There are plenty of tools and technologies today to keep us safe and connected in our daily lives. Cars come equipped with satellites to help us find the best driving route. Phones pinpoint our location and allow us to keep in touch with others. Tracking devices, like Apple AirTags and even dog collars, notify us about where our luggage/valuables and loved ones are at all times of day.

Bringing a reliable GPS device on a hike, hunt, paddle trip, or even a casual outing will boost your comfort level and confidence when out of cell range. These gadgets help steer you in the right direction when you're uncertain and allow you to communicate with folks (family, friends, and even rescue teams) back home. Whether you’re a backcountry enthusiast or an outdoors beginner, GPS devices serve the important purpose of keeping you safe—wherever your adventures take you.

There are a wide variety of GPS options on the market each with unique features and functions. The Bushnell BackTrack Mini GPS, for instance, will cost you around $70 and covers the basics of what you need to stay on route while exploring. It doesn't have the bells and whistles of two-way communication, detailed topography maps, and extended battery life like other top picks in our recommendations, like the handheld Garmin GPSMAP 67i ($600) or Garmin Fenix 7X Solar ($800) smartwatch.