GPS Navigation - What Type Of GPS System Is Best?Never get lost again! GPS hand held devices are coming of age. Good basic models will not only provide you with an accurate grid reference of your location but also record:
In addition, depending on your model you can load waypoints and routes either manually or from the internet via your computer, and the GPS will show you the direction to travel in to reach each waypoint and ultimately your overall route. More expensive models are sold with mapping software and further mapping can be added by buying the appropriate software. You can even download maps of your favourite ski runs and routes (dependant on the model and software).
The Garmin Dakota 10 worldwide mapping is $349.99!
But Beware!A GPS unit is not a substitute for learning how to use a compass and how to read a map. It is no use blindly following directions from point A to point B – for example there may be a dangerous steep sided gorge in the way that is hidden in the mist and snow.Always read your map and be aware of your position and the nature of the terrain ahead. You should also know your altitude and whether you should be walking uphill or downhill! Our advise is to always carry a compass and a detailed paper map of the area you are hiking in. If the batteries in your unit fail (for example in very cold weather) and you do not have spares, you will be reliant on your map and compass skills to get home safely.
The Geko 301 is on offer at just $129.98 and is ideal for use with a map and compass. It is everything you need and nothing you don't!
Walk Leaders...If you are a taking out a group on to mountain terrain or in to a remote area it is to be hoped that you are experienced with using a map and compass and either know the area or you have carried out a recent reccy of the intended route.However, in view of the availability and low cost of GPS units would you be considered negligent if you did not carry one and a serious accident happened - following a navigational error that could have been avoided if you had been able to locate your position by accessing an accurate grid reference?
Hikers...If you frequently hike in new areas a GPS is invaluable and should not be considered as an optional gadget but as an essential item of navigational equipment that compliments your map and compass skills. In addition you can improve the timing of your walks by using your hand held unit to learn the speed at which you walk over different types of terrain and this will help you to gauge more accurately how long a particular hike will take to complete. TIP - whether you fold your map to fit in a map case or keep it in your jacket pocket transfer ie write the map border grid reference numbers on to the map area you will be viewing - this makes position finding easy when taking a grid reference from your hand held unit.
Multi Media UnitsTop of the range sets come with plenty of “knobs and whistles” and some take photographs as well as doubling up as a phone but read the internet reviews as some models are not as quick or accurate as dedicated units.Have a look at units offered by Garmin, Magellan and Satmap. The Spot MessengerA fairly recent innovation is the Spot Satellite Messenger which features four key functions that enable users to send messages to friends, family or emergency responders, based upon varying levels of need:Alert 9-1-1 – Dispatches emergency services to your exact location. Ask for Help – Requests help from friends and family. Check In – Lets contacts know where you are and that you’re okay. Tracks Progress – Sends and saves your location and allows contacts to track your progress using Google Maps™. Our concern with such a unit is that some people, possibly inexperienced hikers, may use it to call mountain rescue services for minor problems they encounter whilst hiking, when they could (or should) have dealt with the problem themselves and been able to walk off the mountain. Time will tell!
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