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GPS Handheld Units for Walkers

GPS Handheld Units for Walkers: Are They Worth Buying?

Modern smartphones and navigation apps have made walking easier than ever, but many experienced walkers still choose to carry a dedicated GPS handheld unit. Designed specifically for outdoor adventures, these rugged devices offer reliable navigation in all kinds of weather and can be invaluable on longer or more remote walks.

In this guide, we’ll explain what GPS handheld units do, who they’re best suited for, and whether they’re worth adding to your walking kit.

What Is a GPS Handheld Unit?

A GPS handheld unit is a dedicated navigation device designed for walking, hiking and other outdoor activities. Unlike a smartphone, these devices are purpose-built for navigating in challenging environments, offering excellent reliability and durability.

Many GPS handheld units support detailed Ordnance Survey mapping, helping you follow footpaths, track your location and confidently explore unfamiliar areas.

Why Choose a Dedicated GPS Over a Smartphone?

Smartphones are excellent navigation tools, especially when used with the Ordnance Survey app. However, they aren’t always the best choice on longer or more demanding walks.

A dedicated GPS handheld unit offers several advantages:

  • Longer battery life
  • Rugged, weather-resistant construction
  • Accurate GPS positioning
  • Easy-to-read screens in bright sunlight
  • Physical buttons that can be used with gloves
  • Reliable performance in poor weather
  • Designed specifically for outdoor navigation

Many experienced walkers carry both a smartphone and a GPS unit, using the phone for convenience while relying on the GPS for dependable navigation.

Who Should Consider Buying a GPS Handheld Unit?

A GPS handheld unit is worth considering if you regularly:

  • Walk in National Parks
  • Explore remote countryside
  • Enjoy hill walking or mountain hiking
  • Complete long-distance trails
  • Walk throughout the winter
  • Spend full days outdoors

If most of your walks are short local routes, a smartphone and paper map may provide everything you need.

Key Features to Look For

Before choosing a GPS handheld unit, consider the features that best suit the type of walking you enjoy.

Battery Life

One of the biggest advantages of a dedicated GPS is its impressive battery life. Many models are designed to operate for extended periods, making them ideal for full-day or multi-day adventures.

Mapping

Look for devices that support detailed Ordnance Survey mapping or allow compatible maps to be installed. Accurate mapping makes route planning and navigation much easier.

Weather Resistance

Walking often means dealing with rain, mud and changing conditions. A waterproof or weather-resistant GPS is a worthwhile investment for year-round use.

Screen Size

Larger screens make maps easier to read, while smaller units are lighter and easier to carry. Choose a size that suits your style of walking.

Satellite Systems

Many modern GPS devices connect to multiple satellite networks, improving accuracy in valleys, woodland and mountainous terrain.

Using GPS Handheld Units in the Lake District

The Lake District is home to some of England’s finest walking, but it also presents challenging conditions. Popular routes such as Catbells are relatively straightforward in good weather, while higher mountains including Scafell Pike can become much more demanding if mist or low cloud reduces visibility.

A GPS handheld unit can provide additional confidence alongside a paper map and compass, helping you stay on your planned route.

For route inspiration, read our Walking in the Lake District guide.

Using GPS Handheld Units in the Peak District

The Peak District may be one of Britain’s most accessible National Parks, but areas such as Kinder Scout, Bleaklow and Derwent Edge can become surprisingly difficult to navigate in poor weather.

Open moorland often contains numerous intersecting paths and few obvious landmarks, making reliable navigation an important part of staying safe.

Discover more routes in our Walking in the Peak District guide.

GPS Handheld Unit or Ordnance Survey App?

This isn’t an either-or decision.

For many walkers, the ideal combination includes:

  • A GPS handheld unit
  • The Ordnance Survey app
  • A paper OS map
  • A compass

Using several navigation tools provides valuable backup should one system fail or conditions become more challenging than expected.

Recommended GPS Brands

Several manufacturers produce excellent GPS handheld units for walkers.

Popular brands include:

  • Garmin
  • Satmap
  • TwoNav

When choosing a model, think about battery life, mapping options, ease of use and the type of walking you do rather than simply buying the most expensive device.

Where to Buy GPS Handheld Units

Buy GPS Handheld Units from Blacks

Blacks stocks a wide selection of GPS handheld units from leading outdoor brands, making it an excellent place to compare models for everything from local walks to mountain adventures. Whether you’re buying your first GPS device or upgrading your existing equipment, you’ll find options to suit a range of budgets and experience levels.

Shop GPS Handheld Units at Blacks

Buy GPS Handheld Units from GO Outdoors

GO Outdoors also offers an extensive range of GPS handheld units suitable for walkers, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Alongside GPS devices, you’ll find useful navigation accessories, mapping products and other walking essentials to help you explore with confidence.

Shop GPS Handheld Units at GO Outdoors

Frequently Asked Questions

Are GPS handheld units better than smartphones?

For demanding outdoor use, many walkers prefer GPS handheld units because they offer longer battery life, greater durability and reliable navigation in poor weather. Smartphones remain excellent companions but shouldn’t always be your only navigation tool.

Do I still need a paper map?

Yes. A paper map and compass remain important safety items, particularly for longer walks and remote areas where electronic devices could fail.

Are GPS handheld units waterproof?

Many models are water-resistant or waterproof, making them suitable for year-round walking. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications before buying.

Are GPS handheld units suitable for beginners?

Yes. Modern GPS devices are increasingly user-friendly and can help beginners build confidence while learning traditional navigation skills.

Related Articles

If you’re planning your next adventure, these guides may also help:

Final Thoughts

A GPS handheld unit isn’t essential for every walker, but it can be an excellent investment if you regularly explore remote countryside, tackle mountain routes or enjoy long-distance walking.

Combined with an Ordnance Survey map, a compass and good preparation, a dedicated GPS provides extra confidence when navigating unfamiliar terrain.

The best navigation system is one you understand and trust, so choose equipment that suits the type of walking you enjoy, prepare thoroughly before every walk, and enjoy exploring Britain’s incredible landscapes with confidence.