Many modern vehicles have units fitted as standard equipment , while an array of aftermarket units are available for those with older vehicles . Both styles can work well in built-up locations , although we ’ ve had the odd blooper here and there . Let ’ s just say being directed to go down a tight oneway street with a dead end ahead isn ’ t much fun when pulling a large caravan !
As far as aftermarket units go , products from brands such as HEMA , Garmin and VMS offer a navigation package that includes offroad mapping . They ’ re just like topographical paper maps , and these units allow you to navigate based on what ’ s around you . So they put you well and truly in the driver ’ s seat , so to speak , to make decisions on which way you might choose to go .
Among many of the great features these units have is the ability to drop a pin location and create a waypoint . This will save the coordinates onto the map that ’ s on the screen . You can then calculate distances , plan a route , and share these great spots with friends . The biggest challenge with GPS units is deciding which unit is right for you .
PHONES AND TABLETS
Similar to dedicated GPS units , phones , tablets and apps have opened things up in the world of navigation . But a word of caution : some app-based software may need a constant internet connection , which is fine in and around towns that have reception . However , if you venture beyond the black stump , you might just be looking at a blank screen .
This can be overcome in two ways . One is to ensure your device has an inbuilt GPS , and the other is to ensure the map you ’ ve downloaded in the app works offline . In other words , it doesn ’ t require an internet connection all the time .
Some apps can work offline .
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