Living in the pacific northwest, it’s only natural that I enjoy a lot of outdoorsy activities such as camping and hiking. The only problem is that I don’t have the best sense of direction, and so in order to avoid dangerous situations like getting lost, I’ve been looking into getting a handheld GPS unit for my outdoor excursions. GPS units are obviously a lot more advanced (and easier to use) than a simple map and compass, so having one should help to ensure that I don’t become easily lost in the woods.
After doing a fair bit of research, I thought it would be a good idea to share what I’ve learned about handheld GPS devices here. You see, if you’re shopping for such a device there are a few features that you will surely want to ensure are included. These features include:
Easy of use – You should choose a device that you are comfortable operating, that allows you to retrace your route in order to prevent getting lost. You’ll also want to be able to mark certain areas of the map.
Digital capabilities – The device should have a digital compass for times when satellite access is unavailable.
A rugged exterior – A GPS used for hiking needs to be able to withstand a few falls, bumps and scrapes. Ensure that yours meets this criteria.
Battery Life – What good is a GPS unit if it quickly runs out of battery life during your hiking trip? For this reason, it’s essential to choose a device with exceptionally long battery life.