GPS Handhelds Are Making a Comeback — Here's Why Hikers Are Ditching Phone GPS

Phone GPS apps like AllTrails are great for day hikes near civilization. But for backcountry use, dedicated GPS handhelds have seen a 40% sales increase in 2025-2026. Here's why serious hikers are going back to dedicated devices.

Why Phones Fail in the Backcountry

1. Battery drain: GPS + screen = dead phone in 4-6 hours
2. No cell signal: Offline maps work, but if something goes wrong, your phone is useless for calling help
3. Fragility: Drop a phone on granite and it's done
4. Temperature: Phone batteries die in extreme cold

Our Top GPS Handheld Picks

Best Overall: Garmin GPSMAP 67

The Garmin GPSMAP 67 is the gold standard. Multi-band GPS (dramatically better accuracy in tree cover and canyons), preloaded topo maps, 180-hour battery life in expedition mode, and SOS via inReach satellite communication.

Best Budget: Garmin eTrex SE

The Garmin eTrex SE ($149) strips away the premium features and delivers what matters: multi-band GPS, 168-hour battery life, and Garmin's Explore app integration. No color maps, but you get waypoints, tracks, and breadcrumb navigation.

Best Full-Featured: Garmin Montana 700

The Garmin Montana 700 ($649) is the SUV of GPS handhelds: 5" touchscreen, preloaded satellite imagery, built-in flashlight, and compatibility with every Garmin sensor and accessory. Overkill for day hikes, essential for expedition-level navigation.

Read our full GPS handheld guide →

The Compromise: Phone + Satellite Communicator

If you don't want a full GPS handheld, consider pairing your phone with a Garmin inReach Mini 2 ($299). You keep using your phone for maps and add satellite SOS + messaging for emergencies. Best of both worlds.

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