GUIDE TO CHOOSING A GPS FOR DRIVING AND TRIPS
How useful can your GPS Car Navigation System be for you?
Your GPS navigation can make the difference between an adventure and disaster.
Possible points of interest for a traveler
Taking a trip in a 4WD vehicles can open up some amazing places to you. Using your GPS when finding a great back-road, marsh, desert flat, etc., record the spot with your GPS receiver. The GPS can guide you back there again in the future so you can relive the adventure. Or you can share your trip into with others, even over the Internet. A GPS Navigation Systems up a lot of possibilities.
Before the trip – Planning
A GPS is a necessary tool for pre-trip planning. Use it to mark the location of good places to set up camp and mark off dangerous areas that you want to steer clear of. Off road enthusiasts can use GPS receivers to determine paths that will cut time off a course. Also use GPS to establish rendezvous coordinates so you can meet up with fellow off-roaders. You will definitely find yourself at a disadvantage without a GPS system.
It is all about safety
One thing you never want to do while out in the wilderness is getting lost. Not only is it dangerous, but it is a hassle that can be avoided. A GPS will let you know where you are at all times so it is very helpful especially when you are heading into unfamiliar territory. It is virtually impossible to get lost with a good GPS system.
If you get into serious trouble however, you can use a GPS unit and a two-way radio to communicate your exact position to rescue teams. The right tools for any trip make the difference between an amazing time and a terrible time. Navs are what will make the trip truly safe and amazing.
Wondering what you need
Look for these features when buying your GPS. The featured products on this page can give you more information. Nice features to have in a GPS: big screen with good back lighting, long battery life, ergonomics, easy-to-use buttons, and menus and easy to hear voice commands, good service support, and ability to have an external antenna. The most important thing to consider is buying a unit with a reliable brand. Stay away from brands that are unproven. Knock off brands or unproven brands have a high potential for failure when you need them the most. Stick with what has worked year in and year out.
Are there accessories I should consider?
One assessor that many consider is an external antenna, as it will improve your reception. Mighty GPS has a few good external antennas that can meet your needs. Not only do they have a good choice of lightweight easy to setup up choices, but there are OEM antennas that will also do the job.
What else should I know?
If you have a chance learn the basics of how to read topographical maps, then by all means get your feet wet. Just knowing the basics is better than not know them at all. It will help you easily navigate the area and you will feel more confident. Mount the GPS unit in a good, visible location where you and perhaps also your passengers will be able to see it. If you have a co-pilot in the seat next to you, then by all means have a GPS System that they will be able to see. They can help you navigate while you keep your eyes on the road conditions ahead.
How useful is a GPS?
For the off-road, city road warriors and snowmobile enthusiast a GPS system is a must. For snowboarders the first big snowfall of winter is exhilarating but with all the excitement and the hill climbing, cornice jumping and flat out racing through a changing terrain it’s easy to get lost. A GPS receiver however will help you know exactly where you are and where you’re going. It can make long-distance riding especially in unfamiliar territory much easier and safer. When the snow is falling so hard and you can’t see your hand in front of your face, your GPS System will light your way to safety.
Trek off to a far mountain area
Found a far off excluded area of the mountain that no one knows about? Mark it with your GPS receiver to record your favorite out of the way spots so you can easily return to it with your friends again and again.
Planning that snow trip
GPS is great for pre-trip planning. Mark the location of good places to set up camp and mark off dangerous areas that you want to steer clear of or use GPS receivers to determine paths that will cut time off your course. Also use GPS to establish rendezvous coordinates so you can meet up with fellow snowmobilers.
Using your GPS
Traveling solo is not the best idea yet with a GPS system it can make it easier to find your way back. Keep these safety points in mind before venturing out. Avoid traveling solo and try not to go farther out than you can walk back in the time remaining in the day. Traveling more than 10 miles into the wilderness by snowmobile can take less than 20 minutes, yet to cover that same snow on foot or snowshoe could take the better part of a day. And keep in mind the possibility of changing snow and weather conditions. Food, water & appropriate extra clothing, along with survival and signaling gear are useful.
The elements can introduce many variables to throw you off the right direction. A GPS is useful because it allows you to safely and easily navigate your way back even if you get caught in a blizzard and visibility is compromised. If you get in trouble, you can use a GPS unit to communicate your exact position to repair and rescue teams. In the event of accident or injury it’s nice to be able to avoid location uncertainties so that you can get quick assistance.