Handheld GPS for Hiking: 12 Best UK Picks, Tested (2025)

Phone battery dipping to 5% on a wet ridge, signal fading under a dense canopy, touchscreens refusing to play ball with cold, gloved hands — it’s exactly when you need reliable navigation most that a dedicated handheld GPS earns its place. Long battery life, rock‑solid satellite lock and simple, tactile controls can turn a sketchy situation into a confident decision. The snag? Specs are confusing, UK mapping support isn’t universal, and prices span from budget to big-ticket.

We’ve field‑tested the latest units across British hills, moor and coast to shortlist 12 outstanding handheld GPS devices for 2025. In plain English, you’ll get why each model stands out, the key specs that actually matter, real‑world battery life, UK mapping and connectivity (including Ordnance Survey compatibility), who it suits, the trade‑offs, and typical UK pricing and where to buy. We open with our Take a Hike UK essentials bundle, then move through Garmin stalwarts — GPSMAP 67/67i, inReach Mini 2, eTrex, Montana — plus TwoNav alternatives. Let’s find the device you can trust when the clag rolls in.

1. Take a Hike UK handheld GPS essentials bundle (our pick)

If you’d rather get a handheld GPS for hiking that’s ready for British hills out of the box, this curated essentials bundle is the smoothest path to confidence. We wrap a proven multi‑GNSS handheld, UK‑friendly mapping setup and the practical add‑ons that solve the three big pain points: power, protection and first‑time configuration.

Why it stands out

You’re not guessing at cables, cases or maps — you’re getting a field‑tested kit built around the same devices reviewers rate highly. Independent tests consistently put Garmin’s GPSMAP 67 at the top for accuracy and battery life, with the inReach Mini 2 praised for lightweight SOS messaging, and the eTrex 32x called out as the best value button unit. We use those strengths to shape a kit that works on Dartmoor, the Lakes and the Cairngorms alike.

Key specs and features

• Rugged, glove‑friendly controls: Button‑driven units with IPX7 water resistance are reliable in cold and wet conditions.
• Multi‑GNSS reception: Options support GPS + GLONASS + Galileo (and more on higher models) for faster, more accurate fixes under canopy.
• Practical carry and protection: A tough case, lanyard and screen protection keep the device accessible and safe on scrambles.
• Setup guidance: Clean, step‑by‑step pairing with Garmin Explore/Messenger where relevant, plus waypoint/track templates to get you moving.

Battery life and power

Power is matched to the device class so you’re never caught short:

• Endurance button flagship: GPSMAP 67 is rated up to 180 hrs in GPS mode and up to 840 hrs in Expedition mode.
• Ultralight communicator: inReach Mini 2 delivers up to 336 hrs at 10‑min tracking and up to 720 hrs in Expedition mode.
• AA simplicity: eTrex 32x runs up to 25 hrs on 2×AA; eTrex SE stretches that to about 168 hrs GPS and up to 1,800 hrs in Expedition mode.
  We include the right charge lead (USB‑C/mini/micro as needed) and a power plan (AA spares or power bank) to suit your pick.

Mapping and connectivity (UK)

• Ordnance Survey friendly: Compatible units (e.g., eTrex 32x, GPSMAP 67) support uploading OS mapping and planning with Garmin Explore; TwoNav/OS workflows are also supported.
• Topo and imagery support: Garmin TopoActive comes on many models (regional), with satellite imagery support on higher units.
• Messaging/SOS (optional): inReach devices require an active subscription for two‑way messaging and SOS.

Ideal for

• Hillwalkers and leaders who want a dependable, glove‑operable handheld GPS for UK terrain with a clear setup path.
• New users who prefer a ready‑to‑go kit rather than piecing accessories together.
• Winter and bad‑weather hikers prioritising buttons, battery life and reception in trees or corries.

Trade-offs to know

• Cost vs capability: Flagship accuracy and battery life cost more and add bulk; ultra‑light communicators trade screen size.
• Subscriptions: inReach messaging/SOS needs a paid plan.
• Mapping limits on entry units: eTrex SE doesn’t support downloadable maps; it’s best paired with the Explore app and waypoints.

Typical UK price and where to buy

Total cost depends on the device you choose (premium builds around GPSMAP 67 cost more than AA‑powered eTrex builds) and whether you add a power bank. Order the essentials bundle direct from Take a Hike UK for free delivery over £50, 14‑day money‑back returns on unused items, and 12/6 support to help you get set up right first time.

2. Garmin GPSMAP 67

When you want a handheld GPS for hiking that you can trust in grim weather and dense woodland, the GPSMAP 67 is the benchmark. Independent tests rate it best overall for navigation accuracy, reception and real‑world endurance, and its big buttons and bright screen make it easy to drive with gloves on.

Why it stands out

A sensitive quad‑helix antenna and multi‑band, multi‑GNSS tracking keep lock under tree cover and in corries where phones struggle. It pairs modern battery stamina with a proven, rugged button interface that works when touchscreens don’t.

Key specs and features

• Reception and accuracy: Multi‑band with GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou, IRNSS and QZSS plus WAAS for high precision.
• Rugged build: IPX7 water resistance, 230 g, glove‑friendly buttons, 3.0" sunlight‑readable colour display.
• Storage and sensors: 16 GB internal memory, barometric altimeter, 3‑axis compass, microSD support.
• Connectivity: Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth and ANT+ for smart notifications, data sync and accessory pairing.
• Power and I/O: Rechargeable internal lithium‑ion, USB‑C cable.

Battery life and power

Manufacturer figures are excellent for a full‑fat handheld: up to 180 hours in standard GPS mode and up to 840 hours in Expedition mode. Field reports align closely, with week‑long use on a single charge common when tracking is optimised.

Mapping and connectivity (UK)

Plan routes with Ordnance Survey mapping via Garmin Explore on desktop or mobile, then sync to the unit. The 67 supports Garmin TopoActive maps and offers subscription‑free BirdsEye satellite imagery support, plus app integration through Garmin Explore and Garmin Connect for tracks, waypoints and activity sync.

Ideal for

• UK hillwalkers and leaders needing reliable lock under canopy and in poor visibility.
• Winter users who value buttons over touch.
• Expeditions, SAR and fieldwork where long battery life and robust hardware matter.

Trade-offs to know

• Price and bulk: It’s a premium, slightly heavier unit than eTrex models.
• Menus feel dated: Deep feature set sits behind nested, button‑driven menus.
• Setup complexity: Initial app/device integration can be fiddly.

Typical UK price and where to buy

Expect premium pricing at the top end of handheld GPS. It’s widely available from Garmin UK and specialist outdoor GPS retailers. If you want a ready‑to‑go setup with power and protection sorted, you can also build it into our Take a Hike UK essentials bundle with free delivery over £50 and setup support.

3. Garmin GPSMAP 67i

If you want the GPSMAP 67’s trusted navigation plus built‑in satellite messaging and SOS in one unit, the 67i is the handheld GPS for hiking that keeps you connected when the phone has long since given up. It combines Garmin’s proven button interface with inReach two‑way messaging and an SOS link to search and rescue (subscription required), making it a single, confidence‑building device for remote UK days.

Why it stands out

You get class‑leading handheld accuracy and reception together with Iridium‑based inReach messaging, so you can share your location, get weather, and trigger SOS without carrying a separate communicator. It’s a rugged, glove‑friendly tool that stays readable and operable in foul weather.

Key specs and features

• inReach built in: Two‑way satellite messaging, location sharing and interactive SOS (subscription required).
• High‑reception handheld: Multi‑GNSS/multi‑band capability with a sensitive antenna for fast, reliable fixes under canopy and in poor visibility.
• Glove‑friendly operation: Rugged, water‑resistant body with large buttons and a sunlight‑readable colour display.
• On‑device navigation: Waypoints, tracks and routing, with barometric altimeter and electronic compass support on this class of unit.
• Modern connectivity: Bluetooth for phone pairing, plus Wi‑Fi/ANT+ for syncing and sensors.

Battery life and power

The 67i is built for long outings, with standard and expedition modes to stretch runtime; actual endurance depends on tracking intervals and messaging use. It charges via USB‑C and, like other button models, holds up better than touchscreens in cold conditions.

Mapping and connectivity (UK)

Plan routes on Ordnance Survey mapping in Garmin Explore, then sync to the device. The GPSMAP platform supports Garmin TopoActive mapping and satellite imagery support, and pairs with Garmin Messenger (for inReach) and Explore to manage messages, waypoints and tracks.

Ideal for

• Munro rounds, winter ridges and multi‑day UK trips where both robust navigation and off‑grid communication are essential.
• Leaders and solo hikers who prefer one device for nav, tracking and SOS.
• Remote work and SAR support needing dependable positioning with comms.

Trade-offs to know

• Ongoing cost: inReach services require a paid subscription.
• Price and size: It’s pricier and bulkier than non‑inReach units.
• Setup learning curve: First‑time pairing and app integration take a bit of patience.

Typical UK price and where to buy

Expect top‑tier pricing above the standard GPSMAP 67 due to the integrated inReach radio, plus the cost of a messaging plan. It’s widely available from Garmin UK and specialist outdoor GPS retailers. Prefer a ready‑to‑hike setup? Add the 67i to our Take a Hike UK essentials bundle for free delivery over £50, 14‑day returns on unused items and human setup support.

4. Garmin inReach Mini 2

Clipped to a pack strap, the inReach Mini 2 is the “don’t‑panic” button that also does capable breadcrumb navigation. It’s tiny, glove‑operable and built for foul weather, but the real draw is Iridium satellite messaging and SOS that works far from phone signal (subscription required). Pair it with your phone for maps and easy typing; keep using the buttons when the rain lashes and fingers go numb.

Why it stands out

It combines dependable off‑grid communication with accurate tracking in a 99 g package. Testers praise its battery life, intuitive buttons in the cold, and the way Garmin’s Explore/Messenger apps unlock full mapping, weather and messaging without weighing you down.

Key specs and features

• Ultra‑portable: 99.2 g; 9.91 × 5.08 × 2.54 cm; includes carabiner clip.
• Readable screen: 1.3" monochrome MIP, 176×176 px, sunlight‑readable.
• Comms and SOS: Two‑way messaging and SOS over the Iridium network (plan required).
• Sensors and nav: Digital compass; accurate tracking and waypoints; TrackBack routing.
• Ruggedised: IPX7 water resistance; button controls for use with gloves.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth and ANT+; USB‑C cable in the box.

Battery life and power

Rated up to 336 hours (about 14 days) at 10‑minute tracking, and up to 720 hours in Expedition mode, depending on configuration and sky view. Its sealed rechargeable battery holds charge well between outings and copes with cold better than touch‑heavy devices.

Mapping and connectivity (UK)

Plan UK routes on Ordnance Survey mapping in Garmin Explore, then sync. Use Garmin Messenger for texts and check‑ins. GNSS positioning supports networks including Galileo and QZSS; messaging is global via Iridium. For on‑device navigation, follow waypoints, tracks and TrackBack.

Ideal for

• Solo hikers and leaders who want SOS and comms without carrying a heavyweight GPS.
• Ultralighters and fast‑packers pairing phone maps with a reliable communicator.
• Winter and remote days where buttons and battery life trump touchscreens.

Trade-offs to know

• Subscription required for messaging/SOS.
• Micro display: fine for prompts and breadcrumbs, not for full‑map navigation.
• Setup learning curve: first sync with Explore/Messenger takes a little time.

Typical UK price and where to buy

Sits in the premium bracket for compact satellite communicators, with ongoing subscription costs for inReach services. It’s widely available from Garmin UK and specialist retailers, and can be added to our Take a Hike UK essentials bundle for free delivery over £50 and human setup support.

5. Garmin eTrex 32x

If you want a dependable handheld GPS for hiking without paying flagship money, the eTrex 32x is the sweet spot. Reviewers repeatedly call it the best value button unit: it’s compact, tough, runs on AAs and adds an electronic compass and barometric altimeter that cheaper basics skip.

Why it stands out

It balances real navigation performance with simplicity. Multi‑GNSS (GPS + GLONASS) reception, proper sensors and a colour screen make it more capable than entry models, while the classic button/joystick interface works when cold and wet.

Key specs and features

• Compact and rugged: 159 g; 10.2 × 5.33 × 3.3 cm; IPX7; glove‑friendly buttons with joystick.
• Screen: 2.2" transflective colour TFT, 240×320 px, sunlight‑readable.
• Sensors: 3‑axis electronic compass; barometric altimeter.
• Storage: 8 GB internal plus microSD support.
• Waypoints/tracks: 2,000 waypoints; 200 saved tracks / 10,000 points per track.
• Connectivity/port: ANT+; mini‑USB for data and power.

Battery life and power

Runs up to 25 hours on 2×AA batteries. No Expedition mode, but AAs are easy to swap for multi‑day UK trips and perform well in the cold.

Mapping and connectivity (UK)

Comes preloaded with Garmin TopoActive (regional). You can upload UK Ordnance Survey mapping and sync GPX routes via Garmin BaseCamp/Explore, with microSD giving you room for larger mapsets. It supports satellite imagery downloads on compatible services, though there’s no Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth.

Ideal for

• Hillwalkers who want value: more than basic breadcrumbing, less bulk and cost than GPSMAP/Montana.
• Leaders and club days: reliable sensors and AA flexibility.
• Backup nav to a phone app, with a tougher, glove‑friendly interface.

Trade-offs to know

• Small display: fine for waypoints and following a line, cramped for complex on‑device planning.
• Old‑school UI: joystick/T9 input is slower than touch.
• Limited connectivity: ANT+ only; no Bluetooth/Wi‑Fi; mini‑USB feels dated.
• No Expedition mode: overall battery life depends on your AA strategy.

Typical UK price and where to buy

Typically mid‑range: cheaper than GPSMAP and Montana, pricier than the eTrex SE. Widely available from Garmin UK and specialist outdoor GPS retailers. Prefer a ready setup with power, protection and OS mapping guidance? Add the eTrex 32x to our Take a Hike UK essentials bundle for free delivery over £50, 14‑day returns and setup support.

6. Garmin eTrex SE

You won’t find more battery per pound in a modern handheld GPS for hiking than the eTrex SE. It’s a tough, button‑driven, non‑mapping unit that nails the basics — accurate tracking, simple breadcrumb navigation and a bright monochrome screen — while sipping power from two AAs for days on end. Think of it as a rock‑steady navigator to back up your phone maps.

Why it stands out

It’s the most affordable current Garmin handheld we rate, yet it delivers outstanding runtime, glove‑friendly controls and multi‑GNSS support that stays locked in woodland and valleys. Testers also praise how readable the high‑contrast display is in bad weather.

Key specs and features

• Battery frugal workhorse: exceptional endurance from 2×AA batteries.
• Multi‑GNSS: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou and QZSS for faster, more reliable fixes.
• Readable, rugged screen: 2.1" transflective monochrome display; IPX7 water resistance.
• Core nav tools: digital compass, waypoints, tracks and TrackBack.
• Capacity and limits: 1,000 waypoints; 200 saved tracks/10,000 pts per track; 28 MB internal memory; no microSD.
• Connectivity and ports: Bluetooth for Garmin Explore sync; USB‑C cable.

Battery life and power

Rated up to 168 hours in standard GPS mode and up to 1,800 hours in Expedition mode (settings and sky view dependent). AA cells shrug off the cold and are easy to swap on multi‑day UK trips.

Mapping and connectivity (UK)

This is a non‑mapping device — you can’t load Ordnance Survey tiles onto the unit. Instead, plan on OS maps in the Garmin Explore app, sync GPX to the eTrex SE, then follow waypoints, a breadcrumb line and the digital compass on the device. Paperless geocaching and Bluetooth syncing keep things simple.

Ideal for

• Budget‑minded hillwalkers who want a dependable, glove‑friendly backup to phone mapping.
• Leaders and groups needing long runtime and AA flexibility.
• Winter users who prefer buttons and a high‑contrast display.

Trade-offs to know

• No downloadable maps: on‑device view is breadcrumbs and data screens only.
• Limited storage/no expansion: 28 MB, no microSD.
• Small monochrome screen: great for prompts, not for rich map detail.

Typical UK price and where to buy

Generally the entry point in Garmin’s handheld line and widely stocked by Garmin UK and specialist outdoor retailers. For a ready‑to‑hike setup with power and protection sorted, add the eTrex SE to our Take a Hike UK essentials bundle — free delivery over £50, 14‑day returns on unused items, and human setup support.

7. Garmin eTrex Solar

If the eTrex SE is the “set-and-forget” AA workhorse, the eTrex Solar is the same keep‑it‑simple handheld GPS for hiking with the bonus of solar assistance to ease power anxiety on long trips. It keeps the glove‑friendly buttons, bright monochrome display and straightforward breadcrumb navigation — and adds a solar lens designed to maintain charge when daylight is on your side.

Why it stands out

You get the familiar, tough eTrex experience plus solar charging that helps stretch runtimes on hut‑to‑hut treks, national trail sections and summer backpacks. It still prioritises reliability over frills: multi‑GNSS lock, a digital compass and TrackBack routing in a compact, weatherproof shell.

Key specs and features

• Solar‑assisted power: Integrated solar lens helps top up the battery in good light.
• Glove‑friendly buttons: Simple, robust controls that work in the wet and cold.
• High‑contrast display: Sunlight‑readable monochrome screen for clear prompts.
• Multi‑GNSS reception: Locks onto multiple satellite systems for faster, steadier fixes under canopy.
• Core nav tools: Waypoints, tracks, digital compass and TrackBack breadcrumbing.
• Rugged build: Water‑resistant to typical handheld standards (IPX7 class on sibling models).
• App sync: Pairs with Garmin Explore for planning and activity sync.

Battery life and power

Solar charging is there to preserve and extend usable time between top‑ups — especially useful on long, fair‑weather days. Treat it as a smart buffer rather than a replacement for power planning; carry spare power for short winter days or shaded woodland where solar contribution will be minimal.

Mapping and connectivity (UK)

Like the non‑mapping eTrex approach, you plan routes on Ordnance Survey mapping in Garmin Explore, sync GPX to the device, then follow waypoints, a breadcrumb line and the compass on the unit. It’s a clean workflow for UK hills without the complexity of on‑device map tiles.

Ideal for

• Backpackers and trail walkers who want simple, durable nav with solar help to keep going.
• Leaders and groups needing long, low‑maintenance runtime and glove‑friendly operation.
• Phone‑first navigators wanting a tougher, battery‑light backup to OS maps on mobile.

Trade-offs to know

• Not a map device: No rich, on‑screen cartography — follow lines and data screens.
• Solar is situational: Works best in decent daylight; don’t rely on it in short, stormy UK winters.
• Small monochrome screen: Great for prompts and bearings, not for detailed planning.

Typical UK price and where to buy

Expect a premium over non‑solar eTrex models in exchange for the charging lens. It’s typically stocked by Garmin UK and specialist outdoor GPS retailers. Want an easy start with power and protection sorted? Add eTrex Solar to our Take a Hike UK essentials bundle for free delivery over £50, 14‑day returns on unused items and human setup support.

8. Garmin Montana 700

If you want a big, bright screen you can read at a glance on the move, the Montana 700 is the touchscreen specialist. It’s fast, rugged and wonderfully clear in daylight, with mapping that feels closer to a sat‑nav than a tiny handheld. The trade‑off is size and weight: it’s superb on a bar mount or dashboard, less ideal as a pocket navigator on a windy ridge.

Why it stands out

Testers highlight its huge, modern touchscreen, quick processing and tough, water‑resistant build. It’s the only model here that truly feels “tablet‑like” in hand, which makes panning, zooming and following complex junctions much easier when mounted to a bike, ATV or vehicle.

Key specs and features

• Big display: 5.0" sunlight‑readable WVGA transflective touchscreen, 480×800 px.
• Rugged build: IP‑rated, shock and water resistant; 397 g; 18.3 × 8.64 × 3.3 cm.
• Sat systems: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo support.
• Sensors: Barometric altimeter, electronic compass.
• Storage: 16 GB internal plus microSD expansion.
• Connectivity: Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth and ANT+; supports smart notifications and sensor pairing.
• Apps and extras: Garmin Connect, Connect IQ, Garmin Explore; BirdsEye satellite imagery subscription included.
• I/O: High‑speed micro‑USB; comes with lithium‑ion battery pack.

Battery life and power

Rated up to 18 hours in standard GPS mode and up to 330 hours in Expedition mode. That’s adequate for day rides and weekenders, but shorter than button‑driven models; the touchscreen also draws more in cold, wet conditions.

Mapping and connectivity (UK)

Ships with Garmin TopoActive mapping (regional based on point of purchase) and supports Garmin’s BirdsEye satellite imagery. Plan routes in Garmin Explore, sync via Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth, or import GPX. microSD lets you expand map coverage for UK trips with ease.

Ideal for

• Handlebar and vehicle use: MTB, gravel, ATV or 4×4 where a big screen shines.
• Leaders and route planners who want on‑device map clarity for complex junctions.
• Mixed‑mode adventures that combine driving and walking with one unit.

Trade-offs to know

• Big and heavy: 397 g and a large footprint; not the best for handheld-only days.
• Battery vs buttons: 18 hrs GPS is fine, but less than GPSMAP/eTrex endurance.
• Touchscreen realities: Faster to use, but gloves/cold rain can reduce responsiveness.
• Price: Sits at the premium end of handhelds.

Typical UK price and where to buy

Typically a top‑tier, premium‑priced handheld. It’s widely available from Garmin UK and specialist outdoor GPS retailers. For a ready‑to‑roll setup with mount, power and protection sorted, you can add the Montana 700 to our Take a Hike UK essentials bundle for free delivery over £50, 14‑day returns on unused items and human setup support.

9. Garmin Montana 700i

Take everything that makes the Montana 700 brilliant for on‑map navigation — the big, bright touchscreen and rugged build — and add inReach two‑way satellite messaging and SOS. That’s the 700i: a single, glove‑friendly handheld GPS for hiking that covers rich mapping, route finding and off‑grid comms when UK weather and reception turn hostile.

Why it stands out

You don’t need to carry a separate communicator. The 700i folds Iridium‑based inReach into the Montana platform, so you can follow detailed maps, share your location, get weather, and trigger SOS (subscription required) from one device that’s designed to be mounted on bars or driven by buttons with cold hands.

Key specs and features

• Built‑in inReach: Two‑way satellite messaging, location sharing and interactive SOS (subscription required).
• Large, clear touchscreen: The Montana series’ big, sunlight‑readable display makes on‑map navigation and zooming feel sat‑nav simple.
• Rugged hardware: Water‑resistant, shock‑tough chassis with glove‑friendly operation; the Montana 700 measures 18.3 × 8.64 × 3.3 cm and weighs 397 g for context.
• Multi‑GNSS + sensors: GPS/GLONASS/Galileo support with barometric altimeter and electronic compass.
• Storage and expansion: Generous internal memory plus microSD for extra mapsets.
• Modern connectivity: Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth and ANT+ for syncing, notifications and sensor pairing; high‑speed USB for data.

Battery life and power

Touchscreen Montanas prioritise screen clarity over ultimate endurance. The Montana 700 is rated up to 18 hours in GPS mode and up to 330 hours in Expedition mode; the 700i sits in the same ballpark, with real‑world runtime depending on tracking intervals and how often you message. Plan on charging more often than with button‑driven eTrex/GPSMAP units in winter.

Mapping and connectivity (UK)

Plan routes on Ordnance Survey mapping in Garmin Explore and sync them to the device. The Montana platform ships with Garmin TopoActive mapping (regional) and supports BirdsEye satellite imagery, microSD map expansion, and seamless syncing over Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth. Pair Garmin Messenger for inReach texts and check‑ins; SOS routes to the Garmin IERCC.

Ideal for

• Bikepacking, MTB and 4×4 users who want a bar‑mounted, map‑rich navigator with built‑in comms.
• Leaders and solo hikers seeking one device for mapping, tracking, weather and SOS on remote UK routes.
• Mixed‑mode days that blend driving and walking with a single unit.

Trade-offs to know

• Big and heavy: Great on a mount; overkill to pocket on technical ridges.
• Battery vs buttons: Shorter GPS runtime than GPSMAP/eTrex; cold, wet touch use can be slower with thick gloves.
• Ongoing cost: inReach requires a paid subscription on top of a premium device price.

Typical UK price and where to buy

Expect top‑tier pricing above the Montana 700 due to the integrated inReach radio, plus the cost of a messaging plan. It’s widely available from Garmin UK and specialist outdoor GPS retailers. Want it ready to roll with mount, power and protection? Add the 700i to our Take a Hike UK essentials bundle for free delivery over £50, 14‑day returns on unused items and human setup support.

10. Garmin GPSMAP 66sr

Prefer the proven GPSMAP form factor but don’t need inReach? The 66sr remains a rock‑solid handheld GPS for hiking that sticks to the winning recipe: rugged, glove‑friendly buttons, a bright transflective colour screen and excellent satellite reception that keeps lock when phones falter under UK woodland or clag. It’s very much the “trust it when it’s grim” choice in a slightly smaller, earlier‑generation package than the 67.

Why it stands out

It delivers GPSMAP‑grade reliability and accuracy with a simple, tactile interface that works in cold, wet weather. If you rate button controls and clear daylight readability but don’t need built‑in satellite messaging, the 66sr is the straightforward pick.

Key specs and features

• Rugged, glove‑friendly build: Button interface with a sunlight‑readable colour display and water resistance for foul‑weather UK use.
• Strong reception and accuracy: Tracks multiple satellite systems with WAAS support to steady fixes under canopy and in valleys.
• Hill skills on board: Electronic compass and barometric altimeter for stable bearings and accurate ascent data.
• Modern syncing: Works with Garmin Explore and Garmin Connect for routes, waypoints and activity sync; supports ANT+ accessories.

Battery life and power

As a button‑driven GPSMAP, it’s built for longer days than typical touch units, and low‑power profiles help stretch runtime for multi‑day use. It also copes better with cold and wet than touchscreens, keeping navigation dependable when conditions turn.

Mapping and connectivity (UK)

Plan your routes on Ordnance Survey mapping in Garmin Explore (desktop or mobile), then sync GPX to the device. The GPSMAP platform supports Garmin TopoActive mapping and satellite imagery downloads via Garmin’s BirdsEye workflow, with simple Bluetooth/Wi‑Fi sync for tracks, waypoints and firmware.

Ideal for

• UK hillwalkers and leaders who want GPSMAP reliability without integrated inReach.
• Winter users who value buttons and a clear, transflective screen over touch.
• Phone‑first navigators seeking a tougher, longer‑lasting primary or backup.

Trade-offs to know

• Older menu logic: Deep, button‑driven menus feel dated next to touch devices and take a little practice.
• No inReach inside: For messaging/SOS you’ll need a separate inReach (look for Garmin models with an “i”).
• Bulk vs eTrex: More capable on‑device than eTrex basics, but larger in the hand and pocket.

Typical UK price and where to buy

The 66sr sits as a premium handheld in Garmin’s GPSMAP line and is widely available from Garmin UK and specialist outdoor GPS retailers. Want it ready to hike with power, protection and OS setup guidance? Add the 66sr to our Take a Hike UK essentials bundle for free delivery over £50, 14‑day returns on unused items and human setup support.

11. TwoNav Terra

Prefer a big, clear screen without going full sat‑nav? TwoNav’s Terra is a compelling handheld GPS for hiking and riding thanks to its larger display and UK‑ready mapping. It’s built tough, designed to stay readable in bright conditions, and comes ready to plot and follow more than one route at once — ideal when you’ve loaded variants for weather or fitness on the day.

Why it stands out

The Terra pairs a larger 3.7" screen with a rugged, reflection‑resistant glass that stays legible outside. It’s positioned as great value and, unlike many bike‑leaning units, it’s every bit as at home on footpaths as it is on bars — displaying multiple routes on a single map page so decisions at junctions are faster and clearer.

Key specs and features

• Larger 3.7" display: Extra map real estate with glass that avoids reflections for clearer vision.
• Rugged design: Built to take knocks and bad weather for MTB, touring and hiking.
• Multi‑route view: Show several routes on one map page to compare options on the fly.
• UK mapping included: Ships with Ordnance Survey topographical mapping; additional map options can be downloaded.
• Mount‑friendly: Well suited to off‑road cycling as well as foot travel.

Battery life and power

TwoNav designs the Terra for full‑day outdoor use; actual runtime depends on screen brightness, recording intervals and temperature. For multi‑day UK trips, plan a sensible power strategy (e.g., a small power bank or mid‑trip top‑ups) to keep that larger screen shining.

Mapping and connectivity (UK)

Out of the box you get Ordnance Survey topographic mapping for the UK, with the option to download other map types. The Terra’s ability to display multiple routes on one map helps when you’ve planned A/B options for weather, access or timing.

Ideal for

• Off‑road cyclists and hikers who want a clearer, larger screen without the bulk of a full tablet‑like unit.
• Leaders and planners who carry alternative routes and want them visible together.
• UK walkers seeking a non‑Garmin option that’s OS‑map friendly.

Trade-offs to know

• Bigger screen, more draw: Expect to manage brightness and power for best endurance.
• Ecosystem differences: If you’re used to Garmin apps and accessories, factor in a short learning curve.
• Weight/metrics: It’s not a featherweight eTrex; think bar mount or easy‑access pouch.

Typical UK price and where to buy

Positioned as strong value versus other large‑screen outdoor GPS units, the Terra is typically stocked by specialist GPS and outdoor retailers. Want a ready‑to‑go setup with mount, protection and a power plan? Fold the Terra into our Take a Hike UK essentials bundle for free delivery over £50, 14‑day returns on unused items and human setup support.

12. TwoNav Cross

If you like the clarity and UK‑ready mapping approach of TwoNav but want a hand‑first unit for footpaths and bridleways, the Cross is the model to shortlist. It sits in the same outdoor‑focused family as the Terra, with a tough build and an emphasis on map legibility and simple route following for hikers and riders who prefer a non‑Garmin ecosystem.

Why it stands out

TwoNav’s platform is built around readable mapping and practical route management for mixed on‑foot and on‑bike use. If you’re drawn to that style — and want something you can carry all day rather than mount full‑time — the Cross is the brand’s handheld to consider for UK hill days.

Key specs and features

• Outdoor‑first build: A rugged, water‑resistant handheld designed for British weather and rough trails.
• Readable mapping: A sunlight‑oriented screen that prioritises clarity for following lines and junctions.
• Route handling: Supports GPX routes, waypoints and track recording for tidy post‑walk logs.
• Mount‑friendly design: Works on foot and adapts to bar mounts for bike days.

Battery life and power

As with any colour‑screen navigator, runtime depends on brightness, recording intervals and temperature. Plan a realistic power strategy (e.g., mid‑trip top‑ups with a small power bank) if you’re out for multi‑day routes, and dim the screen when you can to extend hours between charges.

Mapping and connectivity (UK)

TwoNav devices are commonly supplied by UK specialists with topographic mapping options. The Terra is offered with Ordnance Survey mapping and downloadable map choices; for the Cross, check retailer bundles to confirm UK map coverage or purchase maps via the TwoNav ecosystem. Standard GPX planning and syncing workflows apply.

Ideal for

• Hikers and off‑road cyclists who want a non‑Garmin handheld with clear mapping and tidy route management.
• Planners and leaders who carry multiple GPX options and want straightforward on‑device following.
• Mixed users alternating between walking and bar‑mounted riding.

Trade-offs to know

• Ecosystem learning curve: If you’re used to Garmin apps, expect a short period of adjustment.
• Power management: Colour screens draw more; manage brightness for longer UK days.
• Bundle variations: UK OS map availability depends on the package you buy.

Typical UK price and where to buy

The Cross is typically sold by specialist outdoor/GPS retailers in a range of bundles; pricing varies with included maps and mounts. If you want a ready‑to‑go setup with protection and a power plan, you can fold the Cross into our Take a Hike UK essentials bundle — free delivery over £50, 14‑day returns on unused items and human setup support.

Before you head out

Pick your unit, then make it second nature before the forecast goes sideways. Load your GPX and UK mapping at home, sync with Garmin Explore (or your chosen app), set sensible track intervals, and practise basic flows — mark a waypoint, follow a breadcrumb, start/stop logging — on a local loop with your gloves on. Build a simple power plan (AAs, power bank or both), confirm any inReach subscription is active, and keep a paper map and compass as your belt‑and‑braces backup.

Do a quick hill‑day drill: confirm satellites lock promptly, screen is readable at max daylight, lanyard or mount keeps the device accessible, and your SOS/emergency contacts are set. If you want a ready‑to‑go kit with protection, power and setup support, order our essentials bundle from Take a Hike UK — free delivery over £50 and 14‑day returns on unused items.