GPS for walking

[The Dutchman]

When I go on holiday and do some walking in the more rugged areas I always bring a detailed map (Explorer maps for the UK for instance) but who of you use GPS for walking?

I would like to know how reliable these machines are and if most paths are actually integrated in the data of these GPS-machine. What are your experiences?

thanks

[paul]

GPS can be used as an aid but it should never be relied upon solely.

Up here where we live, mountain rescue is frequently called out simply because people rely on technology too heavily and forget the basics.
_________________
UK Hotels - UK Selfcatering - UK B&Bs - UK Attractions
Luxury Travel - Lake District Apartment

[The Dutchman]

Yeah, I was afraid that was going to be the answer. I'll bring along map and compass
any time.

Although the question remains: does GPS cause problems because the data sometimes isn't accurate enough or if some people don't use it properly?

[paul]

Yes - frequently. Here's a recent example:

http://www.stirlingobserver.co.uk/stirling-news/local-news-stirling/news-stirling/2012/09/07/ochil-mountain-rescue-assist-lost-teens-51226-31782675/
_________________
UK Hotels - UK Selfcatering - UK B&Bs - UK Attractions
Luxury Travel - Lake District Apartment

[The Dutchman]

I hadn't even thought of that: signal strength and the location of signal masts.
I wonder if these specially designed GPS systems for the outdoors have better signal strenght than mobile phones.

Anyway: a lesson learned.

[Dawn Patrol]

At the moment I have some ‘under thirty‘ visitors exploring LA. They rely heavily on their phones -no paper maps and no wrist watches. Their hike through the hills, with weak signal strength and dead spots, proved enlightening - good thing they took the dog.
_________________
A sense of humor is the pole that adds balance to your steps as you walk the tightrope of life--W.A. Ward

[briggl]

You're talking about using GPS apps on cell phones and there is the cell tower limitation with those.

But it is a different story with actual GPS units that communicate with the GPS satellites.
I don't have first-hand experience with the ones that are designed for walking/hiking, but they should be much more reliable.

The one I have for driving also has a mode for walking and I haven't had any problems in cities with it, but I haven't tried using it in remote areas.
_________________
Lee's Travel Guide
Italy by Bus, the book
Lee's Travel Guide Facebook Page