Buying a GPS Unit? Here's What You Need to Know

GPS systems seem to be the tech toy of choice these days. You can find GPS units in just about any big chain or electronics store, in your rental car, as a feature on your cellular phone, or in the wilderness in the hands of an intrepid backpacker or hunter. Buying a GPS unit is the perfect way to know where you are in the world and how to get to your ultimate destination.

Fortunately with the advance of technology the price of a good GPS unit is within reach for most consumers. What used to be a very expensive "toy" is now an everyday item that just about anyone can afford. Of course the more features and bells and whistles you want the more the unit will cost but there is a good chance you can find one that fits your budget and needs.

If you are in the market for a GPS unit the first question you need to answer is what do you plan to use it for?

Are you planning on using it in the great outdoors; there are a whole series of handheld GPS units for use by hikers, campers, backpackers, rock climbers, hunters, runners, and other enthusiasts who are active in the outdoors.

This type of unit needs to be rugged and waterproof because if you are relying on it to get you through your adventure it needs to stand up to not only the elements but being dropped or whacked against a rock accidentally.

There are a variety of different features to be had on these handheld unit but the main thing you are looking for is data screens that show you where you are, a breadcrumb trail showing you the way back to where you came from, and how to get to your ultimate destination. You will also want a dedicated compass that shows north and a barometer that can warn you of impending weather changes.

If you are looking for a vehicular GPS navigation unit then your needs will be a little different. You can get one of two types; portable and in-dash mounted. They both do the same things but the portable variety can be mounted on top of the dash board or on a windshield mount. With the portable GPS unit you can take it with you and use it in multiple vehicles, including rental cars if you travel a lot.

When considering a car-born GPS system it is important to understand that the more feature you wish to have the more you'll have to spend but the nice thing is that you can get a feature packed unit for around $300. A more basic unit will run around $100 and will get you where you need to go.

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