5 Best GPS Trackers for Hiking Tours and Cars (2022)

A GPS tracker is the easiest way to keep an eye on your kids and your beloved belongings. The tracker can pinpoint lost objects half a world away, or give you a notification when the tracker leaves a designated area. GPS trackers can also act as additional insurance when placed with valuable packages in transit, giving you peace of mind with your most sensitive shipments.

First, the size of the smart device and overall battery life need to be considered. Depending on what's being tracked, a GPS that can last for weeks without recharging may be required. Second, is the choice in terms of data plans (prices). Some require an existing data plan with another carrier, while others have more flexible options.

Best overall: Jiobit location tracker

Jiobit is one of the smallest and most durable GPS trackers, which can last up to a week on a single charge. The compact size and durability make it an ideal product for users. The chip-sized tags have various accessories to meet the content that needs to be tracked to provide an extra layer of security.

And it only needs to run on its own data network without signing an agreement with other service providers.

The Jiobit app can be used to track almost anything: provide real-time location data, push notifications about the location of the tracker. Even when the phone is too far away from the tracker, it will push tethering notifications.

It is not only a nearly perfect child monitoring device, but also suitable for tracking pets, luggage or other things. Although the price is relatively high, few other similar products can provide such comprehensive functions.

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Battery life: Up to 20 days| Weight: 18g| Waterproof:Yes| Data plan: 8.99/month .

Best for children: Verizon Gizmowatch 2

GizmoWatch 2 is a convenient wearable tracker that can also be used as a child's mobile phone. This wearable device needs to run on Verizon's 4G LTE network, which means it needs to set up a special data plan.

Tracking is done through the GizmoHub App, which can set GPS boundaries and send push notifications when the tracker leaves the preset area. Gizmowatch also has two-way calling for up to 10 contacts and 20 texting functions. In addition to providing tracking and communication, Gizmowatch 2 also has a step counter and waterproof design, making it double as a fitness tracker.

Since GizmoWatch 2 provides more functions than a dedicated GPS tracker, it needs to be charged every four days, but few GPS trackers provide the same level of tracking and communication. The comprehensive feature set and durable structure make Gizmowatch 2 a multi-functional GPS tracker, which is very suitable for children, no matter where they are, they can feel at their fingertips.

_{Battery life: Up to 4 days| Weight: 1.94 ounces| Waterproof:Yes| Data plan: 9.99/month.}

Best for cars: MOTOsafety OBD GPS tracker

regardlesstrack the whereabouts of the children, or to provide additional security for the vehicle, MOTOsafety GPS is an excellent choice. This in-vehicle GPS device connects directly to the location on Google Maps, and the speed and traffic conditions are extremely accurate. Monitor your car's entry and exit in real time with a free mobile app that updates your car's location every 60 seconds. Additionally, the geofencing feature is customizable to set boundaries around key locations and send text or email alerts when vehicles enter or leave specific areas.

The difference between MOTOsafety and other products of the same type lies in its unique features tailor-made for the parents of young drivers.

Daily Report Cards keep children healthy at all times and monitor driving habits such as speed, braking and acceleration. The software also tracks the amount of fuel in the fuel tank. MOTOsafety tracker provides a convenient and flexible payment plan with no activation or cancellation fees, no contract, and only $19.99 per month.

_{Battery life: Unlimited when using OBD power supply| Weight: 2.08 ounces| Waterproof:No| Data plan: 19.99/month.}

Best for Motorcycles: Spytec GL300 Mini Portable Real-Time GPS Tracker

GL300 provides a location update every five seconds, which is ideal for tracking fast-moving vehicles, such as motorcycles. It weighs only 8 ounces and is 3 inches long. It is easily attached to the bottom of the bicycle. It is recommended to use a waterproof case to protect it. Like the other GPS trackers in this article, you can specify a geographic range and set an alarm beyond this range.

The motion detection accelerometer helps extend battery life to approximately two weeks. When the device is used on the road, the battery will automatically turn on; when it is stationary, it will turn off the power. Just pay $25 a month, no activation or cancellation fees.

_{Battery life: Up to 25 days| Weight: 9g| Waterproof:No| Data plan: 24.99/month.}

Best for ships: SPOT Trace anti-theft tracking device

While bulkier and more expensive than the other trackers on this list, this rugged SPOT tracker uses satellite technology for tracking beyond traditional cellular coverage. It can be set to receive updates every 2.5, 5, 10, 30 or 60 minutes and track it on Google Maps. It can also be set to receive alerts via text message or email if the device is low on battery or powered off. (The four included AAA batteries last for six months.)

The SPOT is rated IPX7 for water resistance, which means it is resistant to splashes, rain, showers and accidental exposure to water up to one meter for 30 minutes. Even so, it's best to buy a waterproof case. Required service plans start at $10 per month.

_{Battery life: up to 90 days| Weight: 3.1 ounces| Waterproof:Yes| Data plan: 9.99/month. ($20 activation fee)}

Conclusion

Jiobit tracker is not only applicable For kids, other applications perform well. Although the price may be a bit more expensive than other trackers, the features in terms of persistence and customized notifications are almost second to none. If you need to track large objects, such as cars, boats or RVs, etc., SPOT Trace Anti-Theft Tracking Device may be more in line with your needs.

FAQ

How does GPS track a mobile phone? 

If your phone is lost and you want to track it, the best way is to use the built-in "Find My Phone" feature available on iOS and Android devices. If this function is set on the mobile phone in advance, the location of the lost mobile phone can be narrowed down to a specific street or address. In addition, it can be remotely ringed, locked, and erased.

Is there a monthly GPS tracker?

There are no monthly fees for several GPS trackers in this article. Among them, Yepzon Freedom does not require subscription, and only needs to pay the service fee when using it, including 3G data fee.

What is the best car GPS tracker? 

GPS trackers for cars are a convenient way to track vehicles for fleet management, roadside assistance or general emergency situations. In this regard, the first choice is Sptetc STI GL300MA. Because it has a long-lasting battery life, compact structure, and provides a lifetime warranty. Geo-fences can be set up and can be placed anywhere on the vehicle.

What aspects of the GPS tracker need to be paid attention to

Use

The user needs of GPS trackers are the most important consideration. There are trackers designed for tracking children or the elderly, and GPS designed for tracking luggage or pets.

GPS tracking type

If you plan to use a GPS tracker to track a car or motorcycle, a tracker running on a cellular network may be useful. However, if you are a hiker who likes to stay away from the pedestrians, or want to track a boat, then you may need a device that operates via satellite.

Connection speed

Another problem with GPS trackers is how to actually track them. Most can be connected to smartphones, but how often do they provide location updates? If you want to track someone or want to make sure that your car has not been stolen, you may need to pay an extra fee for a device that is updated more frequently to ensure that the location is as accurate as possible.