GPS tracking devices have become an essential tool for hikers, providing them with the ability to navigate through unfamiliar terrain with ease, and also allowing them to keep track of their location in case of emergencies. With so many different products on the market, it can be difficult to decide which one is best for your needs. To make your decision easier, we have compiled a list of the top 7 best tracking GPS devices for hikers. We have included the price, key differentiators, and key features of each device, as well as an in-depth comparison section to help you understand which product is best for you.
1. Garmin eTrex 10 – $99.99: This device is lightweight, waterproof, and very user friendly. It is equipped with a 2.2-inch monochrome display, and includes a worldwide basemap with shaded relief. It also has a long battery life of up to 25 hours on two AA batteries. Key Differentiators Include a high-sensitivity GPS receiver and a USB connection for data transfers. Key Features Include a paperless geocaching feature and a track log with 10,000 points and 200 saved tracks.
2. Garmin Oregon 600 – $299.99: This device is designed for outdoor navigation and features a 3-inch sunlight-readable touchscreen display. It is also equipped with an 8-megapixel autofocus camera and a barometric altimeter. Key differentiators include a 3-axis electronic compass, a dual-battery system, and a high-sensitivity GPS receiver. Key features include a dual-orientation display, a microSD card slot, and a track manager.
3. DeLorme inReach Explorer – $399.99: This device is designed for two-way satellite communication and includes a built-in GPS receiver. It is also equipped with a color display and a rechargeable lithium battery. Key differentiators include an SOS button, a weather-resistant design, and a tracking feature. Key features include a built-in digital compass, a barometric altimeter, and a message service.
4. Magellan eXplorist 510 – $229.99: This device is designed for outdoor navigation and includes a 3.2-inch color touchscreen display. It is also equipped with a 3-axis electronic compass and a barometric altimeter. Key differentiators include a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, a dual-battery system, and a microSD card slot. Key features include a paperless geocaching feature, a track manager, and a route planner.
5. Garmin GPSMAP 64s – $349.99: This device is designed for outdoor navigation and includes a 2.6-inch sunlight-readable color display. It is also equipped with a barometric altimeter and a 3-axis electronic compass. Key differentiators include a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, a dual-battery system, and a microSD card slot. Key features include a paperless geocaching feature, a track manager, and a route planner.
6. Bushnell Backtrack D-Tour – $99.99: This device is designed for outdoor navigation and includes a 2.6-inch color display. It is also equipped with a built-in digital compass and a barometric altimeter. Key differentiators include a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, a rechargeable lithium battery, and a USB connection. Key features include a paperless geocaching feature, a track manager, and a route planner.
7. Garmin GPSMAP 78s – $349.99: This device is designed for marine navigation and includes a 2.6-inch sunlight-readable color display. It is also equipped with a barometric altimeter, a 3-axis electronic compass, and a microSD card slot. Key differentiators include a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, a dual-battery system, and a USB connection. Key features include a paperless geocaching feature, a track manager, and a route planner.
When it comes to choosing the best tracking GPS device for hikers, there are a few key factors to consider. First, consider the type of terrain you will be navigating. If you plan on hiking in rugged terrain, then a device with a high-sensitivity GPS receiver and a barometric altimeter is essential. Additionally, look for devices that offer paperless geocaching, track logging, and route planning features. Finally, consider the battery life of the device, as some are better suited for longer trips.
Overall, the Garmin eTrex 10 is the best tracking GPS device for hikers. It is lightweight and waterproof, and offers a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, a USB connection, and a long battery life. Additionally, it has a paperless geocaching feature and a track log with 10,000 points and 200 saved tracks. The Garmin eTrex 10 is an excellent choice for hikers who are looking for a reliable and user-friendly tracking GPS device.
