#10 Best Handheld GPS for Hiking 2023

The best handheld GPS for hiking will be a lifesaver when you're in the wilderness. So before you go hiking, read our recommendation below and find the best handheld for hiking.

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One of the best handheld GPS for hiking devices might be a lifeline when attempting to find your way through the wilderness. Knowing where and where you want to go is critical while out in the wilderness. The best handheld GPS for hiking device will inform you quickly, sparing you from humiliation and avoiding a minor navigational error from snowballing into potentially hazardous terrain.

The best handheld GPS for hiking has gone a long way from its early days. It is now available in various abilities, price points, and sizes, from essential devices for occasional usage to professional-grade mapping tools. So, without further ado, here’s a list of the best handheld GPS for hiking. Look for the best one!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Do I need the best handheld GPS for hiking?

Because you’ll be exploring the outdoors, the best hiking handheld GPS is essential. When you’re in the bush, navigating is crucial. Without it, you might quickly disoriented and end up in a dangerous scenario. This handheld GPS will increase the safety of your hiking excursion.

What factors should I consider before purchasing the best handheld GPS for hiking?

  1. Ease of Use: Each handheld GPS device has a distinct user interface you must master as the device’s operator. We suggest you read the user manual and practice navigating with your device before traveling into the wilderness, regardless of the setup of your device.
  2. Battery Life: Look for a handheld GPS that has rechargeable batteries. Rechargeable batteries could help you save weight and money over time.   Many rechargeable battery variants are also compatible with AA batteries as a backup.
  3. Weight: Depending on where you want to travel with your GPS and how you want to get there, weight may be an essential factor.
  4. Mapping: Every handheld GPS has a basic map, effectively a blank screen with just the most notable local landmarks. Maps may be uploaded to most devices to improve the basic base-level map and provide a more comprehensive depiction of the terrain around you.
  5. Satellite Messaging: Satellite messaging devices can convey messages where cellular devices cannot get signals. Choose the best one with these features since they will be useful while you are outside.

What is the accuracy of a handheld GPS device?

Many contemporary portable GPS systems can determine your position with a few meters of inaccuracy if you have a clean connection. This degree of precision is ideal for emergencies, dependable waypoint setup, and geocaching.

How much should I spend on the best handheld GPS for hiking?

The best handheld GPS for hiking ranges from $200 to $700. This device’s price varies due to the features such as reception, material, features, and battery life. The expensive one has more features than the inexpensive one. However, if you look for a basic handheld GPS, just go to the inexpensive one. And if you are looking for a professional handheld GPS, go to the expensive one. All the choice is yours.

*Disclaimer. We can not guarantee that the information on this page is 100% correct. Read more
Name Rank Check Prices
inReach Explorer+ Handheld GPS Garmin
Garmin
inReach Explorer+ Handheld GPS
#1 Amazon Garmin.com eBay
eTrex 30x Handheld GPS Garmin
Garmin
eTrex 30x Handheld GPS
#2 Amazon Garmin.com eBay
GPSMAP 66sr Handheld GPS Garmin
Garmin
GPSMAP 66sr Handheld GPS
#3 Amazon Garmin.com eBay
GPSMAP 64sx Handheld GPS Garmin
Garmin
GPSMAP 64sx Handheld GPS
#4 Amazon Garmin.com eBay
Montana 700i Handheld GPS Garmin
Garmin
Montana 700i Handheld GPS
#5 Amazon Garmin.com eBay
eTrex 32x Rugged Handheld GPS Garmin
Garmin
eTrex 32x Rugged Handheld GPS
#6 Amazon Garmin.com eBay
Oregon 700 Handheld GPS Garmin
Garmin
Oregon 700 Handheld GPS
#7 Amazon Garmin.com eBay
CX0310SGXNA eXplorist 310 Handheld GPS Magellan
Magellan
CX0310SGXNA eXplorist 310 Handheld GPS
#8 Amazon Bhphotovideo.com eBay
inReach Mini 2 Handheld GPS Garmin
Garmin
inReach Mini 2 Handheld GPS
#9 Amazon Garmin.com eBay
Handheld Gps Cross One Size Twonav
Twonav
Handheld Gps Cross One Size
#10 Amazon Tradeinn.com eBay

10 List of Best Handheld GPS for Hiking

  • Garmin inReach Explorer+ Handheld GPS
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    #1

    Garmin inReach Explorer+ Handheld GPS

    Best Handheld GPS with Long Battery Life

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Garmin inReach Explorer+ Handheld GPS features a color display, on-screen navigation, and the extra precision of a barometric altimeter and 3-axis compass. To top it off, it has 24K maps of the United States and Canada, and the 100-hour battery life outperforms other competitors in the market. This GPS, like most recent handheld GPS devices, incorporates inReach technology.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    100-hour battery life
    It has 24K maps of the United States and Canada
    Features inReach technology
    It comes with a color display and on-screen navigation

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    A little heavy

    What other experts liked

    When cell coverage is unavailable, the Garmin inReach Explorer+ is one of the best devices for almost full communications.
    Gear Lab

    What other experts didn't like

    For those worried about weight, the weight of this GPS is heavier than other comparable messengers on the market.
    Evolution Basin
  • Garmin eTrex 30x Handheld GPS
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    #2

    Garmin eTrex 30x Handheld GPS

    Best Overall Handheld GPS

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Garmin eTrex 30x Handheld GPS is compact and lightweight, weighing little under 150g with batteries. Moreover, this hiking handheld GPS includes an IPX7 waterproof certification and a side button or joystick control combination, which means it can be used in all weather conditions. Like other higher-end models, this GPS features wireless sharing, a tri-axial compass, and Garmin Chirp technology.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    IPX7 waterproof rating
    Compact and lightweight
    Features Garmin Chirp technology

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    There is no rechargeable option

    What other experts liked

    Garmin eTrex 30x is an updated version of Garmin's popular eTrex 30, with a higher screen resolution and a bigger memory bank.
    Survival Mag

    What other experts didn't like

    When you zoom or change the map, it takes a bit longer.
    Expert World Travel
  • Garmin GPSMAP 66sr Handheld GPS
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    #3

    Garmin GPSMAP 66sr Handheld GPS

    Best Handheld GPS with Built-In Multiband Technology

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Garmin GPSMAP 66sr has a 3-inch color display that displays imagery in sharp, vivid detail. Notably, the display has been intended to be readable even in bright sunlight. This GPS has built-in multiband technology, allowing you to follow your journey in difficult conditions such as small gorges and deep woods. Additionally, this GPS uses five satellite systems. The simultaneous use of GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, and IRSS significantly increases the device’s mapping capabilities.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Features 3-inch color display
    It has built-in multiband technology
    It uses five satellite systems
    Bluetooth connectivity

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Expensive

    What other experts liked

    The features of the Garmin GPSMAP 66sr make it excellent for a variety of outdoor activities.
    Navigation Professionell

    What other experts didn't like

    The only significant drawbacks to this device are that it is fairly pricey and bulky.
    Too Many Adapters
  • Garmin GPSMAP 64sx Handheld GPS
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    #4

    Garmin GPSMAP 64sx Handheld GPS

    Best Handheld GPS with Multi-GNSS Compatibility

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Garmin GPSMAP 64sx is a tough and dependable choice for anything from outdoor hiking and cycling to geocaching. This hiking handheld GPS is feature-rich, with a clear and easy-to-read 2.6-inch screen and wide, well-marked buttons that are comfortable to use even with gloves on. Also, this GPS has a barometric altimeter and a 3-axis compass. The GPSMAP 64sx includes an external antenna and multi-GNSS compatibility for a solid fix and precise tracking.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    It has a 2.6-inch clear screen
    Features a barometric altimeter and a 3-axis compass
    It comes with multi-GNSS compatibility

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Bulky antenna

    What other experts liked

    The GPSMAP 64sx contains all of the functionality of the previous model, plus a few more.
    Navigation Professionell

    What other experts didn't like

    This GPS may be difficult to use for beginners.
    Best Views Reviews
  • Garmin Montana 700i Handheld GPS
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    #5

    Garmin Montana 700i Handheld GPS

    Best Bright 5-Inch Touchscreen Handheld GPS

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Garmin Montana 700i has a bright 5-inch touchscreen. The Montana 700i provides the same ease as a current smartphone, making it easy to scroll through functions and navigate through maps. The Montana’s Gorilla Glass screen is also simple to read in bright sunlight. This hiking handheld GPS has ABC sensors, multi-GNSS compatibility, a comprehensive collection of topographic maps, and inReach technology. In addition, this device’s battery life is 18 hours in GPS mode and 330 hours in expedition mode.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Bright 5-inch touchscreen
    Features inReach technology
    Readable Gorilla Glass screen
    Multi-GNSS compatibility

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Heavy

    What other experts liked

    A powerful portable device with the size and style ideal for installation on an ATV or touring motorbike.
    Gear Lab

    What other experts didn't like

    I found the touch screen to be sluggish and lagging.
    Sa Adventure
  • Garmin eTrex 32x Rugged Handheld GPS
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    #6

    Garmin eTrex 32x Rugged Handheld GPS

    Best Handheld GPS with GLONASS Connection

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Garmin eTrex 32x is a dependable GPS with a water-resistant exterior shell and a 2.2-inch color display. In addition to the current GPS satellite system, the eTrex 32x features a GLONASS connection, Russia’s equivalent of GPS. It enables this GPS to perform consistently in various locations worldwide. Additionally, the built-in barometric altimeter uses air pressure to calculate your altitude accurately. Wireless connection, a clock, an alarm, and an electronic compass are all included in this GPS.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Water-resistant exterior
    It uses a GLONASS connection
    Features built-in barometric altimeter
    Clear display

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    It lacks connectivity

    What other experts liked

    With an altimeter and electronic compass, this lightweight device is one of the most affordable alternatives on the market.
    Gear Lab

    What other experts didn't like

    This GPS has an old interface.
    Outdoor With J
  • Garmin Oregon 700 Handheld GPS
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    #7

    Garmin Oregon 700 Handheld GPS

    Best Handheld GPS with Geocaching Live Support

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Garmin Oregon 700 features a touch screen that can be read in direct sunlight and a handy camera. This GPS has a redesigned antenna for improved reception and increased wireless connection with Active Weather and Geocaching Live support. Moreover, there is plenty of space for map tiles and satellite squares, which can be readily uploaded from your phone. With this hiking handheld GPS, you can power Oregon on two AA batteries or a rechargeable power pack.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Readable screen
    Features Active Weather and Geocaching Live support
    Durable case
    AA batteries or a battery pack option

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Not ideal for rain condition

    What other experts liked

    This is one of the most powerful and user-friendly GPS systems, making it excellent for most outdoor adventures.
    Top Notch Outdoor

    What other experts didn't like

    The 700's battery life is on the short side at 16 hours, but the device has a rather big, bright display.
    Gear Lab
  • Magellan CX0310SGXNA eXplorist 310 Handheld GPS
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    #8

    Magellan CX0310SGXNA eXplorist 310 Handheld GPS

    Best Affordable Handheld GPS

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Magellan eXplorist 310 is an excellent entry-level GPS device. The eXplorist can generate and track routes, mark waypoints, and display your journey progress with tracks, much like a conventional GPS. The eXplorist is geocache-ready and has a great base map covering highways and other geographic features. This GPS is ideal for those seeking inexpensive GPS while providing good geocaching or route-finding on a local route.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Affordable
    Features geocache-ready
    It comes with a great base map

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Old design

    What other experts liked

    The Magellan eXplorist 310 is a competent entry-level handheld with paperless geocaching capabilities.
    GPS Track Log

    What other experts didn't like

    The screen is also small, and the performance is slower than that of most other models.
    Gear Lab
  • Garmin inReach Mini 2 Handheld GPS
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    #9

    Garmin inReach Mini 2 Handheld GPS

    Best Two-Way Satellite Messenger Handheld GPS

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Garmin inReach Mini is a portable GPS device that functions as a two-way satellite messenger. Nonetheless, in an impressively small form, the inReach Mini is more than capable of getting you where you’re going and keeping you in contact with the world while you’re out of cellular range. This hiking handheld GPS has basic navigational functions as well as an integrated GPS receiver. On the other hand, the inReach Mini tracking mode lets you regularly communicate your location to your preferred contacts.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Compact design
    Features inReach technology
    It has basic navigational functions
    Features two-way satellite messenger

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    All communication functions need a paid subscription

    What other experts liked

    The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is the ideal safety companion for all of my distant fly fishing and hiking excursions.

    What other experts didn't like

    It currently does not support seamless messaging.
    Gear Lab
  • Twonav Handheld Gps Cross One Size
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    #10

    Twonav Handheld Gps Cross One Size

    Best Lightweight Handheld GPS

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The TwoNav Cross is compact and lightweight, making it ideal for hiking and cycling. This GP has a touch screen augmented with buttons on each side behind a rubber cover that comes in various colors. When attached to your phone, it enables the SeeMe location broadcasting service. This SeeMe service can also send distance, altitude, heart rate, and other information through email or emergency calls.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Affordable
    Features the SeeMe location broadcasting service
    Compact
    Lightweight

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Not available in North America.

    What other experts liked

    So far, what I've loved most about it is that I can customize it to all of the activities I engage in.

    What other experts didn't like

    Good product but the screen is very small.
    Levi M

Conclusion: Best Handheld GPS for Hiking

When selecting the best hiking GPS device for you, consider the number of satellite systems it can access, battery life, and planned usage. The best handheld GPS for hiking has significant advantages, such as superior durability and much longer battery life. So it will come in handy while hiking. Also, we hope our recommendation can be useful for you in finding the best hiking handheld GPS.

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