Providing its user with location, distance, tracking, and route creation, GPS can seem a little bit like magic!
But how does it actually work?
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
Smartphone vs Standalone GPS for Hiking - Which is Best?
Smartphones have replaced a wide variety of standalone gadgets. So do you still need a standalone GPS for hiking?
We look at the pros and cons here >>
What is the Best GPS Watch for Hiking in 2022?
The choice of GPS watches has exploded in the last few years.
However this can be a bit baffling. So we have picked out our favorites >>
Garmin 64s vs 64st vs 64sc GPSMAP Review & Comparison
Garmin’s GPSMAP 64 GPS range are excellent for hikers, but with names like 64s, 64st, and 64sc it is hard to know the difference.
We explain here >>
Magellan vs Garmin - Battle of the GPS Titans
Garmin and Magellan are two of the first brands that come to mind whenever you think of GPS.
But how do their handheld devices for hiking compare?
Garmin Foretrex 401 vs 601 vs 701 Comparison
The Foretrex 401 is a hiking stalwart.However, Garmin has introduced the 601 and 701.
But what are the main differences between them? Find out here >>
Garmin Oregon vs Montana Comparison
Garmin's range of handheld GPS can be a little baffling.
So we look at two of their most similar ranges, Oregon and Montana, and explain the differences.
How to Use a GPS for Hiking
The benefits of using a GPS are obvious, but you might be wondering how to use a GPS for hiking to get the most from your hike.
Find out here >>
Fitness Tracker vs ABC vs a GPS watch for Hiking?
There are a host of features you can get in a GPS enabled watch.
But which do you need and which can you do without? We explain all here >>