Device Feature Considerations for Hiking
Basemap. This is highly recommended. The additional cost is marginal, and the increase in the equipment's usefulness is substantial. Driving directions to the area near a cache can be incredibly useful, so consider this feature in a higher end device.
Channels. Most GPS units today now have 12 parallel channels. Channels help to acquire GPS satellite signals faster and more accurately. If you are looking at older GPS devices, consider models built after 1997. Older, single-channel receivers are much slower and may not be as accurate.
External antenna jack. With new GPS devices this has become less important since the newer chips are sensitive enough to acquire signal inside a vehicle. However, it is not always possible to obtain good satellite coverage through a front windshield; this is when an external antenna can help. Even backpackers will benefit from the ability to safely store the receiver inside a pack with an antenna attached to backpack shoulder straps. It can also help outdoor use in places, like heavy tree cover, where signals are weak.
Interface jack. If you are using the receiver with a computer, be sure that it includes an interface cable so you can quickly load maps and waypoints onto your device. Newer GPS units often support USB while older devices generally have serial attachments. If you purchase an older GPS device and have a newer computer, you may need to purchase a USB to serial port adapter as well. If you own a Mac, you should check to ensure that it supports the Mac operating system.
Memory. This is used to load detailed topographic maps, street-level maps, or additional waypoints into the receiver. Detailed maps can use a great deal of memory on your device. Consider internal storage capacity. Higher end devices also usually accept a memory card for additional storage.
Power source. It is preferable to have a device that can support external power, like a cigarette lighter power cable. Due to the power requirements the device should support standard batteries (AA or AAA) for easy replacement on the trail. Lithium batteries are recommended for newer GPS models to ensure a longer battery life, and power geocachers should consider rechargeable batteries.
Rocker keypad or touchscreen. Using a receiver without a rocker keypad is like using a computer without a mouse. Some newer GPS units have touchscreens which helps immensely when navigating using the maps.
Screen size. For visual ease of operation, use a device with the largest screen that can be realistically carried. Screen size is measured diagonally. Color is great and helps define map features and a backlight is important, although both features burn additional battery power. A screen protector is important in preventing scratches out on the trail.
Waterproof. Sooner or later your device will get submerged. Get a device that is at least water-resistant, although an IPX7 designation is preferred. An IPX7 designation means the GPS case can withstand accidental immersion in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes. Plastic bags and boxes are also recommended for added protection.
Geocaching Features. An increasing number of higher end GPS devices now have functionality specifically created for geocaching that can store all the information from Pocket Queries. Some will also store field notes to help you log your caches after a hunt.
Important features for a hiking GPS
1) "Map" screen (as opposed to just a numerical lon/lat position fix): Makes it much easier to see where you are relative to reference waypoints.
2) WaterProofness: Unit should be rated submersible to protect it from getting wet.
3) Long battery life: Keeps you from having to carry so many batteries. Some units with 2 batteries have longer life than some with 4.
4) Built in Maps: Not absolutely essential, but big help in orientation and estimating distance to nearest roads. We now consider that any new GPS purchase should be one with mapping capability.
5) Route capability: Twenty Route capability is pretty standard, some have 50. Make sure you get one with at least 20 routes.
6) Waypoints: 500+ user entered waypoints are pretty standard, some can store many more. Make sure you get one that can store at least 500..
7) Multiple Datum capability is pretty standard: Make sure all the datums you will want to use are included in the GPS you select.
8) Fit nicely in your pocket and lightweight: This is a very personal thing, but you should consider it when you are thinking about hauling a unit around in the wilderness.
9) Bearing to next waypoint: Almost universal, but essential to hiking use.
10) Screen Size and your ability to read it are important especially if you have problems with viewing fine detail. B&W screens are fine for hiking and many color screens are hard to read in direct sunlight. TransReflective Color screens are the exception.
11) 12 channel parallel receiver system: Needed for best reception in difficult terrain and tree cover.
Not ABSOLUTELY essential features, but nice to have.
1) We recommend map memory of at least 20 megs for a mapping GPS. A minimum of 8 megs of map memory is recommended though you can "get by" with 1.4 megs or so if local topo maps for hiking maps are your only need.
2) Transreflective Color screens such as in the Garmin G-60C, G76C and Vista/Legend Color models and eXplorist models are easy to read in bright sunlight and are also reasonably easy on battery life when the screen backlight is turned on at night.
3) UTM and MGRS readout may be a consideration for some. This feature is available on a limited selection of consumer GPS receivers.
4) Topo Maps uploaded into your GPS: The Garmin USA Topo CD maps contain contour lines and small stream data very helpful in navigating in off-road territory. Magellan has a new TOPO map offering which is not quite as detailed as the Garmin offering.
5) For use under heavy tree cover or difficult (multipath) terrain conditions, an external amplified antenna will generally be helpful.
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