Traveling is all about exciting explorations and adventures, but staying active shouldn’t take a backseat. Understanding my body better has made traveling a lot more enjoyable. But I have to admit that staying active and monitoring my fitness while traveling can be a challenge. Between navigating new surroundings and dealing with jet lag (not to mention indulging in local cuisine), it’s easy to let my workout routine fall by the wayside. So, to help you keep tabs on your activity levels and maintain a healthy lifestyle, I want to show you these amazing fitness trackers at Best Buy.
From sleek and stylish models that seamlessly blend into your wardrobe to rugged and durable options built to withstand the rigors of outdoor excursions, the following fitness trackers don’t disappoint. These wearable devices not only track your steps, calories burned, and active minutes but also offer a wealth of features tailored to the needs of modern travelers. Keep reading to find your trusted travel companion!
Table of contents
- Fitbit Sense 2
- Garmin fēnix 7X Sapphire Solar
- Amazfit Bip 5
- Amazfit GTS 4 Mini
- Garmin Forerunner 965
- Oura Ring Gen3
- Samsung Galaxy Watch6
- Fitbit Versa 4
- WHOOP 4.0
- Apple Watch Series 9
- Amazfit Band 7
- Fitbit Charge 6
- Fitbit Inspire 3
- Our Verdict!
- How To Choose The Best Travel Fitness Trackers at Best Buy?
- Are fitness trackers worth it?
- Is Garmin better than Fitbit?
- Is a fitness tracker better than a smartwatch?
Fitbit Sense 2
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Designed to help you manage your overall health and well-being, the Fitbit Sense 2 is one of the favorites at Best Buy. With the new EDA sensor, this smartwatch was able to monitor my stress levels and identify stressful events continuously. It was great to have a little reminder on my wrist. After wearing it for a day, I discovered my sleep personality and received tips on how to improve my sleep.
What about the fitness features? With this little buddy, you can optimize your sessions at the gym with a daily score that shows whether your body is primed for workouts or needs recovery. With its Active Zone Minutes, I was able to train in the right intensity zone. That was a nice feature for me, as sometimes I felt like I wasn’t pushing myself enough. Oh, there are more than 40 exercise modes, too.
Pros
- The built-in GPS can track pace, distance, and route for outdoor activities.
- It can give you high and low heart rate notifications.
- It includes a 6-month Fitbit Premium Membership.
Cons
- It lacks Google Assistant.
Buy on:
Garmin fēnix 7X Sapphire Solar
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For adventurers who demand the best, take a look at the Garmin fēnix 7X Sapphire Solar! As the name suggests, this is a solar-powered watch. Never be caught off guard by a dead battery anymore. It harnesses the sun’s energy to extend battery life for weeks, up to 37 days, in smartwatch mode with solar charging. I also loved how easy it was to view my stats, thanks to its always-on display.
In addition, the multisport GPS is highly reliable. It can track not only your ikes and runs but also bikes and climbs and more. Another thing that impressed me was the multi-continent maps. You can download maps for any region directly on your watch via built-in Wi-Fi, so you’re always prepared. Of course, there are advanced training features, too. With this watch, you can get detailed performance metrics such as wrist-based heart rate, Pulse Ox, and stress monitoring to optimize your workouts.
If you’re a huge fan of Garmin, check out these best Garmin watches in Walmart!
Pros
- With a built-in flashlight, you can keep exploring even after dark.
- It has an enhanced sleep tracking.
- It boasts a scratch-resistant Power Sapphire lens and a rugged build.
Cons
- It can be bulky on smaller wrists.
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Amazfit Bip 5
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If you prioritize affordability, battery life, and having a wide range of workout options, the Amazfit Bip 5 may be for you. Whether you’re a runner, cyclist, or swimmer, this watch delivers with its 120+ sports modes, including gym workouts. I was shocked when I found the options for sports like yoga and martial arts. What’s more, you don’t have to manually select your workout, as it can automatically detect activities like running and cycling.
Another highlight of this fitness tracker is its PeakBeats system. It does more than just basic tracking. It also provides metrics like VO2 Max to gauge your cardiovascular fitness level. Plus, based on my experience, the built-in GPS is pretty accurate. Not to mention, it can monitor your health 24/7. Considering what it brings to the table and its price tag, there’s no reason not to like this fitness tracker.
Pros
- On a single charge, it can last up to 10 days.
- It’s not only stylish but also comfortably lightweight.
- You can personalize the watch face with your own picture.
Cons
- It still uses a TFT LCD.
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Amazfit GTS 4 Mini
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The Amazfit GTS 4 Mini lives up to its name. It’s a compact and stylish smartwatch packed with features for fitness enthusiasts and everyday users alike. One of its biggest selling points is its amazing 15-day battery life. Heck, in battery saver mode, it can last for up to 45 days. I’m a heavy user, and normally, all of my gadgets require daily charging. But you don’t have to worry; you can push this fitness tracker up to 8 days of heavy use.
Also listed as one of the best fitness watches with GPS, the GTS 4 Mini allows you to track your workouts with over 120 sports modes. Whether you’re a runner or a swimmer, this fitness tracker is a blessing. Yes, it’s water-resistant, too! I also had fun personalizing the watch face. The pre-loaded options are stunning, and you can set your photo.
Pros
- It offers 24/7 health monitoring and alerts you of abnormally high heart rates.
- There’s built-in Alexa, so you can easily control your other smart devices and more.
- The 1.65-inch AMOLED display is bright and clear.
Cons
- The pulse measurement can be a hit or miss.
Buy on:
Garmin Forerunner 965
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The Garmin Forerunner 965 is a top-of-the-line GPS watch designed for serious athletes and fitness enthusiasts. However, what drew me in was its brilliant AMOLED touchscreen display. This display is crisp, colorful, and easily readable in any lighting condition. It’s complemented by a lightweight titanium bezel that adds a touch of class and durability. It’s seriously so beautiful. Despite the powerful display, the 965 still manages to offer impressive battery life. In smartwatch mode, you can expect up to 23 days on a single charge, while GPS mode provides up to 31 hours.
For data-driven athletes, this fitness tracker offers a wealth of training features. The training readiness score takes into account your sleep, recovery, training load, and HRV to help you determine if your body is primed for a hard workout or needs a rest day. I was also thrilled when I learned that it also provides personalized daily suggested workouts based on your race goals and recent performance.
Pros
- You can control your Spotify and Amazon Music playlists from this fitness tracker.
- It can send your live location to emergency contacts.
- You can customize the built-in workout profiles.
Cons
- It’s on the pricier side.
Buy on:
Oura Ring Gen3
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Best Discreet. How old were you when you first learned that there’s a fitness tracker in the form of a ring? Yep, I’m not kidding! Take a look at the Oura Ring Gen3! It works just like your regular watch-like fitness tracker. This ring shines with its accurate sleep monitoring. I’ve used it before, and its advanced sensors and sleep staging algorithm provided me with detailed breakdowns of my sleep cycles.
“With its comfortable and discreet design, the Oura Ring Gen3 deserves all the praises.”
WOW Travel
Moreover, the accompanying app is well-designed and easy to navigate. It presents your health data in a clear and actionable way, providing insights into sleep, activity, recovery, and even menstrual cycles. I hate having to recharge my devices every day. If you have the same worry, this is the device for you, as it can last for almost a week on a single charge. Get to know this ring more by reading techfromdad.com’s review!
Pros
- Unlike bulkier trackers, this ring is comfortable to wear 24/7, even when sleeping.
- Its sleek design blends seamlessly with jewelry.
- It’s surprisingly water-resistant, too.
Cons
- It requires a monthly subscription to access all features and data analysis.
Buy on:
Samsung Galaxy Watch6
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Best for Android Users. Are you a fitness nut who’s always on the lookout for a smartwatch that can keep up with your active lifestyle? Look no further than the Samsung Galaxy Watch6. This watch boasts a wide range of exercise tracking – running, swimming (yep, it’s water-resistant), cycling, you name it. When I first wore it, I was impressed by the auto workout detection feature, which is a nice touch. Based on my experience, I can say that the built-in GPS is accurate, making it one of the best smart GPS watches.
In addition, the new heart rate zone feature is a game-changer. It personalizes your workout intensity based on your fitness level, which can help you push yourself but stay safe. I also had fun using the body composition analysis. It provided me with insights into my body fat, muscle mass, and water. Though not a replacement for professional analysis, it’s a handy tool to track progress over time.
Pros
- It has an advanced sleep-tracking feature that breaks down your sleep stages.
- This smartwatch can track a wide range of activities accurately.
- There are so many beautiful colors to choose from.
Cons
- The battery life could be better.
Buy on:
Fitbit Versa 4
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Forget fiddling with your phone mid-set. The Fitbit Versa 4 boasts over 40 built-in exercise modes, so whether you’re lifting weights, doing HIIT, or hitting the trails, you can always track everything right from your wrist. Plus, when I was using it, I found it convenient to be able to see my stats in real-time, keeping me motivated and helping me push myself further.
The 24/7 heart rate tracking is also a nice addition. It’s not just about monitoring exercise intensity but also about keeping an eye on your overall health. The irregular heart rhythm notifications are a huge plus, too. It gives you peace of mind and the ability to share any concerns with your doctor. Calls, texts, calendar alerts – the Versa 4 kept me on top of things. But the best part? The quick replies and voice replies allowed me to respond without breaking my stride. Also, did you know the Fitbit Versa 4 is featured on the best GPS watches for women?
Pros
- The battery can last for more than 6 days.
- It features built-in Google Maps and Google Wallet for extra convenience.
- It has a thin, lightweight design that’s perfect for all-day wear.
Cons
- It doesn’t support third-party applications.
Buy on:
WHOOP 4.0
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As an avid traveler, I take my fitness seriously, and the WHOOP 4.0 has everything people like me need. Automatic workout tracking is a must, but WHOOP goes beyond the basics. Using it broke down my heart rate, calories burned, and duration, giving me a clear picture of my performance. It can also analyze your sleep, heart rate variability, and resting heart rate to deliver a daily recovery score. It tells you exactly what your body needs.
We all know sleep and diet matter, but WHOOP takes it to a whole new level. The WHOOP Journal lets you track everything from food and alcohol to stress and caffeine. WHOOP then analyzes how these habits affect your sleep and recovery, helping you identify what works and what doesn’t. Magic! Also as magical is the WHOOP Coach, which is like a personalized AI trainer. It analyzes your goals, biometrics, and personalized guidance.
Pros
- It comes with a complimentary Onyx band.
- A stylish fitness tracker, you can wear it in your shorts and sports bras or even slip it into your arm sleeves.
- It can also track your menstrual cycle.
Cons
- It’s not the best choice for non-cardio exercises.
Buy on:
Apple Watch Series 9
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Best for iPhone Users. There are so many amazing fitness trackers at Best Buy, but if you want something premium that can work seamlessly with your phone, consider the Apple Watch Series 9. I have one myself, and nothing but good things to say. Travel can be tough on your gear, but what I love about the Series 9 is that it feels surprisingly rugged. I banged it on a bunk bed when I was staying at a Lake Tahoe Hotel on the water last year, and it shrugged it off. The shatter-resistant screen is a big plus, too.
If you love tracking your hikes and bike rides, you’ll love this watch. The GPS is super accurate, even in those twisty alleys. I also love how the new, improved heart rate sensor gives me valuable data on how I’m performing. Additionally, it can track your blood oxygen, remind you when you have an irregular heart rhythm and more. It’s an all-rounder that ticks all the boxes.
Pros
- It comes with a built-in translation app, which is great for travelers.
- This watch is available in various color options.
- It’s easy to use, especially for Apple fans.
Cons
- The battery life isn’t the best.
Buy on:
Amazfit Band 7
3
Your fitness tracker should be as great as your dedication to fitness. Enter the Amazfit Band 7, a fitness band that boasts a whopping 120+ sports modes. Wow! I’ve used this device before, and I was blown away. From hitting the gym to taking a spin class, the Band 7 tracked everything I did. Plus, the automatic recognition for four sports is a huge time saver. No more fiddling with settings before your workout.
Another thing that I loved about the Band 7 was its long-lasting battery life. With an 18-day typical use battery life, this band can truly go the distance. And unlike other cookie-cutter fitness trackers, it goes beyond basic steps and heart rate. It provides in-depth data like distance, speed, and calories burned, allowing you to fine-tune your workouts and track progress. For the full specifications, check out the official website!
Pros
- The AMOLED display is large and clear.
- It has over 50 watch faces to choose from.
- You can wear it when swimming as it’s water-resistant.
Cons
- The GPS isn’t the best.
Buy on:
Fitbit Charge 6
2
Best Value for Money. Though the Fitbit Charge 5 at Best Buy is not available anymore, you can still rely on the Fitbit Charge 6, its better successor. This little monster boasts a whopping 40 exercise modes, perfect for healthy lifestyle enthusiasts. From HIIT workouts to pool swims, it tracked my every move with surprising accuracy. I also loved how lightweight and comfortable it felt.
Fitbit’s sleep tracking has always been a winner, and the Charge 6 continues the tradition. It dug deep into my sleep stages, tracked stress levels, and even offered personalized insights for better sleep. I was impressed! This fitness tracker can help keep you on top of your daily goals. From your steps to calories, it tracks literally everything.
Pros
- It has built-in Google Maps and on-wrist music controls.
- The heart rate monitor is accurate.
- It can connect to select exercise equipment.
Cons
- Some metrics can only be accessed through a Premium subscription.
Buy on:
Fitbit Inspire 3
1
Best Overall. Sitting on top of this list is the Fitbit Inspire 3. This little fitness tracker at Best Buy is a must-have for travelers who want to stay healthy and mindful on the road. One of the things that wowed me the most during testing was its always-on fitness tracking feature. It kept an eye on everything without me needing to check it constantly. It monitored things like my resting heart rate, blood oxygen, and even skin temperature. This real-time data helped me understand how my body was reacting to new environments, especially at higher altitudes.
Traveling can be stressful, from navigating unfamiliar places to adjusting to different time zones. That said, Inspire 3’s stress management score is a game-changer. It let me know when I was pushing myself too hard and needed some downtime. You can also rely on the mindfulness sessions, which are perfect for unwinding after a long day of sightseeing. Get to know more about this device by watching DesFit’s review video!
Pros
- Its amazing battery life can last up to 10 days.
- Lightweight and stylish, this tracker is also water-resistant.
- The silicone band is comfortable and doesn’t itch the skin.
Cons
- The screen is too small for detailed information.
Buy on:
Our Verdict!
Considering its price tag, features, and performance, I think the Fitbit Inspire 3 is the best overall pick. It offers everything an active traveler needs and possibly more. However, the rest are great, too. Below are the standouts based on their perspective categories:
- Best Value for Money: Fitbit Charge 6
- Best for iPhone Users: Apple Watch Series 9
- Best for Android Users: Samsung Galaxy Watch6
- Best Discreet: Oura Ring Gen3
How To Choose The Best Travel Fitness Trackers at Best Buy?
Now that you’ve seen my recommendations, it’s time to learn about some of the important factors to consider to help you decide which fitness tracker is best for you:
Tracking capabilities
Different fitness trackers offer varying levels of tracking capabilities. Some basic models only track steps and distance, while more advanced ones can track things like heart rate, sleep patterns, calories burned, and specific activities like running, cycling, or swimming. Before choosing which fitness tracker to get, decide which metrics are most important for your fitness goals.
Compatibility
In addition to that, you’ll want to check if the fitness tracker syncs seamlessly with your smartphone (Android or iOS) and if it has a user-friendly app to view and analyze your data. Good app integration can provide more insights and customization options. Speaking of which, make sure to check out these best diet apps for travelers, too!
Battery life
As you can see from the list above, battery life can vary significantly between models, ranging from a few days to several weeks on a single charge. Based on your usage patterns, consider how often you’d be willing to recharge the device. Also, here are the best GPS watches with long battery life.
Comfort
Since you’ll be wearing the tracker all day (and probably all night for sleep tracking), look for a comfortable and lightweight design that suits your lifestyle and personal preferences. Water resistance, customizable watch faces, and adjustable bands are also important factors to consider.
Are fitness trackers worth it?
If you’re someone active and have certain goals in mind, they’re totally worth it. Fitness trackers can be a great tool for motivation and tracking progress, especially for those starting a new routine or looking for a boost.
Is Garmin better than Fitbit?
Deciding between Fitbit and Garmin depends on your needs. Garmin offers advanced GPS tracking and in-depth workout analysis, making them ideal for serious athletes. On the other hand, Fitbit prioritizes user-friendliness and boasts features like stress monitoring and sleep tracking, making them a great choice for general fitness enthusiasts.
Is a fitness tracker better than a smartwatch?
It depends on your needs and preferences. Fitness trackers are better if you prioritize health, as they focus on steps, heart rate, and sleep. They also tend to have better battery life. On the other hand, smartwatches offer all that plus smartphone features like notifications and music. However, they tend to cost more and have shorter battery life.
