If you’re already a geocacher and want a GPS unit for backcountry navigation, then geocaching features are handy to have.)ĭigital camera: Offering comparable quality to a basic phone camera, it can also geotag photos so you can see where on the map you snapped each shot. (Note : You don’t need to buy a GPS receiver to try geocaching phone apps work fine for that. Geocaching features: Many units have geocaching functions that allow for paperless geocaching and managing your found caches. To learn more about the activity, read Geocaching: How to Get Started. And it's easy to delete unneeded maps and waypoints as you go to free up memory for another trip or another section of a thru-hike. Unless you're doing a thru-hike, almost any unit you get will have enough internal memory (and waypoint capacity) to store detailed maps and key location data for a single trip. In addition, most units also let you expand your memory, usually via a microSD card. Memory and waypoint totals: The more you have, the more map and navigation data you can store. Shop REI's selection of mapping software. If you aren’t a tech wiz or prefer guaranteed products, then stick with maps and software from your GPS manufacturer.

Third-party maps and software: Because maps from GPS makers can be pricey, you can search online and find an ever-changing array of sites that have inexpensive (or free) maps.

You can manage all your maps and plan trips by connecting to your PC or Mac, then using the program that the maker of your GPS unit provides. Most units also accept separately purchased topo maps that are downloaded or provided on a CD or a microSD card. Some units also include full-fledged topo maps. Preloaded maps: All GPS units come with a simple base map. It provides a quick and easy way to share data like tracks, waypoints and routes with others. Wireless data transfer: This allows your GPS to communicate with compatible (same-brand) GPS units. That’s a big convenience as it lets you orient yourself and plan your route at any rest stop. If you get a unit with an electronic compass, though, it will also tell you what direction you’re facing while you’re standing still. This feature also lets you gauge weather trends.Įlectronic compass: All GPS receivers can tell you what direction you’re going while you’re moving. Barometer/altimeter: While all GPS receivers can tell you altitude based on satellite data, a unit with the barometer/altimeter feature provides more accurate elevation readings by also considering barometric data.

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