When it comes to our kids’ safety, we just can’t be too safe. As such, many kids GPS tracking devices emerged over the last couple of years. They offer various features to meet a wide range of your needs and expectations. Herein, we will do our very best to cover all the ins and outs of GPS tracker for kids with no monthly fee and monthly fee.
After going through this article you’ll be able to determine if a GPS tracker for kids is something that you need or not. In the case of the former, you will also be able to select the one that will best suit your expectations and needs.
Let’s dig in, shall we?
What Is The Best Gps Tracker For Kids With No Monthly Fee Or Monthly Fee Tracking Device
There are many kinds of kids’ activity tracker devices and they come in various forms. However, the roughest division separates the ones with a monthly fee and the ones with no monthly fee. Now, it is rather hard to say, which ones are a better option, however, since most people prefer to keep monthly expenses as low as possible, they prefer to go with a kids GPS tracker and no monthly fee option.
Again, pinpointing a single device as the best is also rather narrow-minded, as they offer very different options and meet different expectations and needs. In some cases, parents want their kids to know about the device, in others, they just want to stack it in their kid’s backpack. Furthermore, some trackers are very plain, while others offer additional functionality.
That said, we did our best to have narrowed it down to the 10 best GPS trackers for kids, which will be presented in one of the following sections. We will also provide you with a kids GPS tracker buyer’s guide to help you determine the best option for you, whether among the 10 devices from our list or any other kids GPS tracker if you decide to expand your selection beyond the best 10 kids GPS trackers according to our research.
But first, let’s start by explaining how kids’ GPS trackers work.
How Does A Kids Gps Tracker Work
GPS (Global Positioning System) has been in use for quite some time now. It’s been initially used for military purposes, however, nowadays there basically isn’t a smartphone or a tablet that would come with that option. Even smartwatches, cameras, laptops, and other pieces of electronics often pack GPS functions. A kid’s GPS tracker is no different than any of these devices when it comes to GPS functionality.
The device uses a network of satellites in Earth’s proximity in space to pinpoint the location of an object on earth. The satellite transmits data through signals and these pieces of information are then received by a GPS receiver. For a parent to know where the child is, a receiver must be used. Luckily for use, almost any smartphone can serve as a receiver and in most cases, you just need to install an app that corresponds to that particular kid’s GPS tracker.
There are GPS trackers that work solely based on GPS signals, however, there are also those that use mobile signals and servers to make data even better. So in most cases, a parent (as a receiver) will connect the receiving device to the internet for the best tracking.
How Can I Track My Child’s Location
There are many ways to track your child’s location these days. If your kid already has a phone, then you can simply track its phone. However, since it is not recommended for children to have phones at a too early age, plus they are not allowed in most schools, there are simpler and cheaper solutions called GPS tracking devices for kids.
This can come in simple small compact packs, the size of a keychain item, and can be placed in your child’s backpack. Furthermore, there are also some more advanced options, including kids GPS trackers that are essential smartwatches for children.
It has never been easier to track your child than these days. However, you must know what kind of track you want. Do you want extra features? Do you want to set up safety zone alerts? These and more will be covered as we move along.
Why Is The Gps Tracker Necessary For A Child
No one is claiming that a GPS tracker is an essential gadget for your kid. Billions of kids were raised just fine without that option. However, additional peace of mind, especially when it comes to your child’s safety is something most concerning parents are after. And as long as it is used properly – to provide your child with extra safety and yourself with extra peace of mind, it is a no-brainer for most parents these days.
NOTE: Using a kid’s GPS tracker to spy on your child is a completely wrong approach and not how these devices are meant to be used.
There are many benefits to equipping your child with a GPS tracker. Below are the three main aspects that are of main interest to most parents are the ones that tip the scale towards deciding to use a kids GPS tracker.
Sense of Security
It is in our nature (especially mothers) to watch over our children like a hawk and knowing where they are as they first step on their own into the world brings that extra sense of security for both parents and kids.
Feeling Free
Using kid’s GPS trackers can also bring an additional feeling of freedom for both parents and children. As a parent, you know that you can check on your child at any time, and have the knowledge that it is where it is supposed to be. Moreover, parents with children who use GPS tracker tend to let them do more things independently, which builds a child’s confidence and independence, which give your child that feeling of being free that he or she deserves.
Great Help in Case of Emergency
We all want things to be perfect all the time, however, life is such that sometimes bad things happen. And kid’s GPS tracker can really be a lifesaving device in case of various types of emergencies. Those can refer to any injuries or God forbids, kidnaps. Many devices have extra features that help out even further in case of emergencies.
The 10 Best Gps Tracker For Kids
Herein is a list of the Best kids GPS tracker. Most of them include SIM cards, however, some don’t. Make sure to read the above section first, as it will help you determine, which of the following is the best choice for you.
1. Jiobit Gps Tracker ( No Monthly Fee )
The Jiobit TrustChip delivers an extremely high level of security and encryption, meeting US-government standards. It is small, lightweight, and durable, which allows you to discreetly clip onto clothing or shoes, or place it in a backpack. Jiobit is an excellent option for your toddler or seniors with sensory sensitivities. It lets you track at any distance – even indoors. It offers departure and arrival notifications to-and-from home, school, or other pre-set trusted locations.
Jiobit is proud to be a U.S. company with 100% U.S.-based support out of our headquarters in Chicago. Jiobit requires a data plan to track location, which means that you select a monthly during activation in the free Jiobit app available for Android & iOS. No separate cellular contract is needed.
2. VTech Kidizoom Smartwatch DX Gps Tracker ( No Monthly Fee )
If you are looking for a combination of your kid’s entertainment and tracking, this smartwatch is the way to go. The VTech Kidizoom Smartwatch DX packs many fun games and activities. This durable smartwatch has more memory so kids can take tons of pictures and videos, as it features a camera with photo effects, video camera, voice recorder with voice-changing effects, and touch screen.
It also has an alarm, timer, stopwatch, and 2 new tools including a calendar feature and a calculator. Connect it with your smartphone to track your child’s movement. This is a basic tracker and does not include those advanced tracking features, however, it definitely is the one that your child will appreciate most.
3. Garmin Vívofit Jr Gps Tracker ( No Monthly Fee )
The Garmin Vívofit Jr. offers amazing 24/7 wearability. It is also swim-friendly with 5 ATM water resistance. It is made from silicone, which is skin and environment-friendly. This 1 piece band stretches over your child’s hand and fits comfortably, though it is tight enough for a child not to easily take it of itself. It is suitable for 4 – 9-year-olds. Garmin Vívofit Jr. is compatible with their free parent mobile app, which includes fun and educational mobile adventures for kids and chore/behavior management for parents.
It is compatible with Android 4.4 and above with Bluetooth 4.0 or greater or iPhone OS version 9.1 and above. This gadget is perfect for viewing your child’s activity on the way to their recommended 60-minute daily play goal and tracks your child’s steps and sleep activity. However, this device is not designed to view your child’s real-time location as it is limited to Bluetooth connection, which has a very limited range.
4. Guardian Angel Gps Tracker ( No Monthly Fee )
The Guardian Angel is a different type of tracker. It actually isn’t a GPS tracker. It comes with a base unit for a parent and up to four tracking units for children. Its main purpose is to track your children’s position when in various outdoor activities that pose a threat of losing your children. It offers up to 1,600-feet search radius. The alarm can be set at various distances from 16feet, 32feet, or 64 feet. Children’s units come with a panic/stress button. Alert modes come with a 95dB alarm and vibration. Both base and tag can be muted if needed. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
5. Tracki 2020 Model Gps Tracker ( With Monthly Fees )
The Tracki 2020 Model is extremely small and lightweight. It measures only 1.5” x 1.8” x 0.55” and weighs 1.26 ounces. It offers full worldwide coverage, which makes it great for hometown use and travel and vacation as well. Place it in a backpack or your child’s pocket and track its location via easy-to-use iPhone, Android, or Web app. You also get a free tracker if yours is lost and a lifetime warranty. Wi-Fi tracking when indoors.
Its battery lasts 2-3 days for tracking real-time every 1-5 minutes. If real-time tracking is not needed, the battery lasts 30 days tracking 4 times/day. Revolutionary technology works indoors & outdoors as it combines GPS, GSM, WiFi, and Bluetooth signals. Geo-fence options are also included. You set up to receive SOS, speed alerts & start moving notifications about the tracker’s movements via App notification, SMS, or email. The Tracki 2020 Model comes with a monthly pack that included live phone customer service.
6. Relay Gps Tracker ( With Monthly Fees )
The Relay kids GPS tracker is also a great LTE for based option. It offers maximum tracking capabilities with a combination of GPS and mobile networks and is built for outdoor activities (waterproof). The relay tracker also has a push-to-talk button with unlimited range. It also lets you add music to it and translate words into 13 different languages, which makes it a fun device for kids as well.
It replaces and delays the need for a phone. Compared to other trackers, it is slightly bigger, however, it is basically a speaker and as such has a great design that matches all styles. Its battery lasts 1-2 days. It also features SOS alerts and GeoFencing. Charging dock, loop case, and armband case are also available for added convenience. It includes a free app for parents. This really is a tracker designed for kids.
The Relay comes with a monthly plan.
7. GeoZilla GPS Location Tracker ( With Monthly Fees )
The GeoZilla GPS Location Tracker is another advanced tracker with a full set of practical tracking features. It offers up-to-5-day battery life, emergency button and uses a combination of GSM (LTE), GPS, and Wi-Fi signals to provide a very high level of accuracy and real-time location. Its keychain size makes it practical for storing in a backpack, placing in a pocket, or hanging around the neck.
It comes with an SOS button and offers GeoFencing features. It includes an app that helps set up all the details that parents prefer and on which the location is monitored. GeoZilla GPS Location Tracker offers worldwide coverage, which makes it great for travel as well. It is compatible with both iOS and Android.
Like most trackers, the GeoZilla GPS Location Tracker comes with a monthly plan.
8. Samsung SmartThings Tracker ( With Monthly Fees )
This is a great option for putting a tracker in your child’s backpack. The Samsung SmartThings Tracker is very lightweight and easily attaches to Kids’ backpacks, a set of keys, or other items that is on your child regularly. It is very durable and certified for IP68 water resistance, which means it is protected from splashes, accidental water submersion, and bad weather conditions.
The Samsung SmartThings Tracker has a very good battery life that lasts up to 10 days on a single charge for continuous monitoring. You can create zones that will automatically alert you when the Tracker enters in or out, or set connected devices to turn on and off. With the use of the broad range of cellular network, it lets you track your child anywhere. SmartThings Tracker is LTE-based so you can monitor inside or outdoors. It requires a monthly or yearly plan.
9. PocketFinder Gps Tracker ( With Monthly Fees )
The PocketFinder is another great Kids GPS tracker. It lets you locate and see where exactly your children are on a map in real-time data. The tracker enables you to monitor and track arrival and departure, and full travel history. It includes multiple safety features, such as receiving alerts if your child is out of the preselected zone. The PocketFinder is fully mobile and lets you manage activity from Android or iOS smartphone
The PocketFinder requires a monthly service like most GPS trackers.
10. Spytec GL300 Gps Tracker ( With Monthly Fees )
The Sytec GL300 is not particularly intended to track children, however, it offers some amazing features, including real-time GPS tracking and straightforward and stealthy design. It comes with easy-to-use software that can be accessed on your phone, tablet, or computer, providing you with all the GPS tracking data you need.
The Spytec GL300 is highly durable and comes with a lifetime warranty. It also has a best-in-class battery life (up to 2.5 weeks) and reliable 4G LTE coverage. Also, it provides precision insights, custom alerts, and boundary creation. It comes with a monthly plan and 24/7 Customer Service.
Things to Keep In Mind While Purchasing a Kids GPS Tracker
In this section, we will inform you of the consider-point that you should take into account when buying a kids GPS tracker. The following point may serve you as a kids GPS Tracker buyer’s guide that will enable you to purchase a device that will best suit your and your child’s needs.
No monthly fee vs. Monthly costs and contracts
Most kid’s GPS trackers include only the initial payment and a monthly fee. At least the ones with all advanced features and unlimited range. However, if you can work with a Bluetooth-based tracker, that will late you check your child’s location in the evening and track him only when in near proximity, then you can avoid monthly fees. The most advanced option that excludes monthly fees as Findster.
The main benefit of those kids GPS trackers that have monthly subscriptions or fees is their customer support, accuracy, and long-distance range. In most cases, you also get some extra features, however, generally speaking, you can get a very decent kids GPS tracker with no monthly fee if you can do without long-distance and real-time tracking. It is up to you to decide what your priorities are and what do you expect to get out of the child tracker.
Physical size/Style/Kid-friendly design
Most trackers these days are the size of a keychain, however, they come in various shapes and can differ in size as well. Moreover, some have a kid-friendly design, which comes either in a form of bracelets or watches. These normally include some extra features that can be used by your child.
This is mostly affected by the way you decide to go around this. Do you want your child to be actively involved with the tracking device or do you just want to store it in its backpack and let it do its work?
Device’s accuracy
GPS accuracy is rather solid these days, however, it is affected by the device’s quality and specific location. Devices with LTE option (those that come with a SIM card) enable trackers to connect to the internet via mobile data, which can noticeably enhance the location determination accuracy in areas, where GPS signals may be weaker.
Usually, the more expensive the device, the more accuracy you can expect.
Real-Time Alerts
Especially on the receiving end, you want to have things as automated as possible. The last thing you want is to stare at your phone all day and spy on your child’s position. A good tracker will come with a tracking app that will be able to set up real-time alerts that will either confirm that all is in order or inform you that your child is not where it should be or is expected to be.
There are also some real-time alerts options on the child’s end, however, these are mostly of interest on the receivers’ end. As such, make sure to check what sort of features are offered in their app that you will be using. Certain trackers are compatible with universal location-tracking apps, which is also a good point to consider.
Multi-Unit Tracking
If you want to track more kids at the time, you need to make sure that your receiver (in most cases your phone in combination with a specific app) will be able to do so. Most apps have the option of adding several devices. If a tracker comes with its own receiver, then it is even more important to check if several units can be tracked at the same time.
GeoFences
GeoFences or geographical fencing is an additional feature that some more advanced kids GPS tracker has. It is a feature that notifies parents the moment a kid arrives either at school or at home or any other preset location. These can be extremely practical as it enables additional hands-off tracking and can signal that something unusual is going on. In general, geographical fencing is the process of setting up a boundary using the online software of a GPS tracker. This process is very simple and takes only a few seconds. It allows parents to create an area that once a kid enters or exits a notification can be sent using SMS technology. The notification from a GPS tracker can be programmed to alert both parents or additional contacts via email or text message. This really takes child tracking to a whole other level.
Monitoring Capabilities
Many kid’s GPS trackers offer additional options. Those that come in the form of a smartwatch or a bracelet can even let you track your child’s vitals. So you should know what you want to track and what you and your child are comfortable with. Then go that way. However, full-range GPS tracking is still only possible with monthly fees.
Price
The prices vary greatly. Depending on the feature and design you want. However in a range of $50 you can get a rather solid kids GPS tracker. Though for most advanced features, the price can easily get up to $200. In which case, it may be worth considering getting a phone, which can easily serve as a tracker as well.
Waterproof
Not all trackers are waterproof and not all waterproof trackers offer the same level. Some can survive rain or a splash but can’t be used for swimming. So, if you have a swimmer and want him or her to have a tracker on while in the water, make sure it is waterproof to a level that makes it suitable for swimming. For that purpose, watch or bracelet-like trackers may be the best option.
Voice-calling capabilities
If you want your child to be able to voice call you with a simple push of the button, then you will need to consider kid’s GPS tracker with SIM cards and LTE capabilities. In case of emergencies, this can be a great feature, especially, if your child is too young to own a mobile phone.
Durability
Trackers need to be durable and tough. Either put on a child’s wrist, around its neck, or in its backpack, the kids get into all sorts of activities, and to expect them to pay extra care and attention to the tracker would be pointless. As such, a solid tracker should be able to take a hit or two without breaking down.
Battery life
This is another rather important aspect. The last thing you want is for the tracker to run out of battery in case of an emergency. Most simple trackers have long-lasting batteries. This demands extra attention in the case of trackers with SIM cards, as they tend to use more battery. The minimum you want out of tracker’s battery is for it to be able to carry your child through the entire day and then you can charge it during the night.
GPS Trackers With SIM vs. GPS Trackers Without SIM
If you are looking for a GPS tracker that will let you determine your kid’s exact location no matter where you are and how far apart you are, then you will need to choose a tracker that comes with a SIM. Trackers with SIM cards offer the most accurate information and advanced options. They even let your child call you directly with a single push of the button.
On the other hand, GPS trackers without a SIM card are far smaller and more practical to store in a backpack. They normally operate on Bluetooth connection and require your proximity to the tracker to view the history of the movement. However, they are a great way to check your child’s track at the end of the day.
If you want the maximum level of protection and all the advanced features, you will need to choose a kids GPS tracker with a SIM card.
FAQ – Frequently Ask Questions
Is it legal to use GPS trackers in the USA?
Generally, it is legal to use a GPS tracking device if you are tracking your kids to ensure protection and not enforce surveillance and limit its freedom.
Can I use any GPS tracker?
You must stick to consumer-grade GPS trackers. Any military high-tech tracking devices are not permitted for personal use.
Are GPS trackers secure?
Generally speaking, they are safe. However, if a technically advanced individual with bad intentions was to decide to locate your child, he/she most likely could do it. A report from Avast claims that around 600,000 GPS tracking devices are exposing all the data they send to the cloud, including exact real-time GPS coordinates, which could actually be putting children at risk.
Will a GPS tracking watch work with my smartphone?
It depends on a watch and a type of smartphone, however, generally there are apps for both iOS and Android that let you connect the watch to a smartphone.
What is Findster?
Findster is the first GPS tracker for Kids and Pets without monthly fees. It comes with two primary devices, one for you and one for your loved one, which are wirelessly connected through a long-range radio frequency communication in a range of up to 1 km.
What makes Findster different?
The greatest advantage of Findster is that there are no extra fees – neither monthly nor annually. You buy it once and you can use it forever, without any restriction. Furthermore, the Findster includes several features that make it the most complete GPS tracking system on the market.
