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Global Satellite Positioning - ‘GPS’.

I think GPS are fantastic. I really do. If your new to walking they give you the confidence to get out there, if your an experienced walker you’ll be able to get into the remote areas with confidence. Even if your the best map reader in the world they can give you a wealth of information about your walk and the ability to review your walk.

The only problems are how do they work and which one should you buy. This again is pretty simple - I know the magazines seem to complicate this as well. However, I promise you its really simple to never be lost again.

Level 3 - This level is similar to level 2 but with a colour screen and maps displayed on it. This sounds like utopia but battery is still an issue No point having a system that stops working when, inexplicably, you need it the most! However, there are some models out there that are great. The Garmin has good battery life and uses its topography mapping - which once you’ve used it a bit is great but does not replace the O.S. Map but really compliments it very well. There is also the new Satmap Active 10 that has O.S. Maps displayed which is great but you do need to learn all the energy saving techniques  to get a full day out of it. For the rest I haven’t heard many favourable comments (- handheld computers and phones).

My recommendations.

Level ! - Garmin Etrex (£90approx)

Level 2 - Garmin GPS60 (£150approx)

Level 3 - Garmin GPS60csx (or any Garmin with a colour screen) with TOPO or Sat Map Active 10 ( £200- £500approx).

                          Beware of old stock on the Net.

There are three levels to this as well (as layers!). So...

Level 1 - To get the grid reference of where you are actually standing. I used mine for a couple of years to do this. As I enjoy my map and compass  I simply had it in my rucksack and whenever I felt unsure of my location I would simply turn it on and walk for a few minutes (they work best moving) and get the grid reference to check. This was vital for one situation when the cloud came down and we couldn’t see much at all. It paid for itself that very moment!.

Level 2 - You can pre plan your walks and down load all the points you need to walk too from a computer using Memory Map software. This will then give you a ‘pointer’ to direct you. Also you can review the walk you have done back on to your computer to see where you’ve actually walked. Remember the GPS will point you from one point to the next in a straight line without knowing there is a cliff or pit in the way so maps are still needed.