Maps for GPS

 

For very long time I’m using Garmin devices.
This is not cause I like it but mostly because you got access to free maps.
In case of more remote, oversees trip local home map you can use in your car is not the best.
You can put your own maps in Garmin devices particularly created by other people.
For example on Iceland we were using:
http://www.ourfootprints.de/gps/mapsource-island_e.html

Last time I was looking for Pyrenees maps and I found very nice set for bikers:

http://openmtbmap.org/download/odbl/#map-data

For Poland I’m using

http://mapa.ump.waw.pl/ump-www/

For most people GPS is a device to find proper route.
I was always confused with this type approach.
The most important think you can find on your GPS is your current position.
Then you can find it on proper, paper based map bought in remote site.
If you can see map on your GPS – great – its easier

Why actually we should use GPS device comparing to smartphone with GPS ?
Three basic reasons:
1. Power supply
you can take spare AAA batteries for it
2. Maps – if you are not in range no maps.
3. Precision.

We should turn on GPS device only when stopping.
There are no devices on the market (yet) which can work on line for a week.

Picture – tent in the woods.
Tierra del Fuego 2001 – Patagonia
GPS helped us to find our place on the map.