Do Pet GPS Trackers Require a Subscription?
Understanding Ongoing Costs
One of the biggest surprises for first-time buyers of pet GPS trackers is that most devices require an ongoing subscription.
At first glance, this can feel frustrating — especially when the upfront cost of the tracker already seems high. However, subscriptions exist for a reason, and understanding why they’re required can help you decide whether a GPS tracker is worth the ongoing cost for your situation.
This guide explains why pet GPS trackers use subscriptions, how much they typically cost in Australia, and when paying a monthly fee actually makes sense.
Why Do GPS Trackers Use Subscriptions?
Unlike Bluetooth trackers, true GPS pet trackers don’t just rely on your phone.
Most GPS trackers work by:
- Receiving location data from GPS satellites
- Sending that data over a mobile network (LTE-M or 4G)
- Processing and displaying the location in an app in near real time
To make this work, manufacturers must pay for:
- Mobile network access (similar to a SIM card)
- Server infrastructure
- App maintenance and updates
- Customer support and safety features
Your subscription fee covers these ongoing costs.
In simple terms:
If a tracker shows your pet’s location when you’re kilometres away, it almost always requires a subscription.
Typical GPS Tracker Subscription Costs in Australia
Subscription prices vary by brand, but in Australia most fall within a similar range.
Common pricing structures include:
- Monthly plans
- Annual plans (usually discounted)
- Multi-year plans for long-term savings
As a rough guide, expect:
- $8–$15 AUD per month on monthly billing
- $70–$120 AUD per year on annual plans
Some brands charge extra for advanced features such as:
- Location history
- Activity or health tracking
- Family sharing
- Extended coverage zones
Subscription vs No Subscription: What’s the Trade-Off?
It’s important to understand that no-subscription trackers aren’t the same product — they simply work differently.
Trackers With Subscriptions:
Pros
- Work anywhere with mobile coverage
- Real-time or near real-time tracking
- Escape alerts and live tracking modes
- Better suited for cats and dogs that roam
Cons
- Ongoing cost
- Requires mobile network coverage
Trackers Without Subscriptions (e.g. Bluetooth):
Pros
- No monthly fees
- Cheaper upfront
- Simple to use
Cons
- Very limited range
- Rely on nearby phones
- Can fail in quiet or regional areas
For many Australian pet owners, the subscription fee is the cost of reliability.
Are GPS Tracker Subscriptions Worth It?
A GPS tracker subscription is usually worth it if:
- Your pet escapes or roams
- You live near busy roads or open areas
- You want real-time location updates
- You need coverage beyond Bluetooth range
A subscription may be unnecessary if:
- Your pet stays strictly indoors
- You only need close-range tracking
- You live in a very small, densely populated area
How to Reduce Subscription Costs
If ongoing fees are a concern, there are ways to minimise them:
- Choose annual plans instead of monthly
- Look for multi-year discounts
- Avoid paying for features you won’t use
- Match tracker technology to your location (urban vs regional)
In many cases, paying slightly more upfront can reduce long-term costs.
Summary
Subscriptions are a normal part of modern pet GPS tracking — not a trick or hidden fee.
Once you understand what you’re paying for, it becomes easier to decide whether the ongoing cost is justified for your pet and lifestyle. For many Australian pet owners, a subscription offers peace of mind that simply isn’t possible with free alternatives.
If you’re ready to compare options, our tracker comparisons break down subscription costs, features, and real-world performance side by side.