest the best route to take. If your GPS unit has route-planning functionality then it takes a lot of the guesswork out of your trip.
  • Display position – “You are here”. Seeing your position displayed on a map makes your next move a lot easier to plan.
  • Record Tracks – Being able to see the route you took is handy when you’re sharing hiking stories, but also to find your way back or to do the same route again next time. Some devices will drop “breadcrumbs” to record your track.
  • Navigate point-to-point – This feature allows you to select a desired waypoint, and give the straight line bearing and distance from your current position. Even as the trail winds, you’ve always got a good idea of the direction of your destination.
  • GPS & your computer – The real power of GPS devices is realized when you combine it with the manufacturer’s software on your PC. Uploading maps, planning routes, and analyzing terrain before leaving home will save you a lot of time and frustration when you’re on the trail.

Do you Need a Handheld GPS Device?

Before deciding on what handheld GPS to buy, it is worth asking if you even need one. If you’re heading onto a well-marked trail or you’re handy with a compass and a map, then possibly not.

Hiker using GPS device

Can your smartphone do the job? Overall, the GPS receivers in the latest phones are really good. Also, with the ever-increasing battery life in these devices, think twice about packing a separate portable solar chargers.

A lot of hikers or geocachers depend on pinpoint accuracy and detailed topographical maps to find their way. This level of functionality, extended battery life, and other specialized features are often only available in standalone GPS units. However, smartphone development continues to close this gap, and eventually buying a portable GPS device may be tougher to justify.

Smartphone GPS Applications

Even the top of the range iPhone or Android phones don’t come with true navigation ability as standard. However, some do have good GPS capability, and developers have produced some great apps to leverage this.

If you’re directionally challenged, then buy the best handheld GPS device you can afford. You only need to read one story of a family gone hiking who died on the trail because they got lost, to be convinced.

If you’re an Apple fan then check out the All Trail app. It’s free with optional paid upgrades and it covers over 50,000 Canadian and US trails. If you’re happy to pay a few dollars then Maps 3D Pro is one of the better paid GPS hiking apps. The 3D terrain maps are great for planning your hike and getting a good feel for what to expect.

Check out this post on some of the best apps for hiking.

If you’re in the Android camp then the best GPS app for your phone is probably BackCountry Navigator. It’s not cheap but the downloadable maps will turn your phone into a complete topo mapping device. If you want a simpler, but still really good app, then the All Trail app is also available for Android.

Handheld GPS Units vs Smartphones vs GPS Watches

With the miniaturization of technology now allowing for GPS receivers in smartphones, it was only a matter of time before we got GPS watches.

If you want full-featured, dedicated navigation functionality, then go for a handheld GPS device. But if you’re looking to move fast and want to carry as little as possible, then a GPS watch is your best bet. Just don’t expect much more than basic navigation features.

However, if you want OK navigation features but don’t want to spend too much extra money then buy a decent GPS app for your smartphone. Just don’t drop it, and be aware of battery life!

Can a GPS Replace a Map and Compass?

If you have a GPS, then does that mean that you don’t need to know how to use a map and a compass?

Map and compass for hiking with GPS

Well, if you had a boat would that mean you don’t need to know how to swim? GPS devices need batteries. Maps and compasses don’t. When your device is working well then there’s no need for a map. But when it stops working you’d better have your map and compass ready. And just having them in your pack isn’t enough.

All in all, knowing how to navigate with a compass and how to read a map properly are skills that every hiker should have.


Conclusion

Before choosing, make sure you understand where, how, and for how long you’ll need it to be operational. There’s no need to spend a lot of money on features you don’t need.

Make sure the housing is rugged and waterproof and that the screen is easy to read. Certainly, make sure that you can load decent topo maps, and that the interface is intuitive to use.

But, no matter what handheld GPS unit you choose, make sure it has the features that are important to you: global satellite communication, backcountry mapping software preloaded (or the ability to download maps), barometric altimeter, electronic compass, and track-logging capabilities. Check out handheld GPS reviews.

Investing in the best hiking GPS will save you both frustration and make your time outdoors more rewarding.

FAQ’s

Can I use a handheld GPS device for other outdoor activities apart from hiking?

Absolutely! Handheld GPS devices are versatile and can be used for various outdoor activities, including camping, backpacking, geocaching, fishing, and boating. They provide navigation, tracking, and safety features that enhance your experience in different environments.

Are handheld GPS devices difficult to operate for beginners?

Not at all! Most handheld GPS devices come with user-friendly interfaces and intuitive menus. They are designed to be easy to use, even for beginners. Additionally, manufacturers provide detailed user manuals and online resources to help you get started quickly

Do handheld GPS devices require a monthly subscription for GPS services?

No, handheld GPS devices do not require a monthly subscription for GPS services. The GPS functionality is built into the device and relies on satellite signals, which are available for free. However, some devices offer additional features that may require a subscription, such as live tracking or satellite imagery.

What is the best GPS for pasture spraying?

The best GPS for pasture spraying would depend on the specific needs and requirements of the user. However, some popular options known for their accuracy and reliability in agricultural applications include GPS devices from Trimble, John Deere, and Raven Industries

Which is the best GPS for walkers and hikers?

When it comes to GPS devices for walkers and hikers, there are several excellent options available. Some top choices include Garmin GPSMAP 64s, Magellan eXplorist 350H, and Suunto Traverse Alpha. These devices offer reliable navigation, advanced tracking features, and durable construction to withstand outdoor conditions.

What is the best kayak GPS for water navigation?

For kayak navigation, it’s essential to choose a GPS device that is water-resistant and designed specifically for marine use. Some popular kayak GPS options include the Garmin GPSMAP 78sc, Lowrance HOOK2-4x GPS, and Humminbird HELIX 5 G2 GPS. These devices provide accurate position tracking, detailed marine charts, and safety features for water navigation.
 

Can I use an external GPS receiver with my smartphone?

Yes, it is possible to use an external GPS receiver with a smartphone. By connecting the external GPS receiver to your smartphone via Bluetooth or a cable, you can enhance the GPS accuracy and performance of your device. One popular external GPS receiver is the Garmin GLO, which offers reliable positioning and compatibility with various devices.

What are GPS systems used for?

GPS systems are used for a wide range of purposes, including navigation, tracking, and mapping. They are commonly used in vehicles for turn-by-turn directions, in outdoor activities such as hiking and boating, in agriculture for precision farming, and in logistics and transportation for fleet management and route optimization.

What is Garmin GLO and how does it work?

Garmin GLO is an external GPS receiver manufactured by Garmin. It provides high-accuracy positioning by receiving signals from multiple global navigation satellite systems, including GPS and GLONASS. The Garmin GLO wirelessly connects to compatible devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops, enhancing their GPS capabilities and providing more accurate positioning data.

How much ground can be covered with a handheld GPS device?

The ground covered by a handheld GPS device depends on various factors such as the device’s battery life, the user’s walking pace, and the duration of the activity. However, modern handheld GPS devices can typically track and record extensive distances, ranging from tens of miles to hundreds of miles on a single charge.

Can I use a handheld GPS device without an internet connection?

Yes, handheld GPS devices work independently of the internet. They rely on GPS satellites to determine your location, so you can use them in remote areas without cellular coverage or internet access.

Are handheld GPS devices waterproof?

Many handheld GPS devices are designed to be waterproof or water-resistant. However, the level of waterproofing may vary between models. It’s essential to check the device’s specifications and user manual to ensure it meets your requirements for water resistance.

How accurate are handheld GPS devices?

Handheld GPS devices provide location accuracy within a few meters under optimal conditions. However, accuracy may vary depending on environmental factors, such as tree cover, terrain, and atmospheric conditions. It’s always advisable to cross-reference GPS data with other navigational aids when available.

Need More Advice on Gear and Footwear?

Here are some links to our most popular articles:

Product Images credits: Amazon.com

Join our Facebook Group – Outdoor Gear Reviews, Deals, Hacks & Advice- Backpacking, Hiking & Camping to get the latest reviews, deals, and discounts on backpacking, camping, and hiking gear. Share tips, and advice and to show our love, we also give monthly gear giveaways.

TheHikingAdventure.com

 

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API