10 Best Personal GPS Trackers For Cars, Kids & Pets!
Are you searching for the best personal GPS trackers to safeguard your car, kids, or pets? This comprehensive guide will navigate you through the top brands, showcasing their standout features. Learn what to consider when choosing a tracker, and find answers to frequently asked questions. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to select the perfect GPS tracker for your needs, ensuring peace of mind and security.
Personal GPS Trackers – Why Do You Need Them?
Personal GPS trackers are essential for keeping tabs on loved ones, pets, and valuables, offering peace of mind through real-time location updates. These devices alert you when the tracked entity enters or leaves predefined areas, thanks to geofencing technology. This feature is invaluable for parents and pet owners, providing an extra layer of security.
Their compact design allows for discreet tracking, ensuring that the privacy of the individual is respected while maintaining their safety. This is particularly beneficial for monitoring elderly family members discreetly, balancing their independence with safety concerns.
Selecting the right GPS tracker requires understanding its battery life, range, accuracy, and suitability for the intended tracking purpose. This guide highlights the best personal GPS trackers, focusing on those aspects to help you make an informed choice. By integrating these devices into your daily life, you ensure the safety and security of what matters most to you.
Disclaimer:
In this article, we aim to list the best products, not review or rank them. All listed items cater to diverse customer needs. Evaluating cost, subscription plans, battery life, size, and installation, we considered factors like coverage countries, application ease, security, and unique features. Additionally, we explored vendors’ add-on services, such as lifetime warranty, 24/7 support, and installation assistance. Our goal is to inform and educate you about the range of market options. Please note that we created this list with the assistance of Amazon customer reviews, YouTube video reviews, and the GPS security experts at Tracking System Direct.
SpaceHawk – Best Hidden GPS Tracker For Car
SpaceHawk is a mini hidden GPS tracker that can be used for anything from secretly tracking vehicles to safeguarding assets. What makes this GPS tracking solution unique is its small design, waterproof housing, and powerful surface magnet. Yes, you can simply attach this mini GPS tracker onto anything and find out everywhere it is going on 24/7!
But what makes this vehicle tracking device best when stacked up against other car GPS trackers? The answer really is in the features. We mentioned the physical features of the product earlier, but other awesome features include the device’s top-rated mobile app, free technical support, and lifetime warranty. Literally, you can pick up the phone can call this company 7 days a week and they can help you get set up or answer all your questions! And the best part? The SpaceHawk GPS tracker is designed and manufactured in the USA!
According to GPS Tracker Shop, SpaceHawk is the best overall hidden GPS tracker for monitoring cars and assets when compared to Tracki, Spy Tec GL300 and the Brickhouse Security Spark Nano 7. However, we will go over some of those tracking devices, as well as other solutions, later in this article!
Key Features:
- Compact, wireless design
- 3 Second update rates
- Lifetime warranty
- Free technical support
- Powerful magnet mount
- Geofencing, low battery and speed alerts
Specs:
- 2.25 x 2.25 x 0.8 inches
- 4G LTE
- Global SIM
- Internal Lit-Ion Battery
Visit website: https://spacehawkgps.com/
AngelSense – Best Personal GPS Tracker For Child Safety
AngelSense is a personal GPS tracker designed specifically for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This compact device enhances the safety of autistic individuals and offers peace of mind to their caregivers. By attaching the tracker to the person, tracking their location becomes straightforward, providing a dependable way to ensure their safety.
Notably cost-effective, AngelSense delivers performance on par with higher-priced models. It features sensory-friendly wearables that lock in place, requiring a special key for removal, tailored for comfort and security. The tracker includes a 2-way voice function with an auto-answer speakerphone, allowing for direct communication with the wearer.
With AngelSense, you can create safe zones and receive alerts when the wearer enters or exits these areas. It also enables location sharing with emergency services, ensuring a swift response when needed. Moreover, it is designed to meet school regulations, making it versatile for various environments. AngelSense offers a comprehensive, budget-friendly solution for monitoring the whereabouts of your loved ones, ensuring their safety in busy settings.
Key Features
- 2-way voice with auto pickup speakerphone
- SOS button
- Proactive Alerts
- Live Location Sharing
Specs:
- Size: 2.4″ x 1.7″ x 0.63″
- Weight: 1.4 Oz
- 24 hours of active battery life
- Price: $59.00
See what real customers said about this product on Reddit by clicking here.
Whistle 3 – Best GPS Tracker For Pets
Whistle 3 emerges as a top choice for pet tracking, offering a lightweight and durable design specifically tailored for your furry companions. Operating on GPS, it surpasses the range of Bluetooth-based devices, presenting two new modes: Whistle Go Explore and Whistle Go.
This portable GPS tracker not only monitors your pet’s daily activities but also assesses their health relative to age, weight, and breed. Designed with pets in mind, it boasts durability and a waterproof feature, ensuring resilience against puddle-loving pets. The exceptional battery life, lasting up to 6-7 days depending on pet activity, outshines other pet tracking devices. Easily attached to your pet’s collar, it remains unobtrusive, offering text, app, or email notifications when your pet ventures away from home.
Key Features:
- Small and reliable design
- Nationwide location tracking
Specs:
- Size: 1.8″x1.4″ x 0.6
- Weight: 0.96 Oz
- Battery: 1 Lithium-ion batteries
- Battery Type: Internal and Rechargeable
- 7 days active battery life with 1-minute updates
- Price: $49.99
Read a full review on this GPS product here: https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/whistle-gps-pet-tracker
Trakbond Trail – Best Tracker for Kids
The Trakbond Trail is a mini-GPS tracker designed with children’s safety in mind, making it an appealing option for parents. Based in India, it focuses on the security of young ones by incorporating features such as real-time tracking, a panic button, and a timeline view, all at a budget-friendly price.
This personal GPS tracker comes with a pre-installed SIM card and offers a complimentary 2-month subscription that includes unlimited data usage, SMS alerts, access to a mobile app, secure cloud storage, and instant support. It also provides the convenience of a flexible contract, a 1-year warranty, and lifetime support. While its 2-day battery life is shorter compared to some rivals, the Trakbond Trail’s affordability and extensive services render it a significant contender.
It allows for the creation of geofences and safe zones, sending alerts when the child ventures into new areas. The tracker is versatile in wearability, featuring options like a neck strap, silicone case, and a lockable carabiner for both comfort and style. Despite the shorter battery duration, the Trakbond Trail makes up for it with its ability to review location history and an SOS button for urgent situations.
Key Features:
- Small GPS tracker
- Check location history
- Wearable options
- SOS button
- Lightweight and durable
Specs:
- Size: 1.6″ x 1.7″ x 0.9″
- Weight: 1.4 Oz
- Battery: 3.7V 600 mA/H battery
- Battery Type: Internal and Rechargeable
- 2 days of active battery life
- Price: $29.80
Geozilla – Best GPS Tracker For Family Monitoring
The Geozilla GPS Tracker is a compact device aimed at enhancing the safety of your family and the security of personal items. Its integration with an intuitive app makes this mini-GPS tracker a convenient choice due to its lightweight and discreet design, suitable for attaching to children’s clothing or pet collars without drawing attention.
Offered at a competitive price, this GPS tracking system features a battery life extending up to 5 days. The tracker’s portable size and subtle black appearance allow it to seamlessly integrate into various settings, while the inclusion of a durable case pouch provides resilience against challenging weather conditions.
Especially effective for safeguarding pets and children, the Geozilla GPS Tracker serves as a reliable aid for navigation during international travels or in unfamiliar locales, ensuring peace of mind by keeping you oriented and your loved ones secure.
Key Features
- Lightweight and portable
- Blends with surroundings
- User-friendly app
- Affordable tracking services
Specs:
- Size: 8″ x 1.6″ x 1″
- Weight: 1.05 Oz
- Battery: Li-ion 520mAh
- Battery type: Internal and Rechargeable
- 2-3 days active battery life for 1-minute updates
- 6 days in sleep mode (no activity)
- Price: $68.00
Fitbit Versa 4 – Best GPS Monitor For Personal Fitness Tracking
The Fitbit Versa 4 is the latest addition to the Fitbit family, incorporating a built-in GPS tracker in a slim, lightweight fitness watch aimed at supporting your wellness journey. The personal GPS tracker offers more than 40 exercise modes, providing precise location data with its integrated GPS during outdoor exercises for accurate activity tracking.
This device not only tracks your movements but also monitors sleep patterns and heart rate, enabling the creation of customized workout plans based on your specific health metrics. With Google Maps integration, the tracker device allows for navigation without the need for a smartphone, presenting directions directly on your wrist. Additionally, it keeps you connected by delivering alerts for phone calls, texts, and other notifications.
Targeted towards individuals committed to improving their fitness levels or competitors in training, the Fitbit Versa 4 merges sophisticated technology with an intuitive design, making it a standout choice for those seeking to enhance their physical activity and health monitoring.
Key Features:
- Built-in GPS tracker
- Active Zone Minutes
- 40+ exercise modes
- Sleep tracking
- 7-day battery
- Water-resistant
Specs:
- Size: 9.72″ x 1.13″ x 0.49″
- Weight: 1.05 Oz
- Battery Type: Internal & Rechargeable
- 7 days active battery life
- Price: $199.95
Family1st – Best Pocket Sized GPS Tracker
The Family1st GPS Tracker stands out for its discreet design and efficient 4G LTE network connectivity. Designed for tracking a wide range of items and loved ones including vehicles, children, pets, elderly members, and valuables, its compact size facilitates unnoticed placement in bags or on cars.
This tracker is powered by a 2400 mAh Li-Polymer rechargeable battery, providing up to two weeks of battery life. It can be easily hidden in vehicles, backpacks, or luggage, with tracking accessible through a dedicated app or website.
Featuring a sleek design, the tracker can be discreetly placed, and is even suitable for attachment under vehicles with the use of the Family1st Magnetic case. The GPS device offers additional functionalities like low battery and geofence alerts, with the convenience of text and email notifications for updates.
Key Features:
- Real-time GPS tracker
- Pocketable size
- Lifetime Warranty
- 14-days battery life
- 30-days money-back guarantee
Specs:
- Size: 2.8” x 1.8” x 1.1
- Weight: 3.60 Oz
- Battery: 2400 mAh Li-Polymer
- Battery Type: Internal and Rechargeable
- 2 weeks battery life on the basic plan for an hour of drive time minimum every day
- Price: $14.90
See how one father rated this product versus other personal GPS trackers here: https://www.diydaddyblog.com/best-hidden-gps-car-trackers/
Apple Watch Series 8 – Best Wearable Personal GPS Locator
The Apple Watch Series 8 is a sophisticated wearable device equipped with GPS tracking, designed to support and enhance your health and fitness routines. The personal GPS tracker offers detailed insights into your health, enabling the planning of effective exercise routines. The watch allows for seamless connectivity, enabling users to send texts, make calls, and stream music without needing a mobile phone.
Tailored for individuals who travel frequently, the Apple Watch Series 8 can be customized to fit various requirements. The tracking device extends beyond typical fitness tracking by including safety features like crash and fall detection, which automatically connect you to emergency services in urgent situations. Built to be durable and water-resistant, it is also suitable for use in swimming and resilient against harsh conditions.
The device comes with comprehensive health monitoring capabilities such as blood oxygen level measurement, sleep stage analysis, and insights into women’s health, featuring temperature sensors and cycle tracking with retrospective ovulation estimates. This makes the Apple Watch Series 8 a versatile health companion, offering a wide range of features to support users in maintaining and monitoring their health and fitness levels.
Key Features:
- Built-in GPS tracker
- Easy to connect and operate
- Smartphone and fitness band in one
- Waterproof design
- Blood oxygen sensor
- Always-On Retina Display
- 18 hours of battery life
- 5GHz Wi-Fi and U1 Ultra Wideband chip
Specs:
- Size: 12.32″ x 2.69″ x 1.33″
- Weight: 9.9 Oz
- Battery Type: Internal and Rechargeable
- 18 hours of active battery life
- Price: $335.02
See what CNET had to say about this product here: https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/apple-watch-series-8-review-degrees-of-difference/
Tracki Mini – Top Selling Personal GPS Tracker On Amazon
Tracki Mini GPS Tracker, the smallest tracking device available at an affordable price of $28.88, coupled with a monthly subscription fee of $19.95. Compact and discreet, this mini tracker, no larger than a cookie, serves as an ideal solution for discreetly monitoring various scenarios.
A prime example is tracking your new teen driver without their knowledge. As teens may engage in risky driving behaviors, the Tracki Mini allows parents to ensure their safety by monitoring real-time locations and receiving notifications for any detected poor driving behavior.
With unlimited distance real-time tracking, a lifetime warranty, and the capability to store historical data for up to five years, the Tracki Mini offers robust features to address discreet tracking needs.
Key Features:
- Unlimited distance real-time tracking
- Lifetime warranty
- Stores historical data for up to five years
- SOS button plus 2 extra buttons
Specs:
- Size: 1.74”x 1.5”x 0.6”
- Weight: 1.26 Oz
- Battery: 3500 mAh Li-Polymer
- Battery Type: 1 Lithium-ion battery
- 5-day active battery life with 1-5 minutes update
- Price: $12.88
Read how the Tracki mini stacks up to other GPS vehicle tracking devices according to tech expert Pascal Bergeron.
Spot Trace GPS Tracker – Best Durable Tracker
The Spot Trace GPS Tracker, your durable companion for ventures into the wild. This advanced tracking system ensures real-time location updates even in remote locations worldwide, using 100% satellite technology. Ideal for keeping track of loved ones, the Spot Trace allows family members to access real-time locations through a mobile application with instant notifications.
Notably, this tracker operates globally, providing reliable performance wherever you find yourself. With a battery life lasting 10-14 days with one-minute tracking updates, it offers flexibility in balancing live tracking and battery usage. The Spot Trace GPS Tracker, priced at $55, coupled with monthly subscription fees starting from $14.95, stands out as a durable and versatile tracking solution.
Key Features:
- Extremely compact perfect for outdoors
- Allows online tracking
- Sends instant alerts through email
- Provides a wide range of uses
Battery & Specs:
- Size: 6.9” x 2.02” x 0.95”
- Weight: 1 oz
- Battery: 4 AAA Energizer Ultimate Lithium 8x batteries (L92) – Installed
- Battery Option: 4 AAA Energizer® NiMH rechargeable batteries (NH12) – Sold Separately
- Battery type: Options of external, internal, and rechargeable
- 10-14 days active battery life with one-minute updates
- Price: $129.99
FAQs
Are GPS Trackers For Pets Accurate?
Yes, GPS trackers for pets are accurate, offering peace of mind by providing real-time location updates. These devices utilize satellite technology to pinpoint your pet’s location, typically within a few feet. Accuracy can vary based on the device’s quality and the environment. Urban areas with tall buildings might experience slight discrepancies, but overall, pet GPS trackers are reliable for keeping tabs on your furry friends.
How Do I Choose The Best GPS Tracker For My Car?
To choose the best GPS tracker for your car, consider factors like battery life, real-time tracking capabilities, and the presence of geofencing alerts. Look for a device with a powerful magnet if you prefer a hidden installation. Additionally, evaluate the subscription cost and the app’s ease of use. For comprehensive protection, select a vehicle tracker that offers detailed driving reports and speed alerts.
FAQ 4: Is there a GPS tracker for kids that doesn’t require a smartphone?
Yes, there are GPS trackers for kids that don’t require a smartphone. These devices are designed with simplicity in mind, offering basic tracking features and sometimes voice communication without the need for a paired smartphone. They typically come with a dedicated device for the child and a parent’s receiver or web-based interface for monitoring. This is ideal for younger children or situations where smartphone use is not desired.
Can GPS Trackers Help With Monitoring Seniors With Dementia?
Yes, GPS trackers can be instrumental in monitoring seniors with dementia. These devices offer features like real-time tracking, geofencing, and SOS alerts, making them valuable for ensuring the safety of elderly family members. Look for a tracker with a comfortable design and user-friendly interface. Some models are specifically tailored for seniors, providing additional support for those with cognitive impairments.
Are There Any Waterproof GPS Trackers For Outdoor Activities?
Yes, waterproof GPS trackers are available for outdoor activities. These rugged devices are designed to withstand the elements, making them perfect for tracking assets, pets, or people during outdoor adventures. They often come with features like long battery life, emergency SOS buttons, and global coverage. When choosing a tracker, consider the IP rating to ensure it meets your waterproofing requirements. Here are 3 examples of personal GPS trackers that were well-received for their durability, reliability, and suitability for outdoor use:
- Garmin inReach Mini: A compact, rugged, and waterproof GPS tracker and satellite communicator. It offers two-way messaging, SOS emergency services, and live tracking features. It’s designed for all outdoor activities, providing global Iridium network coverage. The device is widely recommended by outdoor enthusiasts and has been featured on numerous outdoor gear review sites, including OutdoorGearLab and REI Co-op’s product reviews.
- Spot Gen4: Known for its ruggedness and simplicity, the Spot Gen4 offers real-time tracking, SOS capabilities, and check-in functions. It’s waterproof and designed for backcountry adventures where cellular service is non-existent. This device is often highlighted on hunting and wilderness survival websites for its reliability in remote areas.
- Garmin GPSMAP 66i: Combining high-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS receiver with satellite communication capabilities, the GPSMAP 66i is built for challenging environments. It features a large, sunlight-readable color display, preloaded TOPO maps, and inReach technology for SOS and two-way messaging. Outdoor and hiking websites, such as Switchback Travel and The Adventure Junkies, have recommended it for serious hikers and adventurers seeking a robust GPS solution.