Garmin is best known for its smartwatches, but it also makes handheld GPS devices with topographical maps and trail guides so you never get lost in the woods. Newer models like the Garmin GPSMAP 66i and 67i have Iridium satellite support, so you can message family where there's no cell reception, or even send an SOS to local emergency services if you've been attacked or injured in the middle of nowhere, and can't make it back.
Any serious hiker, backpacker, or outdoorsman who can't count on cell service should buy a satellite device, but they're expensive as hell. Thankfully, the Garmin GPSMAP 66i is $200 off, courtesy of Black Friday. With its MIL-STD-810 protection against water, heat, and shock, plus up to 200 hours of battery in Expedition mode, it'll never quit on you in an emergency.
With the GPSMAP 66i in hand, you can download and view satellite maps of your exact location to gauge your surroundings, download a real-time map of the active weather happening around you, turn on the built-in LED flashlight at night, and send check-in messages to family with a few button clicks.
To use the GPSMAP's satellite features, you'll need an InReach subscription, which you can pay monthly or annually depending on how often you hike. The cheapest Safety plan is $12/month annually, which means this deal would essentially cover a full year of satellite connectivity with some money left over.
If money is no object and you want the best possible experience, however, I recommend the GPSMAP 67i, which I personally tested and is $100 off for Black Friday.
I'd describe the GPSMAP 67i as an enhanced 66i: it has the same features and design, but uses USB-C charging instead of microUSB and has much better battery life (165 hours in 10-minute GPS mode instead of 35 hours). It also supports dual-band GPS instead of multi-GNSS tracking, with more satellite systems like QZSS and Beidou for international travel.
Keep in mind that both of these handheld GPS devices are incredibly useful, but difficult to master because of the weird UI and many buttons. Until you master it, you'll want to print and take the manual with you so you aren't stuck trying to figure out how to use it. Still, once you take the time to figure out its inner workings, it's incredibly useful to hiking enthusiasts exploring new areas.
If these aren't what you need, not to worry: I've made a guide on the best Black Friday Garmin deals focused on all the discounted watches available, from Forerunner to Epix, Instinct to Venu. Or you can check our more general guide on the best Black Friday smartwatch deals!
