Last Updated: Aug 20, 2023
If you’re a parent, you know that keeping your kids safe is your number one priority. One of the single best ways to keep your children safe is to ensure you always have your child’s location at your fingertips if needed.
That’s why we will discuss the best GPS tracker for kids according to needs. There are many options out there when it comes to kids’ GPS trackers, so deciding which one suits your family best can be challenging. But don’t worry. We’re here to help!
In this article, we’ll discuss some of the best GPS trackers for kids on the market in 2023 and help you figure out which is best for your exact needs.
In a rush? Check out these top 7 GPS trackers for kids!
Best GPS Trackers for Kids: Quick Preview
Product Name | Review | Price | Monthly Fee |
---|---|---|---|
Jiobit Smart Tag![]() | Jump to Review | $129.99 Buy Now | $8.99/mo to $14.99/mo |
Apple Air Tag![]() | Jump to Review | $29.00 Buy Now | $0 |
Tracki GPS Tracker![]() | Jump to Review | $16.88 Buy Now | $9.95/mo to $19.95/mo |
Invoxia Real-Time GPS Tracker![]() | Jump to Review | $159.00 Buy Now | $0 for 2 years, then $3.33 per month |
TickTalk 4![]() | Jump to Review | $199.99 Buy Now | Pay-as-you-go or Plan with T-mobile or AT&T |
Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen)![]() | Jump to Review | $219.00 Buy Now | Requires iPhone w/ data plan |
CUBE GPS Tracker for Kids![]() | Jump to Review | $64.50 Buy Now | $19.95 p/m |
How We Determined The Best GPS Tracker For Kids
Many factors must be considered when choosing the best GPS tracker for kids.
To better help you make an informed decision, we looked at various kids’ GPS trackers on the market in 2023. We evaluated them based on their features, price point, battery life, accuracy, etc. We then compared these criteria across all the trackers to determine which one was best suited for different applications.
By doing this analysis, we were able to provide our readers with an unbiased opinion about which GPS-tracking device would be most beneficial for their specific needs.
7 Best GPS Trackers for Kids Reviewed
Jiobit Smart Tag – Overall Best GPS Tracker for Kids
Setup & First Thoughts:
The Jiobit Smart Tag GPS tracker is the best child GPS tracking device hidden in a compact and discreet design. Its unique combination of Cellular + GPS + WiFi + BLE technologies provides highly accurate location data with unparalleled speed and accuracy.
Setting up this kids GPS tracker and attaching it to my child’s belt clip was surprisingly easy; all I had to do was download the mobile app, create an account, add the device to my account, and activate it. I started location tracking immediately. The app is intuitive and user-friendly, allowing me to quickly see my child’s location in real-time or review their location history at any time.

In addition, because of its IPX8 rating, it’s water-resistant and shock-resistant, so I can rest assured knowing that this rugged GPS device will stand up to all sorts of activities your kid might do with it.
Pros
- Highly accurate location data
- Easy setup and installation process
- User-friendly mobile app.
- Water-resistant and shock-resistant
- Real-time tracking
- SOS button
- Encrypted data for added security
Cons
- A subscription fee is required for full access to the device’s features
- Costly compared to other options on the market
Overall Experience & Performance:
The Jiobit offers impressive location tracking as well as child’s safety features such as 911 emergency dispatch, an SOS button, live reporting every 10 seconds, and encrypted data, making it the go-to choice for parents who want peace of mind when they’re away from their kids.
All in all, if you’re looking for a reliable kids GPS tracker that you can trust with your child’s safety in mind, then don’t look any further – Jiobit is hands down the best option out there!
Tested Features:
- Accuracy within 10 ft
- Setup and installation process
- Mobile app on Android
- Water-resistance and shock-resistance
- Real-time tracking capabilities
Technical Details:
Tracking Technology | Cellular + GPS + Wi-Fi + BLE |
Weight | 18g |
Dimensions | 1.96 x 1.45 x 0.47 inches |
Model Number | JIO201 |
Apple Air Tag – Best iPhone GPS tracker for Kids
Setup & First Thoughts:
The Apple AirTag is a great GPS tracker for kids that combines the convenience of Bluetooth with Apple's Find My Network technology, making it easy to keep track of your child's location even when they're on the go. With an impressive battery life of up to 1 year and a lightweight design, this GPS device is perfect for keeping tabs on your little one while they explore their world.
See below for how we used the Airtag hidden in kids shoe.
Setting up the device was simple; I had to attach it to my keychain or any other item I wanted to keep track of and then pair it with my iPhone using the "Find My" app. Once connected, I could quickly locate my items in real-time using either Bluetooth or Ultra Wideband (U1) tracking technology.
Pros
- No subscription is required
- 1-year battery life
- Bluetooth and Apple's Find My Network technology for location tracking
- Lightweight design
- Easy setup and pairing with iPhone
Cons
- Limited range of tracking compared to other GPS tracking devices on the market
Overall Experience & Performance:
I was highly impressed with the Apple AirTag for tracking my kids. It offers a great combination of convenience and reliability, making it easy to keep tabs on them while they're out and about. The device's long battery duration and lightweight design make it extremely practical and convenient to clip onto something or just slide into your child's backpack or shoes and forget about it. Bluetooth and Find My Network technology gives you peace of mind knowing where your kids are.
Tested Features:
- High-precision Accuracy
- Setup and installation process
- Mobile app on iPhone
- Battery life
- Lost Mode with an audio cue
Technical Details:
Tracking Technology | Bluetooth + Apple's Find My Network |
Weight | 0.39 ounces |
Dimensions | 1.6 x 1.6 x 0.31 inches |
Model Number | MX532AM/A |
Tracki GPS Tracker - Most Hidden GPS Tracker for Kids
Setup & Initial Thoughts:
The Tracki GPS Tracker is an excellent option for parents looking for an affordable and reliable way to keep track of their kids. It is a smaller tracker that offers a unique combination of GPS, cellular, and WiFi tracking technology which allows you to monitor your child's location in real time from anywhere in the world.
Setting up the device is simple - all you have to do is clip it to your kid's clothing or bag and then use the mobile app on your smartphone to pair it with your phone. Once paired, you can locate your child anytime using the live map feature or set up notifications when they arrive at or leave specific locations.
Pros
- High-precision accuracy in real time
- The setup and installation process was easy
- Compatible with both Android & iPhone mobile apps
- Battery life up to 30–75 days
- Lifetime Warranty
Cons
- Monthly subscription fees range from $9.95/mo to $19.95/mo
Overall Experience & Performance:
My experience with the Tracki GPS device was entirely satisfactory. With its high-precision accuracy, easy setup and installation process, and the ability to track in real-time from anywhere in the world, it is an excellent choice for parents looking for an affordable yet reliable way of monitoring their children's whereabouts. The battery life of 30-75 days is impressive, and the lifetime warranty increases its value further.
Tested Features:
- High-precision accuracy
- Setup and installation process
- Android & iPhone mobile app compatibility
- Battery life of 30-75 days
- Lost Mode with an audible cue
Technical Details:
Tracking Technology | 4G + GPS + Bluetooth |
Weight | 1.23 ounces |
Dimensions | 1.74 x 1.5 x 0.6 inches |
Model Number | TRKM010A |
Invoxia Real-Time GPS Tracker - Most Discrete GPS Tracker for Kids
Setup & Initial Thoughts:
Setting up the Invoxia Real-Time GPS Tracker was a breeze. The included 2-year subscription and embedded SIM card made it easy to track my children with no monthly fee for two years! It is tiny, extremely discreet, and perfect for keeping track of your child without anyone knowing.
I was impressed with its motion and tilt detection capabilities and its high-precision location updates every 30 seconds — a game changer!
Pros
- 2 Year Subscription Included
- Extremely Discreet looking
- Motion and Tilt Detection Capabilities
- High-Precision Location Updates Every 30 Seconds
- Geofencing Functionality Available
- Up to 5 days of Battery Life in Constant Use
Cons
- Requires cellular service
Overall Experience & Performance:
After using the real-time location tracking feature with my middle school-aged children, I am delighted with the performance. With its geofencing functionality, I always know my child's real-time location, which gives me peace of mind. Not only that, but the motion and tilt detection feature proved extremely helpful in alerting me when my kids are on the move.
The battery life is also great, giving me up to 5 days of Use in constant tracking mode — this allows a lot of downtime between recharges. The only downside is that the Invoxia Real-Time GPS Tracker requires cellular service to work correctly. Other than that, I am delighted with this tracker.
Tested Features:
- Android mobile app
- Location accuracy
- Battery life
- Recharge time
- Geofencing
Technical Details:
Tracking Technology | 4G + GPS + Bluetooth |
Weight | 1.05 ounces |
Dimensions | 4.1 x 1.1 x 0.4 inches |
Model Number | InvoxiaGPS |
TickTalk 4 - Best GPS Watch for 5 Years and Older Children
Setup & Initial Thoughts:
Setting up the TickTalk 4 GPS Tracking Watch was a breeze. The watch came with detailed instructions and an easy-to-follow setup guide, making it simple to pair with my phone and activate on our AT&T plan.
I was immediately impressed by its features, which included two 5MP cameras, voice and video calling, secure messaging, talk-to-text capabilities, voice recording, emojis, GIFs, as well as emergency call functions. I also liked that it has parental controls, an unknown contact block, 911 response services, route history, and activity tracking.
Pros
- Easy setup and activation
- Two 5MP cameras
- Two-way talk and video calling capabilities
- Secure messaging, talk-to-text, voice recording, emojis, GIFs
- Parental controls and emergency call functions
Cons
- The GPS watch requires a plan with T-Mobile or AT&T
- Limited 62-hour battery life
Overall Experience & Performance:
Overall, I had a positive experience with the TickTalk 4 GPS Watch. It was easy to set up and activate. I liked its features like voice and video calling, secure messaging, talk-to-text capabilities, voice recording, emojis, and GIFs. The parental controls were also great for peace of mind. The GPS tracking, route history, and activity tracking features were handy in seeing my child's whereabouts throughout the day.
The only downside was the limited battery capacity, but otherwise, I highly recommend this watch when your child enters their school-aged years. It comes in three colors - blue, pink, and black - so they can pick their favorite!

Tested Features:
- Android mobile app
- Location accuracy
- Battery capacity
- Recharge time
- Geofencing
Technical Details:
Tracking Technology | Cellular + Wi-Fi |
Weight | 7 ounces |
Dimensions | 3.4 x 3.4 x 4.2 inches |
Model Number | TickTalk 4 |
Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen)
Setup & Initial Thoughts:
The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) is equipped with features that make it an ideal GPS tracker for children. Despite a setup process that may require an iPhone, Apple has thoughtfully provided the "Family Setup" feature, allowing parents to link the watch with their iPhone, thereby overcoming this hurdle.
The watch has 32GB of storage, providing sufficient space for location-tracking apps and safety features. Its lightweight design and impressive battery life make it convenient for children to wear all day.
In conclusion, for parents looking for a reliable GPS tracker for their children, the Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) emerges as a strong contender within the Apple ecosystem.
Pros
- "Family Setup" feature
- 32GB storage
- Lightweight design
- 18-hour battery life
- Diverse safety features
Cons
- Requires iPhone for full capabilities
Performance & Overall Experience:
The performance of the Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) as a GPS tracker for kids has been remarkable. Its precision in providing real-time location tracking is highly reliable, ensuring parents can always stay informed of their child’s whereabouts. The watch's optical heart sensor, emergency SOS, fall detection, and crash detection features enhance safety measures significantly, providing peace of mind to parents. The watch is also water and swim-proof, expanding its utility for a range of activities.
Be sure you get the GPS + Cellular version of the watch.
The overall experience has been positive, offering a blend of utility, safety, and convenience that is hard to match. The watch’s capabilities can be easily customized to suit individual needs, making it not just a tracking device but a comprehensive safety tool for children.
Tested Features:
- "Family Setup"
- Storage Capacity (32GB)
- Weight and Comfort
- Battery Life
- Safety Features
- Water Resistance
Technical Details:
Tracking Technology | Cellular + Wi-Fi + GPS |
Weight | 11.3 oz |
Dimensions | 11.65 x 2.99 x 1.35 inches |
Model Number | MNT73LL/A |
CUBE GPS Tracker for Kids
Setup & Initial Impressions:
Setting up the CUBE GPS Tracker for Kids is straightforward and user-friendly. After unboxing the compact device, you'll be impressed by its lightweight yet robust build. The device is designed with a waterproof casing, assuring its durability against inevitable spills or rainy days. Its dimensions make it conveniently portable, fitting perfectly in a pocket or backpack.
To begin, download the accompanying app and follow the instructions for pairing the device with your smartphone. The app provides several useful features, such as setting boundary alerts, which notify you when the tracker leaves a specified area. The subscription cost of $19.95 p/m offers continuous access to GPS, Bluetooth, Cellular, and Wi-Fi tracking.
The tracker's battery life ranges from 10 to 60 days, depending on usage, offering peace of mind with its longevity. With the CUBE GPS Tracker for Kids, you're not just purchasing a product but a promise, as it comes with a lifetime warranty, reflecting the company's confidence in its product.
Pros
- Waterproof
- User-friendly setup
- Versatile tracking
- Long battery life
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Ongoing subscription
Performance & Overall Experience:
The CUBE GPS Tracker for Kids is an ideal product for parents who want to keep track of their children while on the go. The boundary alerts ensure that you can rest easy knowing the device will notify you when your child leaves a pre-defined area, allowing you to take speedy action if needed. The versatile tracking technology and reliable battery life make it an effective GPS tracking device. The lifetime warranty is the cherry on top, further reinforcing its promise of quality and safety.
All in all, the CUBE GPS Tracker for Kids is an exemplary product for parents wanting to ensure their child's safety. With its user-friendly setup, versatile tracking technology, long battery life, and lifetime warranty, it's a great choice for parents looking to purchase a reliable GPS tracking device.
Tested Features:
- Waterproof casing
- Boundary alerts
- App interface
- Battery life
- Warranty service
Technical Details:
Tracking Technology | Cellular + Wi-Fi + GPS + BT |
Weight | 2.22 oz |
Dimensions | 4.57 x 4.49 x 1.02 inches |
Model Number | 9Y-W01D-93QE |
GPS Tracker Hidden in Kids' Shoes
Another option worth considering is putting an Apple Airtag in your child's shoes. The Airtag is very small and light, so as not to be felt or noticed.
Just attach velcro to one side of the airtag and attach it underneath the strap of the shoe. Most young kids' shoes have the quick velcro snap, but if you have different shoes, then adjust accordingly for laces. Here's the velcro we like.
Then, if lost, you put the airtag in Lost mode and you will get a notification when spotted.



With the cushion of the shoe's tongue, you cannot feel the airtag in place. We used airtag on each shoe for balance and redundancy.
Since airtags work with Bluetooth signals only and is not a true GPS tracker, it might be a good backup to other types of trackers.
Other GPS Trackers For Kids That We Considered
Factors to Consider When Choosing a GPS Tracker for Your Children
When choosing a GPS tracker for your kids, consider these few things:
Subscription Requirements
Most GPS trackers come with a subscription fee that is required to operate the device. This fee covers the cost of data, server updates, and any additional features or services that the tracker provides. The exception is Apple's AirTag, which does not require a subscription fee. However, AirTag only works with Apple devices.
Battery Life
The battery life of a GPS tracker is vital to consider when choosing one for your children. Some trackers offer long battery life, lasting up to a year without recharging, while others require daily charging. The type of battery used in the device will determine how long it will last before needing to be recharged.
Tracking Technology
Tracking technology in a GPS tracking device can vary but typically relies on a combination of tracking techniques such as cellular, GPS, WiFi, and Bluetooth. Cellular networks allow for real-time location tracking of the device, while GPS provides more precise locations with satellites orbiting the Earth. Alternatively, WiFi and Bluetooth are shorter-range technologies that can track a device within a specific area and even indoors. Read more about how GPS works.
Weight and Size
The size and weight of the GPS tracker will affect how comfortable it is to carry around. Many GPS trackers are designed to fit into pockets or on keychains for easy access. Still, some larger and heavier models may be available but too cumbersome for a child. Be sure to consider the device's size and weight when making your selection.
Features & Parental Controls
Many GPS trackers, such as smart watches, have additional parental controls. These controls allow parents to monitor their child's activity and location while away from home.
For example, a parent can set boundaries on the watch so that the parent is alerted if their child leaves those boundaries.
Additionally, some of these trackers have helpful features such as voice calls, step counters, emergency services alerts, and more. Be sure to consider the additional features and parental controls your GPS tracker offers before purchasing.
Price Range
GPS trackers come in a wide range of prices, depending on the features and technology they offer. Some have a low upfront cost but require a higher monthly subscription fee; others may have more expensive up-front costs with lower monthly fees. The tracking technology used in the device can also affect the price, as devices that use cellular networks typically cost more than those that only use GPS or WiFi.
Age Group
Consider getting younger children something light and easy to clip onto their pants. Alternatively, suppose they are older and more tech-savvy. You may want to get them a smartwatch with additional features, such as voice calls and step counters. Both options offer great ways to track your child while they are away from home.
Frequently Asked Questions About GPS Trackers For Kids
Is it legal to GPS track your child?
Yes, as long as you are the parent or legal guardian of a child under 18, tracking them with a GPS tracker is perfectly legal and within your right. See state-by-state guidance at ncsl.org.
How can I track my child's location without them knowing?
Many kids GPS trackers come with covert options that allow you to track your child without them knowing, such as using a small device that fits easily into their backpack or pocket. Alternatively, if they have a smartphone with tracking capabilities, you can install an app to track their location without them knowing. Read more about how to track the GPS location of a cell phone.
Is there a kids tracker without a monthly fee?
Yes, some GPS trackers, such as the Invoxia Real-Time GPS Tracker, have no monthly fee for the first two years. You can also opt for an Apple AirTag, which does not have a monthly fee but is only available to iPhone users and is not the best option for tracking your kids in real-time.
Do you have to pay a monthly fee for a GPS tracker?
It depends on the GPS tracker you choose. Some require a monthly fee, while others don't, such as the Invoxia Real-Time GPS Tracker or the Apple AirTag. However, these types of trackers may not offer the same level of real-time tracking capabilities as those with a monthly fee. Be sure to research your options.
Final Thoughts
GPS trackers for kids offer parents and guardians peace of mind when their children are away from home. When selecting a GPS tracker, it’s important to consider factors such as tracking technology, weight and size, features & parental controls, price range, age group, and more.
With the right device, you can be sure your child is safe while they navigate the world around them.
-Read Next: The Absolute Best GPS Trackers of 2023