The 10 Best Backpacking Gps Watch For 2024

Jonathan Wilson By, Jonathan Wilson
Updated
Best Backpacking Gps Watch
Best Backpacking Gps Watch

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Xiaomi Band 7 Pro Smartwatch

"Step into the future of wearable technology with the Xiaomi Band 7 Pro Smartwatch. Combining cutting-edge features with sleek aesthetics, this smartwatch redefines convenience and comfort, empowering users to stay connected and active with unparalleled ease." Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Garmin Instinct Watch

"Trekking through uncharted terrain? Meet the Garmin Instinct Watch, engineered to brave the harshest conditions while keeping you connected and informed." Read Review

3. Best Adjustable: Apple Watch SE

"The Apple Watch SE is designed to provide you with all the essential features you need to stay motivated, active, connected, and healthy. With the Smart Stack and redesigned apps in watchOS 10, you can easily see more information at a glance." Read Review

4. Best Versatile: SKG Smart Watch

"The SKG Smart Watch is a versatile and practical accessory for everyday use. In addition to its tracking function, this smartwatch is compatible with both Android phones and iPhones, offering a range of useful features." Read Review

5. Best Battery: Amazfit T-Rex Pro Watch

"Embrace the call of the wild with the Amazfit T-Rex Pro Watch, a rugged companion certified to military standards for extreme durability. From tracking your fitness endeavors to enduring the toughest terrains, this smartwatch empowers your active lifestyle." Read Review

Embarking in the wilderness demands reliable gear and enhances your experience. While smartphones may suffice for urban navigation, they falter where the trail gets rugged. This is where the best backpacking GPS watches step in, offering a blend of ruggedness, precision, and utility. Beyond mere timekeeping, these wrist companions boast advanced features like GPS tracking, altimeters, and barometers, empowering outdoor enthusiasts to navigate uncharted territories with confidence.

In the realm of backpacking essentials, the diversity is vast, spanning from lightweight models for minimalist trekkers to robust, feature-packed options for seasoned explorers. Here at Kris Van Assche, we present our recommendations for the best backpacking GPS watches in 2024, accompanied by an in-depth buying guide to help you make an informed choice for your next adventure.

We think the highly recommended product for the best backpacking gps watch is Xiaomi Band 7 Pro Smartwatch. Boasting a vibrant 1.64" full-color square screen, this smartwatch offers a captivating visual experience, allowing users to navigate seamlessly through its features with unparalleled ease. If you need more alternatives and in-depth guidance, you may explore the following.

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TOP Choice #1 Xiaomi Band 7 Pro Smartwatch
Our Score:
9.7
Xiaomi

The Xiaomi Band 7 Pro Smartwatch is a testament to Xiaomi's commitment to innovation and user-centric design. Boasting a vibrant 1.64" full-color square screen, this smartwatch offers a captivating visual experience, allowing users to navigate seamlessly through its features with unparalleled ease. 

The intelligent brightness adjustment feature ensures optimal visibility in any lighting condition, while the metallic luster and full texture design exude elegance and sophistication. The incorporation of an independent GPS module further enhances its functionality, allowing you to accurately track their movement and explore new routes with confidence.

Designed for the modern-day urbanite who values both style and functionality, the Xiaomi Band 7 Pro Smartwatch is the perfect accessory for tech-savvy individuals on the go. While it may be pretty hard to see in the bright sunlight, this smartwatch's overall performance and design make it a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a reliable and stylish companion.

TOP Choice #2 Garmin Instinct Watch
Our Score:
9.6
Garmin

The Garmin Instinct Watch is your steadfast partner in exploration, boasting military-grade durability that laughs in the face of extreme environments. Constructed to U.S. Military standard 810G, it shrugs off thermal extremes, shocks, and water submersion up to 100 meters. Equipped with GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo satellite support, it ensures precise navigation even in remote locales.

Tracking your vital stats becomes effortless with its built-in 3-axis compass, barometric altimeter, and heart rate monitor. Whether it's estimating your heart rate, activity levels, or stress, this watch keeps you informed about your body's performance. With preloaded activity profiles for various exercises, it's your trainer on the go. The TracBack feature also ensures you never lose your way by guiding you back along your original route. Nonetheless, the interface is a bit complicated to use the first time.

If you're an outdoor enthusiast, an adrenaline junkie, or someone who demands reliability in extreme conditions, the Garmin Instinct Watch is your go-to gadget. Whether you're hiking, trail running, or mountaineering, this watch is tailor-made for adventurers who value resilience and connectivity. While it may come at a premium compared to standard smartwatches, its durability and feature-rich design justify the investment.

TOP Choice #3 Apple Watch SE
Our Score:
9.5
Apple

The Apple Watch SE offers a comprehensive suite of features catering to every lifestyle aspect. With the latest watchOS 10, the Apple Watch SE introduces many improvements, including enhanced workout metrics and redesigned apps that provide a seamless user experience.

This device does everything from tracking your daily activity to staying connected with loved ones with style and precision. It also includes advanced health and safety features such as Fall Detection and Emergency SOS, ensuring you're always prepared for whatever life throws your way. Nevertheless, it may require daily charging to maintain optimal functionality.

The Apple Watch SE is perfect for individuals who demand the best functionality, style, and connectivity. Whether you're a busy professional who needs to stay on top of your schedule, a fitness enthusiast looking to track your workouts more effectively, or someone who simply wants a stylish accessory that complements your lifestyle, this smartwatch is tailor-made for you. 

4 SKG Smart Watch
Our Score:
9.4
SKG

The SKG Smart Watch provides many features designed to support your active lifestyle. With its unique design and stylish appearance, this smartwatch looks great on your wrist and provides accurate tracking of your workouts. Whether running, cycling, skating or simply walking, the SKG Smart Watch has you covered with its 21 sports modes and GPS route-tracking capabilities.

Beyond exercise, it excels in health monitoring, providing 24/7 heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and sleep quality tracking. The IP68 waterproof rating ensures durability, allowing you to wear it in any environment without worry. The only downside is that it is quite hard to navigate initially, but you can get used to it after some use.

The SKG Smart Watch is perfect for individuals who lead active lifestyles and seek a reliable companion to help them achieve their fitness goals. With its sleek design, long-lasting battery life, and comprehensive tracking capabilities, it's the perfect companion for anyone looking to take their health and wellness to the next level.

5 Amazfit T-Rex Pro Watch
Our Score:
9.3
Amazfit

Designed to conquer the elements, the Amazfit T-Rex Pro Watch is your resilient partner for any adventure. With military-grade certification, it braves high heat, humidity, and bone-chilling cold without breaking a sweat. Its long-lasting battery ensures uninterrupted activity for up to 18 days on a single charge.

Equipped with a customizable touchscreen boasting an array of watch faces, this smartwatch offers both durability and style. Its advanced fitness features, including heart rate and VO2 monitoring, inform you about your performance. Plus, it can simply sync with Strava, Adidas Running, Apple Health, Google Fit, Relive, and Komoot to record and share health, step, and fitness information.

For outdoor enthusiasts and fitness aficionados seeking a durable yet feature-rich smartwatch, the Amazfit T-Rex Pro is a worthy investment. One minor drawback is that syncing training logs with Android devices can be a bit cumbersome. However, once properly configured, you can enjoy uninterrupted access to their workout data on their preferred devices.

6 Apple Watch Series 9
Our Score:
9.2
Apple

The Apple Watch Series 9 enhances the standard for smartwatches with its cutting-edge features and sleek design. Powered by the S9 chip, it delivers a vibrant display and intuitive interactions, setting a new benchmark for user experience. Advanced health monitoring capabilities, including blood oxygen sensing and ECG functionality, provide invaluable insights into your well-being.

Stay connected on the go with cellular connectivity, allowing you to make calls, send texts, and stream music without your iPhone nearby. This product also has innovative safety features like Fall Detection and Emergency SOS, adding an extra layer of reassurance for peace of mind. However, while the magnetic charger is convenient, the wall adapter is not included.

For individuals who prioritize cutting-edge technology, seamless integration with Apple devices, and comprehensive health tracking, the Apple Watch Series 9 is a must-have accessory. While its price is higher than other models, its feature-rich design and impeccable build quality justify the investment for those who demand the best.

7 Garmin Forerunner 55 Watch
Our Score:
9.1
Garmin

Equipped with wrist-based heart rate monitoring and GPS tracking, this watch keeps tabs on your distance, pace, and route with impressive accuracy. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or a casual jogger, its intuitive design and user-friendly interface make it a breeze to navigate through your runs. The PacePro feature offers invaluable insights into your race strategy, providing GPS-based pace guidance tailored to your selected course or distance.

Moreover, this watch offers suggested workouts based on your training history and fitness level, ensuring every session counts towards your goals. With a battery life of up to 2 weeks in smartwatch mode and 20 hours in GPS mode, you can push your limits without worrying about running out of juice. However, the screen is susceptible to scratches, so you need to use it carefully.

If you're a dedicated runner looking to enhance your training regimen without breaking the bank, the Garmin Forerunner 55 Watch is tailor-made for you. Whether you're gearing up for your first 5K or aiming to shave seconds off your personal best, this watch provides the essential tools and insights to help you crush your goals. 

8 Fitpolo Smart Watch
Our Score:
8.9
Fitpolo

The Fitpolo Smart Watch is a powerhouse wearable designed to keep pace with your active lifestyle. Harnessing the power of Amazon Alexa, this smartwatch puts the world at your fingertips, allowing you to control music playback, check the weather, set alarms, and even make calls – all with just your voice.

Furthermore, this watch excels in health tracking, monitoring your heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and sleep patterns around the clock. With over 100 sports modes and an IP68 waterproof rating, it's your ultimate fitness companion. The vibrant 1.8-inch full-touch screen, coupled with 100 customizable watch faces, ensures a personalized and immersive experience. While the sensors may occasionally lag, it's a minor trade-off for the wealth of features packed into this sleek wearable.

For the modern multitasker who refuses to compromise on functionality or style, the Fitpolo Smart Watch is a game-changer. With its affordable price point, it's the perfect companion for anyone seeking a versatile wearable that delivers both performance and convenience.

9 LIVIKEY Smart Watch
Our Score:
8.7
LIVIKEY

Elevate your fitness journey with the LIVIKEY Smart Watch, a cutting-edge wearable that seamlessly blends style with functionality. Boasting real-time heart rate monitoring, SpO2 detection, and sleep analysis, this smartwatch provides comprehensive insights into your health and wellness. With support for 14 sports modes and GPS tracking, it's your ultimate workout companion, keeping you motivated and informed every step of the way.

The IP68 waterproof rating ensures durability and versatility, allowing you to tackle any activity confidently. From call and message notifications to customizable watch faces, this smartwatch caters to your every need effortlessly. However, it's essential to avoid wearing the watch too tightly for prolonged use to prevent skin irritation.

If you're seeking a stylish yet functional smartwatch that seamlessly integrates into your active lifestyle, look no further than the LIVIKEY Smart Watch. With the price tag of only 21,99$, it's a must-have accessory for anyone looking to prioritize their health and wellness without compromising style.

10 COROS PACE 3 Watch
Our Score:
8.5
COROS

The COROS PACE 3 Watch seamlessly blends a lightweight design with robust functionality. Its super-light, 11.7mm body coupled with a mere 30g weight ensures unparalleled comfort throughout extended wear. Perfect for day-to-night use, this watch boasts an always-on 1.2" transflective touchscreen display that offers three distinct modes, including Navigation and Activity Interface, ensuring effortless interaction in any setting. Unfortunately, the font display is slightly small, but it is not a big deal.

Furthermore, its extended battery life sets a new benchmark, granting you up to 38 hours of continuous GPS use and an impressive 17 days of daily use on a single charge. Meanwhile, its accurate GPS with Dual-Frequency capability ensures precise tracking even in densely populated urban areas, making it a reliable companion for outdoor enthusiasts and city dwellers. 

If you're an avid fitness enthusiast seeking a lightweight yet durable companion for your active lifestyle, the COROS PACE 3 Watch is ideal for your needs. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a casual jogger, its extensive activity modes and accurate GPS tracking make it an indispensable tool for achieving your fitness goals. 

What Tips Are Recommended To Recognize Which Of best backpacking gps watch Will Satisfy You Most?

Some people are apprehensive about purchasing best backpacking gps watch. Numerous factors must be addressed while making a significant purchase. Our market expertise will help you make the best decision as soon as possible.

The thing has been added to the list of products that have been subjected to technical testing and evaluation. Please keep the following points in mind:

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Battery Life

Traditional watches are typically powered by a replaceable watch battery, kinetic energy, or solar charging. On the other hand, smartwatches require a significant amount of energy to support various advanced features like GPS tracking, music storage, and fitness tracking, so they are usually equipped with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. If you intend to use a smartwatch for activities like long hikes that require continuous GPS tracking, it is important to choose one with a long battery life and GPS battery life.

Heart Rate Monitor

Nearly every watch includes a heart rate monitor that continuously tracks your heart rate. This information can be utilized to measure how hard you are working. A heightened heart rate indicates increased effort. Certain hikers monitor their heart rate closely in order to maintain a low level of exertion while walking. This heart rate data enables them to walk at a slower pace for a longer period of time, rather than overexerting themselves early on in a hike. Additionally, heart rate is indicative of your general health - a sudden increase could be a signal that you are beginning to feel unwell.

Altimeter

The altimeter in a watch is utilized to track altitude while ascending, aiding in determining one's location on a map. Some watches come equipped with a barometric altimeter that gauges atmospheric pressure, with lower pressure indicating higher elevation. These barometers can measure altitudes ranging from -2,000 to 30,000 feet and are typically accurate within +/- 50 feet.

For watches lacking a barometric altimeter, altitude can be estimated using GPS data. However, the measurements from the altimeter sensor are generally more precise than those derived from GPS coordinates. GPS accuracy is contingent upon signal strength, and any interference with the signal can also impact the barometer's readings.

Compass

Most GPS watches now come equipped with a digital compass that can assist you in determining your general direction. Some have a 2D compass that needs to be held horizontally, while others have a 3D compass that functions in any position. While a watch-based compass can aid in walking in a specific direction, it is not as precise or compatible with maps as a baseplate compass.

Barometer

The main purpose of a barometer on a watch is to track changes in air pressure, which can help determine elevation and predict approaching storms. Simple barometers display atmospheric readings, while more advanced watches show a visual representation of pressure changes. Some watches also have a storm alarm to warn of significant pressure drops. When pressure falls quickly, it's a good idea to seek shelter or prepare for severe weather.

GPS

A GPS-enabled watch contains a receiver that can connect to multiple satellite systems, ensuring a strong signal even in challenging conditions. Accuracy of GPS is within 3 meters when a strong signal is obtained, but obstacles like dense forest cover or deep ravines can hinder connection. It is ideal to have an unobstructed view of the sky for optimal signal strength. A strong GPS signal is crucial for real-time tracking and orienteering while hiking, allowing you to know your location and navigate effectively. GPS can also record position data for the entire hike, including distance, time taken, and elevation change, which can be saved and analyzed later.

 

FAQs

What is a backpacking GPS watch?

A backpacking GPS watch is a wearable device that tracks your location using GPS technology. It is designed for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, backpacking, and other outdoor activities.

How does a backpacking GPS watch work?

A backpacking GPS watch uses satellite signals to determine your location and track your movements. It can provide you with real-time data on your distance, speed, elevation, and routes.

What are the benefits of using a backpacking GPS watch?

Some benefits of using a backpacking GPS watch include accurate navigation, tracking your progress, monitoring your fitness metrics, and staying safe in the wilderness.

Can I use a backpacking GPS watch without a phone?

Yes, most backpacking GPS watches can be used independently without a phone. However, some features, such as receiving notifications or syncing data, may require a smartphone connection.

How long does the battery last on a backpacking GPS watch?

The battery life of a backpacking GPS watch can vary depending on the model and usage. Some watches can last for several days on a single charge, while others may need to be recharged more frequently.

Is a backpacking GPS watch waterproof?

Many backpacking GPS watches are water-resistant or waterproof, making them suitable for outdoor activities in various weather conditions. However, it is important to check the manufacturer's specifications for the watch's water resistance rating.

 


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About Jonathan Wilson

Jonathan Wilson

Jonathan Wilson is a former pro football player and tech reporter who now serves as the editor of Kris Van Assche's website. He is a dedicated fitness enthusiast who splits his workout time between strength and conditioning training, martial arts and running.

Jonathan's athletic career began in college, where he was a star running back. He went on to play professionally for several years before injuries forced him to retire. Afterward, Jonathan transitioned into a career in tech reporting, where he quickly made a name for himself as a knowledgeable and insightful commentator on the industry.

In addition to his work with our website, Jonathan remains active in the world of sports. He regularly competes in martial arts tournaments and running events, and he is always looking for new ways to challenge himself physically. Jonathan is an inspiration to many people, and he is proof that it is never too late to pursue your passions.

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