GPS suggestions

Alright guys, I've done some research, but I think I've done more harm than good. I've thoroughly confused myself on what GPS system that you guys choose and why.. everyone seems to have a different opinion and a suggestion.. I'd appreciate any and all input and reviews...Is it a necessity? Pros and cons? Thanks in advance tundra fam.

 

Can't go wrong with anything Garmin. Free lifetime map updates.

 

Yep, what Jim said.

 

Got a Garmin several years ago. Very reliable. Don’t use it any more because of GPS in my Tundra and also map app on my cell phone. But I still have the Garmin just in case.

 

I have a Magellan. It has life time map up date also

 

you can use an old cellphone or your current one and use google maps. there is an option in the settings to download offline maps so you can download a whole state or the whole country depending on your storage and wont need an internet or data connection. it even sets to update every month. i did this when i went to czech with my oneplus and never needed a gps. plus it stores key points and all gas stations, supermarkets, landmarks etc. so you will always have the great features of google maps anywhere you go. Just another option @Erichudgins . obviously you can even use an older ipad as well if you want an even larger screen. just purchase a cheap one off craigslist or fb marketplace. just plug it into car charger , buy a mount, and you are set to go anytime. cheers!

 

Just got my first GPS!
I think someone was giving me a hint, since I seem to leave home without a map

 

What's a map? LOL

 

must be old school like some of us .... remember the old maps grid books they used to sell. i forgot what they were called. i remember how expensive they were too. lol

 

For the streets I use my factory Nav. When I’m wheeling, I use GAIA. $10/year. Might be better ones out there but I’ve gotten pretty comfortable using it. You can download trails and map out your routes. And see all the other routes of other users. Pretty much a must have when wheeling out here.

 

I just bought a road atlas to plan my next trip because GPS all ways sends me the long way

 

Offroad we use Gaia. Actually, @joonbug and @GodlessPro use it and I just follow 'em. I think Mathew has Back Country too.

 

Exactly! Who needs them things!

 

Thomas maps......Never heard of em

 

Ok yea so I didnt specify that this was for wheeling. That's what I'm interested in. Tracking routes and coordinates. So gaia.. gonna give that a search. Thank you sir

 

Lol !

 

For off-road also check out MotionX-GPS. Works good for me running on an iPad mini with cellular coverage. If your planning to run some type of off-road nav on an iPad make sure to get an iPad with cellular coverage even if you don’t activate the plan. The cellular iPads has a built in gps chip to enable the real time tracking function. If you already have an iPad without cellular you can run an external gps antenna such as the Dual Universal GPS receiver.

 

Francis, you ever use GAIA? Just wondering how it compares to MotionX?

 

Never used Gaia but I’d like to try it just to compare. I chose MotionX-GPS because two of my friends were already using it.

@Erichudgins no matter what software you decide to run it is important that the software allows for map downloads for offline use, real-time tracking, and importing of tracks.

 

I'm a big fan of backcountry navigator. It is easy to import gpx files and download offline maps. Funtreks also sells their tracks as an add on for backcountry which is nice if you like their books.

 

I just try to keep you in sight @Porschetech29 . So far it's worked...because you slow down for the rest of us.

 

I use to printout Mapquest directions

Now we can be f'in James Bond with a quad helix antenna and GLONASS receiver (what does that even mean?)


Waze user for roads, old Garmin with updated maps backup.

 

I actually use the Garmin in the Photo while hiking out in the field and during boundary surveys at the parks. Believe it or there are some places in MA where you still cannot pull a cell signal, and most of them are in our parks. I also carry a compass and paper maps as well. Always nice to have something that does not require batteries

 

This depends on the use. If for hunting I would look at the OnX Hunt app for your phone. I have a Garmin and use OnX. The OnX stands out because of the satellite images so you know what terrain/foliage looks like on the other side of the ridge. Also shows private property boundaries and who owns them. Only downside is you must download and area prior to leaving cell coverage or Wifi.

 

This is exactly what I do...
Motion-X on an iPad with Bad-Elf bluetooth GPS unit.

 

Garmin Nuvi 52. It has never failed me. Updates easily. And I can select "saucy Australian bitch" voice. Oh yea!!!!

 

Thomas Guides....a necessity driving in SoCal pre gps maps. Still around I think.

 

Whenever is was still in the military we would us the app MilGPS for patrols and convoys. It’s an awesome gps. As long as you loaded it up before you know you’re gonna lose signal it still is accurate to 5-10 meters. You can plot points, make routes, make overlays, get distances in any unit of measure you want. Share any of the above with people as long as they have the app. It’s very useful. It’s only 10 bucks.

 

You can’t beat a Garmin if you aren’t using google maps on your phone. I don’t like the Nav that came with my truck, but when all the cell towers, etc. went down last year after the fires in Ventura County, the one in my truck got me where I needed to go. I also use GAIA app on my cellphone when I’m out riding my mule. I thought about trying to find an old Thomas guide as a backup, but the print would be too small for me now ‍♀️