

Sync with satellites and wipe out any residual trip data from previous outings.Make sure the navigation device is fully charged.Functionality will differ by device, but typically you’ll want to: A little practice in a city park or along a local hiking trail ought to be enough to familiarize yourself with its capabilities. Don’t be intimidated by the configuration or operation of your GPS device. This information becomes very valuable to those who want to improve their performance over time and for those who want to revisit or amend a wonderful outing in the future. Reliving the TripĮver plan on re-creating a trip or returning to a key vantage point, campsite or landmark? GPS devices allow hikers to keep track of all that and more, including things like: This real-time positioning information allows responders to rush directly to the relative source of an accident or emergency situation to help those in need. This data becomes even more valuable in the unfortunate event that there is an injury or emergency rescue necessary in backcountry, on the slopes or in a canyon. Users can work backwards to retrace steps, locate alternative routes, and course-correct on the fly with visibility and assurance that they’re making proper decisions. communication - text or spoken communication via a two-way radio with civilization or emergency servicesĪccess to this information gives valuable context and problem-solving options for those who’ve lost their way.position - your relative coordinates (latitude and longitude).direction - are you heading north, south, east, west or somewhere in between?.Whether you’ve inadvertently ventured way off trail, the weather has reduced your visibility, or you can’t locate landmarks you’d really banked on, a GPS device may quickly provide: Global Positioning Systems are useful before a trip and after, but they’re a real lifesaver when you’re in a pinch. Moreover, hikers and backpackers can export their chosen routes and share them with others on their adventure as well as friend or family at home to make sure everyone is on the same page about the plan of attack. This virtual “preview” makes planning a hike and assessing the energy necessary to tackling the path easier than ever before. establish landmarks and checkpoints (aka “waypoints”).
#Outdoor gps tracker software
Many modern GPS devices come equipped with onboard trail-plotting software and downloadable maps. This allows hikers, backpackers, and other backcountry enthusiasts the opportunity to plan and replay their experiences in real time. A handheld GPS blends the traditional perks of traveling with a compass with the agility and dynamic options of a modern smartphone. Hiking with a GPS Deviceįrom seasoned explorers to weekend warriors, the benefits of using a personal GPS device are pretty astounding.
#Outdoor gps tracker portable
These devices are more portable and compact than ever before and are quickly becoming a hiking essential in every outdoor pack. A handheld GPS is just that - a device roughly the size of a walkie-talkie that communicates locational information straight to its user’s hand via satellite. From onboard navigation elements in cars to apps, personal drones, and even the military, global positioning systems have become an integral component in the way many everyday items accurately get around the world.

Nowadays, GPS devices and GPS technology are everywhere.

What is a GPS Device?įor starters, a GPS or Global Positioning System is a satellite navigation device that allows users to accurately pinpoint their position to within approximately 10 feet in most cases. Not to mention all the fun perks of wayfinding with these handy little things.

With a little bit of basic training, proper GPS device selection and practice, most every outdoorsman and woman can plot their route, stay on course, and return home safely. Sure, some diehards may choose their path based on the position of the sun or by checking where the moss grows, but the average dayhiker or aspiring thru-hiker need not resort to such ways. Thankfully, we live in a day and age where we have options. The jury is still out as to whether a smartphone or handheld GPS is the best option for outdoor navigation, but one thing is crystal-clear: you never want to get lost when hiking or backpacking.
