A travel GPS system is good to have if you like to go on hiking trips, for example into the woods or to the mountains. We often hear about hikers that never came back or mountain climbers that just disappeared. If these people would have had a hiking GPS, this would probably not have happened. There are plenty of sites on the internet reviewing travel or hiking GPS, showing each models specific features and benefits.

Before you purchase a GPS unit you should figure out what kind of GPS tracking device you need for your outback activities.

The first thing to figure out is the map of the GPS unit covers the area you want to go explore. If it doesn’t, it won’t provide you with any value whatsoever. Some of the travel or hiking GPS systems have different maps as a downloadable feature. A few models even offer downloads of topographical maps, a very convenient benefit if you travel in rugged wilderness. Simpler GPS units give you the basics only, such as longitude and latitude but you have to carry a printed map and determine the location yourself.

Size and Weight

Look for a GPS system that is easy to bring on your trip, if it’s too cumbersome it’s useless. For these types of GPS, weight and size are the most critical features. I recommend that you chose a travel GPS tracking device that is light in weight and small enough to bring with you wherever you go. This requirement is absolute. Then you can chose models that also have the other features that you want.

Battery Life

The lifetime of the battery is also an important factor when choosing the right hiking GPS for your outdoor activities. If you are a typical camper using a generator or R.V. and are only keen on taking small hikes lasting a couple of hours, battery life is not an issue.
However, if you are out backing for several days, for example on a mountain climb, the life of the battery is crucial. As a rule of thumb look for a GPS with battery life twice as long as you consider needed without charging. If you do everything will be fine. Although a long battery life is good, it has to be balanced with weight and size.

Some Other Features That’s Great To Have

Now it’s time to figure out some other non-critical features that you like and find cool to have. It goes without saying that colored screens are easier to read than the simpler black & white ones. Many hiking GPS systems can track your path, which make it easy for you to find your way back as well as telling you how far you have yet to go. You can also get travel GPS units with information on Sun/Moon cycles, hunting/fishing cycles, etc. More and more other features are being added continuously.