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A GPS unit is one of the devices that you need to carry when hiking. If you want to enjoy and have fun hiking, you should have a GPS device. It will help you find your way easily through the landscapes, get a better overview of the terrain, and help you get back home easily. They are fitted with detailed maps and images for location and directions. What is more, they display information in real time.
If you are planning on hiking soon, make sure that you get the right GPS unit. Today, GPS devices are incorporated with additional features and functions to make your hiking hassle-free and enjoyable. Here is a list of the best GPS for hiking in 2022.
Editor’s Top Pick | Top 5 Best GPS Units for Hiking
Today, you will find a variety of GSP for hiking in the market. Below is the Best GPS Unit for hiking review.
1. Garmin Foretrex 401 Waterproof Hiking GPS
The Foretrex 401 is mounted on the wrist. It is a slim GPS, and the dimensions are 1.7 by 0.9 by 2.9 inches, which makes it ideal for hiking for long hours. It has a waterproof GPS receiver; hence, you do not need to worry when the GPS comes into contact with water. You can connect the GPS device to your computer to share and send data.
One of the key features that make this GPS unit accessible is that it keeps track of all your steps and displays them on the screen. When you want to return, all you need is to turn on the TracBack feature, and it will guide you through the track that you used.
The GPS also allows one to save important locations such as camps and the location of your vehicle, among others. It comes with a GPS unit, a manual, a USB cable, and a wrist expansion strap.
- It has a high sensitive GSP receiver.
- Uses replaceable AAA batteries that last for 17 hours of continued use.
- Can be connected to the internet.
- It is wireless.
- Has a large LED display that is easy to read.
- Ensures maximum security
- The screen is not highly customizable.
- The wrist straps do not last for long.
2. Bad Elf 2200 GPS Pro
One of the unique features of this GPS unit is that you can connect to 5 devices at the same time. It uses Bluetooth technology to link to other devices. It has a large LCD that allows one to see all the information easily and store data about the location for up to 100 hours. The battery life can last for 16 hours when Bluetooth is on and 35 hours when using it only for GPS tracking.
The GSP unit has made of rugged and waterproof material that is long-lasting. It is compatible with almost all the location apps on the market. The device allows hikers to share GPS in real-time. If you are with family or friends, you can go to different locations and share GPS easily for up to 5 people.
The device is quite small in size and fits well in your palm. The dimensions are three by 2.5 by 0.7 inches and weigh 3.2 ounces, making it both small and lightweight. It comes with a GPS device, two USB cables, and a detachable neck lanyard.
- Has a backlight for night hiking.
- Long-lasting battery with a reporting rate of 10Hz.
- You can connect up to 5 devices through Bluetooth.
- Can store a lot of data
- It is compatible with iPhone 5, iPad, and iPod touch devices, among others.
- The device can easily get lost.
- It is expensive.
3.Garmin GPSMAP 64SC
The dimensions of the GPS unit are 1.4 by 2.4 by 6.3 inches. It is lightweight and weighs 8 ounces. It comes with a dual battery system with rechargeable 1A batteries. The Garmin GPSMAP 64SC is a handheld GPS device with a 3-axis compass. It has a barometric altimeter and an auto-focus camera of 8 megapixels for geotagging. The screen of this GPS device is 2.6 inches, which makes it readable even in sunlight. Its GPS is highly sensitive, which ensures accuracy and efficiency when hiking. It features a Quad Helix antenna.
For accuracy, it has a global map, and you can subscribe to the 1-year BirdsEye satellite for images. For improved locations and direction, the GPS unit has over 250,000 caches that are preloaded from the Geocaching website.
The barometric altimeter can track any changes in pressure, which helps you to know the different weather conditions. The device is potent as it can track your heading when you are standing still through its electronic compass.
- Has a 4 GB battery that allows storage of extensive data.
- Dual battery system
- Allows one to receive notifications
- Has live tracking features
- Has a color display that is readable when there is sunlight.
- The battery life is short compared to other GPS devices.
4. Garmin eTrex 30x 010-10508-10 Handheld Navigator
The GPS unit is very easy to use, and it is suitable for all types of hikers. It is made well-constructed with an eTrex 30x technology that makes it durable and worth your investment. The display is waterproof and sunlight readable. The dimensions of the product are 2.1 by four by 1.3 inches and weigh 5 ounces.
It has an optional routing option that tracks the roads, and you can use it by turning it on. This device is capable of tracking up to 200 roads. The screen provides map data in 2D and 3D, and you can connect on your digital device. What is more, you can synchronize your data using your favorite devices. It also allows one to transfer satellite images when you pair it with the BirdsEye Imagery subscription.
The Garmin eTrex 30x is essential in providing useful information on terrain, location, descriptions, and hints of your track. With this, you will be able to know the track to follow and the one to avoid.
- Greater resolution with 240 x 320 display pixels for improved readability.
- Internal memory expanded to hold more maps.
- Worldwide base map with shaded relief.
- 2.2-inch, 65K color, sunlight-readable display.
- 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter.
- Short on instructions for a rather complicated electronic device.
5. Bushnell Backtrack Point-3 Personal GPS Locator
The GPS device allows one to store and re-find different locations, which prevents you from getting lost. The dimensions of the product are 1.2 by 5.2 by 6.8 inches. It weighs about 0.32 ounces, which makes it convenient to carry it around during your hiking.
The batteries required for this GPS device are 2 AAA batteries. The screen type is Grayscale LCD. It uses high-tech technology for location tracking and storing data. It has a self-calibrating compass and a highly sensitive receiver.
- Larger screen
- Comes with a one-year warranty
- Has a compact size
- HD clarity screen
- Three backtrack points
- Easy to use
- The batteries are not included.
- The battery life is short.
How to Choose The Best GPS Unit For Hiking
A. Batteries
When choosing a GPS unit, you need to make sure it has the right batteries. The batteries should give you service throughout your hiking period. Make sure that you look for;
- Whether it is rechargeable
- If they are replaceable
- If the package comes with the batteries
- The lifespan of the batteries
The right battery should be able to serve you well throughout your hiking process. Also, a good battery should be able to help for long without any issues.
B. Display
For a good overview of your location, the screen is important. The display should be large enough so that you do not strain to read information. The screen should be easy to use and not affected by weather conditions.
C. Weight
The GPS unit that you select should be lightweight. When hiking, you do not need extra weight on your luggage. Thus, it is critical to know the weight of the device you are purchasing since having a bulky device will only weigh you down during hiking.
D. Features
The GPS features are important. Consider the one with the most useful features. Some of the essential elements include an electronic compass, signals, maps, connectivity, and notifications. Having a GPS unit that can withstand all weather conditions is excellent. Moreover, you should look for one that has an ethical compass. You can imagine going hiking with a GPS that gives the wrong direction? That is a recipe for walking into uncharted waters without knowing.
E. Construction/Design
A good GPS unit should be well constructed with long-lasting materials. If it is handheld, the design should be easy to hold for long hours. Make sure that you go for water-resistant devices. Weather-resistant units are a surety that you can use in any condition.
Frequently asked questions (Best GPS Unit for Hiking)
1. Question: Is data saving automatic?
Answer: Yes, the above GPS units will save data automatically. There is no better way to keep track of your information than using the above units. Besides, they can also be integrated with your phones to sync the information in real time.
2. Question: Does GPS get affected by clothing?
Answer: GPS will work, no matter the clothing you have.
3. Question: Can the GPS units be used at night?
Answer: Yes, they have a backlight for night hiking. The LED lights on these hiking units give you the leverage to read the displayed information without straining.
4. Question: Do the GPS units offer accuracy?
Answer: Yes, the electronic compass is used for accuracy. Getting accurate information is one critical thing. In case the compass does not work well, you might get lost while hiking.
Final Verdict
Hiking is an exciting sport that you can enjoy with family and friends. To enhance your hiking experience, you will need GPS units. The above-recommended GPS units have been tested and reviewed to be the tops in the industry. You can find them in the local stores or by purchasing them online.
However, when shopping for these devices, it is critical to take into account the accuracy of the compass, and the material used to construct the device. But most importantly, GPS hiking should be able to work in all weather conditions.