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Going for a hike in the woods, or driving through an unfamiliar city, it is always a good idea to have a detailed map with you. Having an accurate map that can show you the locations of various landmarks, the lay of the land, or the network of routes can be a lifesaver when it’s late in the day or your feeling tired.
There are many choices for maps out there, including a traditional paper map, an internet generated map, and even a GPS map. Of these choices, perhaps the most versatile is that of a GPS map. Here are some reasons that explain how GPS map just might be the best choice in almost any situation.
GPS Map Advantage #1: Up-to-date
Unlike a traditional paper map or even one generated from places like Mapquest ® a GPS map is a great way to get an up to date picture of your area of interest. With a paper map, you’re relying on data that is perhaps years old, and possibly completely out of date. And just about everyone who has used the internet mapping services have come across inaccurate and out of date directions down streets that no longer exist. With a GPS type of map, you’ll know that you have the backing of real-time satellite data to make sure your map is the most up to date it can be.
GPS Map Advantage # 2: Ability to Customize Your Map
True, both a paper map and an internet generated map can be customized to your specific needs. A simple red marker or a yellow highlighter on a paper map can easily mark the locations of various gasoline stations along your route, or perhaps the best hiking trail for you and your dog.
Unfortunately, once you mark the map, you can’t really change it. Even if you use a pencil, the erasure marks alone will eventually make the map unreadable, and then you’ll have to buy a new one the next time you go out. At $5 to $15 per map, this can be a very expensive idea. With a GPS map, however, you don’t necessarily have to keep your changes; you could save them as a simple file for later use. That way, you’ll be able to save your customized map and change it as the conditions of your trip require.
GPS Map Advantage # 3: Easily Back Track
One of the places where a GPS map is a great advantage is when you want to re-trace your steps. If your GPS map unit has the ability to track your progress, simply pressing a few buttons on your unit can easily show you where you’ve been, and where you are. Depending on the condition of your map, there is absolutely no guarantee that you’ll be able to read the map let alone retrace your steps.
These are but a few reasons why a GPS map might be a better choice when it comes to helping your explore your world. So go out there, get your GPS unit up and running and have some fun!
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