Cold-Weather Handheld GPS Test Setup
- Temps: 18–28°F overnight with wind, handheld gps units exposed outside a tent vestibule to mimic real winter camping and backpacking conditions.
- Logging: Track recording left on all night; screen backlight set low; GNSS configured to multi-band on supported gps handheld devices for maximum accuracy.
- Devices: Mix of Li-ion rechargeable and AA-powered gps handheld devices to compare how each battery type survives extended cold exposure.
Key Battery Findings in Cold Weather
- Li-ion drops fast at the start, then stabilizes. Expect a 5–10% early hit on most handheld gps units, then a steadier drain once the battery cools and reaches a stable temperature.
- AA units (lithium primaries) win for deep cold. Lithium AA packs in gps handhelds beat alkaline by hours when temps stay below freezing, especially on overnight trips.
- Screen/backlight is a big drain. Use low backlight, shorter screen timeouts, and keep the unit warm in a pocket or inside layers between checks to preserve runtime.
- Pre-warmed batteries last longer. Swapping in lithium AA cells that you keep in an inner pocket noticeably extends usable time in harsh cold.
Power Tips for Handheld GPS in Winter Conditions
- Use lithium AAs in AA-powered gps handheld units for the coldest hiking, ski touring, or snowshoe trips.
- Carry a small power bank for Li-ion models like the Garmin GPSMAP 67i or Montana series to top up during multi-day winter outings.
- Drop to “Expedition,” “UltraTrac,” or “Smart” logging when you only need breadcrumb tracks instead of second-by-second detail.
- Keep the handheld gps inside a jacket or insulated pocket between uses to slow battery drain and keep the screen responsive.
- Pack a second set of lithium AAs or a backup gps handheld if you’re traveling above treeline, far from bailout options, or in stormy conditions.
For more cold-weather-capable devices and full specs, check the complete best handheld GPS guide before your next winter hike, snowshoe, or alpine backpacking trip.