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Total Hiker > Hiking Gear > GPS

Handheld GPS Devices For Hiking

GPS devices are built with the ability to communicate with satellites to give you your position to a remarkably high degree of accuracy.

Dedicated Hiking GPS units have a variety of benefits over using a smartphone on a hike. For instance, the GPS is built for the rough environment and won't break as easily if dropped on a rock or you slip over.

They also provide a longer battery life, while also giving the option to replace the depleted batteries en route.

What to expect from a Hiking GPS unit?

  • It is built with a solid housing that is strong and waterproof
  • It has long-life batteries and spares are available
  • It has an easy-to-read screen that is viewable in bright and low-light conditions
  • A graphic map and latitude/longitude data (some only display the numerical data)
  • A route can be planned by entering waypoints
  • It has the ability to connect to several satellites (up to 15 or more on some models)
  • It should be lightweight and easy to carry
  • It has the option to accept multiple maps

Latest Posts on GPS Hiking Devices

How To Choose A Gps Device For Hiking

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However this can be a bit baffling. So we have picked out our favorites >>

January 20, 2023

How Does GPS Work

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Providing its user with location, distance, tracking, and route creation, GPS can seem a little bit like magic!

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Smartphone vs Standalone GPS for Hiking

Smartphone vs Standalone GPS for Hiking – Which is Best?

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July 25, 2022

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