GPS Receivers

There are a variety of GPS receivers on the market, from simple devices that provide a longitude and latitude co-ordinates (with some tracking and route planning abilities) to those that you can load current map details into and track your route in full colour. Most will have the ability to store waypoints. You can use these to plan a trek in advance, manually inputting the data before you start, or alternatively you can store the waypoint directly from the GPS whilst on your route, to record your progress.

The uses for a GPS system are almost endless and extend to all outdoor enthusiasts including hikers, cross-country skiers and mountain bikers. The more advanced GPS include a basic map of the country in which it was purchased, which will show major roads etc. For more detailed maps you will need to by map data, from the original manufacturer and the cost of this can be as much as the GPS device itself.

Also these GPS systems do not work in the same way as in car navigation systems (although the basic technology is similar). For this type of system you will need to look as a system designed to provide an A – B type solution.