I was hooked on the idea of hand held GPS units from the first one I saw.  Years ago I was in the Army and was pretty good with a map and compass, but still spent my share of time trying to decipher the lines on the map with the hills and creeks to find my position.  Thanks to GPS units those days are over.  Depending on the GPS you own you can either do a lot or a little.  It depends on how much you’re willing to spend and the “extras” you want.  Below are a few GPS basics:

About GPS
GPS stands for Global Positioning System.  The signal comes from 24 military satellites that your GPS unit pulls data from to pinpoint your location.  If your GPS unit can pick up at least three satellites it can lock in your position anywhere on earth.  If it can find four satellites it may even be able to tell you your altitude.

Mapping
The better the GPS unit the more detailed the map.  Some receivers have maps already loaded, but you’ll still need to download more detailed maps for your trips.  The more memory you have the more maps you can download.  Look for a GPS with a memory card slot so that you can increase memory if desired.  Be prepared to buy additional maps.  I’ve seen reviews where users will trash a GPS receiver because it didn’t come with the maps they wanted, but I don’t know how any receiver can predict what part of the world the purchaser will live in or travel to, so it makes sense for the owner to buy maps based on travel plans.

Waypoints
Waypoints will make you love your GPS.  These locations you set along your hike will help you safely return if you get lost, allow you to do more off trail hiking (where permitted), find a secret camping spot away from the crowds, and store routes for future trips.

Geocaching
Geocaching is treasure hunt where you use your GPS to find items hidden by other Geocachers.  You can even hide your own treasure and post messages online for others to find your treasure.  Caches are hidden in the mountains, city parks, and even underwater.  This is a great group activity and is very popular with families.

Popular GPS Receivers

Garmin eTrex
– The eTrex can be bought for a very reasonable price and will provide you with all the essentials you need to track your location, geocache, and more.

DeLorme PN-40
– This is a very popular GPS with owners.  Many that own the Delorme GPS receiver have owned other GPS units in the past and through experience have ended up with this one.

Garmin GPS 60CSx
– At right around $300 this is a great consumer GPS.  It’s a personal favorite of mine.

Tip
No matter what GPS you buy be sure to always have a map and compass with you and know how to use them.  If you’re hiking on a well maintained trail it’s difficult to get lost (but still can happen), but if you go off trail this is a must.

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