Published on November 6th, 2019 | by Sunit Nandi

Tips on Choosing a GPS Device

GPS devices have made getting around a lot easier. You can explore new terrains because you know exactly where you’re going. You don’t have to stop to ask for directions every time you feel that you’re lost. There are tons of GPS devices in the market today and it can be overwhelming to make a decision. You might be asking yourself if you really need a GPS device or if your smartphone is sufficient enough for your needs. There are a couple of advantages to having a GPS device instead of just relying on your phone. In this guide, we’re going to highlight some of the tips that will come in handy when shopping for a new GPS device for your outdoor adventures.

Mapping Apps

There are hundreds of mapping apps that are currently available in the market. For outdoor use, you’ll want to look for an app that doesn’t need internet connectivity as you could be in remote areas with little to no reception at all. You need to make sure that you’re downloading map devices when you still have internet connection before you set out in the wilderness.

Durability

This is another consideration that you should have in mind when you’re out shopping for GPS devices. Since you will be using it a lot for outdoor excursions, it is crucial that it is weather-resistant and durable. You can also invest in a waterproof pouch just to be safe. There are cases in the market that you can purchase to make to protect the device from drops. Your phone will not be ideal for heavy rains situations and you have to use GPS to find your way around.

Battery Life

This is another reason why you should consider getting a GPS device instead of relying on your phone for directions. GPS devices are designed to last for long hours even when they’re being used at full capacity. You can have an extra pack of batteries in case you run out of juice while you’re in the wilderness. When you use your phone, you will be out of luck when the battery is dead. The phone should only be used as an emergency backup.

Reasons You Need GPS

Before you can get a GPS device, you’ll first need to decide what you will be using it for. You can get a GPS device for your car, bike, or even while traveling on foot. People use GPS for three main reasons:

Backup For a Paper Map

Gone are the days when we used to rely on paper maps to get directions around. You had to print the map out for a particular location and it could end up being cumbersome to use if you don’t know how to use coordinates for reading maps. With apps, you can zoom in to view satellite images of the exact location that you’re looking for. With the help of a Geocoding Service, you’re able to quickly find your way around without having to rely on paper maps.

Main Navigation Tool

With a GPS device, you can see the locations on-screen and you don’t have to rely on a paper map. With a large screen, you can plan for your routes conveniently and you don’t have to physically map the spots as you would do on a paper map. You get better battery life compared to using a phone as you’ll need to be in touch most of the time. The majority of GPS devices will come with free base mapping. For off-road navigation, you will need topographical maps which also highlight the landscape.

Route and Activity Recording

Almost every GPS has the functionality for logging your route, distance, and speed. There are smaller devices that you can find which will be better suited for such functions.

Make sure to pay close attention to the maps included when choosing a GPS service. Every GPS will come with a base map. You’re likely to get Google Maps as the base map for most of the devices that are currently in the market. Instead of buying individual items separately, you can save a lot of money when you bundle everything together.

To sum it up, make sure you identify your needs first before you go out shopping for a GPS device. It is also crucial to compare what different providers have to offer before making a purchasing decision. You get to compare the rates and the features that you will be getting when you buy the GPS device.

Tags: choosing, device, GPS, tips

About the Author

Sunit Nandi I'm the leader of Techno FAQ. Also an engineering college student with immense interest in science and technology. Other interests include literature, coin collecting, gardening and photography. Always wish to live life like there's no tomorrow.