Best GPS Devices for Hiking Australia 2026: Tested in the Bush

In Australia's vast bush, losing your way or having an emergency without phone coverage is a real possibility. Every year, hikers and 4WD tourers get into trouble in places where their phones are useless. A GPS device or satellite communicator isn't paranoia — it's basic risk management for anyone venturing beyond mobile coverage.

We tested seven GPS devices and satellite communicators across remote trails and 4WD tracks across Australia — from the Larapinta Trail to deep in the Victorian High Country. Here are three devices that genuinely work when you need them most.

How We Tested

Each device was used for at least 200 km of remote hiking and 4WD touring:

• GPS accuracy: Position fixes compared to known coordinates
• Satellite messaging: Message send/receive times across different terrain
• Battery life: Real-world runtime in various modes
• SOS function: Tested non-emergency SOS check-in with monitoring centre
• Usability: Interface quality, learning curve, and pairing reliability

Quick Comparison

Best Overall: Garmin inReach Mini 2

The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is the device we clip to our pack on every remote trip. At 100 grams, it's barely noticeable. But that tiny device gives you GPS navigation, two-way satellite messaging anywhere on Earth, and an SOS button that connects to a 24/7 international rescue centre.

The satellite messaging is the killer feature. Deep in the Flinders Ranges with zero phone signal, we sent and received text messages via the Iridium satellite network. It takes 1-3 minutes per message, and there's a per-message cost on the subscription plan, but the ability to tell someone you're running late or request information is invaluable.

The GPS navigation with breadcrumb tracking works well when paired with the Garmin Explore app on your phone. The tiny onscreen map on the device itself is usable but limited — you'll want your phone (in aeroplane mode with downloaded maps) as the primary navigation screen, with the inReach handling communication and SOS.

The 14-day battery life in expedition mode (10-minute tracking intervals) is outstanding. For most multi-day hikes, you won't need to charge it.

The subscription is the ongoing cost. Plans start at $19/month for basic SOS-only functionality and go up to $65/month for unlimited messaging. Most people find the $35-40 mid-tier plan sufficient. You can pause the subscription during months you're not adventuring.

Best Dedicated GPS: Garmin GPSMAP 67

If your priority is navigation accuracy above all else, the GPSMAP 67 is the best handheld GPS you can buy. The multi-band GNSS receiver picks up signals from GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou satellite systems simultaneously. In dense forest and deep valleys where our phones lost GPS lock entirely, the GPSMAP 67 held a solid fix.

The 3-inch colour screen shows detailed topo maps pre-loaded for Australia and New Zealand. You can plan routes, set waypoints, and follow tracks without touching your phone. For serious bushwalkers who navigate by map and GPS fix, this is the gold standard.

The 16-hour battery in GPS mode is adequate for most day hikes. Solar charging through the screen extends this in sunny conditions — which, being Australia, is most of the time.

The critical limitation is the lack of satellite messaging or SOS. This is a navigation tool only. For remote adventures, pair it with a satellite communicator like the inReach Mini 2 or ZOLEO for communication and emergency capability.

Best Budget SOS: ZOLEO Satellite Communicator

The ZOLEO is the entry point for satellite communication, and at $349 it's nearly half the price of the Garmin inReach Mini 2. It does the two most important things well: SOS emergency alerts and two-way satellite messaging.

The app-based interface is simple and intuitive. Pair the ZOLEO with your phone via Bluetooth and it automatically routes messages through the cheapest available network — WiFi first, then cellular, then satellite. This intelligent routing keeps satellite costs down when you're near coverage.

The 200-hour standby battery is excellent for multi-day trips. In continuous tracking mode, it lasts about 6 hours, which is less impressive but adequate if you use it selectively.

The main limitation is that the ZOLEO has no meaningful standalone navigation — it relies on your phone. As a pure communication and SOS device, it's excellent value. For navigation, you'll need a separate GPS or phone with offline maps.

Which Device Do You Actually Need?

For remote multi-day hikes and solo trips: Garmin inReach Mini 2. The combination of SOS, messaging, and navigation in one device is the safest option when you're on your own in the bush.

For serious navigation in dense bush or off-track hiking: Garmin GPSMAP 67, ideally paired with a satellite communicator for safety.

For weekend hikers wanting peace of mind: ZOLEO. The lower upfront cost and simple interface make it the practical choice for occasional use. The SOS function alone justifies the cost.

Check out the best 4WD tracks in Australia and don't forget your camping checklist.

Verdict

The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is the best GPS and communication device for Australian outdoor adventures. It packs navigation, messaging, and emergency SOS into 100 grams. The Garmin GPSMAP 67 is the best pure GPS navigator with unmatched accuracy in difficult terrain. And the ZOLEO is the smartest entry point for satellite communication at a budget-friendly price. In remote Australia, one of these devices should be in your pack on every trip.