Backpacking is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It’s also a great opportunity for you to experience nature first hand. But backpacking can be dangerous, especially if you are not prepared with the proper gear. That’s why it’s important to invest in a GPS Tracker before embarking on your next backpacking trip! Read more below for some of our favorite picks!
You’re in luck! We’ve created this guide with everything you need to know about GPS trackers for backpacking. These devices are small, lightweight, and waterproof which makes them perfect for outdoor adventures. They also work as a great safety precaution if something were ever to happen when you’re out on a trip by yourself or with friends. This article will help answer any questions you have about the best GPS trackers for backpackers, so keep reading to learn more.
At a Glance:
Garmin Forerunner 245 Music
- Lightweight.
- High resolution.
- Offer Wi-Fi connectivity.
- Excellent battery timing
New Apple AirTag 4 Pack
- Precise and trustworthy.
- The tracker has access from the distance.
- A battery that can be replaced.
- It’s a little and adorable creature.
Tile Mate 2-Pack -Bluetooth Tracker
- Affordable.
- Durable.
- Attractive design.
- Easy to set up.
- Offers excellent range.
My team’s research on GPS tracker leads you on the right path. I include these below products not randomly copy on other blogs, rather these are the result of hard research from my team. We meet different hikers in different locations. Each hiker gave a different argument about their GPS trackers. We have gathered all the information and now I am discussing it with you through this post. Hopefully, these nine will make your journey through the wilderness as carefree as possible. Now get out there and enjoy! You can check also the No#3 tracker that I have personally used for various purposes.
- Our Recommendations for Best GPS Trackers for Backpacking
- Garmin Instinct Solar
- Garmin GPSMAP 64csx
- Garmin Forerunner 245 Music
- Garmin GPSMAP 66sr
- LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker
- Spot Trace Anti-Theft Tracking Device
- Tile Mate 2-Pack -Bluetooth Tracker
- New Apple AirTag 4 Pack
- AMERICALOC GL300 GPS Tracker MXW
- Summary for Best GPS Trackers for Backpacking
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Our Recommendations for Best GPS Trackers for Backpacking
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Garmin Instinct Solar
Garmin’s Instinct Solar is a fitness-tracking smartwatch that will make sure you don’t get lost and your favorite activities are tracked while hiking. With the ability to navigate with three satellite systems, it’ll be an essential tool for outdoor adventures of any kind!
The watch will keep track of your trek, making it a breeze to retrace your steps. And with an altimeter and barometer built-in, you’ll have plenty of data about elevation and weather on the go!
From the moment you set it on your wrist, this watch will be powered by light and never need a battery replacement. You can rely on its GPS to tell time accurately for 145 hours of continuous use—and in smartwatch mode, there is no limit whatsoever.
The Rugged GPS Watch has an ultra-light rechargeable lithium-polymer system that provides power even without being plugged into anything else, all day every day! It’s water-resistant up to 100 meters deep making sure no matter how far or fast you run, swim or bike there will always be something keeping track.
You might not know it, but your phone is a pretty crappy hiking partner. It’s bulky and held in an awkward position for the majority of the time which can lead to hand or arm fatigue as well as limiting visibility on important details such as maps or trail markers. A better idea would be to use something smaller that won’t limit movement.
Pros
- With a GPS device, it’s a classic smartwatch.
- Solar-powered battery with an incredibly extended life span.
- High-precision ABC sensors and tracking.
- Lightweight.
Cons
- A smaller display.
Garmin GPSMAP 64csx
The Garmin GPSMAP 64csx is so much more than a simple device for hiking. This particular model’s topo maps feature plenty of routes for cycling and hiking, allowing you to readily explore different trails on the fly. The device also features highly accurate readings that will never let you get lost in unfamiliar terrain!
The Garmin GPSMAP 64csx is the perfect handheld device for those looking to find their way in a wide variety of situations. It has a 3-axis compass, barometric altimeter, and high sensitivity receiver that alerts you when a signal loss occurs so you can quickly get back on track.
It also uses a quad-helix antenna design which allows it to receive signals from any orientation while even being exposed at ground level or below water! This makes it one of the most accurate devices out there with an accuracy within 1 meter (3 feet).
The Garmin GPSMAP 64csx is an excellent hiking device that can hold up to 5,000 waypoints and tracks. Its water-resistant body makes it ideal for all types of weather conditions as well. It also has a customizable user interface and plenty of features like a speedometer, barometric altimeter plus many other useful tools you’ll need on the trail!
As you zoom in on the satellite images, they appear to come alive with detail. You can see every car driving down a street and every tree lining its side as though it is happening right now. With 8 GB of onboard memory and microSD card slot expansion for more maps, your GPSMAP 64x series will never let you get lost again!
Your favorite hiking trails are now accessible with the GPSMAP 64sx. With wireless connectivity via BLUETOOTH technology, you can use your tablet or smartphone to download topographic maps on demand while avoiding cumbersome data downloads or costly subscriptions.
Pros
- Water-resistant.
- Easy to use.
- Compact.
- Bluetooth compatibility.
- Excellent state forward.
Cons
- Terrible battery life.
Garmin Forerunner 245 Music
The Garmin Forerunner 245 is the perfect watch for trail runners looking to put on some serious speed. This GPS-enabled smartwatch pairs with your phone and offers custom workout plans that automatically upload directly into the interface, so you can focus less on technology and more time running!
The Garmin Forerunner is one of the top reasons for its excellent analytics, including calculating VO2max and recognizing altitude. The watch also measures running form to allow you tailored information about your performance on different terrain types as well as maximizing efficiency in training programs.
This watch is perfect for runners who love the thrill and excitement of running to music on their route. In addition, you can upload custom routes that give you directions while running, track your sleep, and even detect your blood oxygen levels.
If you’re in the market for a new fitness watch that won’t slow you down, think about getting one of these. The Garmin Forerunner 945 has all your needs – from music streaming to running apps and maps with built-in storage so there’s no need for an external device.
Plus it features a crisp hi-res screen which will make any workout more pleasant!
This watch will send your location to emergency contacts should you have an unfortunate incident. The battery life ranges from 7 days in smartwatch mode, up to 6 hours of GPS tracking with music on, and is compatible with all smartphones!
Pros
- Lightweight.
- High resolution.
- Offer Wi-Fi connectivity.
- Excellent battery timing
Cons
- It’s a little more costly.
Garmin GPSMAP 66sr
Garmin is a leader in the GPS market, and the Garmin GPSMAP 66sr Pocket Hiking Handheld Review will cover all of its great features. This device has a 3″ color display with 160×240 pixels for convenient viewing, expanded GNSS capability to track more satellites than previous devices, and multi-band technology to access signals from both American and Russian systems.
The battery life lasts up to 20 hours on one charge (up to 40 hours with an optional external power pack).
The Garmin 66sr is a rugged, waterproof GPS that allows you to track vital information like your route and share it with other wireless devices.
Other benefits include built-in Bluetooth for wireless data exchange with mobile devices or other compatible Garmin handhelds; microSD card slot so you can load custom maps; electronic compass; barometric altimeter; water-resistant design up to IPX7 standards; and a backlit display for low light conditions.
Pros
- There is also an electronic compass, barometric altimeter, MicroSD card slot for maps, backlit display, and more.
- The package includes the device with preloaded TOPO U.S 100K mapping; USB cable; AC adapter/battery charger.
- It is considered a magnificent GPS.
Cons
- The screen is very small which can make it difficult to read the text and see map detail.
LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker
If you’re looking for a dependable and convenient way to monitor the health of your loved ones, then this is the product for you. The built-in battery lasts six months on one charge so there’s virtually no maintenance required.
You can set up text and email alerts that will let you know when certain parameters are out of range, which means it never feels like too much work checking in with family members who may need help at any given time.
The LandAirSea 54 is a rugged and durable GPS that won’t let you down no matter what. It is waterproof, dustproof, sun-resistant with an integrated high strength magnet for instant placement anywhere it’s needed in your vehicle!
With Google Maps integration this top-of-the-line device can track its location at all times as well set up geofences to keep tabs on their whereabouts.
The 54 GPS tracker is the best companion when you need to make sure that your loved ones are safe and sound. The high-quality device will provide a reliable location for them, with its ultra-lightweight design making it easy to carry around in different situations as well as discreetly hide from prying eyes.
It also has an impressive battery life of up to 14 hours on standby mode or 6 hours while tracking – perfect if they’re out exploring!
I found that this LandAirSea 54 Tracker is accurate. When I took it with me it was guiding me at every stop, and the location was pinpointed clearly on my phone’s map app! The directions were simple to follow- even though I haven’t tried out all of its features yet (like when you hook up your iPhone into a computer).
It feels good in my hands– well constructed so that it doesn’t seem like something will break off or anything. Love knowing that there’s an incorporated magnet inside the case so no need for buying additional cases too just because mine has one built-in already 🙂
Battery life seems pretty decent as well…way better than some other products I’ve had before ;).
But the issue I was facing at this LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker is that it doesn’t work well when you use it in areas without good cellular service. This can be a huge problem because now your phone has no service either!
Pros
- Small and compact.
- Extremely easy to use.
- 100% waterproof.
- It has a high-strength magnet built-in and is simple to install in or on your vehicle.
Cons
- Many other customers complain about its battery life. But I think this is not the major issue.
Spot Trace Anti-Theft Tracking Device
When you have a business, it can be hard to keep track of all the different things that need to be done. One way that helps is by using an app on your phone or tablet so that every time you come across something important, you just tap and enter in some notes about what needs to happen next.
This works especially well when tracking inventory because then if anything goes missing, there’s no guessing where it went – we know exactly who was supposed to be doing what with which product at the time of the theft.
But what if you have products that don’t come with a barcode? If someone walks off with something, there’s no way to track it. We solved this problem by creating Spot Trace Anti-Theft Tracking Devices – they work like the app but instead of taking pictures and notes on your phone or tablet, all you need is.
The Spot Trace is a small, black box that contains GPS gear and motion detection. It’s powered by four triple-A batteries which will last up to 18 months using the Energizer Lithium brand of battery (more on this in a moment).
The basic idea behind the trace involves a tiny little black box containing all your tracking needs: GPS hardware and motion sensors. And while its simple design may offer easy portability for any situation, it does require some extra attention when considering what kind of battery you’re going to use; but more about that later!
The GPS must have a line of sight to work. It is a compact device with only one switch and two LEDs which show if the device has possession of satellite information or not, but it can function even when surrounded by metal.
With Spot Trace, you can know where your assets are 24/7. It has a one-click activation button that will send the GPS coordinates of any movement to either text or email and also have it show up online.
Pros
- Extremely compact.
- Offers a wide range of applications.
- Long-lasting battery.
- Well made tracker works excellent.
Cons
- It is costly to use and might be difficult to set up.
Tile Mate 2-Pack -Bluetooth Tracker
The Tile Mate is a Bluetooth-enabled device that can be attached to anything you might want to track and then use your smartphone’s GPS connection. If it gets lost, double-tap the button on the tile – this will make an alert sound from your phone so you know where it is!
It is so easy to misplace your phone, but with Tile- the phenomenally
easy locating device you can attach anywhere- it will only take seconds for you to find what’s lost. By doubling tapping on any of its key buttons, a ringing sound starts and sounds out across an area up to 150 feet away! And that’s not all;
Tiles are also waterproof and have battery life lasting over one year or more before they need replacing!!
If you’re looking for a quality, affordable option that won’t let your keys get lost and will fit in most pockets or purses it’s worth checking out this Tile Mate. It comes with replaceable batteries which means if the one currently inside starts to fade when not on charge- just swap them!
The best part about these is they don’t require subscriptions of any kind meaning even if money gets tight there are no worries as long as you keep buying new ones every year.
In short, the Tile Mate Tracker has excellent values and an easy setup.
Pros
- Affordable.
- Durable.
- Attractive design.
- Easy to set up.
- Offers excellent range.
Cons
- Premium users only have access to certain features.
New Apple AirTag 4 Pack
AirTags are a new innovation that will allow you to find your items without having to worry about losing them. Simply peel off the plastic at the back and hold it next to your iPhone, AirTags can track any personal item (keys or wallet) with precision – making it easier for anyone who is always on the go!
Air Tags are a brand new invention that allows Apple users in their ‘Find My’ ecosystem access an easy way of tracking lost items from anywhere; simply by peeling away protection at the back and holding near proximity with one’s phone.
The user then has each tag attachable onto anything they wish including keys, wallets, etc., meaning never again need we lose our belongings because these tags have been released into society!
It works great for those who lose their things at home or anywhere with high amounts of people but might not work as well if something gets left out somewhere rural where there aren’t many other people around.
These cool AirTags are the perfect GPS tracker to have on you at all times. You’ll never miss a call, text, or message with these little devices that detect when your phone is nearby and sends alerts if something happens!
The battery lasts over 12 months so they’re really easy to just leave in various places without worrying about charging them for weeks.
Pros
- Precise and trustworthy.
- The tracker has access from the distance.
- A battery that can be replaced.
- It’s a little and adorable creature.
Cons
- There is no Android support.
AMERICALOC GL300 GPS Tracker MXW
Why are you still holding out for the more expensive tracker that doesn’t offer as many features? Give Americaloc’s GL300 MXW a try.
It gives you greater versatility than similar trackers we’ve seen, and it costs less! In its default mode, this update-every 60 seconds device updates data every 30 or 20 seconds if desired.
This adds up when people want to know where their vehicle is on-demand–at all times of day periods of time in order to get an accurate reading from how often they use their car throughout the weekdays versus weekends (or even farther). And don’t forget about alerts: The GL300 sends notifications whether your car has been turned off or started again—and for harsh driving too.
If you need to power up and track your vehicle, the GL300 is a good option. This device can be wired into any car or truck that has an OBD2 port – saving on battery life in this way too! Its coverage includes North America; however, it’s easy to use with different SIM cards if traveling abroad.
Pros
- Reliable.
- Excellent tracker.
- Similar trackers don’t offer as many warnings as this one.
- Offers many alerts and warnings.
- Great battery life.
- The accuracy is excellent.
Cons
- Obstacle sensitivity (won’t work well)
Summary for Best GPS Trackers for Backpacking
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Best Pick | Check Price | |
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Budget Pick | Check Price | |
Staff Pick | Check Price | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a GPS for backpacking?
A handheld GPS will give you location coordinates and, without an internet connection, can transmit your latitude and longitude to search and rescue officials who are in contact with satellites.
An app on your smartphone might also do the trick (find one that doesn’t drain battery life). However, it is not going to be terribly helpful if there’s no cellular or wifi service in the wilderness.
In this case, especially for those traveling alone or in remote regions where cell/cyber coverage is non-existent), experts suggest “preparing some method of navigation, such as map and compass”
Does GPS work without a phone signal?
GPS satellites don’t need phone signals in order to successfully operate. In fact, you can usually use GPS even when your phone is turned off! This is fantastic news because it means we don’t have to potentially pay hundreds of dollars each month for an expensive cell plan!”
Is hiking GPS worth it?
With a handheld GPS, you can find your way even when the visibility is poor or there are no distinct features to rely on. This allows hikers and mountaineers alike to easily navigate during challenging conditions such as blizzards which typically obscure landmarks like mountainsides with snow cover!
Is GPS better than a phone?
A GPS isn’t better than a phone – it only gives you directions to your destination. A phone has many more practical uses, such as a Wi-Fi hotspot, email, and internet browser. Without a doubt, I would say the phone is superior to the GPS in that regard.
How accurate is GPS?
The accuracy of GPS is dependent on where you are and the time of day. Accuracy for a location such as Beijing (shown in the map above) would be poor at night and good during the day, while one can expect better accuracy from GPS when they are in Barcelona or Palo Alto, Calif.
This is because satellite orbits move very quickly across the sky; so satellites closer to overhead will do a better job with accuracy than ones further away.
The right answer then is that how accurate GPS is dependent on these types of variables but don’t count on dependability all of the time! I once tried to use my app to find out what streets I was riding near without success . . . even though my.
How far can a GPS tracker work?
A GPS tracker can work 50-65 feet away from the user when outdoors. However, if the person is indoors, through obstacles such as walls and glass, to give an accurate answer would be difficult.
The unit’s rate of change decreases over distance and a decrease in signal strength requires more time for the signal to transmit (reflected). Maps can also help potential customers find areas with fewer obstructions between themselves and their GPS tracker.
What Should You Look for in a GPS Tracker?
Styles of GPS
Styles of GPS units tend to come in two types: handheld devices and smartwatches. Handhelds typically offer a bigger screen, but may not be as easy to use on the go or for running because you have both arms occupied by holding it up to your face.
Smartwatches are hands-free, with many models equipped with fitness tracking features that can track outside exercises like jogging or cycling without having the hassle of carrying another device around with you all day long – which is perfect if you’re looking to monitor what’s going on while out exploring nature!
Size and Weight
It all depends! Some are as light as 3-9 ounces while others can be closer to 10 pounds, but most fall somewhere in between those numbers and weigh around 6 oz at the minimum.
I’ve also found myself wondering about this question before since my arms always tend to feel very heavy after carrying something like a laptop bag full of textbooks every day or even just going grocery shopping with heavier items in tow (I’m not telling you anything new).
A Classic Display
Some manufacturers are releasing a new breed of handheld GPS screens that offer great features not found on standard models. These include well-illuminated interfaces, better visibility in direct sunlight, and even have camera functionality. Some even offer touch screen capability so you can feel like your using the newest smartphone model!
Duration of the Battery
Hiking trips can take a long time—especially if you’re taking on an extended journey. Make sure your GPS unit is able to hold out for the entire length of your trek with battery life ranging from 18 hours up to 145! Solar-powered models give even more options by adding power-save mode, which allows a further extension in some units.
Wireless Proficiency
With GPS devices, you sometimes have to worry about signal interference. If your device is wifi enabled, however, it can be even more helpful! With wireless capability and a synced phone in the mix—the possibilities are endless for working on the go.
Why buy a personal GPS tracker?
Built-in cameras, satellite messaging capabilities, fitness tracking. These are some of the many functions that have been built into GPS units for those who like to hike but also want a little more out of their trekking experience.
A hiker may be lost in the wilderness and wondering where they currently stand on any given day – luckily there’s GPS tech! This technology can help you figure out where you are when hiking or traveling through unfamiliar territory with no cell service.
It might not seem necessary for casual hikers—or advanced ones that feel very confident in their abilities; however, it’s always good to stay prepared just in case something goes wrong so make sure your gear is up-to-date with all these new features packed inside.
Conclusion
Have you ever wondered what the best GPS tracker for backpacking is? If so, we can help. There are a lot of options available on the market today and it’s hard to know which one will be right for your needs.
Let us take some time to walk you through all the different features that these devices offer in order to make this decision easier. We’ll also answer any questions or concerns about these trackers along the way!
You may find that our article has given you enough information to decide if getting a tracking device would work well for your particular situation. So before making an investment in something like this, come talk with us first and see if anything makes sense together!
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