Handheld GPS devices are tools used for navigation while hiking. By this tool, the group that is hiking can be able to know the routes and maps of the place they are hiking. Even though sometimes it is not good to solely depend on them, using them is a good idea. The devices are available locally and online. But several factors have to be considered before the purchase of these devices is done. In this article, you will be able to learn tips of purchasing a handheld hiking GPS device.
First of all, you have to consider the casing of the device. Handheld GPS devise should be a device that is made of a material that resists shock. Also, this devise case should be made of a material that is water resistant that can allow easy using of the device in any weather condition. This to ensure that the device do not fail to work in adverse weather conditions.
Also, you should check the weight and the dimension of this device. You will decide what you wish to carry. The best idea here is to choose a device that has minimum weight. This is to make sure you don’t have too many heavy things that will slow down hiking.
Also, screen has to be considered too before buying the device. Getting a small-sized device doesn’t mean you get a device that has the smallest screen. This is to avoid straining while using the screen. It is a good idea to choose a light device that has a good screen.
Also, don’t forget to check on the interface of the device. It may be of buttons or touchscreen. If you are using touchscreen with gloves, it may be complicated in operating than buttons. But normally, button device is slower than a touchscreen.
You have to check the available features of the GPS that you want to purchase. Features such as maps, good storage memory and wireless transmission are the ones to check on. The features listed are the most important ones to check.
It is good to check the battery life of the device. This will ensure that the battery will stay for longer before it goes off. Also this will make sure that the device stays for a long time before the charge runs out. The recommended battery life if a device should not be less than 10hours.
A device with a planning software is the best one you can purchase. This software is good for creating routes. Also, this software has the ability of even showing you things like the distance to be covered. It is possible to get a GPS device with their own software while others may have other third parties software. But there is n big difference.