On The Basis of our expert testing team the best gps trackers for hiking are Fanily1st, Amcrest and Trak-4.
A hiking GPS tracker is a small device. It helps you find your way on trails, especially in remote places.
Unlike your phone, these devices are built to handle tough outdoor conditions. They provide detailed maps and satellite views. Hiking GPS trackers also last longer on a single charge. This is important when you are far from any power source.
Hiking and exploring the outdoors can be exciting, but it also comes with risks, especially if you lose your way. Take Aron Ralston’s story from 2003 as an example. He was canyoneering without a GPS and ended up in a life-threatening situation. If he’d had a GPS tracker, things might have gone differently.
To stay safe and prepared on your hikes, it’s important to have the right gear. Below, we’ve rounded up the best hiking GPS trackers for 2024 to help you make sure you’re always on the right path.
Table of Contents
Our Best Picks For Hiking GPS Trackers In 2024
| Product | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Real-time tracking and long battery life | Harsh weather and real-time updates | Long battery life and global tracking | Waterproof and rugged design | Customizable tracking and long battery | Global coverage and extended battery | Compact size and real-time alerts | Small size with global tracking |
| Cost | $29.95 | $44.99 | $48.80 | $29.95 | $19.95 | $61.98 | $17.95 | $18.88 |
| Key Features | Nationwide coverage, geo-fencing, real-time updates | IP65 weatherproof, real-time updates, geo-fencing | Up to 18 months battery, global tracking, USB charging | Waterproof, magnetic, geo-fencing, real-time tracking | Up to 2 weeks battery, real-time tracking, customizable updates | Month-long battery, waterproof, global coverage, real-time alerts | 4G LTE, compact, geo-fencing, international tracking | Real-time tracking, waterproof cover, global coverage |
| Customer Ratings | 4.0 out of 5 | 4.2 out of 5 | 4.2 out of 5 | 4.2 out of 5 | 4.2 out of 5 | 4.5 out of 5 | 4.0 out of 5 | 4.1 out of 5 |
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Basic Features of GPS Trackers for Hiking
When choosing a GPS tracker for hiking, consider a few important factors. This will help you pick one that works well outdoors.
Robust Design
Your hiking GPS tracker needs to be built tough. With shock resistance and waterproofing, it should be durable enough to handle rough terrain, accidental drops, and wet conditions.
Battery Life
Battery life of your GPS Tracker should last throughout your hike without needing constant recharging, especially on longer trips.
Display Quality
Display should be clear and easy to read. This applies to both touchscreens and physical buttons. You should be able to see your route easily in any light.
Weight
Weight is critical when you’re hiking. A lightweight GPS tracker won’t weigh you down, and that’s really important when you’re carrying other gear. The lighter the tracker, the better — you want to stay focused on the trail, not the extra weight.
Satellite Reception
Satellite reception is the most essential feature. Your GPS must work well, even in remote areas where cell service is unavailable. Strong satellite reception means you’ll stay on course no matter how far off your beaten path.
Advanced Features of GPS Trackers for Hiking
Having a GPS tracker with advanced features can make all the difference for serious hikers. While these models may cost more, they come with essential capabilities in tough conditions. Here are a few features to keep in mind:
Electronic Compass
Electronic compass technology gives you accurate directions without needing a separate compass. It uses magnetic fields to show you the way and ensures you stay on course in unfamiliar areas.
Barometer
Barometers measure elevation and track changes in air pressure. This is especially helpful in mountainous regions, where quick shifts in weather can happen. A barometer helps you prepare for those changes.
Preloaded Maps
Preloaded maps are a handy feature found in many GPS trackers. These topo maps come with trails, paths, and terrain details, making navigating your hike easier.
How We Tested GPS Trackers for Hiking
We tested GPS trackers on real hikes. We took them through rough terrains and remote areas where navigation is important. We looked at how well the devices worked in tough conditions.
We checked battery life, satellite reception, and how easy it was to use the maps and compass features. We also looked at the screen’s clarity in different lighting and ensured each tracker was reliable for outdoor hiking.
Top 8 GPS Trackers For Hiking In 2024
Family1st Portable GPS Tracker
Family1st Portable GPS Tracker is a solid choice for hikers. It provides real-time tracking and has nationwide coverage, keeping you connected wherever you are on the trail. With long battery life, it’s built for extended hikes without the need for frequent recharges. The geo-fencing feature lets you set boundaries, so you’ll know if you stray off your path.
It’s compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry without adding unnecessary weight to your gear. The mobile app is easy to use, letting you track your location and trips in real time. Plus, with affordable subscription options, you get reliable tracking at a low cost, perfect for any hiking adventure.
Why Choose the Family1st Portable GPS Tracker?
Family1st Portable GPS Tracker offers reliable tracking with well-suited features for hiking. It provides real-time updates, geo-fencing, and long battery life, making it perfect for staying safe on the trail. Its lightweight design ensures it won’t weigh you down, and the easy-to-use app simplifies tracking, all at an affordable price.
Product Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 3.68 ounces |
| Battery Life | Up to 2 weeks |
| Subscription Plan | $15.95/month (Paid Annual) or $21.95/month |
| Dimensions | 2.75 x 1.8 x 1.1 inches |
| Coverage | USA |
Amcrest AM-GL300W-4G
Amcrest AM-GL300W-4G provides you real-time location updates and geo-fencing alerts. This helps you navigate tough trails and stay on track.
Its IP65 weatherproof rating means it works well in bad weather. This makes it great for long hikes in tough places. With a battery life of up to two weeks, it’s well-suited for multi-day adventures without frequent recharging.
The tracker connects to your phone and gives you real-time data. It keeps you safe and informed when you’re hiking in remote areas or rough terrain.
Why Choose the Amcrest AM-GL300W-4G for Hiking?
The design of the Amcrest AM-GL300W-4G model withstands harsh weather and provides consistent, real-time updates. The long battery life and geo-fencing features keep you connected and on track. This gives you peace of mind during long hikes.
Product Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 14 ounces |
| Battery Life | 10-14 days (30-second updates) |
| Subscription Plan | $19.99/month (30-second updates) |
| Dimensions | 3 x 1.5 x 1 inches |
| Weatherproof Rating | IP65 |
Trak-4 GPS Tracker
Trak-4 GPS tracker is best for hikers who want a GPS with a long battery life and strong, durable features. It offers up to 18 months of battery life on a single charge, making it ideal for extended hiking trips. This compact device provides global tracking capabilities and real-time updates, ensuring you stay connected even in remote locations. Its USB charging feature adds convenience for multi-day hikes.
With easy setup and tracking options like geofencing and alerts, the Trak-4 GPS is perfect for outdoor adventurers. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry. It lets you monitor from any device. This makes it a great choice for hikers exploring new trails.
Why Choose the Trak-4 GPS for Hiking?
Trak-4 GPS tracker offers an exceptional battery life and global tracking, making it a great fit for long hikes. Its customizable alerts and strong design make sure it works well in remote places. This gives you peace of mind during your adventure.
Product Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 5.4 ounces |
| Battery Life | Up to 18 months |
| Subscription Plan | $6.99/month (prepaid annual) |
| Dimensions | 3.25 x 1.75 x 1.25 inches |
| Coverage | Global |
LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker
LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker is for hikers who want a tough and accurate tracking device for outdoor adventures. It is small, waterproof, and can handle rough conditions. It has a strong magnet to attach to your gear securely.
You can track your location in real-time. You will get alerts when you enter or leave certain areas. This helps you stay safe while hiking.
This tracker works with the SilverCloud app to show you where something is right now and where it has been in the past. It can help you keep track of your location, even if you’re in the forest or mountains.
Why Choose the LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker for Hiking?
LandAirSea 54 is perfect for hikers because of its waterproof and rugged design. Real-time tracking and geo-fencing alerts ensure you stay informed of your location while navigating challenging terrain.
Product Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 4.8 ounces |
| Battery Life | Long-lasting |
| Subscription Plan | Starts at $17.99/month |
| Dimensions | 2.25 x 2.25 x 0.8 inches |
| Waterproof | Yes |
Optimus 2.0 GPS Tracker
Optimus 2.0 GPS Tracker provides accurate location updates. You can set it to update every 10 seconds or every minute. It is great for finding your way in rough areas or on long hikes.
It is small and easy to carry in a backpack. The battery can last up to two weeks, depending on your usage.
The app helps you keep track of where you go and set boundaries on a map for extra safety. Whether you are walking in a new place or a place you know well, this tracker gives you the information you need to stay on course and stay safe.
Why Choose the Optimus 2.0 GPS Tracker for Hiking?
Optimus 2.0 is a lightweight device that you can customize to track your outdoor hikes. It has a long battery life, so you can rely on it for long trips.
Product Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 3.3 ounces |
| Battery Life | Up to 2 weeks |
| Subscription Plan | Low-cost monthly subscription |
| Dimensions | 3 x 1.5 x 1 inches |
| Tracking | Real-time GPS |
Americaloc GL300 MXW
Americaloc GL300 MXW is a small GPS tracker that is good for long hikes. It has a battery that lasts a long time and works all over the world. You can use it to see where you are, get alerts if you go out of a certain area, and look at where you have been before. Great for long trips away from cities.
Waterproof, it can handle bad weather, and the strong magnet means you can attach it securely to your hiking gear. You can change the notifications to receive alerts for low battery or if it goes beyond a set limit.
Why Choose the Americaloc GL300 MXW for Hiking?
The month-long battery life and global coverage make Americaloc GL300 MXW ideal for long-distance hikers. Its strong, waterproof design makes it work well in tough places. The real-time alerts keep you safe during your journey.
Product Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 2.3 ounces |
| Battery Life | Up to 1 month |
| Subscription Plan | Starts at $17/month |
| Dimensions | 2.7 x 1.51 x 0.92 inches |
| Global Coverage | Yes |
Brickhouse Security Spark Nano 7
Brickhouse Security Spark Nano 7 is a small GPS tracker. It gives you quick updates without making your hiking gear heavier. It uses 4G LTE networks to give you real-time location data.
This helps you track your movements while you explore. With geo-fencing features and speed alerts, you can set boundaries. You will get instant notifications if you leave safe zones.
The tracker is easy to attach to your gear and works internationally, making it useful for hiking adventures anywhere. The app allows for constant monitoring, ensuring you’re always aware of your location during your outdoor adventures.
Why Choose the Brickhouse Security Spark Nano 7 for Hiking?
Brickhouse Security Spark Nano 7 is perfect for hikes, whether local or remote. Its small size allows tracking anywhere in the world. It sends you alerts and notifications if you go outside a set boundary. This keeps you safe during your outdoor adventures.
Product Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 3.3 ounces |
| Battery Life | Long-lasting |
| Subscription Plan | Starts at $17.99/month |
| Dimensions | 3 x 1.58 x 1 inches |
| Tracking | Real-time GPS (4G LTE) |
Tracki Mini GPS Tracker
Tracki Mini GPS Tracker is small but highly effective for tracking your movements during a hike. Its lightweight build makes it easy to carry, and with global coverage, you can rely on it in even the most remote areas. The battery life ranges from 2 to 5 days in real-time mode, with an extended life of up to 60 days in saver mode. This device also includes a waterproof cover and a magnetic case to ensure it stays secure in challenging environments.
This tracker gives real-time updates. It has features like geo-fencing, speed alerts, and SOS notifications in its mobile app. Whether on a local trail or a wilderness trek, the Tracki Mini helps you stay aware of your position and surroundings.
Why Choose the Tracki Mini GPS Tracker for Hiking?
Tracki’s small size and powerful tracking features make it perfect for outdoor adventures. Its waterproof cover and long battery life help it work well on rough terrain. Real-time alerts and notifications keep you updated during hikes.
Product Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 1.23 ounces |
| Battery Life | 2-5 days (up to 60 days in saver mode) |
| Subscription Plan | Starts at $9.95/month |
| Dimensions | 1.81 x 1.5 x 0.6 inches |
| Waterproof | Yes (with silicone cover) |
Conclusion
A reliable GPS tracker is essential for any hiker, especially when navigating unfamiliar or challenging trails. The devices we reviewed have features like long battery life, real-time tracking, and strong satellite reception. These features are important for staying safe while hiking.
Choosing a GPS tracker that fits your needs helps you feel safe in remote areas. It ensures you can always find your way back. These trackers help you stay on track, even in tough conditions. They let you focus on enjoying your hiking adventures.
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