10 Best Compact GPS Trackers for Hunting: Stay on Track and Find Your Game

Written by: Editor In Chief
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When you’re out in the wilderness hunting, staying oriented can be a challenge. A compact GPS tracker can be your best ally, helping you navigate tricky terrains and locate your game efficiently. With various options available, from discreet models to specialized bundles, it’s essential to choose the right one for your needs. Let’s explore the top contenders that can enhance your hunting experience and keep you connected in the great outdoors.

Tracki Pro GPS Tracker for Vehicles

If you’re a hunter looking for a reliable way to keep track of your vehicle, the Tracki Pro GPS Tracker for Vehicles is an excellent choice. This compact, undetectable device features a strong magnet, making it easy to hide under your vehicle. It delivers real-time GPS updates, so you can monitor your car’s location remotely. Plus, you’ll receive alerts for speed, movement, and more via email or app. With a battery life of up to 7 months and a durable, waterproof design, it’s perfect for long-term use. Enjoy global coverage across 180 countries, ensuring you stay connected wherever your hunting adventures take you.

Best For: Hunters and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a reliable and discreet way to track their vehicles during adventures.

Pros:

  • Real-time GPS updates allow for remote monitoring of vehicle location.
  • Long battery life of up to 7 months, ensuring extended use without frequent recharging.
  • Rugged and waterproof design makes it suitable for various outdoor conditions.

Cons:

  • May require a subscription for full access to tracking features.
  • The compact size could make it easy to lose if not securely mounted.
  • Initial setup may be challenging for those unfamiliar with GPS technology.

Garmin 010-00970-00 eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS Navigator

The Garmin 010-00970-00 eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS Navigator stands out as an ideal companion for hunters who need reliable, precise navigation in rugged environments. With its high-sensitivity GPS receiver and WAAS support, you’ll experience fast positioning even in challenging terrain. The waterproof design keeps it safe from splashes and rain, allowing you to focus on your hunt. The 2.2-inch monochrome display makes navigation easy, and with a battery life of up to 20 hours, it’s built to last. Plus, you can store waypoints and view elevation points, ensuring you stay on track to find your game.

Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts and hunters seeking a reliable and durable GPS navigator for rugged terrain.

Pros:

  • High-sensitivity GPS receiver with WAAS and GLONASS support for fast and accurate positioning.
  • Waterproof to IPX7 standards, ensuring protection against splashes and rain.
  • Long battery life of up to 20 hours, allowing for extended use during outdoor activities.

Cons:

  • Monochrome display may be less appealing compared to color screens in other models.
  • Limited mapping capabilities with only a preloaded worldwide basemap.
  • Requires two AA batteries, which may not be as convenient as built-in rechargeable options.

Garmin Alpha 200 GPS Handheld & Tracking Collar Bundle

For avid hunters seeking a reliable tracking solution, the Garmin Alpha 200 GPS Handheld & Tracking Collar Bundle stands out with its high-resolution touchscreen and advanced tracking capabilities. This complete package includes the Alpha 200 handheld device and the TT25 tracking collar, ensuring you stay connected with your hunting companions. The bundle also features a screen saver, orange rubber case for protection, and an orange lanyard for easy carrying. Plus, the USB-C splitter allows simultaneous charging of both devices. With Bluetooth connectivity and special wireless display features, you’re set for a successful hunting experience.

Best For: Avid hunters looking for a reliable and advanced GPS tracking solution for their hunting expeditions.

Pros:

  • High-resolution touchscreen for easy navigation and control during hunts.
  • Complete bundle includes everything needed for tracking, enhancing convenience.
  • Bluetooth connectivity allows for wireless display features and seamless integration with other devices.

Cons:

  • Higher price point compared to basic GPS units may not be suitable for casual users.
  • Learning curve associated with advanced features may require time to master.
  • Dependence on battery life for both handheld and collar may limit usage duration without recharging.

LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker

When it comes to tracking your hunting activities, the LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker stands out with its ultra-compact design and long battery life, making it an ideal choice for serious hunters. This device offers accurate global location tracking, real-time alerts, and geofencing capabilities. You can track movements using the SilverCloud App, with location updates every 3 seconds and historical playback for up to a year. It’s waterproof and features a built-in magnet for discreet attachment. With an unconditional lifetime warranty and affordable subscription plans starting at $9.95/month, you can rely on the LandAirSea 54 to keep you connected in the field.

Best For: Serious hunters looking for a reliable and compact GPS tracking solution to monitor their activities in real-time.

Pros:

  • Long battery life with motion-activated sleep mode to conserve power.
  • Waterproof design ensures durability in various weather conditions.
  • Unconditional lifetime warranty provides peace of mind regarding manufacturing defects.

Cons:

  • Subscription required for tracking services, adding to the overall cost.
  • Monthly plans can be relatively expensive compared to prepaid options.
  • Requires internet access for real-time tracking and updates through the app.

Trak-4 GPS Tracker for Vehicles and Assets

Equipped with a durable, waterproof design, the Trak-4 GPS Tracker is an ideal choice for hunters who need reliable tracking of their vehicles and equipment in rugged environments. Measuring just 3.9 x 1.8 x 1.25 inches, it boasts a long battery life of 12–18 months per charge. With unlimited distance tracking via 4G LTE, you can keep tabs on your assets anywhere. Installation is straightforward, thanks to versatile mounting options. Plus, you’ll enjoy real-time alerts and a user-friendly app for tracking speed and movement. With a lifetime warranty and friendly support, you’re covered every step of the way.

Best For: Hunters and outdoor enthusiasts seeking reliable tracking of their vehicles and equipment in rugged environments.

Pros:

  • Durable and waterproof design ensures reliability in tough conditions.
  • Long battery life of 12–18 months minimizes the need for frequent recharging.
  • User-friendly app provides real-time alerts and easy tracking of speed and movement.

Cons:

  • Requires a low-cost subscription, which may be an additional expense.
  • Indoor tracking performance can be limited in fully metal structures.
  • Some users may need assistance with installation depending on their mounting preferences.

Spytec Atlas GPS Tracker for Vehicles & Kids

The Spytec Atlas GPS Tracker is an ideal choice for parents who want peace of mind while their kids are out and about. Its compact design makes it perfect for tracking vehicles, seniors, and even boats. With a waterproof magnetic case, you don’t have to worry about the elements. Enjoy a battery life of up to 14 days and real-time tracking updated every 5 seconds. The geofencing feature alerts you when your child enters or leaves designated areas, while speed notifications keep teen drivers in check. With 4G SIM coverage, you can track globally using the user-friendly app on your smartphone.

Best For: Parents looking for a reliable and compact GPS tracking solution for their kids, vehicles, and other assets.

Pros:

  • Compact and durable design with a waterproof magnetic case for versatile usage in various environments.
  • Real-time tracking capabilities with updates every 5 seconds and an advanced Time Machine feature for historical tracking.
  • Customizable geofencing alerts and speed notifications to ensure safety and monitor driving habits.

Cons:

  • Requires a subscription plan starting at $14.95/month for full functionality.
  • Limited battery life of up to 14 days may require frequent recharging for extended use.
  • Dependent on cellular network coverage, which may vary in remote areas or during poor signal conditions.

AMERICALOC GPS Tracker GL300 MXW Series

If you’re looking for a reliable GPS tracker to enhance your hunting experience, the AMERICALOC GPS Tracker GL300 MXW Series stands out with its no-subscription-required model, allowing you to pay as you go. This tracker comes with a magnetic case for easy attachment and offers three months of premium tracking for free. After that, it’s just $19.98 a month or $17.98 if you opt for annual billing. With features like movement detection, unlimited alerts via Text, WhatsApp, and Email, and exceptional battery life, you’ll stay connected and informed, ensuring you never lose track of your game.

Best For: Hunters and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a reliable, subscription-free GPS tracking solution.

Pros:

  • No subscription required, allowing for a flexible pay-as-you-go model.
  • Comes with a magnetic case for easy attachment to various surfaces.
  • Offers three months of free premium tracking, providing excellent initial value.

Cons:

  • Monthly service fee after the free period can add up over time.
  • May not be ideal for users who require additional advanced features not included in the basic package.
  • Limited to tracking capabilities, which may not suit all user needs beyond basic GPS tracking.

Americaloc LLX GPS Tracker (Compact & Waterproof)

For hunters seeking a reliable way to track their gear or vehicles, the Americaloc LLX GPS Tracker stands out with its compact, waterproof design. This magnetic device is easy to place discreetly, ensuring it won’t interfere with your hunting experience. With an impressive battery life exceeding two months on intensive tracking, you won’t worry about frequent recharging. The tracker sends unlimited alerts for movement, parking, speeding, and tampering, keeping your assets secure. Plus, you can access real-time tracking from any device using the dedicated app. At just $19.98 a month, it’s a cost-effective solution for all your tracking needs.

Best For: The Americaloc LLX GPS Tracker is best for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a reliable and discreet way to track their gear and vehicles.

Pros:

  • Compact and waterproof design for easy placement and durability in outdoor conditions.
  • Long battery life lasting over 2 months on intensive tracking, reducing the need for frequent recharges.
  • Unlimited alerts for various activities (movement, parking, speeding, tampering) enhance security and peace of mind.

Cons:

  • Monthly service fee may add up over time, especially for long-term use.
  • Some users may find the magnetic attachment less secure for certain applications.
  • Tracking accuracy may vary based on environmental factors and location.

AutoSky GPS Tracker – Small Portable with 4G LTE Real-Time Tracking

Looking for a reliable tracking solution while hunting? The AutoSky GPS Tracker is your answer. This small, portable device features 4G LTE real-time tracking, ensuring you never lose sight of your game. Its splashproof design and built-in magnet make it easy to attach discreetly to metal surfaces. With the AutoSky+ App, you can monitor movements on both iOS and Android devices and adjust tracking intervals. Plus, the long battery life of up to two weeks means you won’t be scrambling for a recharge. Subscription plans start at just $16.99 a month, making it an affordable choice for any hunter.

Best For: The AutoSky GPS Tracker is best for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and discreet tracking solution for their game and equipment.

Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight design for easy portability and concealment.
  • Long battery life of up to two weeks, reducing the need for frequent recharges.
  • User-friendly AutoSky+ App allows for real-time tracking and adjustable intervals on both iOS and Android devices.

Cons:

  • Subscription required, starting at $16.99 per month, which may add to overall costs.
  • Limited to tracking within North and South America, which may not suit international users.
  • Splashproof design may not be fully waterproof, posing a risk in heavy rain conditions.

Handheld GPS Navigator for Hiking

A rugged and waterproof design makes the handheld GPS navigator an essential tool for hikers who crave adventure in diverse environments. Its compact and lightweight build, combined with anti-slip features, guarantees you can grip it securely during your trek. The 3.2″ sunlight-readable screen allows for easy viewing, even in bright conditions. With multi-GNSS support offering location precision within 6 feet, plus a 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter, you’ll always find your way. The rechargeable battery lasts up to 36 hours, and it’s water-resistant to IP66, making it reliable in any weather. Preloaded USA Topo maps enhance your hiking experience!

Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts and hikers looking for a reliable, rugged GPS navigator to enhance their adventures in various terrains.

Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry on long hikes.
  • Multi-GNSS support ensures superior positional accuracy and reliability.
  • Long battery life of up to 36 hours allows for extended use without frequent recharging.

Cons:

  • Screen size may be small for users who prefer larger displays for navigation.
  • Limited internal memory of 32 GB may restrict the number of additional maps that can be stored.
  • Water-resistant design may not be suitable for extreme underwater conditions despite its IP66 rating.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Compact GPS Tracker for Hunting

When choosing a compact GPS tracker for hunting, you’ll want to think about several key factors. Size and weight can impact your comfort, while battery life and durability are essential for long outings. Additionally, features like real-time tracking and waterproof design can make a big difference in your hunting experience.

Size and Weight Considerations

Choosing the right size and weight for a compact GPS tracker is essential for a successful hunting experience. Aim for a tracker that weighs less than 10 ounces; this keeps it lightweight and prevents discomfort during your hunt. Ideally, look for models around 3 to 4 inches long, allowing for discreet placement on your gear or within your clothing without restricting your movement. A design weighing under 5 ounces is particularly beneficial for long outings, minimizing fatigue. Many trackers fit comfortably in the palm of your hand, enhancing portability. Finally, opt for a slim profile so it can be easily concealed or mounted on various gear without drawing attention, ensuring you stay focused on your game.

Battery Life Durability

Battery life and durability are essential factors that can make or break your hunting experience. When choosing a compact GPS tracker, consider the battery life; some devices can last up to 7 months on a single charge, while others may only last a few weeks. Durability is vital too, so look for ruggedized, waterproof trackers that can withstand tough outdoor conditions. Features like motion-activated sleep modes can help extend battery life when the tracker isn’t in use. Real-time alerts for low battery status are also a smart choice, ensuring you can recharge or replace it before critical moments. Finally, opt for a lightweight design, as it won’t add unnecessary bulk to your gear while you’re out in the field.

Real-Time Tracking Features

After ensuring your GPS tracker has a long-lasting battery and robust durability, it’s time to focus on the real-time tracking features that can enhance your hunting experience. Look for trackers that provide continuous location updates, sometimes every few seconds, so you can stay informed. Consider devices that send real-time alerts via SMS, email, or dedicated apps, ensuring you get crucial information no matter where you are. Some advanced trackers even notify you if your companion exceeds a set speed limit, adding an extra layer of safety during your outings. Additionally, check if the tracker offers historical tracking, allowing you to review movement patterns over time, which can help improve your future hunts.

Geofencing Capabilities

When you’re out in the field, having geofencing capabilities in your compact GPS tracker can greatly enhance your hunting experience. These features let you set custom boundaries on a map, alerting you when your tracker enters or exits these areas. Many devices provide real-time notifications through SMS, email, or app alerts, improving both safety and tracking efficiency. Some trackers even allow you to create multiple geofences, so you can monitor different spots simultaneously during your trip. Advanced options may include speed notifications, warning you if the tracked object exceeds a set speed while crossing a boundary. The effectiveness of geofencing depends on GPS accuracy, with top trackers using multiple satellite systems for precise location tracking.

Waterproof and Rugged Design

Having a reliable GPS tracker is only half the battle; its design features play a significant role in its effectiveness during your hunting trips. Look for a tracker with a waterproof design, preferably with an IPX7 rating, so it can handle splashes and rain without fail. Rugged construction is also vital, protecting the device from impacts and harsh conditions you might encounter in the field. A compact size allows for easy attachment to your gear or clothing, keeping it unobtrusive yet functional. Additionally, consider trackers with motion-activated technology to conserve battery life and guarantee longevity during extended outings. A long battery life, ideally lasting several months on a single charge, is essential when recharging opportunities are scarce.

Subscription Costs and Plans

How do you choose the right subscription plan for your compact GPS tracker? Start by examining the costs, which can range from about $9.95 to $19.98 per month, depending on features and coverage. If you’re looking for savings, consider committing to longer plans; some options drop to as low as $6.99 monthly for annual subscriptions. Remember that many trackers require a prepaid subscription for ongoing access to real-time tracking, essential for extended use. Free trials might be available, but ongoing fees are common. Finally, evaluate the benefits of different tiers—some plans offer unlimited alerts, historical playback, or enhanced tracking intervals that could be invaluable during your hunts. Choose wisely to guarantee you’ve got the features you need!

Compatibility With Devices

Selecting the right subscription plan for your compact GPS tracker is just one part of the equation; compatibility with your devices is equally important. Make sure the tracker works with your smartphone or tablet’s operating system, ideally supporting both iOS and Android for easy access. It’s also wise to check for web browser compatibility, so you can track and monitor from any computer without extra software. Look for integration with popular tracking apps, enhancing your overall tracking experience. Additionally, verify that the device supports multiple satellite systems, like GPS and GLONASS, for better accuracy. Finally, confirm whether the tracker can send real-time alerts directly to your devices via SMS, email, or app notifications, keeping you updated on location and movement.