Buying a GPS Unit

[wackyotter]

If you know someone that travels a lot, a GPS is a perfect companion. In fact, GPS can be extremely handy, especially if you find yourself lost in concrete woods. GPS can help you avoid roads that have been closed for maintenance, or even find a quick way around work that is being performed along your route. Today GPSs are rich with features. Some of the top features to look for when purchasing a GPS are: Bluetooth, SD Card Expansion Slot, Large Point of Interest (POI) Database, Speedy Performance Record, Easy to use Interface, Built-in Maps, and Text to Speech (TTS). Also look for GPS with easy to use interface. Some of the top brands in GPS are TomTom, and Garmin.

The Wacky Otter
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[brianwisz@gmail.com]

yep.  I just picked up a Garmin wrist watch, its mostly for running, but amazing how technology has advanced.  saw some great units at
Rei.

[Bigdog57]

GPS is a good tool, but one must NOT rely on glitzy technology without having a map and compass and using common sense.  There have been too many cases of people getting into trouble following the GPS mindlessly.
Mine is a simple Magellan eXploist 200, used primarily for motorcycle roadtrips and off-pavement 'adventure riding', and occasional hiking and canoeing use.  It is pocketable, has no vehicle power or upload/download ability - strictly battery powered and with a somewhat limited internal map.  It shows only major highways and city streets, and major waterways.  It is little more than a glorified electronic roadmap.  But, it does what I personally need.  It is very rugged, having been 'bounced' off the road a couple times when MC riding.  Still runs like a 'Timex' and synchs onto satellites when a buddy's Garmin chokes.  It has NO annoying 'Nagigator' voice to pester me.
 I will eventually 'upgrade', but have other needs for the money at the moment.
I always carry a compass and map too, and usually have printed Google Map pics of the AO I am in.