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A Backpacker’s Guide to:
Buying a GPS

GPS (Global Positioning System) units are a relatively new device for the backpacker or outdoors person. GPS units can be one of the most helpful items carried in certain situations. Although one should never leave a map and compass at home, a good GPS unit can be the primary item used in navigation.
Choosing a GPS can be an intimidating task, not only for the first timer, but also for a hiker who has had multiple units in the past. Like all technology, GPS units not only get increasingly better each year, they can also become increasingly more complicated. Going along with the title of this article, I will assume that you are looking for a unit primarily for backpacking or general hiking. This narrows down the options a little in that we can avoid all but the smaller handheld units. With all the abilities GPS units currently have, I decided to pick my top 10 suggestions for you to consider when planning on purchasing a GPS for backpacking.

Mapping function/memory: The ability to upload maps into the GPS is something you have to consider. Most GPS units nowadays have a basic preloaded map already in the GPS. Although the preloaded maps are useful, they are not that detailed nor are they very accurate. Higher priced handheld GPS units will allow the ability to insert SD cards with preloaded maps for a specific region. The maps are much more useful especially if you plan on using the GPS for driving as well as hiking. As far as memory goes, the more the better.

Color VS black and white screen: Although this may seem a little more superficial, colored GPS units will get my vote every time. The biggest reason I like the color screens is that they are much easier to read, and allow you to differentiate between different subjects more easily. I am not sure how much longer they will even produce black and white GPS units anyway.

Ability to use with your Mac or PC: You may think you don’t need this feature until there comes a time when you have to enter in 50 or more waypoints, and your finger goes numb from typing it all in the unit itself. Many times a year I enter the GPS coordinates for specific Boundary Waters Canoe Area campsites and portages which I plan on visiting. I could not imagine having to type them all directly into the unit.

Magnetic Compass: You may ask, aren't all compasses magnetic? Well, yes and no. Many lower end GPS units actually do not use a magnet, they use the movement of the GPS in relation to the satellites to decipher a bearing through the use of triangulation. What this means is that you must be moving in order to see which way is which.
A GPS with a magnetic compass allows for the user to stand still and aim the unit in any direction to see which way is north or which direction their destination is located. This is another feature I would not go without.

Size and weight: Choosing a size for a GPS comes down to personal preference. Personally, I like smaller, lighter units mainly because they are less bulky when hung around the neck or stored in smaller pockets. However, the larger units usually have large screens, which may be a more important feature to others.

Battery life: This seems like common sense but it’s a feature that can be easily overlooked. Unquestionably, the longer the battery lasts, the better.

Waypoint and Route Storage: Although this has not been a large issue for me, it may be for you. Try to think of all the additional uses you may have for the GPS such as fishing, hunting, geocaching, etc. The memory these waypoints take up can add up quickly, so keep that in mind when choosing a GPS.

Button placement and overall feel: This part all comes down to personal preference. Before deciding on the unit that’s right for you, get out into the store and play around with as many different brands and styles as you can. You will find buttons in places you may or may not like. As you look around at the variety of GPS units available you may become entranced in the touchscreens that are available. Touch screens are often fun to use but if you have ever tried to answer an iPhone (or other touchscreen phone) in the winter while ice fishing you know how annoying that can be. Touch screens don’t work worth squat when you’re wearing gloves! Now if you don’t live in the cold or simply don’t go out in the cold then by all means consider the touchscreen GPS units - but if you do, think hard about the decision.

Price: If you’re reading this article I’m sure you already have a price range in your head. As with most things, you get what you pay for. If you need or just plain want more ability and versatility then you wont regret spending a little more on a GPS unit. If you only need the basic functions then don’t throw down the cash, it will better serve you to buy a new camp stove or lighter tent with the money you will save. Also, dont forget to add up the accessories you may want to go along with your GPS because these can add up too, especially when it comes to additional maps.

Durability: The ability of a GPS to take some abuse and keep on functioning is highly regarded in my book. Whether it gets dropped on a rock or in a lake, I want the thing to have the best chance of survival.

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