Why Hikers Should Not Leave Without Equipping Handheld GPS Units

Portable digital devices are an ongoing trend that continues to rise in popularity because of the large variety of devices available and many of these devices are actually inexpensive. Many individuals around the world carry at least one portable device and that device is likely to be a mobile phone. Other devices like handheld GPS units may not be as common but these compact devices can perform a surprising number of operations that can greatly benefit hikers. Here are a few reasons why any hiker should have a handheld GPS unit.

Great for Getting Started

Many handheld GPS units are useful even before the hiking trip begins. With various maps preloaded into these units, hikers can start planning a trail even before they reach their destination. Some of these handheld GPS devices have the basic functions of a car GPS device so they can provide directions to the starting point and can actively track the car's position in real-time to get an idea on how long the trip will take.

Highly Customizable

Handheld GPS units do not only serve as electronic maps but they are customizable as well. Starters can add markers or points to these maps so users can effectively return to a certain spot in case they get lost. Many handheld GPS models have several points of interests built in and users can still add more. Different routes can be made to plan for hiking purposes to ensure that hikers never go off course. Many GPS units can also connect to a laptop or desktop computer so users can download additional maps online and upload these maps to the handheld GPS unit so it feels like new once again.

Tracking Possibilities

There are many different handheld GPS units available on the market today and each GPS unit may have a different set of features. The most basic handheld GPS devices are solely focused on navigation while the midrange and high-end units come with various monitors so hikers can track their progress in different aspects. One of the common monitoring features keeps track of the speed, time, and distance which can be useful for competitive hiking. Others are more useful for those want to stay fit or work out to become healthier. Some devices may have heart rate monitors and other related features. Since these GPS units are rather easy to carry and can have large screens, handheld GPS units are more reliable than fancy digital watches.

Certain devices may have enhanced tracking capabilities if other users have the same model or family of GPS devices. If compatible, it is possible to get the locations of other hikers equipped with those specific GPS devices. This saves a lot of time in regrouping if something goes wrong.

Communication Convenience

Mobile phones are supposed to do the job in making sure that everyone stays in touch. But for hikers, mobile phones are not always reliable because the remote areas may yield no signal. But GPS devices rely on satellites and the signal can remain fine as long as hikers are out in the open. Certain GPS devices may be able to communicate to other GPS devices of the same type while other handheld GPS units can contact emergency services in case an unexpected problem takes place.

Any type of hiker would greatly benefit from a GPS device. The best thing is that these devices are not bulky at all so it never hurts to place on in a pocket and take it out whenever tracking is needed.