Free online GPKG to GPX converter

GPKG (GeoPackage) is an open, SQLite-based container used to store geospatial data such as vector layers, attributes, and sometimes raster tiles in a single file. GPX (GPS Exchange Format) is an XML-based format designed for sharing GPS data like waypoints, routes, and tracks between devices and mapping apps.

Why convert gpkg to gpx

Converting GPKG to GPX is useful when you need to move geographic features from a GIS database-style file into a GPS-friendly format for navigation devices, mobile apps, or route sharing. GPX is especially common for tracks, routes, and waypoints.

What can be converted

Not every layer in a GeoPackage maps cleanly to GPX. In most cases, the best candidates are:

• Point layers → waypoints
• Line layers → routes or tracks
• Selected features → exported GPX items

Polygon layers usually need to be simplified or converted to line/point representations first, because GPX is not meant for full GIS polygon storage.

Best software for conversion

QGIS is the best all-around choice for converting GPKG to GPX. It is free, open source, and handles both formats well. For command-line workflows, GDAL/OGR is also an excellent option.

In QGIS, you can use Layer → Export → Save Features As... and choose GPX as the output format. You may need to set the correct geometry type and field mapping depending on whether you are exporting waypoints, routes, or tracks.

With GDAL, the conversion can be done using ogr2ogr, which is ideal for batch processing and automation.

How to convert in qgis

1. Open the GPKG file in QGIS.
2. Select the layer you want to export.
3. Go to Layer → Export → Save Features As...
4. Choose GPX as the format.
5. Set the output file name with the .gpx extension.
6. Choose the correct GPX layer type if prompted, such as waypoint, route, or track.
7. Click OK or Save to create the file.

How to convert with gdal

If you prefer the command line, use ogr2ogr from GDAL. A typical command looks like this:

ogr2ogr -f GPX output.gpx input.gpkg

If your GeoPackage contains multiple layers, you may need to specify the layer name and possibly adjust field names or geometry handling. GDAL is best when you need repeatable conversions or want to automate many files.

Things to check before exporting

• Coordinate reference system: GPX usually expects geographic coordinates in WGS 84.
• Geometry type: ensure the layer matches waypoint, route, or track output.
• Attribute fields: GPX supports only limited metadata compared with GPKG.
• Feature selection: export only the features you need if the layer is large.

Recommended converter

Best overall: QGIS for ease of use and visual control.

Best for automation: GDAL/ogr2ogr for fast batch conversion and scripting.

If you need a simple desktop workflow, QGIS is usually the most practical choice. If you need repeatable conversions across many files, GDAL is the stronger option.

Summary

GPKG is a flexible GIS container, while GPX is a lightweight GPS exchange format. To convert between them, use QGIS for a user-friendly approach or GDAL for command-line conversion. Always verify geometry type and coordinate system before exporting.