What To Look For
Global Positioning Systems (GPS) are electronic systems that calculate its location by accessing signals from satellites. Various GPS systems offer a variety of features, some of which are specific to purposes such as hiking or car navigation. Buyers who are looking for in-car navigation should look for features such as verbal turn-by-turn directions and street-level maps. Features such as terrain maps and a compass work well for hikers and campers. Buyers should also consider features such as touch screens, screen size and long battery life.
Common Pitfalls
Purchase the type of GPS system that fits your needs. A hiking GPS with topographical maps and hiking trails won't help you find your way through the streets of a major city. Some GPS systems don't have a glare-resistant screen. A glare-resistant screen can make the screen easier to read in the outdoors where it will most often be used by hikers. Also consider the availability and cost of map updates for in-vehicle GPS systems. A map that is a couple years old may not include the latest routes.
Where To Buy
GPS systems seem to be everywhere from truck stops to auto parts supply stores, discount and department stores and online. With the variety of outlets, prices vary widely, giving buyers a chance to bargain hunt. In-vehicle GPS systems require no installation and usually affix to the windshield with suction cups and are powered by the cigarette lighter or a 12-volt power source in the dashboard. Hiking and camping GPS systems are hand held and powered by batteries. Both types are available at most retail outlets.
Cost
Hiking GPS systems cost from about $70 to $200, according to the review website Cnet, as of August 2010. Car GPS systems start at about $90 and go as high as about $500. Professional editions that include special information for commercial drivers are available for about $1,000 to $2,000.
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