The GPS project, which became officially operational in 1995, was developed by the United States Department of Defence to overcome the limitations of previous navigation systems, and the network — operated by the U.S. Air Force — is freely accessible for anyone with a GPS receiver.

Get used to seeing Garmin products on this list because there are few (if any) companies that can compete when it comes to making a quality GPS device. The GPSMAP 78 is an all-around powerhouse, with almost every feature you could ask for, plus a few you didn’t know you needed. The quad-helix antenna, which connects to both the American GPS network and the Russian GLONASS system, ensures accurate location data even when under a heavy canopy. The device’s onboard 4GB of storage also allows for up to 5,000 different waypoints and 200 different routes to be stored. It even comes with a detailed worldwide base map to help with navigation just about anywhere.

This device can wirelessly share routing and map information with other compatible devices, and it comes with 250,000 preloaded geocaches, in case geocaching is your jam. The sturdy physical-button design means you can comfortably use the 64sx even while wearing gloves, and its battery lasts for up to 16 hours of use. It even synchronises with your smartphone to provide smart notifications, in case a heavy storm is about to roll in. As if that wasn’t enough, the 78 can be paired with optional ANT+ sensors — like thermometers and heart rate monitors — to provide highly specific data. All in all, this is among the most versatile GPS hiking devices that you can buy.

A few years ago, Garmin acquired satellite tracking and messaging company DeLorme and appropriated the technology used in its inReach Mini device to create this satellite messenger-GPS hybrid. Iridium satellite coverage enables global two-way text messaging from anywhere on the planet and a dedicated SOS function automatically triggers a notification to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring centre. The Mini also comes preloaded with maps, as well as an electronic compass, accelerometer, and barometric altimeter.

If the included maps don’t work for you, you can simply pair to a mobile device and download the free Earthmate app (iOS/Android) for access to aerial imagery, NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) charts, and topographical map data. The unfortunate kicker: You’ll need to subscribe to one of Garmin’s annual plans to use this device. The plans aren’t cheap, so this isn’t a stocking stuffer for walking in the park. The cheaper plans allow you to create pre-set messages to be sent anytime, while the more expensive plans offer the ability to type out custom messages when — and where — they like.

True explorers and outdoor professionals though, will surely appreciate the value the Mini brings.

There are a lot of great GPS watches designed for hikers and while finding the right one can be a challenge, it’s tough to beat the Suunto 9 Baro. Built with a suite of features backpackers and travellers need in a lightweight and good-looking package and designed on Suunto’s Ambit platform, the Traverse does away with many of the features designed for the outdoor athlete to focus on things more important to hikers. For instance, it has the ability to count steps, comes with a flashlight backlit display, and it provides vibration alerts — it also adds GLOSNASS support.

Wearing the Baro is like having a full-featured GPS device strapped to your wrist, including navigation, way-finding, real-time route tracking, and topographical maps via Suunto’s Movescount app (iOS/Android). The watch also tracks speed, distance, and altitude, recording vertical gain and loss along the way. If that isn’t enough, it auto-adjusts its time based on your current location, provides weather alerts, includes location-based times for sunsets and sunrises, has a built-in digital compass, and is waterproof down to 100 metres.

For hikers wanting a full-featured GPS device, Garmin’s Montana 700 is a perfect choice. The 5-inch colour touchscreen display is optimised for use in direct sunlight and feels responsive, much more like a smartphone than a clunky GPS locator. Like the GPSMAP 78, the Montana 700 utilises both GPS and GLONASS technology to ensure location accuracy, though it’s not as quick to get a signal due to its lack of antennae. The Montana also comes equipped with Bluetooth, so you can transmit data to and from compatible devices, as well as Wi-Fi for downloading weather reports and geocache locations.

Like previous generation Montana devices, the 700 utilises multitouch technology, making it much easier to interact with. Navigating maps is a breeze as well, and the user interface is surprisingly simple. The durable Gorilla Glass cover pulls double duty here, simultaneously protecting the screen and improving readability, no matter the weather conditions. The Montana also switches back and forth between portrait and landscape orientation, a feature oddly few other GPS devices offer.

Other features include an electronic compass, accelerometer, and barometric altimeter to help you track direction while standing still and chart your elevation gain and loss throughout the hike. The Montana 700 is also capable of being used for navigating on the water and getting turn-by-turn driving directions, making it one of the more versatile GPS devices on the market.

If you’re a casual weekend hiker, or you’re just getting started and don’t want to spend hundreds of pounds on a GPS you’ll rarely use, check out Garmin’s new eTrex 10. This rugged little device is affordable yet still offers plenty of features for casual outdoor enthusiasts. For instance, this device is equipped with a 2.2-inch monochrome display that’s light on the battery (25 hours on two AA cells) and can be easily read in just about any type of light. It supports both GPS and GLONASS satellites and comes preloaded with a worldwide base map. It’s also water-resistant, geocache compatible, and has enough onboard memory to store 50 routes, 10,000 waypoints, and 200 saved tracks.

The eTrex 10 was designed to be versatile enough for use in a variety of activities — Garmin even offers mounts for ATVs, bikes, boats, and automobiles, although you’ll have to upgrade to the eTrex 20 to get turn-by-turn navigation. Although the eTrex 10 lacks some fancier features provided by higher-end models, it still manages to offer all the essentials in a very affordable package.

For a completely different type of GPS device, the Spot X satellite messenger may be what you’re looking for. Like Garmin’s inReach Explorer+, this gadget allows users to send messages to friends and family back home using satellite communications. The device also offers real-time location tracking, making it easy for others to follow along as you hike and its handy SOS feature could literally be a lifesaver should the user run into trouble while in the backcountry.

The Spot X doesn’t come with preloaded maps like many other GPS devices, although it does have an onboard digital compass and can be programmed with waypoints to help with navigating through remote places. It’s lightweight, features 10 full days of battery life thanks to a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, and is water and drop-proof. Like the Explorer+, the Spot X also requires a subscription service to get its full functionality.

If you’re looking for something a little more portable, and that you won’t lose easily, then this option from Winterworm is a great choice. With its own keychain, it’s easy to clip this to your keys, your belt, or even your backpack, so you can get ready for your trip knowing that you already have a GPS device ready. Not only does this device feature a clock, but it also shows your geological coordinates, your altitude and velocity, and can record your mileage too.

Made from durable plastic that was created to survive the harsh climates when you hike, this little device can endure bumps and drops, extreme temperatures, and the rechargeable battery can last up to 12 hours when in constant use. Best of all, the rechargeable battery takes a little more than an hour to recharge, and this device can give you your location with an accuracy of up to 10 metres. You can also set destination points, with up to 16 different points available to be saved, making this an excellent basic GPS device, especially for beginners.

Screen type: If it’s a touchscreen, it’ll be easier to navigate, and for some users offer a sense of familiarity since they operate like smartphones. On the other hand, not all touchscreens are glove or mitten compatible, so if there’s the potential for inclement weather on your trip, you may want to choose a device with buttons.

Sensors: Barometric altimeters, thermometers, and electronic compasses can be vital tools. Cheaper GPS devices rarely include these sensors.

Car navigation: Some handheld GPS devices can effectively double as dashboard-mounted navigation in your vehicle. Few have screens that are big enough and clear enough, though.

Bluetooth connectivity: Devices that can communicate with one another to share maps, geocaches, and topographical data can be very valuable. You can save precious time if all members of your party are using compatible devices.

Satellite communication: Some GPS devices are capable of communicating from remote areas, even where cell networks don’t exit. If you’re planning a long trip or going deep into the rough, one of these could be the difference between life and death (hopefully not, though).

Smartphone compatibility: Some high-end handheld GPS navigators are capable of synchronizing with smartphones to provide “smart notifications.” This can be a handy tool when an unfriendly weather front is rolling in, or getting notifications from friends and family too.

Camera: Realistically, most people have a smartphone with a better camera than any GPS, but if you’d prefer to leave your phone at home (or if you can’t afford to waste the battery for some reason or another), you can snag a navigator with a decent onboard camera (for posterity).

Geocaching options: Some GPS devices come pre-loaded with geocache locations, and software designed specifically for geocaching. If not, you can usually upload your own via cable or SD card, but it’s still a fun addition to keep in mind.