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Compass Travel Center

Discussion in ' Truck Stops ' started by Long FLD , Apr 12, 2023 .

Long FLD Road Train Member

DeMotte IN I-65 exit 230 This place is nice! Stopped to camp here for my delivery in Chicago in the morning and I’m glad I did. Wasn’t planning on eating but I changed my mind and wasn’t disappointed. There’s also a Dunkin’ Donuts inside. I didn’t shower so I don’t know what they’re like, but I’d guess nice and new like the rest of it.  

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BoostedTeg Road Train Member

Are they related to Compass lease in Chicago maybe?  

BoostedTeg said: ↑ Are they related to Compass lease in Chicago maybe? Click to expand...

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An Oasis for Truckers and Travelers at Compass Travel Center

Community members acquire a new restaurant and more.

DEMOTTE - Travelers and local residents have another option for fuel off of Interstate 65 and Indiana 10. The newly opened Compass Travel Center is not just a fueling station, but inside you will find a Dunkin Donuts, an upscale American-European grill, a travelers lounge, and a semi-truck showroom.

The Compass Travel Center recently had a soft opening and is starting to serve customers. The Travel Center itself has several rows of touch-screen fuel pumps with all the latest technology in order to provide payment for fuel. The spacing between pumps is ample in order to accommodate many vehicles at a time. It is easy to navigate around the pumps to get in and out without complications or having to wait for traffic. The front of the travel center is tall and open with dozens of windows in the front as you enter. Upon entering the travel center, you’ll find high ceilings making it feel very large inside. The coolers and shelves are well stocked and inviting. In the coolers and on shelves you’ll find some upscale items including Kefir and German chocolate. To the back of the travel center you will find a show room for semi-trucks. According to the Roadhouse Grill general manager, the owner of Compass Travel Center first started his business in trucking. He has since grown his company to include other aspects of the trucking industry with the exception of a travel center. This was the obvious next step. The showroom fits into the sales and leasing of semi-trucks, which is part of the owner’s previous and continuing business.

The Compass name is a staple name for the owner. The owner has other businesses that use the name Compass in it was reported by the general manager.

In additions to the beverages, snacks, and other items found in the travel center, you will also find a Dunkin Donuts. The Dunkin Donuts has a drive through on the West side of the travel center building. The inside area has a very bright and extensive menu of items available. The case is filled with donuts and the barista is busy making coffee drinks for the customers. There is a small seating area near the sales counter, but there is additional seating for larger groups and some more seating back towards the middle of the travel center. The chairs near the counter are a brightly colored orange and a large sign on the wall reminds visitors and customers that “Indiana runs on Dunkin.”

Jamie, the general manager at the Roadhouse Grill, explained that they looked at several options and had also looked at what was lacking from the area. Since she and the owner are from the Chicago area, Dunkin is a big part of where they are from, and it just made sense to bring Dunkin to the area.

The Roadhouse Grill is the upscale restaurant included in the travel center. When you enter the restaurant, their is a hostess that will seat you. Right now the menu is limited but will expand as the kitchen staff becomes more comfortable with the current menu. The general manager also said that they don’t want to overwhelm the customers with a large menu to start, additional menu items will be coming soon.

“We want people to come and enjoy the little things in life. We’re trying to cater to everyone. Families, travelers, and truckers can come in for a comforting meal,” said Jamie.

The atmosphere in the restaurant is comfortable and welcoming. The decor resembles that of an American-style grill. Menu items include burgers and other sandwiches. There is a bar area that gives a peek into the kitchen. The bar area is sectioned off with a wall and some greenery. This wall keeps the restaurant area separate from the bar. The bar menu includes beer and wine, for now. Spirits will be added later on.

The name Roadhouse Grill comes from the fact you are on the road and it is in a travel center, as explained by the general manager.

Jamie, the general manager, described how the owner is focused on bringing jobs to the area. There is additional property attached to the current travel center. There will be additional development to the property in the future. The owner hopes to open additional travel centers in the future.

Compass Travel Center is hiring. You can submit an application on their website at http://www.compasstravelcenter.com/ . You can also find the current price of fuel on their website. The grand opening will be coming later in January.

Details included in this report were provided by Jamie, the General Manager at the Roadhouse Grill.

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The Best Compasses of 2024

Even in this technology-filled world, a good outdoors person knows the importance of having the best compass possible when adventuring outside .

Yes, there are compass apps, but phones can break or die and there’s no beating the reliability of a tried and true compass when you head off the beaten path.

The GearJunkie team is composed of arctic explorers, competitive orienteers, and accomplished long-distance thru-hikers. We’ve ventured far beyond the bounds of well-traveled trails and 5G-LTE. We rely on compasses to maintain our bearings and remain in touch with our path of travel in white-out blizzards, dense forests, and barren featureless deserts.

A reliable compass can be the difference between efficient backcountry travel and potential disaster. Through rigorous testing of dozens of compasses, the selections of this list have proven themselves as bonafide navigation tools fit during far-flung adventures.

We’ve found the best compasses to fit every budget and use. Scroll through to see all of our recommendations, or click ahead to the product you’re looking for. For information on compass types, features, and usage tips, check out our comparison table and buyer’s guide . If you still have questions, take a look at our list of frequently asked questions at the end of this article.

Editor’s Note: We updated this article on Decembe r 15, 2023, to dial in our selection of recommended products, provide additional buying guidance, and include new photos of our testing process in the field.

The Best Compasses of 202 4

• Best Overall Compass: SUUNTO M-3 D Leader Compass
• Best Budget Compass: TurnOnSport Orienteering Compass
• Best Compass for Most People: SUUNTO A-10 Compass
• Best Travel Compass: SUUNTO MB-6G Global Compass
• Best Compass for Kids: Coghlan’s Function Whistle
• Best Thumb Compass for Orienteering: SUUNTO AIM-6 NH
• Best Hiking Compass: SUUNTO MC-2 Global Compass

SUUNTO M-3 D Leader Compass

• Weight 1.6 oz.
• Increments 2 degrees
• Dimensions 4.72″ x 2.4″ x 0.55″

• Luminescent markings
• Handy wristlock lanyard
• Small degree markings on the device can be hard to read, especially in low light

As noted, SUUNTO makes a lot of compasses, and the  M-3 D Leader hiking compass  ($65) is a big step up to a powerful navigation tool for those who desire more precision.

Simple yet effective, this compass contains everything you need to find your way and nothing you don’t. Built for hiking, the M-3 D leader is popular with backpackers and hunters for its reliability and toughness.

It sports metric and imperial scales and is balanced for use in the Northern Hemisphere, with 2-degree increments. The adjustable declination orientation is smooth for easy adjustment but is firm enough to keep its orientation while you move.

A baseplate with a magnifying lens and glow-in-the-dark markings make it easy to use on a map, even in low light. And the detachable locking lanyard allows you to keep it handy and prevents drops while moving over rugged terrain. With optimal durability and functionality, the M-3 D Leader is the best compass on the market today.

TurnOnSport Orienteering Compass

• Dimensions ‎ 8.23″ x 3.9″ x 0.67″

• Excellent price
• No declination feature, no direction box

Learning orienteering can be a daunting proposition to the uninitiated, and some of the more feature-rich compasses on this list can be intimidating for someone looking to learn to navigate without GPS devices. For beginners, we recommend a simple and inexpensive option on which you can learn the basics.

This orienteering compass from  TurnOnSport  ($12) has all the features needed for learning compass-and-map navigation without the restrictive cost of higher-end compasses. The durable acrylic baseplate sports an adjustable bearing, a compass ruler, a magnifying glass, and a 1:24,000 scale.

The liquid-filled needle case provides a quick, responsive magnetic north bearing, and the waterproof bearings mean you can use it in any weather.

The TurnOnSport Orienteering Compass is easily the best compass we’ve seen for the price . Offering only the necessary features, it’s equipped to allow you to learn basic navigational skills with minimal investment. At this price, you can upgrade to a more feature-rich compass and keep this as a backup, or buy a dozen and teach a scout troop as a group.

SUUNTO A-10 Compass

• Weight 1.06 oz.
• Dimensions 4.09" x 2.2" x 0.39"

• Easy to use
• No magnification

Finnish company SUUNTO is best known for its GPS fitness watches. It also makes excellent analog navigation devices. The SUUNTO A-10 ($24) is far from the brand’s top-shelf compasses, but for the vast majority of users, this compass does everything they need at a great price.

First, it has a liquid-filled chamber that results in a “quick-damping needle.” This, according to GearJunkie founder and U.S. champion adventure racer Stephen Regenold, is the most important element in a compass. “It means it points north extremely quickly and is solid. Most of the features on a compass are just not really needed for common navigation. You just need to know which way is north.”

And the SUUNTO A-10 will point north reliably, consistently, and quickly. It’s proven reliable over thousands of hours of use. And it’s so affordable, you have no excuse to not put one in every kit to ensure you find your way home every time.

SUUNTO MB-6G Global Compass

• Weight 2 oz.
• Dimensions ‎2.64″ x 1.85″ x 0.87″

• Balanced for use in all hemispheres
• More expensive than others on this list

Balanced for both the Northern and Southern hemispheres,  SUUNTO’s MB-6G  ($115) is built for use wherever your travels may take you. The high-grade steel needle provides specific navigational directions, and the integrated clinometer tells you the steepness of the hill you’re climbing, which comes in handy during avalanche season.

We love the matchbox design, which adds durability by not only protecting the compass from cracks and scratches when tumbling around in your pack or down a rock face but also by doing away with the weak point of the hinges that hold flip-top compasses together.

Additionally, the matchbox features a sighting mirror, which allows you to view the compass dial and the background at the same time, making it easier to take accurate bearings. If global excursions are in your future plans, the SUUNTO MB-6G might be the best compass for you.

Coghlan’s Function Whistle

• Weight 1.75 oz.
• Increments Unknown
• Dimensions ‎‎3.35″ x 1.18″ x 0.98″

• Yellow color makes it easy to find
• Shrill whistle makes your kids easy to find
• No compass features besides finding magnetic north

Keeping an eye on a child while camping is a full-time job.  Coghlan’s Function Whistle  ($7) is a great way to keep your kids safe and teach them the rudimentary aspects of navigation if they wander too far from the campsite.

The body of the compass is a whistle with a small compass on the top, a thermometer on the bottom, and a handy clip on the end. This compass is basic, but it will find magnetic north, allowing you to teach your kids how to figure out which direction is which if they get turned around.

The bright yellow body makes it easy to find if they drop it, and the key clip makes dropping it less likely. Just clip it onto a zipper, and it’ll always be easy to find.

A key function of the Coghlan Function Whistle is the whistle, which makes kids easier to find if they get lost. Just make sure they know to start blasting that whistle, and you’ll be able to zero in on them in no time.

SUUNTO AIM-6 NH

• Weight 0.95 oz.
• Dimensions ‎3.15" x 2.76" x 0.43“

• Attaches to thumb for use on-the-go
• Specialized for racers
• No measurements or sighting tools

For orienteers or other racers, running with a compass means attaching it to your thumb, where you can easily reference your direction with a map. GearJunkie founder Stephen Regenold uses this SUUNTO AIM-6 NH ($70) during his frequent orienteering and adventure races.

While he admits these are a somewhat esoteric navigation tool, they provide a quick-to-read arrow to guide racers or others moving quickly through the landscape.

As with other compasses, you want a quick-damping needle to allow for fast reads. Light, powerful, and easy to read in low light, the  AIM-6 NH  (optimized for the northern hemisphere) is a strong choice for elite users.

SUUNTO MC-2 Global Compass

• Weight 2.5 oz.
• Dimensions 3.9″ x 2.5″

• Global needle
• Protective case doubles as mirror and sighting notch
• Lid snap takes a good amount of force to lock

Compact and feature-rich, the  MC-2  ($95) is a great compass for hiking thanks to all the perks harnessed into a small package.

The global needle finds magnetic north in both the Northern and Southern hemispheres. It’s also a mirrored compass, sporting a large sighting mirror that allows not only better bearing but can also be used for signaling if you manage to get lost.

A liquid-filled capsule provides stability for the needle, while the clinometer indicates incline and elevation within 2 degrees. The luminescent bezel, orientation markings, and direction of travel make it easier to read in low light, and the clear red direction arrow makes it easy to see your way when moving fast.

At only 2.5 ounces and very compact, the MC-2 is the best compass for thru-hikers, or anyone who spends a lot of time in the backcountry.

Compass Comparison Table

How we tested compasses.

The GearJunkie team is composed of hunters, anglers, climbers, backpackers, and paddlers. When our adventures take us away from the beaten path, reliable compasses become an essential tool. And our founder, Stephen Regenold, is one of the top adventure racers in the country and an avid orienteer. As such, he uses map-and-compass navigation extensively during race scenarios and has experience with many compasses.

We tested the compasses on this list while recreating in the field. Like all compass users, we prefer models that are accurate, durable, and intuitive. While roaming between waypoints and hugging long-distance bearings through featureless terrain, we paid careful attention to each compass’ precision, durability, versatility readability, and overall value. The compasses on this list held up to our scrutiny with flying colors. They’re the best of the best.

As new compasses hit the market in future seasons, we’ll be sure to test them in consideration for this product roundup. And if you’re wanting to get more digital with your navigation solutions, check out our guide on the Best Handheld GPS units .

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Compass

Compass types.

There are three main types of compasses: the basic compass, the sighting compass, and the baseplate (or orienteering) compass. Some compasses contain elements of all three.

The basic compass has only one feature: a needle that points toward the magnetic north. It’s handy for any situation in which you only need to know your approximate direction. They tend to be inexpensive as well, so they can be useful for keeping as a spare.

Sighting compasses have flip-up lenses that allow users to get bearings from a distant object like a nearby peak. Put simply, use the sight notch to identify your desired location, adjust the bezel to align with the needle to identify the direction you need to go to get there, and then follow the heading.

Orienteering (baseplate) compasses are designed to be used with a map, as the base lays directly on the map for easy triangulation and orienting.

Many compasses combine a baseplate for map navigation and sighting accessories to combine the two types. This allows for whatever navigation method is most useful at any time.

How to Use a Compass

The short lesson on compasses is very simple: The compass needle always points to magnetic north. With that knowledge, you can maintain a consistent direction of travel relative to north.

The longer version of compass use is much more nuanced and complicated. Check out our full explainer on how to use a compass here .

Basic Compass Features

By definition, a compass will have a magnetic needle that always points to the magnetic north. Beyond that, compasses can sport a bevy of features, from liquid-filled needle casings and rotating bezels to whistles and thermometers (some are more useful than others), generally depending on the price range.

For general direction-finding, a basic compass will do. But for more in-depth orienteering, you’ll want a compass with the following features:

A magnetic needle that always points north is the most basic and essential feature of any compass. One of the more important features of a good compass is a quick but stable needle that finds north fast and consistently.

The mounting case holds the needle. It’s often filled with liquid to allow the needle to float freely and find magnetic north quickly. The liquid also dampens the motion of the needle.

The mounting for the compass housing, a baseplate is generally printed with tools that help find direction and distance. It provides a straight edge for identifying your location via triangulation.

A rotating ring that surrounds the housing, the bezel is printed with direction indicators (N, S, E, W) and varying points in between.

Orienting Lines

Fixed within the compass housing, these lines are designed to align with the vertical grid lines on maps.

Orienting Arrow

Also fixed within the compass housing, the orienting arrow aligns to the magnetic north.

Direction-of-Travel Arrow

Fixed parallel to the sides of the baseplate, the direction-of-travel arrow shows the direction you want to travel.

Fixed on the bezel. The index line is an extension of the direction-of-travel arrow. It marks the direction you set via rotating the compass housing.

Many baseplates feature a small magnifying lens for easier map reading.

Compass Scale

Located on the edges of the baseplate, the compass scale allows you to measure the distance on maps.

Key Features & Considerations

Besides the basic features mentioned above, these additional features can serve to make navigation easier or more accurate. They allow you to measure height and slope and to find north on any part of the globe.

Declination Adjustment

Declination adjustment allows you to adjust your compass for the varying difference between magnetic north and true north. Magnetic north (where a compass needle points) follows the direction of north in the Earth’s magnetic lines, and true north represents the direction of the North Pole.

Magnetic declination varies from place to place due to the changing nature of the Earth’s core. To compensate, many compasses allow you to adjust your compass readings to accommodate the magnetic declination for your location.

Sighting Mirror

Sighting mirrors are mirrors on a hinged lid that attach to the compass body. They allow you to see a direction or an object and your compass capsule at the same time. This allows you to orient your direction to a location and maintain that direction even when you can’t see the marker.

Clinometers measure the angle of elevation, the slope, or the height from the ground. Clinometers measure the height of objects and the steepness of hills (useful in avalanche terrain). They also gauge the height of your bear hang when you’re setting up camp.

Global Needle

Because the Earth’s magnetic field varies in different locations on the planet, a compass needle that balances well in one location may dip and drag or stick in a different location, making it completely useless. A compass with a taller dial allows the needle to tilt without hitting the casing, preventing that drag.

Compass Storage

In the past, caring for a compass would just mean not dropping it or crushing the casing. Now, people need to consider the plethora of electronic devices that can threaten a compass’s lifespan. Be sure to store your compass away from computers and other electronic devices — the magnetic fields can damage it.

The speakers in these devices can demagnetize the needle, rendering it useless. Also, keep it away from fires, heaters, and other hot places like a hot car. Any warping of the casing can affect the needle’s accuracy.

The most accurate compass depends on several factors. Most importantly, you should know how to use it. Every compass can find north, but it’s up to you to know what to do with that information.

Your ability to read your bearings and follow them, or transfer a compass’s information to a map to find your location and put it to use accurately, is paramount. For more information on how to get the most out of your compass, check out our article on orienteering basics .

A good compass can cost anywhere from $10 for a simple compass with basic orienteering features to over $100 for a compass with a global needle, clinometer, mirror sight, and a plethora of other features. Consider the features you need versus what you’re willing to pay when choosing the best compass for you.

In addition to the standard needle and rotating bezel, look for a cover with sighting wire and luminous lighting dots for evening navigation, a flip-up sighting slot and lens (or rear sight), and a thumb loop for stability while sighting your visual marker.

Although a good lensatic compass is great for finding bearings, we prefer one that also incorporates the features of a baseplate compass. Look for a compass that combines the two to give you several methods of finding your way.

While compass apps may be less accurate than traditional compasses and rely on a battery, they’re very convenient. Most people already have their phones with them on adventures, and smartphones can sport a wide range of features that a traditional compass does not, like barometers, altimeters, and, of course, GPS.

We’re fans of the Gaia GPS app (free for iOS and Android ) because of its map integration, which allows you to use topo maps, aerial photos, or a hybrid of the two. It also shows your altitude, allows you to share that data to keep others informed of your location in case you get lost, and tracks data like speed, time, location, and direction. It can also estimate your GPS accuracy to let you know if you start going off course.

Remember, if you’re relying on an app for navigation, you’re also counting on the performance of the technology. We recommend always having a traditional compass on hand in case your phone ends up at the bottom of a lake.

The Best Handheld GPS of 2024

There’s no need to rely on your smartphone or smartwatch for navigation. We rounded up the best handheld GPS devices for finding your way.

The Best Satellite Messengers of 2024

Failure isn’t an option when it comes to choosing a satellite messenger. When you absolutely need to get the word out, here are the best sat messaging devices in 2024.

Austin Beck-Doss is a Staff Writer at GearJunkie. Austin has been writing about climbing, hiking, and snowsports for 6+ years. Prior to that, Austin worked as a rock climbing and wilderness guide.

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The 5 Best Compasses for Hiking of 2024

One of the essentials of hiking, a compass is a necessary tool to plan a route, find points of interest, and self-rescue in an emergency

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The best compass is one that you know how to use and have with you. It can help you take a bearing of a distant object, follow a route through wilderness, and orient yourself on a map. Even if you prefer digital navigation aids, like a handheld GPS , you should always have a compass on hand to ensure you never lose your bearings if the GPS runs out of battery power. Whether you are a novice to the world of orienteering or looking to level up, here are some things to consider before making your purchase of the best compass for hiking.

• Best Overall: Silva Ranger 2.0
• Best Budget: Survive Outdoors Longer (S.O.L.) Sighting Compass with Mirror
• Most Durable: Cammenga 3H Cammenga G.I. Military Lensatic Compass
• Best for Kids and Beginners: Silva Starter 1-2-3
• Best for Travel: Suunto MC-2G Global Compass

How We Picked the Best Compasses for Hiking

As an avid hiker and wilderness adventurer, I recognize that the compass is one of the most important essentials in my backpack. Even though it’s packed most of the time, I know it could easily save my life someday if I become lost, disoriented, or forced to maneuver off trail.

My compass expertise sharpened over the years I taught orienteering courses for Appalachian Mountain Club’s Mountain Classroom program. I gained experience by teaching compass skills and setting up compass orienteering challenge courses in the woods. I have spent many seasons getting to know my way around a compass.

In choosing the best compass for hiking, I looked at a few main criteria:

• Quality: There are plenty of affordable plastic compasses out there, but in a real bind, you want to have the assurance that your instrument will get you to where you need to go. If it’s a matter of life or death, the best compass is the one that will be reliable and trustworthy.
• Features: While a beginner needs few features so they can learn the basics, an experienced orienteer should choose a compass with features that make their instrument a multi-use tool. Mirrors, rulers, magnifying glass, and lanyards can have other uses in the field for first aid, survival, and hygiene.
• Durability: If you’re throwing your compass into your hiking backpack for the day, it’s important that it’s durable enough to survive the trek. I looked for compasses that were waterproof, protected, and proven industry leaders.

Best Compasses for Hiking: Reviews and Recommendations

Silva Ranger 2.0 Silva

• Type: Mirrored baseplate
• Weight: 3.88 oz
• Dimensions: 5 x 11 x 2 in
• Materials: Plastic
• Sighting mirror
• Lanyard with distance measurements
• Declination adjustment with included tool
• Complicated features not good for beginner

The Silva Ranger 2.0 is a quality mirrored baseplate compass that is the perfect fit for hiking, bushwhacking, hunting, or forestry. If you are comfortable with mirrored baseplate compass use, it is the best compass for hiking.

This compass includes a mirror for sighting. By tilting the mirror at 45° angle, the user can keep an eye on the needle by looking at the bezel in the mirror while sighting the direction. This is especially helpful over long distances.

In addition, the Ranger comes with a magnifying glass, luminous markings, and a separate “slope card”. Experienced hikers can use the slope card to measure grade on a map or assess avalanche risk.

The lanyard of the Ranger 2.0 is unique in that it has four scales of measurement to help the hiker measure distances on a map. Since it is soft, it’s more useful than a straightedge when tracing a path on a map.

The adjustable declination of this compass allows the hiker to adjust the compass to their location. This saves time as well as reducing the possibility of user error when adjusting for declination with each bearing.

While the bells and whistles of this compass are sweet, they can also be overwhelming. If you are new to orienteering and looking for something the same quality but less overwhelming, try the Silva Explorer . It’s a quality baseplate compass that will help a hiker with basic orienteering.

Survive Outdoors Longer (S.O.L.) Sighting Compass with Mirror S.O.L. Survive Outdoors Longer

• Weight: 3.53 oz
• Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 3.94 x 0.79 in
• Low light visibility
• Less Durable

If you’re looking for an affordable compass that still comes with the bells and whistles of its higher price competitors, the Survive Outdoors Longer (S.O.L) Sighting Compass with Mirror is the best budget compass.

This is a mirrored baseplate compass that is great for hiking or bushwhacking. Some of the notable features include a mirror, rulers in both millimeter and inches, and magnifying glass. Luminous markings on the orienting arrow, needle, and direction of travel marking glow in the dark after briefly being exposed to a light (like your flashlight).

The SOL compass also has a clinometer on the baseplate that allows you to measure a slope angle.

One of the most useful features of this compass is the ability to adjust declination. A small tool comes with the compass that allows you to fine-tune the bezel to compensate for declination and calculate your bearing with the proper offset for your region every time.

Although this compass has held up well, its materials appear far less durable than its Silva and Suunto counterparts. My only real complaint is that I find the bezel ring a little tough to spin. Nevertheless, this compass is great value. The fold down mirror protects the compass when not in use so you don’t have to worry about it being destroyed in your pack.

Cammenga 3H Cammenga G.I. Military Lensatic Compass Cammenga

• Type: Lensatic
• Weight: 7.04 oz
• Dimensions: 6 x 6 x 6 in
• Materials: Aluminum
• Low light capability
• No declination adjustment capability

Similar to the compass used by the US military, the Cammenga Lensatic Compass is great for shooting a line to a distant object using a sight wire. This is helpful for tracking a route back to your car after a day in the woods or crossing wilderness using azimuth.

This model has some serious benefits that make it a favorite of military and civilians alike. The tough aluminum casing means it is durable and easy to toss into your pack. The housing is air filled which means the needle is more sensitive to movement but will not develop bubbles in the housing.

Perhaps most importantly, this compass comes with tritium lighting — a radioactive phosphorescence that glows in the dark (don’t worry, it’s not harmful with the amount used). This makes the Cammenga the best compass for night use as well.

While this compass is great for finding and following a sight bearing, it’s challenging to use with a map. There are no magnetic declination adjustments which makes it difficult to account for actual north. The main measurement of this compass is in Mils (short for mili-radians) whereas most hikers prefer degrees. Also, it doesn’t have grid lines like the baseplate compasses so it is challenging to line up with the grid. Still, it’s hard to argue that there is a more durable field compass on the market. If the price tag has you sweating, consider the more affordable 9077 Lensatic Military-Style Compass from Brunton .

Silva Starter 1-2-3 Silva

• Type: Baseplate
• Weight: 1.4 oz
• Dimensions: 2 x 3 x 0.4 in
• Easy to use
• Lightweight

If you are looking for a simple and sleek starter compass, the Silva Starter 1-2-3 is your best bet. The compass is small and light with an easy-to-read housing. It’s also waterproof which makes it a durable choice to bring into the field.

This starter compass is high quality with few bells and whistles. This helps beginners focus on the basics and not get overwhelmed by features on mirrored baseplate counterparts. There are mm and inch ruler markings on the side of the baseplate and clear degree parks on the bezel.

The bezel ring is fairly large and turns really smoothly. This is perfect for children and others learning the basics, easily putting “red in the shed” and orienting the compass.

Being so simple, this compass does not come with declination adjustment capacity so users pairing this with a map would need to adjust each bearing for declination. Overall, it is exactly what it’s supposed to be: a great starter compass.

Suunto MC-2G Global Compass SUUNTO

• Weight: 2.65 oz
• Dimensions: 2.56 x 3.98 x 0.71 in
• Materials: Plastic and stainless steel
• Global needle

Compasses are usually created to work in their specific hemisphere (north or south). However, Suunto’s “global needle” works in both, so whether you’re trekking through a U.S. national park, climbing a peak in New Zealand, or crossing glaciers in Patagonia, this compass will do the job. This makes the Suunto MC-2G Global Compass the best compass for travel. 

This instrument also comes with all the extras. The signing mirror, ruler, clinometer, and magnifying lens are all useful tools that a seasoned compass-user will find valuable. Another feature that makes navigating on a hike much easier is the ability to adjust declination to the area. The lanyard has a small adjustment key attached so you can adjust your declination to every new location traveled. This compass also comes with luminous points and bezel for low light navigation.

While the MC-2G is about as loaded with features as you can get, it is a tool for an experienced user and could easily overwhelm a newbie. If you are looking for a simpler model that can still take on both hemispheres (and half the cost), consider the Silva Ranger Global Compass . It can be used in all three magnetic zones and has the same simple features you see on the Silva Starter.

What to Consider When Choosing a Compass for Hiking

Types of compasses.

Before you look at brands or features on a compass, it’s important to know the types available . There are three main types of hiking compasses: baseplate, mirrored baseplate, and lensatic. All can be used to orienteer through wilderness. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Baseplate Compass: A baseplate compass is great for hiking since it pairs well with a map. As the name implies, a liquid filled housing contains the needle and sits on a clear baseplate. The liquid allows the needle to move slowly and smoothly. The clear baseplate permits you to see through to the map to set waypoints and align the compass to north. The plate usually has a straightedge on the side for drawing lines between waypoints and a ruler to determine distances.
• Mirrored Baseplate Compass: The addition of the mirror on a traditional baseplate compass adds versatility, allowing the user to see the compass dial and the background at the same time. The mirror opens with the hinge at the direction-of-travel arrow, and there is usually a v-notch on the base of the mirror that the user can use as a sight for finding objects in the field. By keeping the mirror at a 45° angle, you can align the compass to a target by looking through the notch then by looking at the mirror align the orienting arrow to the north arrow. This adds accuracy but can also add challenge. Therefore, a typical baseplate compass is better for beginners.
• Lensatic Compass: Also known as the military compass, the lensatic compass is a great companion to those who know how to use it. They are usually air-filled, which results in a faster moving needle and more durable compass. This compass type is mainly used to get a site bearing and are more challenging to use with a map. However, the military lensatic compass is durable, has night capacity, and greater precision than its baseplate companions.

Features to Look For

Most compasses come with the same basic features including a needle that points to magnetic north, direction of travel arrow, and moveable bezel ring. However, the best compasses for hiking add a few more features that make them a multi-use tool. Here are some additional items that will make the compass even better.

• Mirror: As mentioned above, some baseplate compasses come with a mirror. While it can help with accuracy, the mirror can also double as a signaling device as well as serving as a hygiene mirror for first aid in the wilderness.
• Magnifying Lenses: Some baseplate and lensatic compasses come with a small magnifying lens. This is helpful when reading fine print on a map and can be used as a tool for fire starting.
• Glow in the Dark Indicators: Luminescent markings are usually made from strontium-alumina based pigments and can help you make your way in the dark.
• Declination Adjustment: Gridlines on maps are aligned to geographic north while the compass is oriented to magnetic north. If you don’t account for this difference, you’ll be off course. Some baseplate compasses come with a declination screw that can be adjusted to match that of your region. This allows the user to change the declination to match the area. It’s very useful for backcountry navigation with a map.
• Clinometer: A small moving arrow in the liquid-filled housing allows the user to measure slope and steepness.
• Global Needle: If you plan to take your compass into the southern hemisphere, be sure to get one with a global needle that is designed for both hemispheres.

Q: Is a liquid filled compass better?

A liquid filled compass isn’t necessarily better, but it does have its benefits. Most baseplate compasses are liquid filled, which means the needle is rotating through a liquid. This slows the needle, making it less sensitive to movement in your hand. But aggressive movements, such as bumping around in your bag or drops, can develop bubbles in the liquid or create leaks which will impede the accuracy of the compass. Some liquid filled compasses are also sensitive to temperature extremes.

Q: What should I look for in a hiking compass?

If you are new to hiking compasses, you should look for a user-friendly design that’s easy to use. Make sure your basic hiking compass has: ●  A clear baseplate for seeing a map underneath ●  Easily moveable bezel ring ●  Clearly marked direction of travel arrow ●  Needle that orients to magnetic north ●  Orienting arrow and lines

Q: How much does a good compass cost?

Compass price varies wildly depending on quality and features. A good compass can cost anywhere from $15 to $100. A solid, reliable hiking compass like the Silva Explorer or Suunto A-30 fall into the $20 to $30 range. If taken care of, these can last for a lifetime of adventures.

Q: Do compasses lose accuracy?

It is possible for the needle in your compass to demagnetize over time if you store it near a strong magnet. However, the most likely need for a new compass is wear and tear from being crammed into a backpack, falling onto rocks, or tolerating extreme swings in temperature. If taken care of, a good compass could easily last a lifetime.

Best Compasses for Hiking: Final Thoughts

Whether you are headed into the woods on a hunt, staying on a hiking route, picking out a peak on a map, or following a course – the best compass is one you know how to use and keep on your person. Make sure one is tucked into your bag on every adventure.

Why Trust Us

For more than 125 years, Field & Stream has been providing readers with honest and authentic coverage of outdoor gear. Our writers and editors eat, sleep, and breathe the outdoors, and that passion comes through in our product reviews. You can count on F&S to keep you up to date on the best new gear. And when we write about a product—whether it’s a bass lure or a backpack—we cover the good and the bad, so you know exactly what to expect before you decide to make a purchase.

Lindsey Lapointe is an avid outdoor adventurer. Her favorite activities include hiking, backpacking, camping, kayaking, and canoeing. She also spends time rock-climbing, skiing, and fishing. She’s worked as a freelance adventure writer for multiple sites and publications. She enjoys testing outdoor gear and passing her expertise to Field & Stream readers.

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Robert (Sales Manager) was knowledgeable and very professional. Chris Salesman was also very knowledgeable and professional. Robert texted my Husband to let's us know that someone was also interested in the same trailer, so we secured it by putting $$$ down to hold it. I would recommend this company to by your travel trailer or 5th Wheel.

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