GPS for Backpacking
It brings peace of mind to have a GPS unit with you when navigating challenging terrain over multiple days in the backcountry. With so many great models available, it just makes sense to have at least one unit in your party.
The best GPS for backpacking will depend on your budget, the type of activities you'll be doing, and the features you need.
Here are a few models to consider:
Garmin GPSMAP 64st: has a rugged design, preloaded topographic maps, and long battery life.
https://www.garmin.com/en-US/search/?query=hiking%20navigator
DeLorme inReach Explorer+: offers satellite communication capabilities in addition to GPS navigation. A good choice for remote trips.
a Garmin product
Garmin eTrex 30x: compact & lightweight, it's got a built-in 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass, a barometric altimeter to track changes in pressure to pinpoint your precise altitude, or to plot barometric pressure over time, which can help you keep an eye on changing weather conditions.
SPOT X: is excellent for solo hikers, as it includes a two-way satellite messaging system for emergency communication.
https://www.findmespot.com/en-us/products-services/spot-x
Suunto 9 Baro: especially for endurance athletes, this model offers an extensive battery life, navigation features, and wrist-based heart rate monitoring.
Consider the features that are most important to you and read reviews before making a decision. These devices are continually improving. If 'new' is out of your current budget, check SENDY.io
Battery Life
Another huge consideration for GPS units is battery life. We want to give you a quick overview of some of the differences between units on the market, as they vary quite a bit.
The battery life of a GPS device while backpacking can vary depending on several factors, including the specific device, usage patterns, and weather conditions.
Here are estimates for the battery life of the models mentioned above:
Garmin GPSMAP 64st: up to 16 hours
DeLorme inReach Explorer+: up to 100 hours
Garmin eTrex 30x: up to 25 hours
SPOT X: up to 160 hours
Suunto 9 Baro: up to 120 hours
Note: Battery life can be affected by factors such as continuous use, frequent updates of GPS data, and harsh weather conditions. To extend battery life, some GPS devices allow you to adjust the display brightness, turn off certain features, and put the device into power-saving modes.
Always bring extra batteries or a charging device when backpacking, especially for extended trips. A solar panel or a portable battery pack can be used to recharge the GPS device in the field.
