Introduction
Veteran and expert hikers would say that you should go camping or hiking in an area that you know pretty well. However, if you’re an adventure lover, you can always rely on your GPS to guide you to and through a new hiking site.
Thanks to technology, long gone are the days of using maps for hiking.
So before we talk about how to choose a gps for hiking, we will first talk about what a GPS is and how is it a revolutionary technology, and how as a hiker, you can use the technology for your benefit.
What Is A GPS?
GPS stands for Global Positioning System. It is a navigation system that uses satellites to provide location and time information to receivers on the ground.
The technology was first used by the US military in the 1960s, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that GPS became available for civilian use.
GPS is now used in a variety of applications, including mapping, surveying, land management, fleet tracking, and of course, navigation.
GPS is used in all sorts of navigation devices, from our phones to planes in the sky. It is now also an essential part of smartwatches that use the technology to track your steps!
How Does GPS Work?
A GPS receiver uses information from a minimum of four satellites to calculate its position. The satellite signals are transmitted to the receiver where they are processed to calculate the three-dimensional position (latitude, longitude, and altitude) as well as the precise time.
The technology has become incredibly accurate over the years, with modern GPS receivers able to pinpoint locations within a couple of meters.
How Can Hikers Use GPS?
One obvious benefit of having a GPS device while hiking is that it can help you navigate through trails and backcountry areas you may be unfamiliar with. You can also use it to store your camping and other hiking-related locations so that you have them handy when you need them.
With access to satellite imagery and topographical maps, a good GPS can act as a powerful tool for planning routes and exploring new trails.
How To Choose A Gps For Hiking?
So now that we know more about what exactly a GPS is, how does one choose the best one for their hiking needs? Let’s take a look at some of the top features to consider:
- Ease of Use
- Accuracy and Reliability
- Preloaded Maps
- Battery Life
- Water Resistance
- Other Features such as connectivity, durability, and size/weight considerations
To choose the best GPS for hiking, you should consider factors such as ease of use, accuracy and reliability, preloaded maps, battery life, water-resistance, and other features such as connectivity, durability, and size/weight considerations. Some popular options include the Garmin eTrex 30x GPS Navigator or the Suunto Ambit 3 Sports Watch with GPS Navigation & Heart Rate Monitor.’
Choosing a GPS is not as easy as it seems, but with these tips in mind, you can find one that will help make your hikes more enjoyable and safe!
Best Hiking GPS In The Market
Looking for a high-quality GPS device to help you navigate through your next hiking adventure? Check out our top picks for the best GPS for hiking!
Here are our top picks for the best GPS for hiking:
1. Garmin eTrex 30x GPS Navigator
2. Suunto Ambit 3 Sports Watch with GPS Navigation & Heart Rate Monitor
3. Bushnell BackTrack D-Tour Personal Locator Beacon
4. Spot Gen3 Satellite GPS Messenger
5. DeLorme inReach Explorer+ Satellite Communicator
6. Garmin Oregon 650t GPS and GLONASS Receiver
7. Magellan eXplorist 610 Waterproof Hiking GPS
8. Columbia River Knife and Tool (CRKT) Moxie Compact Folder Knife
9. Leatherman Signal Multi-Tool
10. Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Survival Kit
Since the Garmin eTrex 30x GPS Navigator is one of the best hiking GPS out there, we will talk about it in more detail.
Garmin eTrex 30x GPS Navigator
A GPS is a great tool to take when you go hiking as it helps you find your way and stay safe on the trails. However, choosing the right product can be tricky as there are many options available on the market. In this article, we will provide you with information about one of the top products on the market – Garmin eTrex 30x GPS Navigator. This device has many useful features like an upgraded display, a compass, a barometric altimeter, and much more that will help you stay safe while hiking.
The first thing that makes Garmin eTrex 30x stand out from other similar devices is its color display. It is easy to see even in direct sunlight so you can easily access all the information provided by the GPS. The second thing that we liked about this product is its compact size – it fits perfectly in your pocket so you can take it with you anywhere.
Another great feature of the Garmin eTrex 30x is its barometric altimeter. This will come in handy if you need to know your current elevation or if you are planning a hike through mountainous terrain. The compass is also a very useful feature, especially if you get lost while hiking. Overall, we think that Garmin eTrex 30x is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and user-friendly GPS device.
Conclusion
When looking for a GPS unit for hiking, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. One of the most important considerations is accuracy and reliability, as you want to make sure that your device will provide accurate and up-to-date directional data no matter where you are or what type of terrain you are navigating.
In addition, it is also important to consider battery life and features such as water resistance, as these will help ensure that you stay safe and comfortable throughout your journeys.
And finally, it is also essential to choose a unit with an intuitive interface, as this will make it easier to navigate and use the device in challenging conditions.
By considering all of these factors when shopping for a GPS unit for hiking, you can be confident that you will find the right tool for your needs.
