Ensuring your child is safe and sound when you are not around is understandably a priority you may share with parents worldwide.
You may have questions like have they made it to school? Are they back home? What is their current location?
Arming young kids with smartphones may not be the ideal solution. In today’s fast-paced technological landscape, though, several tools are available that help you look after your children. A portable GPS tracker is one such device we will be exploring today.
These trackers are compact, lightweight, and can be easily hidden. You can check in real-time where your kid is. These trackers offer other features like geofences, SOS buttons, remote listening-in, and 2-way voice calling.
A simple search query of GPS trackers for kids returns over 500 results. It can be overwhelming to sort through the results. We have compiled a list of the best child tracking devices hidden to help you make your purchase decision.
Our Top Recommendation For Hidden Child Tracking Devices for Kids!
- Simple one-tap setup instantly connects
- Built-in speaker to help find your things
- AirTag is IP67 water and dust resistant
5 Best Hidden Child Tracking Devices for Kids
As the list focuses on the hidden aspect of the trackers, we have picked small and lightweight devices. Some of these trackers come with several attachment options.
Other considerable factors include location accuracy, battery life, setup, usability, features, and performance.
Here are our top recommendations for kids GPS trackers:
- Apple AirTag – Best Apple-Compatible Tracker for Kids
- Jiobit Gen 2 – Best Compact and Lightweight Tracker for Kids
- Amcrest GPS GL300 – Best Customer-Rated Tracker for Kids
- AngelSense GPS4 – Best Tracker for Kids with Special Needs
- Invoxia Cellular GPS Tracker – Best No-Monthly Fee Tracker for Kids
1. Apple AirTag – Best Apple-Compatible Tracker for Kids
If you already use Apple products like an iPhone or iPad, consider buying the AirTag. The tracker is primarily designed to track luggage and other assets. But it can also work as a secondary monitoring device for your kids.
You can place the AirTag in your child’s pocket, backpack, or stroller. Or you can buy an accessory to hang the tracker on your child’s clothing.
Here is how the Apple AirTag performs.
Design
The AirTag is circular in shape, and it weighs about 0.4 ounces. The device is dust, splash, and water resistant. It is a lightweight tracker that will not hinder your child. It can also be placed discreetly on your child’s body or belongings.
It uses a coin cell battery to function. Apple suggests the battery can last for up to a year. Regarding battery life, it is one of the best trackers on this list.
Usability
You will need an Apple ID, an iPhone with iOS 14.5 or later, or an iPad with iPadOS 14.5 or later for the AirTag to function.
The AirTag is one of the easiest trackers to set up. Place the tracker near your Apple device, tap Connect, add your name, register using your Apple ID, and you are done.
You can use the Find My app to locate the tracker. You can use the AirTag to track your kids in crowded areas. For example, you can ensure your kids are nearby when you go to an amusement park or concert.
Features
You can ping the tracker and play a sound on its built-in speaker. Using the Precision Finding feature, you can find the exact location of the tracker. The feature has a range of 16 meters.
You can put the AirTag in lost mode. You will be notified if and when the tracker is detected by an Apple device in the network. In comparison to other GPS trackers, the AirTag has limited location features. Thus, you should consider it as an add-on to your tracking means.
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | Diameter - 1.26 inches, Height - 0.31 inches |
| Weight | 0.39 ounces |
| Type | Bluetooth |
| Battery | User-replaceable CR2032 coin cell battery |
| Coverage | Global |
| Price | Starts from $28.00 |
| Subscription | No monthly fees |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Pros
- It is a budget-friendly tracker with no monthly fees
- It has excellent battery life
- The tracker offers global coverage
Cons
- It only works with Apple devices
- The tracker body can get scuffed easily
2. Jiobit Gen 2 – Best Compact and Lightweight Tracker for Kids
Jiobit is one of the ideal trackers if discretion is a priority. The device is as small as a cookie and lightweight. You have different attachment options to choose from.
The tracker currently provides coverage only in the US. It offers features like live tracking, care teams, and a detailed timeline.
Here is how the Jiobit Gen 2 performs.
Design
The Jiobit tracker weighs only about 0.6 ounces. The device comes with an integrated attachment loop. You can separately purchase other attachments like a secure loop or strap clip.
You can securely attach the tracker and keep it hidden using the pin lock accessory. The attachment options also make it easier to place the tracker on kids with sensory issues. The device body is water and shock-resistant.
The rechargeable battery lasts for about 2 to 3 days, depending on your usage.
Usability
You must first charge the Jiobit using the charging dock and cable that comes in the box. Download the Jiobit app and register. Pair your smartphone and the tracker.
You can now customize the tracker as per your preference. For example, you set up trusted places and care teams.
The Jiobit has an intuitive design and is easy to use. But it needs performance improvements as recent issues have been reported about the app lagging.
Features
One of the distinguishing features of the tracker is the separation alarm. You can set a Bluetooth range and get notified when the tracker goes out of it. This way, you can track your kids in crowded areas.
You can get real-time updates on your kid’s location using Live Mode.
You can add other people to the Care team. For example, it could be the nanny, a family member, or a friend looking after your kid. They will have to install the Jiobit app. You can control what permissions Care team members have.
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 1.96 x 1.45 x 0.47 inches |
| Weight | 0.63 ounces |
| Type | Offers 5G compatible cellular data |
| Battery | Rechargeable lithium polymer |
| Coverage | US |
| Price | $169.99 |
| Subscription | From $8.33 to $16.99 monthly |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Pros
- It is a compact device weighing about 0.6 ounces
- The tracker can be discreetly attached to clothing or backpacks
- The subscription comes with unlimited cellular data
Cons
- The battery drains quicker with consistent use
- Low monthly fees are available with long-term contracts
3. Amcrest GPS GL300 – Best Customer-Rated Tracker for Kids
If you want to buy a GPS tracker well-liked by customers, consider the Amcrest GPS GL300. The tracker is rated 4.3 out of 5 on Amazon with over 1900 ratings.
It is one of the budget-friendly GPS trackers on the list. You get a twin magnetic case and a fabric pouch with your purchase.
Here is how the Amcrest GPS GL300 performs.
Design
The GL300 may stand out with its dimension and weight than other trackers on the list. So, you best place the tracker inside your child’s backpack or stroller.
The tracker is water-resistant with a rating of IP65. The twin magnetic case has an IP67 rating, protecting the tracker from dust, sand, and minor spills and splashes. It can handle submersion in water but only in shallow conditions and not more than 30 minutes.
It has one of the highest battery capacities, 2600 mAh. The battery can last anywhere from 2 to 14 days, depending on the frequency and type of updates.
Usability
You can activate the tracker on Amcrest’s website. You must create your account and select and pay for a monthly plan. It can take up to 24 hours for you to receive credentials to the tracking platform.
The monthly plan depends on the update frequency. For example, the 60-second update is available for $19.99/mo, whereas the 5-second update is available for $34.99/mo.
You can also download the Amcrest GPS Pro app to track the device on your smartphone.
The tracking platform and app UI are a bit outdated. Both platforms offer functionality, but their performance is decent at best.
Features
If you need to know where your kids are at all times, then the Amcrest GPS GL300 delivers. Its frequent update plans provide accurate location details.
You can create up to 20 custom geofences. You can choose to get entry/exit or both types of alerts. You can also select the mode of alert, push, email, or SMS. If you need help tracking your kid, you can generate a shareable link and send it to a trusted guardian.
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 3 x 1.6 x 1 inches |
| Weight | 3.2 ounces |
| Type | 4G LTE |
| Battery | Rechargeable li-polymer, 2600 mAh |
| Coverage | USA, Canada, and Mexico |
| Price | $29.99 |
| Subscription | Starts from $19.99 to $34.99(Prices vary according to update frequency) |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Pros
- It is a pocket-friendly GPS tracker
- You can get updates every 5 to 60 seconds
- You can create up to 20 custom geofences
Cons
- The tracker needs a mini USB for charging
- The frequent update service plans can be expensive
4. AngelSense GPS4 – Best Tracker for Kids with Special Needs
The AngelSense tracker was designed to help track and contact kids with special needs. It offers accurate location details. It is one of the few portable trackers that is equipped with voice features.
It comes with various non-removable attachment options. It is powered by AI technology to provide intelligent alerts like unknown places, late arrival, and transit monitoring.
Here is how the AngelSense GPS4 performs.
Design
The AngelSense tracker is a small device weighing about 1.4 ounces. The device is water-resistant. You can shop for waterproof pouches if required.
You will get a protective sleeve, three non-removable fasteners, and a parent key with your purchase. You can buy other accessories like an undershirt, a watch band, a belt, and a belt clip.
The tracker does not go into standby mode. It only uses continuous monitoring. So, the battery is short, lasting about 24 hours.
Usability
Before you start with the setup process, ensure the tracker is charged. It takes about two hours to get a full charge. You can download the AngelSense Guardian app and create an account.
The tracker must be at least 1.5 miles from the charging point for the device to acquire a signal.
You will need an AngelSense subscription for the tracker and app to work. The monthly plans can be expensive, with prices ranging from $44.99 to $64.99/mo. You will also have to pay for a one-time activation fee.
The app is well-designed. You can choose to get push, email, or both types of notifications.
Features
The tracker learns about your child’s routine and creates geofences. You can review and name these geofences. You can then receive entry and departure alerts. If your child wanders into unknown places, you will be notified.
You can use the listening-in feature to hear what is going around your kid. You can also make 2-way voice calls, which get automatically picked up without your child needing to do something.
You can create guardians and customize their permissions who can help take care of your kids.
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 2.4 x 1.73 x 0.63 inches |
| Weight | 1.4 ounces |
| Type | 4G LTE, Advanced GPS Data |
| Battery | RechargeableBattery life - up to 24 hours |
| Coverage | US, Canada, and UK |
| Price | $59 |
| Subscription | Starts from $44.99 to $64.99 |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Pros
- You can attach the tracker using non-removable options
- It offers 1 and 2-way voice calling features
- You can access unlimited historical data
Cons
- Battery life is up to 24 hours
- The subscription plans are expensive
5. Invoxia Cellular GPS Tracker – Best No-Monthly Fee Tracker for Kids
The Invoxia is a multipurpose tracker that can be used to track kids, bikes, vehicles, and assets.
You get a year of subscription with your purchase. From the second year, you will be charged a renewal fee.
Here is how the Invoxia Cellular GPS tracker performs.
Design
The Invoxia tracker weighs about 1.05 ounces. But the device is comparatively longer, with a length of 4.1 inches. The device is designed using ABS plastic, black anodized aluminum, and natural leather.
The GPS tracker is best placed inside backpacks, purses, or cars.
It comes with a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 300 mAh. It takes about 2 hours to get a full charge. The battery life depends on your usage. Frequent updates of 2 to 5 minutes can drain the battery quicker.
Usability
The tracker must be fully charged before you begin with the setup. You must download the Invoxia GPS app and create an account. Pair your phone and the tracker through Bluetooth.
You can have multiple people using the same app account.
The app needs significant performance improvements. Also, Invoxia has limited documentation on its website. So, you will need some time to figure out the features.
Features
You can create safe zones and receive entry and exit alerts. If your child needs help, they can press the SOS button. This will send the tracker location to a predefined set of contacts.
It has a proximity radar, which helps you find the exact location of the tracker. The real-time boost feature provides location updates every 30 seconds. The feature will remain active for 30 minutes, after which you can choose to extend it.
You can view a detailed location history of the device. The tracker works with other smart devices through IFTTT.
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 4.1 x 1.06 x 0.37 inches |
| Weight | 1.05 ounces |
| Type | 4G LTE-M |
| Battery | Rechargeable lithium-ion, 300 mAh |
| Coverage | Global |
| Price | Starts from $129.00 |
| Subscription | 1-year subscription includedRenewal cost $39.95/year |
| Warranty | 2 years in EU, 1-year for other countries |
Pros
- You can get updates every 2, 5, 10, or 30 minutes when in motion
- With the real-time boost feature, you can get updates every 30 seconds
- You get a 1-year of subscription with your purchase
Cons
- The instruction manual needs to be descriptive
- Live tracking can drain the battery
How we Picked and Tested the Hidden Child Tracking Devices?
Our search for the best child-tracking hidden device began online. Our initial research involved going through different trackers, their design, features, cost, subscription details, and customer experiences.
The shortlisted trackers were then tested individually. The devices that could be worn or fastened to clothing were checked for comfort, convenience, and durability. The trackers were taken through similar routes to test and compare their performance.
Key-Decision-Making Factors
Here are factors that helped us shortlist the best-hidden tracker for kids.
1. Design
As the tracker must be hidden, we picked small and lightweight trackers. The Invoxia and Amcrest trackers are comparatively bigger but can be discreetly placed inside backpacks and vehicles.
2. Accuracy
As you will be tracking your kids, the location updates must be accurate. GPS accuracy can be several feet off depending on signal strength. But the trackers included in the list overall offer good location accuracy.
3. Update Frequency
The update frequency of the trackers can vary from 5 seconds to 30 minutes. These updates are typically tied to the service plan you choose.
4. Cost
We have attempted to provide budget-friendly and premium trackers with prices ranging from $29 to $229. Also, consider the monthly subscription, activation, and cancellation fees involved.
FAQ’s
Using non-removable fasteners, you can attach a GPS tracker to your kid’s clothing, shoe, or backpack. These fasteners can only be opened with a parent key, making it a durable way of attaching a GPS tracker.
It depends on the GPS tracker you buy. For example, the devices mentioned above, like the Jiobit, Amcrest, and AngelSense, include a SIM card. You must buy a compatible SIM card separately for other brands like the SpyCent or Riloer mini GPS trackers.
Yes. You can invest in a GPS-enabled smartwatch to track your kid. You can locate your kids using free and paid tracking apps if your kids use smartphones.
Summary
GPS trackers can help you track your kids at all times. You can select compact trackers that can be easily hidden on your child’s or their belongings.
If you use Apple devices, buy the AirTag as a secondary tracking device. The Amcrest GPS GL300 is another budget-friendly tracker. If you are looking for the most lightweight tracker, Jiobit is a good option.
The non-removable and removable wearing options make the AngelSense tracker ideal for kids with sensory issues.
The Invoxia tracker works best when placed inside backpacks, bikes, or cars.
We hope our list of the best child-tracking hidden devices helps you find a suitable device according to your requirements.
Carson Harris is a highly qualified author and expert in GPS tracking technology. With a background in electrical engineering and machine learning, he has established himself as a trusted source of information. Carson’s work experience at Garmin and Panasonic has further enhanced his expertise. He possesses creative skills in website design and AI applications. Known for his clear and concise communication, Carson’s articles on Trax Family’s website provide valuable insights on GPS trackers.