Must-Have Features For The Best GPS For Geocaching
So, you’ve just been introduced to the exciting and adventurous world of geocaching, and you’ve wondering which GPS device should I get; just which one is the best GPS for geocaching?
At the outset, I should tell you that shopping for a new GPS suitable for your particular geocaching hunts will be made easier if you can decide on what type of caches you’ll be going for. Will you be targeting caches off shore? How about those in the cities, among tall buildings? Or are you pretty sure you’ll be trekking through rough terrain while searching for the selected target cache?
If you are heavy into geocaching and you’ll be targeting caches off shore, then you’ll need a unit like the Garmin GPSmap 478 GPS Receiver, which comes preloaded with detailed marine maps to help you navigate to the island located caches.
But, a typical geocacher will not need a GPS device capable of navigating in coastal waterways, the majority of geocachers will do fine with a simple handheld unit.
Here are a few features that any geocaching handheld GPS system should have:
1. Rugged – Geocaching can take you through all sorts of country including rocky mountainsides, under brush, over streams, and down in deep canyons. The device will get dropped and banged around a lot, you can be sure of it.
2. Waterproof – Undoubtedly, your GPS unit will at some time and probably frequently be exposed to rain, and probably on one or two expeditions.
3. The display screen should have great contrast so that it can be easily read even in bright sunshine. Additionally, it should be easy and simple to use. Geocaching is a terrific activity for the entire family and even the youngest adventurers will enjoy using the GPS unit.
4. The best GPS for geocaching should be lightweight, probably not over eight ounces. Also, it should be small enough to easily slide into jeans, shirt or jacket pocket.
5. It needs to have a decent battery life. Ten hours would be ideal, but if you don’t end up with one capable of lasting that long, be sure to take extra batteries.
6. The GPS unit that is well suited for geocaching will be able to continue receiving and displaying satellite signals even under cloud and tall tree cover or when you’re down in a deep canyon.
While choosing the best GPS for geocaching is strictly an individual matter, if you’ll take note of the tips given in this article you’ll end up with a device that will accurately lead you to many caches year after year.
Tags: best gps for geocaching, cache, garmin GPSmap 478 gps receiver, geocacher, geocaching, handheld GPS