Navigation Gear

GPS devices, compasses, maps, and navigation tools for the backcountry

Your phone is great until it's dead, wet, or out of signal. We test dedicated GPS devices, compare navigation apps, and still believe everyone should know how to use a map and compass. Because getting lost in the backcountry isn't a fun way to learn that lesson.

Our Top Picks

Best GPS

Garmin GPSMAP 67i

GPS + inReach satellite. One device does it all.

Best Compass

Suunto MC-2

Mirror sighting, declination adjustment. The standard.

Best App

Gaia GPS Premium

Offline maps, multiple layers, works great.

Navigation Guide

GPS vs Phone vs Map

  • Dedicated GPS: Better battery, rugged, works anywhere. Expensive.
  • Phone + App: You already have it. Download offline maps.
  • Map + Compass: Never runs out of battery. Requires skill.

Our Recommendation

Carry all three. Use your phone primarily (saves GPS battery), dedicated GPS as backup and for SOS, and map/compass when electronics fail. Redundancy isn't overkill in the backcountry.

Price Ranges

Compass: $15-60. GPS device: $200-600. Phone apps: Free-$40/year. A Garmin inReach Mini 2 ($300) provides both GPS and emergency communication.