Best device for rambler?

phinea · Occasional Visitor Joined: 05/09/2003 11:54:40 Posts: 35

Hi,

I'm thinking of getting a GPS device to stop getting lost when walking in the New Forest - amongst other places.

What I want is a small handheld device with map display sufficiently detailed and easy to use for a non-expert - oh, and at a reasonable price.

It is not clear from the info I have seen so far as to whether the base EU map data that seems to be provided with many of the devices I have looked at would be sufficiently detailed.

Any advice??

Aitch2 · Posted: Wed Mar 29, 2006 1:19 pm Post subject:

http://www.garmin.com/products/etrexVenturecx/

Aitch
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oddsock · Posted: Wed Mar 29, 2006 4:56 pm Post subject:

A simple Etrex for around 70 quid will stop you getting lost by creating a trail for you to follow back to the car but if you want maps then as Aitch2 suggests the higher spec Garmin cx models with garmins topo map might be the way to go..the supplied memory card size sucks so you will need to buy a larger one ..the roads on the topo maps are routable as well so you can find your to and from the woods Wink

Dave
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TomTom one v1,tomtom one v 3,TT Start20,Garmin Oregon 300,Nuvi 300
Garmin Quest

briwy · Lifetime Member Joined: Aug 04, 2004 Posts: 173

I have changed my Etrex to 60CSx because of the poor reception under trees and in valleys.
A friend also has an Etrex and has the same problem so I dont think mine was a "one off" bad one.
I found the Etrex OK with a clear view of the sky but also found it liked to be held flat in the hand all the time for best reception which is a bit awkward if you are scrambling around in rocks or peat bogs.
The CSx on the other hand will receive OK in a pocket or in a rucksack.
Only problem is its a lot more money.

phinea · Occasional Visitor Joined: 05/09/2003 11:54:40 Posts: 35

a follow on question - with Garmin 60Cxx do I need to buy additional maps (for your average cross country walking/biking) ??

briwy · Lifetime Member Joined: Aug 04, 2004 Posts: 173

I suppose it depends on what you expect from the GPS
I always use it in conjunction with a map so personally its fine for me out of the box.
I guess the Mapsource Topo maps would be a consideration if you dont want to walk using a paper map but I dont think they have anywhere near the same detail as a "proper" map

ernieb · Occasional Visitor Joined: Aug 16, 2004 Posts: 42

I have a 60CSx and Mapsource TOPO UK. The real benefit of the topo maps is the contour lines on the GPS. Yes, I would always have a paper map but I also use Anquet to generate routes etc. and having the topo lines really helps give some meaning to the GPS route.
The electronic compass and altimeter are very useful tools on this GPS. Once again I would always have a standard compass with me but the 60CSx gives a good compass and this model works when you are stationary - unlike some others.

ernieb

oddsock · Posted: Wed Apr 19, 2006 5:30 pm Post subject:

These contour maps are free and make the display more interesting!

Dave
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TomTom one v1,tomtom one v 3,TT Start20,Garmin Oregon 300,Nuvi 300
Garmin Quest

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