GPS Tracking For Babies

GPS Tracking For Babies

Published date:

Last modified on:

GPS Tracking For Babies – 5 Best Every Parent Needs To Know

If you’re here, we know exactly how you feel. Your baby is your everything, and keeping them safe is always on your mind (fingers crossed nothing ever goes wrong). GPS tracking for babies can be a practical way to ease your worries in a world where things don’t always go as planned.

After nearly 10 years in the GPS tracking business, we here at SpaceHawk GPS have seen firsthand how the right child GPS tracker can give you peace of mind when life feels unpredictable. Whether your little one is with a nanny, at daycare, or out with family, knowing exactly where they are is invaluable.

That’s why we created this guide—to help you choose the best GPS tracker for your baby. We reviewed the 5 most popular GPS child trackers and listed them based on:

  • Accuracy
  • Affordability
  • User-friendliness
  • Subscription value
  • Battery life

You’ll discover key features, the pros and cons, and real-life stories showing how these trackers help keep kids safe. And because we don’t sell any of these products, this list is based solely on our experience, online reviews, and real customer feedback. We received no compensation—our only goal is to provide you, the parent, with the most honest and helpful information on GPS tracking for babies.

5 Best GPS Trackers And Devices For Babies & Kids

As you search through the different child safety products in this article, we understand the importance of trust and unbiased information. Therefore, we want to clarify that none of the products mentioned in this article are available at the Tracking System Direct online store. We carry no bias in creating this list and have received no compensation for listing any of these child safety GPS trackers. Our goal is to provide you with genuine and reliable information to help you make the best choice for your child’s safety. Below is the list of the 5 most popular trackers for kids based on Amazon reviews:

Angelsense GPS Tracker

Angelsense GPS Tracker

  • Always Know Where: Accurate, real-time tracking indoors & out.

  • Be Alerted Instantly: Proactive warnings for wandering, danger zones, & more.

  • Talk From Anywhere: 2-way speakerphone with auto-answer for remote support.

4/5

As a parent, one of your biggest concerns is ensuring your child’s safety, especially if they have special needs like autism. Children with autism are more prone to wandering, with a study from the American Academy of Pediatrics revealing that over 50% may bolt from safe environments. AngelSense GPS directly addresses this fear. The kids GPS tracker is designed to stay securely attached to your child, offering you real-time updates on their whereabouts. Even if your child tries to remove it, the tracker’s unique design ensures it remains in place, providing continuous monitoring.

The AngelSense GPS Tracker offers detailed monitoring of your child’s location, travel routes, and provides alerts about their arrivals. When it comes to GPS tracking for babies, this device helps you understand your child’s daily movements. The personal GPS ensures they are where they are supposed to be. Additionally, the device includes an SOS button. This feature allows your child to quickly alert you if they are in an unfamiliar or uncomfortable situation. Consequently, you gain peace of mind, knowing you can respond swiftly to any potential issues.

Designed to accommodate the full-day activities of a child, the AngelSense tracker’s battery is engineered to last an entire day without needing a recharge. This feature ensures continuous monitoring throughout the day, addressing the unique challenges faced by parents, especially those with children who have special needs. In 2021, AngelSense was recognized with the Mom’s Choice Awards® Gold Recipient, highlighting its commitment to quality and value in serving families and educators.

Product Highlights:

  • Live Location Tracking: Stay updated with your child’s movements in real time.
  • Voice Monitoring: Check in on your child’s surroundings when needed.
  • Secure Attachment: Designed to stay put, even on the go.
  • Instant Alerts: Receive notifications for unexpected location changes.
  • Features for Special Needs: Extra tools to support children with autism or other conditions.

PRODUCT

KEY FEATURES

 

SPECS

 

AMAZON RATING

  • Real-Time Tracking

  • Assistive Speakerphone

  • Intelligent iAlerts

  • Emergency search tools

  • Sensory Sensitive Wearing

  • $49.99/Month Subscription

  • Full-Day Battery Life

  • Size: 1.73 x 2.4 x 0.63 inches

  • Weight: 1.4 oz

  • iOS, Android, PC Compatible

As of 4/02/2024

4.1 Stars | 738 Ratings

Pros

Cons

  • Water and dust-resistant (IP67 rated).

  • Long battery life, up to 500 days.

  • Easy to activate and use with SmartThings Find.

  • Offers guided instructions for nearby searches.

  • Audible signal feature for easier location.

  • Requires a compatible IoT device for full functionality.

  • Limited range for tracking compared to GPS.

  • Designed primarily for Samsung Galaxy users.

  • Not a real-time GPS tracker.

  • Battery life decreases in Non-Power Saving Mode.

 

Silmarilos

Positive Review

Amazon.com- Review Date -  November 28, 2021

Astonishingly accurate and useful.
In full transparency, I don't use the call button and have disabled its use through the app, but for tracking and alerts, it is amazing.Also, when it travels by car, it gives an estimate for the fastest speed, which is great.One tip: make sure to set named locations (like your home) since it does less frequent GPS checks in those spots and will keep the battery lasting longer.

 

CPS81

Negative Review

Amazon.com - Review Date - October 21, 2022

 

Never purchase this product. Within the first week of use, we received an alert showing that our child had wondered into a retention pond. After rushing over and nearly calling the police, it turned out she never left the building. Angelsense told us the windows may have affected the signal. No parent should have to go through this.

Check out real customer experiences with this product on TrustPilot.com!

Samsung SmartThings Tracker

Samsung SmartThings Tracker

  • Easy Tracking: Tag items, see location in SmartThings Find app.

  • Simple & Durable: Compact, water-resistant, battery lasts up to 500 days.

  • Nearby Search: Get guided directions with Compass View.

4/5

The Samsung SmartThings Tracker is a versatile device that utilizes advanced GPS and LTE-M technology to keep track of people, pets, and valuables. This small, portable tracker ensures you can locate your toddler through a reliable smartphone app, giving you peace of mind. With its advanced LTE-based technology, you can monitor your child’s location both inside and outside, ensuring they’re always safe and accounted for.

Imagine you’re at a bustling amusement park, and your child wanders off. The SmartThings Tracker, compact and lightweight (0.5 x 1.7 x 1.7 inches, 0.8 ounces), can be discreetly attached to their backpack or clothing. If they stray, you can swiftly locate them using the SmartThings app on your smartphone. This immediate location tracking is crucial. According to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, a child goes missing or is abducted every 40 seconds in the U.S.

For emergencies, the tracker includes an SOS feature. With a quick double press of the power button, your child can alert you to their exact location. This direct communication line can make all the difference in urgent situations.

The SmartThings Tracker also boasts a long battery life, lasting up to a week on a single charge, which is essential for continuous monitoring. It’s IP68 water-resistant too, offering protection against the inevitable splashes and spills that come with childhood.

Additionally, the tracker’s geofencing feature lets you create specific zones that send automatic alerts when your child enters or leaves these areas. This ensures safety and allows your child a sense of independence within boundaries you’re comfortable with.

Product Highlights:

  • Multiple Tracking Uses: Suitable for tracking people, pets, and belongings.
  • Smartphone App: Locate your child easily at any time.
  • Water-Resistant: Durable design for reliability in different weather conditions.
  • Portability: Easily attached to bags or clothing.
  • Trusted Brand: Samsung offers consistent and reliable performance.

PRODUCT

KEY FEATURES

 

SPECS

 

AMAZON RATING

  • Easy Tracking & Carrying

  • Water- and Dust-Resistant

  • Long Battery Life

  • Intuitive Tracking Experience

  • Audible Signal for Locating

  • IP67 Water and Dust Resistance

  • Battery Life: Up to 500 Days

  • Compatibility: IoT Devices via SmartThings Find

  • Enhanced Tracking: Search Nearby with Compass View

  • Power Modes: Standard & Non-Power Saving

As of 4/03/2024 

4.3 Stars | 2,243 Ratings


Pros

Cons

  • Water and dust-resistant (IP67 rated).

  • Long battery life, up to 500 days.

  • Easy to activate and use with SmartThings Find.

  • Offers guided instructions for nearby searches.

  • Audible signal feature for easier location.

  • Requires a compatible IoT device for full functionality.

  • Limited range for tracking compared to GPS.

  • Designed primarily for Samsung Galaxy users.

  • Not a real-time GPS tracker.

  • Battery life decreases in Non-Power Saving Mode.

 

DDBGURU

Positive Review

Amazon.com- Review Date -  December 30, 2023

This is my second Samsung tracker. So long as it is within the BT range of a Samsung Galaxy phone, you can know the approximate location of the tracker. It's small enough to go inside your luggage. Using it as an external tag would make it exposed to being torn off, damaged, or stolen. It's not really intended to find stolen luggage (unless the thief uses a Samsung Galaxy phone). If you are misdirected by an airline, at least you know what airport it is at. That happened to me, and I knew when it was located by the airline and on its way to me. I could even track the delivery service that brought my bag to my home three days later.

 

Hailey C.

Negative Review

Amazon.com - Review Date - January 10, 2024

 

This tag requires a monthly subscription of $45 or something, and you also have to have a bank account in order to pay for it. It would have been perfect if I had a bank account, I guess. It might be for you if you're ok with paying that amount just to help you find your keys.

Read what the security experts at CNET said about this product!

Geozilla GPS Tracker

Geozilla GPS Tracker

  • Track Anything: Cars, phones, pets, valuables - US & worldwide coverage (even indoors!).

  • 5-Day Battery: Long lifespan without frequent recharging.

  • Wearable & Discreet: Clip to clothes, backpacks, or leashes. 

3.5/5

The GeoZilla GPS Tracker is designed for tracking children and integrating them into your family map through the GeoZilla app. This app, compatible with iOS and Android devices, enables real-time location tracking on a map. Additionally, the tracker includes an SOS button that sends an alert directly to your smartphone. This feature facilitates quick responses and helps you pinpoint your child’s location immediately.

The pairing process is simple: download the GeoZilla app, pair it with the tracker, and start monitoring. The tracker is highly rated with over 424,000 reviews on Google Play and a 4.4-star rating, as of 4/14/24.

A user on Google Play noted using the tracker primarily as a family locator. They mentioned experiencing delayed notifications when a family member loses a data connection, receiving late alerts about someone leaving or arriving. They suggested improvements for handling data loss and expressed dissatisfaction with recent app changes, particularly the relocation of the “notifications” menu. This feedback highlights some areas for potential enhancement in the app’s functionality.

Product Highlights:

  • Compact and Convenient: Fits easily in various settings.
  • Real-Time Tracking: Know where your child is at all times.
  • Geofencing: Set safe areas and get alerts if your child leaves.
  • Multiple Access Points: Use a smartphone app or web interface for tracking.
  • Affordable Solution: A budget-friendly option for child safety.

PRODUCT

KEY FEATURES

 

SPECS

 

AMAZON RATING

  • Global Coverage

  • Custom Alerts & SOS

  • Geo-Fence Zones

  • Rechargeable Battery

  • Miniature Size

  • Battery Life: Up to 5 Days

  • Update Frequency: 60 Seconds

  • Size: Discreet for Wearable Use

  • Customer Support: U.S. Based

  • App Compatibility: iOS/Android

As of 4/02/2024 

3.4 Stars | 96 Ratings

 

Pros

Cons

  • Global coverage, works even in Australia.

  • Customizable alerts, SOS button, and geo-fence zones.

  • Up to 5 days battery life on full charge.

  • Compact and lightweight, suitable for discreet use.

  • Strong customer service support from a U.S. company.

  • Requires frequent recharging with 60-second updates.

  • Subscription needed for app access and tracking.

  • Limited battery life in active tracking mode.

  • Not specifically designed for infants' safety.

  • May not be as effective indoors compared to outdoors.

 

Shachar Sharon

Positive Review

Amazon.com- Review Date -  October 10, 2020

Using an easy app like GeoZilla, you'll be able to track everything important to you. We don't own a garage, and we often can't find the car in the morning after the other person moved it and parked it elsewhere. Now in one place, we can always locate the car, get a notification that it's moved or coming back ("Honey, I'm Home"), and there's an easy SOS button for emergencies. We have also now decided to get a dog, and especially during the training period, we want to get him a second one to be able to locate him while he's still running around.

 

Lonney

Negative Review

Amazon.com - Review Date - October 27, 2020

 

I was concerned about coverage, so before I purchased it, I attempted to find out what recourse I'd have if I had poor coverage. The support rep assured me coverage wouldn't be a problem. It's my own fault; I wanted it to work. I should have known better. It doesn't work. I contacted support for help, but they were no help.

Geozilla has over 10 million downloads on the Google Play Store. Read some of those online reviews here!

XPLORA x5 Play Kids Watch

XPLORA x5 Play Kids Watch

  • Secure Calls & Texts: Make and receive calls, send messages, images, and voice recordings with approved contacts.

  • SOS Button & Alerts: Instantly notify parents of emergencies with one-click SOS and location sharing.

  • GPS & Safe Zones: Track location in real-time and set zones to receive alerts upon entry or exit.

3.5/5

The XPLORA x5 Play is a child-friendly smartwatch that combines GPS tracking with communication capabilities. As a parent, you might worry about your child’s location, especially in crowded or unfamiliar places. The X5 Play addresses this concern with its location tracking and geofencing capabilities. These features allow you to monitor your child’s whereabouts and receive alerts if they leave a designated safe area.

Picture your child playing in a nearby park. The X5 Play, through its geofencing, will notify you if they wander beyond the park’s boundaries. This is particularly reassuring, considering the anxiety parents often feel about child safety in public spaces.

The X5 Play also includes an SOS button, crucial in emergencies. Although it requires a longer press of 10 seconds, this feature ensures your child can quickly reach out for help if needed.

However, it’s important to note that, as Cathy Habas points out in her SafeWise review, the X5 Play lacks video calling. Additionally, it has a location tracking accuracy of about 25 to 100 yards. While this may not provide an exact pinpoint location, it still offers a reasonable range to locate your child in larger spaces. Therefore, you can rely on it to keep track of your child’s general whereabouts.

Beyond safety, the X5 Play promotes physical activity through the GoPlay platform, where kids earn virtual coins and real-life rewards for being active. This feature keeps your child engaged and encourages a healthier lifestyle.

Product Highlights:

  • Wearable Design: Stays securely with your child.
  • GPS Tracking: Offers accurate location information.
  • Communication Features: Make calls and send messages directly from the watch.
  • Parent-Controlled Safety: Set up safe zones for your child.
  • Kid-Friendly Interface: Designed for easy use by children.

PRODUCT

KEY FEATURES

 

SPECS

 

AMAZON RATING

  • Voice Calls

  • Messaging Capabilities

  • SOS Emergency Button

  • GPS & Safety Zones

  • WiFi & Network Ready

  • Pre-Saved Numbers Only

  • Setup Safety Zones

  • Pre-Installed SIM

  • $9.99/Month Subscription

  • 12-Month Minimum Subscription

As of 4/02/2024 

3.2 Stars | 4,912 Ratings

Pros

Cons

  • Make/receive calls from pre-saved numbers for safety.

  • Send/receive texts, emojis, images, voice messages.

  • SOS button for emergencies with location alert.

  • GPS tracking with customizable Safety Zones.

  • Includes Xplora Connect SIM; Wi-Fi compatible.

  • Requires minimum 12-month subscription, starting $9.99/month.

  • Limited to communicating with pre-saved numbers only.

  • Device may be too complex for very young children.

  • Dependent on network coverage for optimal functioning.

  • Monthly cost adds up over time, extra expense.

 

Denise Adame

Positive Review

Amazon.com- Review Date -  November 3, 2023

I was super impressed by the durability and quality of this watch. It is excellent for your little ones, and it encourages children to spend more time taking part in physical activities offline in exchange for virtual rewards that can be redeemed online via their gaming platform.

 

Carley Potts

Negative Review

Amazon.com - Review Date - January 8, 2024

 

I could only get one phone number entered. I wouldn't allow you to add another number. The time lag from calling and texting is terrible. . 10 minutes after sending a text, it would go through. Or the call would ring several minutes after the call. Texting wouldn’t work because the keyboard would freeze up. Yes, I used their SIM card.

Check out a full review on this product at: https://www.whatkatysaid.com/xplora-x5-play-childrens-smartwatch-review/

Jiobit Smart Tag

Jiobit Smart Tag 

  • Data Plans for Jiobit: Keeps your tracker connected & you informed.

  • Monthly or Annual: Choose the subscription that fits your needs.

  • No Extra SIM: Built-in cellular, ready to use out of the box.

4/5

The Jiobit Smart Tag is a sturdy GPS tracker that offers precise location tracking for your baby, using advanced GPS, Wi-Fi, and cellular technology. This feature is critical, considering the FBI’s report of over 340,000 children reported missing in 2021. Real-time updates from Jiobit can be the difference in swiftly locating a child.

Compact and lightweight, the Jiobit attaches easily to clothing, ensuring it stays with your baby without discomfort. Its IPX8 water-resistant rating means it’s durable against spills and splashes – common occurrences around babies. The geofencing feature adds a layer of security, alerting you if your baby strays from designated safe zones like home or daycare.

Jiobit’s long battery life ensures continuous monitoring, which is essential for busy parents. With a necessary subscription for ongoing service, it provides peace of mind, keeping you connected to your baby in an unpredictable world. The device offers a range of features geared towards child safety, and it’s widely regarded as one of the top products in its category.

Product Highlights:

  • Long Battery Life: Enjoy up to a week of tracking on a single charge.
  • Geofencing: Create safe zones and receive alerts if your child leaves the area.
  • Mobile App: Track your child in real-time and access location history easily.
  • Durability: Built to withstand the rough and tumble of toddler play.
  • Compact Size: Lightweight and unobtrusive, perfect for little adventurers.

PRODUCT

KEY FEATURES

 

SPECS

 

AMAZON RATING

  • Precise Location Tracking

  • Long Battery Life

  • Geofencing Alerts

  • Durable & Water-Resistant

  • Compact & Lightweight

  • IPX8 Water-Resistant

  • IPX8 Water-Resistant

  • Subscription Required

  • Real-Time Mobile Tracking

  • Fits on Clothing Securely

As of 4/02/2024 

4.0 Stars | 2,463 Ratings

Pros

Cons

  • Precise location tracking with GPS, Wi-Fi, cellular.

  • IPX8 water-resistant, suitable for baby activities.

  • Long battery life for continuous monitoring.

  • Geofencing alerts for designated safe zones.

  • Compact and lightweight, easily attaches to clothing.

  • Requires a subscription plan for functionality.

  • No built-in speaker or two-way communication.

  • Limited to smartphone app for tracking.

  • Device durability in extreme conditions not specified.

 

Raul Mojica

Positive Review

Amazon.com- Review Date -  October 29, 2023

Besides the battery life not lasting more than a few days, this product has been a lifesaver. My child has autism and elopes. With the help of the alarm, we have been able to find her hiding and track her movements.

 

Brooke Hill

Negative Review

Amazon.com - Review Date - December 30, 2023

 

I used it for several years with no issues, but on our recent trip to Disney World, the device somehow came off of the strap clip while on my son's shoe and is permanently lost. Jiobit will not reimburse for the strap clip failing. Not buying another!

Check out a full review of this product from the Autism Dad!

Each of these products offers a unique set of features to help you keep a watchful eye on your little one, ensuring their safety and your peace of mind. However, please note that many devices include more than a one-time cost. According to GPS Tracking Review, child GPS trackers require a monthly subscription fee. The monthly costs are for cellular service and data usage, which are necessary for the GPS locator to transmit data in real time. This is also the reason why every child GPS tracker is equipped with a SIM card. Therefore, it is important for parents to consider the subscription cost required over time and compare it with the features offered by the device.

GPS Tracking For Babies - Key Features

When it comes to keeping your child safe, a reliable GPS kids tracker can bring you peace of mind no matter where you are. With so many options out there, it’s important to know which features matter most. From emergency SOS buttons to long battery life, each feature plays a role in protecting your child. Below are five key features to consider when choosing the best GPS tracker for your family.

Real Time Alerts

You need timely notifications to stay updated on your child’s location. A good GPS child tracker will send real-time alerts if your child leaves a safe zone or if unusual activity occurs. These alerts ensure you're always informed and can act quickly if needed, keeping your child safe no matter where they are.

Monthly Subscription Fee

Many GPS personal trackers require a monthly subscription for real-time tracking. Be sure to compare subscription costs with the features offered. Look for plans that provide real-time updates, geofencing, and historical tracking at an affordable price. A solid plan will keep you connected to your child without stretching your budget.

SOS Button

A panic SOS button is a must for emergencies, allowing your child to call for help with one press. This feature gives your child an easy way to reach out if they feel unsafe, lost, or in danger. It’s an added layer of security that can make all the difference in critical situations.

Accuracy

You want a real time GPS tracker that’s accurate and reliable. Look for models that use a combination of GPS, Wi-Fi, and cellular technology for the most precise tracking. Real-time updates help ensure you know exactly where your child is, reducing any uncertainty during hectic moments.

Battery Life

A long-lasting battery is crucial for busy families. The last thing you want is a tracker that runs out of power when you need it most. Choose a device with a battery that lasts several days on a single charge, so you can focus on your day without worrying about recharging constantly.

Tips For Keeping Your Newborn Safe

Nancy Price, mother, and owner of Sheknows, worked at a hospital as a cuddler for many years and has seen baby theft first-hand. “Sadly, I have been around situations where a family had their newborn baby stolen or switched and the setting is heartbreaking”, Price said. Price has provided the following tips to help parents keep their newborns safe.

Before Birth Baby Tips

After your baby is born, both you and your baby will receive matching ID bracelets. Be sure to check and memorize the numbers to ensure they match. It's also helpful to make note of your baby's physical features right away, such as hair color, hair amount, body type, and length. These details can be important to keep in mind during your hospital stay.

After The Birth Baby Tips

After a baby is born the mother and baby will receive matching identification bracelets. Parents should memorize these numbers to ensure they match. Also, as soon as the baby is born parents should make notes about the physical characteristics of the baby such as hair color and amount, body type, and length.

At-Home Baby Tips

When your yard and home are filled with decorations like “It’s A Girl!” banners, it can easily let neighbors and strangers know you have a newborn. While it’s exciting to celebrate, it’s important to stay vigilant. Keep a close eye on your baby at all times and stay aware of anything that seems out of the ordinary. Your baby’s safety comes first.

For more tips please visit the Golisano Children’s Hospital baby safety recommendations list

FAQs

Can I Put A GPS Tracker On My Baby?

Yes, if you are the parent or legal guardian of the child have the legal right to use a mini GPS tracker to monitor your baby. However, parents should be cautious when placing a GPS device on a baby as it could pose a choking hazard.

Can I Use Apple AirTags To Track My Child?

While Apple AirTags are designed to help you track items like keys, wallets, or backpacks, they aren't ideal for tracking your child. AirTags don’t provide real-time GPS updates and were not built with child safety in mind. They work by connecting to nearby Apple devices, which means if there aren't any around, tracking can be spotty. If you're considering using an AirTag to monitor your child, you might want to explore devices specifically designed for that purpose, like real-time GPS trackers that offer better accuracy and safety features. This is even clearly mentioned on the Apple Forum.

Can You Put A Tracker On The Stroller?

Yes, you can put a mini GPS tracker on your baby’s stroller to get real-time location updates. This can help you keep track of your child and provide peace of mind, especially if you have a nanny. Many parents choose this option for added security.

One major benefit is knowing exactly where your child’s stroller is at all times. If the stroller gets lost or stolen, you can easily find it. Plus, you can monitor the nanny’s movements to ensure your little one’s safety, offering you more confidence throughout the day.

Back to blog