8 Best Hiking and Backpacking Watches of 2023: Below $700

Every moment counts in the world of outdoor exploration. Whether you’re conquering rugged mountain trails, traversing dense forests, or embarking on a multi-day backpacking expedition, having the right gear can make all the difference. A reliable hiking and backpacking watch is an essential companion for adventurers like you.

The world of outdoor watches has evolved continuously. These watches offer more advanced features and durability than ever before. From altimeters to GPS tracking, these timepieces have become indispensable tools for those who seek to not only track time but also navigate their way through nature’s most challenging terrain.

Many options are flooding the market. It is a challenge to find the perfect hiking and backpacking watch. We have meticulously researched and curated a list of the “Best Hiking and Backpacking Watches” priced below $700 for you,

Watch	GPS	Activity Tracker	Compass	Barometric Altimeter	Temperature Monitor
Garmin Fenix 7 Series	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
Casio Pathfinder PAG240-1CR	X	X	✔	✔	✔
Amazfit T-Rex Military	✔	✔	✔	✔	X
Garmin Instinct Solar 010-02293-10	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
Casio Mudmaster GWG-1000-1A3	X	X	✔	✔	✔
Garmin Fenix 5X Sapphire	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
Suunto Core All Black Military	X	X	✔	✔	✔
Garmin Instinct Tactical Edition	✔	✔	✔	✔	X

Watch	Solar Charging	Heart Rate Monitor	Weather Trend Indicator / Notifications	Sunrise / Sunset	Depth Meter for Snorkeling	Waterproof
Garmin Fenix 7 Series	✔	✔	✔	✔	X	100 Meters
Casio Pathfinder PAG240-1CR	✔	X	X	X	X	100 Meters
Amazfit T-Rex Military	X	✔	✔	✔	X	50 Meters
Garmin Instinct Solar 010-02293-10	✔	✔	✔	✔	X	100 Meters
Casio Mudmaster GWG-1000-1A3	✔	X	X	X	X	200 Meters
Garmin Fenix 5X Sapphire	X	✔	✔	✔	X	100 Meters
Suunto Core All Black Military	X	X	✔	✔	✔	30 Meters
Garmin Instinct Tactical Edition	X	✔	X	X	X	100 Meters

Watch	Battery Life (Normal Usage)	Battery Life (GPS Mode)	Battery Life (Battery Saver Mode)
Garmin Fenix 7 Series ($650)	73 Hours	37 Hours	N/A
Casio Pathfinder PAG240-1CR ($300)	6 Months	N/A	N/A
Amazfit T-Rex Military ($150)	18 Days	40 Hours	N/A
Garmin Instinct Solar 010-02293-10 ($350)	24 Days	30 Hours	56 Days
Casio Mudmaster GWG-1000-1A3 ($600)	2 Years	N/A	N/A
Garmin Fenix 5X Sapphire ($240)	12 Days	20 Hours	N/A
Suunto Core All Black Military ($200)	1 Year	N/A	N/A
Garmin Instinct Tactical Edition ($300)	14 Days	16 Hours	40 Hours

1. Garmin Fenix 7 Series ($650)

The Garmin Fenix 7 Series is the latest addition to Garmin’s renowned lineup of adventure-oriented GPS watches. It embodies a perfect blend of rugged durability and advanced technology, making it a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts. This watch is a reliable companion for your hiking and backpacking adventures with a robust build and a plethora of features.

The Garmin Fenix 7 Series is exceptionally well-suited for hiking and backpacking. Its rugged construction ensures it can handle the rough and unpredictable terrains of the great outdoors. The watch’s GPS functionality, complete with preloaded topographic maps, helps you navigate confidently, even in remote areas with limited cell signal. This watch delivers accurate data to enhance your hiking and backpacking experience when you’re tracing your route, measuring elevation gain, or monitoring your pace.

The Fenix 7 Series supports multiple global navigation satellite systems, ensuring reliable tracking no matter where your adventures take you. You’ll have essential tools at your fingertips with features like altimeter, barometer, and compass. Moreover, it’s water-resistant, so you can confidently ford streams or hike in the rain without worrying about damaging your watch.

Pros:

• Durability: This watch is built to military standards. So this watch can endure extreme conditions.
• Advanced GPS: Precise navigation with multiple satellite system support.
• Topographic Maps: Preloaded maps aid in route planning and tracking.
• Long Battery Life: Extended battery life ensures it lasts throughout your adventures.
• Health and Fitness Features: Comprehensive health and fitness tracking, including heart rate monitoring.
• Connectivity: Smart notifications, Wi-Fi, and compatibility with various sensors.
• Stylish Design: A sleek, modern look suitable for both outdoor activities and everyday wear.
• Multiple Sport Modes: Supports a wide range of outdoor and indoor activities.

Cons:

• Price: It falls on the higher end of the price spectrum.
• Complexity: Extensive features may be overwhelming for some users.
• Size: The watch can be bulky for those with smaller wrists.
• Learning Curve: Mastering all of its functions may require some time and effort.
• Third-party Apps: Third-party app support may not be as extensive as some other platforms.

2. Casio Pathfinder PAG240-1CR ($300)

The Casio Pathfinder PAG240-1CR is a rugged and dependable outdoor wristwatch designed to be your trusted companion on hiking and backpacking adventures. It’s a part of Casio’s Pathfinder series, known for its durability and comprehensive outdoor features. This watch doesn’t just tell time; it equips you with a suite of tools to navigate, survive, and thrive in the great outdoors.

The Casio Pathfinder PAG240-1CR is exceptionally well-suited for hiking and backpacking. Its altimeter allows you to track your elevation gain, while the barometer keeps you informed about weather changes, crucial for planning and safety. The digital compass aids navigation, ensuring you stay on the right path even in unfamiliar terrains. Additionally, the built-in thermometer provides real-time temperature data, helping you make informed decisions about clothing and shelter.

This watch has the amazing solar charging capability to harness the power of the sun to keep your watch running, so you never have to worry about battery life during extended treks. Its water resistance supported up to 100 meters adds more reliability. The Pathfinder PAG240-1CR is a time-tested choice for those who value durability, functionality, and simplicity in their hiking and backpacking gear.

Pros:

• Rugged Durability: Built to withstand tough outdoor conditions.
• Solar-Powered: No need to replace batteries. It charges with sunlight or indoor light.
• Comprehensive Outdoor Features: Altimeter, barometer, digital compass, and thermometer.
• Water Resistant: Suitable for use in wet conditions.
• Affordable: Offers a range of outdoor features at a reasonable price point.
• User-Friendly: Intuitive interface and easy-to-use buttons.
• Backlight: Illuminated display for reading data in low-light conditions.

Cons:

• Bulky Design: Some users may find it large and heavy on the wrist.
• Limited Connectivity: Lacks the smart features and connectivity of more modern outdoor watches.
• Basic Design: Aesthetically, it may not appeal to those looking for a more stylish watch.
• No GPS: It lacks GPS functionality for precise location tracking.
• No Heart Rate Monitor: This doesn’t offer advanced health and fitness tracking features.

3. Amazfit T-Rex Military Smartwatch ($150)

The Amazfit T-Rex Military Smartwatch is a robust and feature-packed timepiece designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts, including hikers and backpackers. This rugged smartwatch combines style and functionality with its durable design and a wide range of fitness and adventure tracking features.

The Amazfit T-Rex Military Smartwatch is an excellent choice for hiking and backpacking adventures. Its rugged design ensures it can endure the challenges of outdoor activities, including dust, extreme temperatures, and shocks. The built-in GPS and multiple satellite system support make it ideal for tracking your route and location accurately, allowing you to explore confidently even in remote areas.

The altimeter and barometer provide essential data on elevation and weather changes, essential for hikers and backpackers who need to monitor conditions in real-time. The long-lasting battery life ensures you won’t be left without essential tracking features during extended trips. Additionally, its fitness and health tracking features, including heart rate monitoring and sleep analysis, help you stay in peak condition.

Pros:

• Rugged Durability: Designed to meet military standards for toughness.
• GPS and Satellite Support: Accurate tracking and location information.
• Long Battery Life: Lasts for several days, even with active use.
• Comprehensive Outdoor Features: Altimeter, barometer, compass, and more.
• Health and Fitness Tracking: Monitors heart rate, sleep quality, and activity levels.
• Stylish Design: A blend of ruggedness and modern aesthetics.
• Affordable: Offers impressive features at a competitive price point.

Cons:

• Limited App Ecosystem: The selection of third-party apps may not be as extensive as some competitors.
• Bulkier Size: Its rugged design can make it feel bulky on smaller wrists.
• Basic Interface: Some users may find the interface less intuitive compared to more advanced smartwatches.
• Limited Smart Features: This watch may lack some of the advanced smart features found in premium smartwatches.

4. Garmin Instinct Solar 010-02293-10 ($350)

The Garmin Instinct Solar 010-02293-10 is a rugged, outdoor-focused smartwatch that combines cutting-edge technology. This watch has exceptional durability to cater to the needs of hikers, backpackers, and outdoor enthusiasts. This watch is built to withstand the rigors of the wilderness while providing advanced features to enhance your outdoor experiences.

The Garmin Instinct Solar 010-02293-10 has a rugged design that ensures it can withstand rough terrain, shocks, and harsh weather conditions. The solar charging capability is a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts, as it extends the watch’s battery life, reducing the need to carry extra power sources on extended trips.

This watch offers comprehensive navigation and environmental data along with the watch’s GPS and satellite support, combined with its altimeter, barometer, and compass. This means you can confidently navigate through challenging terrains, monitor weather changes, and track your elevation gain. You can analyze all critical factors for safe and enjoyable hiking and backpacking experiences. This watch helps you stay on top of your physical condition with health and fitness tracking features makes this an indispensable tool for those who want to balance fitness and adventure.

Pros:

• Solar Charging: Extended battery life for longer outdoor adventures.
• Rugged Durability: Built to military standards for toughness.
• Water-resistant: Suitable for various weather conditions and water-related activities.
• Multi-Satellite Support: GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo for accurate navigation.
• Comprehensive Sensors: Altimeter, barometer, and compass for essential outdoor data.
• Fitness Tracking: Monitors heart rate, and activity, and offers fitness training features.
• Smart Notifications: Receive alerts and notifications from your smartphone.

Cons:

• Price: It falls on the higher end of the price spectrum for outdoor smartwatches.
• Basic Smart Features: Lacks some advanced smartwatch features found in premium models.
• Bulkier Design: Some users may find it bulky, especially for everyday wear.
• Learning Curve: Its extensive features may require some time to master.
• Limited Touchscreen: The watch primarily relies on buttons, which some users may find less intuitive than a touchscreen interface.

5. Casio Mudmaster GWG-1000-1A3 ($600)

The Casio Mudmaster GWG-1000-1A3 is the perfection of ruggedness and dependability in a wristwatch. Part of Casio’s Master of G series, this timepiece is engineered to withstand the harshest conditions. This makes it an ideal choice for adventurers, hikers, and backpackers who venture into extreme environments. The Mudmaster is built to endure shocks, vibrations, and extreme temperatures with its military-grade specifications it has.

The Casio Mudmaster GWG-1000-1A3 is exceptionally well-suited for hiking and backpacking adventures. Its mud-resistant and shockproof construction ensures it can withstand the toughest conditions, making it a reliable companion. The watch’s Triple Sensor system is a crucial asset for outdoor enthusiasts, as it provides accurate data on direction, altitude, barometric pressure, and temperature. This data empowers hikers and backpackers to navigate with confidence, anticipate weather changes, and make informed decisions about their routes and gear.

The solar charging capability of the Mudmaster means you won’t run out of power during extended trips. Additionally, it’s water resistance and durable band further enhance its suitability for outdoor activities, making it a dependable tool for those who demand performance and durability from their gear.

Pros:

• Rugged Durability: Built to meet military standards for toughness.
• Triple Sensor System: Digital compass, altimeter/barometer, and thermometer for outdoor data.
• Solar Charging: Keeps the watch powered during extended adventures.
• Water Resistant: Suitable for water-related activities and wet conditions.
• Mud Resistant: Designed to prevent mud and debris from affecting its functionality.
• Long Battery Life: Offers a reliable power source for outdoor navigation.
• Distinctive Design: A rugged and unique aesthetic for outdoor enthusiasts.

Cons:

• Bulkier Design: Some users may find it large and heavy on the wrist.
• Limited Smart Features: Lacks the advanced smart capabilities of some other outdoor watches.
• Complex Interface: The abundance of features may require time to learn and navigate effectively.
• No GPS: It lacks built-in GPS for precise location tracking.
• Higher Price Point: Falls into the higher price range for outdoor watches.

6. Garmin Fenix 5X Sapphire ($240)

The Garmin Fenix 5X Sapphire is a flagship multisport GPS watch designed to cater to the needs of hikers and backpackers. This rugged and stylish timepiece is part of the renowned Fenix series, known for its durability and comprehensive set of features. The Fenix 5X Sapphire stands out with its premium Sapphire crystal lens, offering enhanced scratch resistance and durability.

This watch is exceptionally well-suited for outdoor adventures. Its rugged construction and Sapphire crystal lens protect against the elements and rough terrain. The watch’s advanced GPS and GLONASS support, combined with the altimeter, barometer, and compass, provide comprehensive navigation and environmental data.

The Fenix 5X Sapphire’s long battery life ensures it won’t run out of power during extended treks. It has the capability of smart notifications to keep you connected to your smartphone. This allows you to stay informed about messages and alerts even in remote areas.

Additionally, its health and fitness tracking features along with heart rate monitoring and activity profiles, help you stay in peak condition for your outdoor pursuits. This is a reliable and versatile companion for hikers and backpackers seeking a comprehensive and durable outdoor watch.

Pros:

• Rugged Durability: Built to withstand extreme conditions and shocks.
• Sapphire Crystal Lens: Enhanced scratch resistance for the display.
• Multi-Satellite Support: GPS and GLONASS for precise location tracking.
• Comprehensive Sensors: Altimeter, barometer, and compass for outdoor data.
• Smart Notifications: Stay connected with your smartphone on the trail.
• Health and Fitness Tracking: Monitors heart rate, and activity, and offers advanced workout metrics.
• Long Battery Life: Suitable for extended outdoor adventures.
• Topographic Maps: Preloaded maps aid in navigation.

Cons:

• Higher Price Point: It’s a premium watch with a higher price tag.
• Bulkier Design: Some users may find it large and heavy for everyday wear.
• Learning Curve: Its extensive features may require some time to fully utilize.
• No Solar Charging: Lacks solar charging capabilities found in newer models.
• Limited Smart Features: While it offers notifications, it may lack some advanced smartwatch features found in premium models.

7. Suunto Core All Black Military Watch ($200)

The Suunto Core All Black Military Watch is a rugged and dependable timepiece designed for adventurers, especially those passionate about hiking and backpacking. Suunto, a brand renowned for its precision outdoor instruments, has crafted this watch to withstand the demands of the great outdoors. This is a reliable companion for those who seek to explore remote terrains, ascend lofty peaks, or embark on multi-day treks.

The Suunto Core All-Black Military Watch is exceptionally well-suited for hiking and backpacking. Its durable construction and water resistance make it suitable for use in various outdoor conditions, including rain and humidity. The altimeter provides accurate elevation data, helping you track your ascent and descent. The barometer assists in forecasting weather changes which is a crucial element of outdoor safety and planning. Additionally, the digital compass helps you maintain your course to stay on track and reach your destination.

The long battery life of this watch ensures it lasts throughout your adventures without the need for frequent recharging. The Suunto Core All Black is a practical and dependable choice for hikers and backpackers who value essential outdoor tools in a straightforward package.

Pros:

• Rugged Durability: Designed to withstand tough outdoor conditions.
• Altimeter: Provides accurate elevation data for tracking ascent and descent.
• Barometer: Helps predict weather changes for safety and planning.
• Digital Compass: Aids in navigation and direction finding.
• Long Battery Life: Suitable for extended outdoor adventures.
• Intuitive Interface: Easy-to-use design, perfect for quick access to critical data.
• Water Resistant: Suitable for wet conditions and water-related activities.
• Simple and Minimalist Design: Focuses on core outdoor features without unnecessary complexity.

Cons:

• Limited Smart Features: Lacks the advanced smart capabilities of some other outdoor watches.
• No GPS: It does not have built-in GPS for precise location tracking.
• Basic Design: Some users may prefer a more stylish or feature-rich watch for everyday wear.
• No Solar Charging: It doesn’t offer solar charging capabilities found in some newer models.
• Lack of Advanced Fitness Tracking: It focuses primarily on outdoor and navigation features and lacks advanced health and fitness tracking features.

8. Garmin Instinct Tactical Edition ($300)

The Garmin Instinct Tactical Edition Watch is a rugged smartwatch tailored for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. This timepiece is part of Garmin’s Instinct series, celebrated for its military-grade durability and advanced outdoor features. The Tactical Edition takes it a step further by offering specialized features catering to those who require both outdoor and tactical functionality in one reliable device.

The Garmin Instinct Tactical Edition Watch is exceptionally well-suited for hiking and backpacking adventures. Its rugged construction, enhanced with a chemically strengthened display, guarantees it can withstand the harshest conditions, from rocky trails to heavy rainfall. The precise GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo support ensure you can track your location with confidence, even in remote areas. The altimeter provides crucial elevation data, while the barometer helps predict weather changes, a vital element for outdoor planning and safety. The digital compass aids in navigation, ensuring you stay on the right path during your outdoor journeys.

This watch also includes night vision compatibility, stealth mode, and Jumpmaster mode for military parachuting operations. These features make it not only a reliable hiking and backpacking companion but also a valuable tool for tactical professionals. This watch also contains a long-lasting battery life and a range of additional features like heart rate monitoring, stress tracking, and smartphone notifications.

Pros:

• Rugged Durability: Built to meet military standards for toughness.
• Stealthy Design: Ideal for tactical operations and discreet outdoor adventures.
• Multi-Satellite Support: GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo for precise location tracking.
• Comprehensive Sensors: Altimeter, barometer, and compass for outdoor data.
• Tactical Features: Night vision compatibility, stealth mode, and Jumpmaster mode.
• Long Battery Life: Suitable for extended outdoor and tactical missions.
• Health and Fitness Tracking: Monitors heart rate, and stress levels, and offers advanced fitness metrics.
• Smart Notifications: Stay connected to your smartphone while on the trail.

Cons:

• Price: It falls into the higher price range for outdoor and tactical smartwatches.
• Basic Smart Features: This watch may lack some advanced smartwatch features found in premium models.
• Bulky Design: Some users may find it large and heavy for everyday wear.
• Learning Curve: Its extensive features may require some time to fully utilize, especially for tactical functions.
• Limited App Ecosystem: The selection of third-party apps may not be as extensive as some other platforms.