Best handeld gps units according to redditors
We found 194 Reddit comments discussing the best handeld gps units. We ranked the 66 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
We found 194 Reddit comments discussing the best handeld gps units. We ranked the 66 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
My dad and brother hunt in remote areas a lot and they both swear by this - Garmin inReach Mini, Lightweight Compact Handheld Satellite Communicator, Orange https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CR7PL54/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_oS52BbNZ32RYC
Gives mom some peace of mind because she can check in and gives them peace of mind they can signal an emergency if needed. Good for your kid because they can’t call china!
A few more ideas :
I would suggest having a battery-powered FM radio (and extra batteries if it's battery powered, or get one which charges via USB like the one I linked) to listen to the news and get vital information.
Also (if not too late), order a sawyer mini (best) or lifestraw (not as good). If you don't have access to clean water it can help you stay healthy (beware of chemical contamination which cannot be removed by these).
If you have the money, get a Garmin inReach satellite communicator (requires a (relatively cheap) subscription, down to $15ish a month). You can request SOS (much like 911), and send/receive SMS and e-mails, even without cell coverage. Excellent to keep in touch with relatives and in case of emergency. Can be used year-round when hiking, snow-mobile, skiing, ... Don't tell anyone you have this...
Download the offline map of your area on Google Maps on your phone beforehand. Can be priceless to navigate around and doesn't require internet access. Also get the Maps.Me app and download the map of your area too. Google Maps offline maps will expire and disappear from your phone after 30 days (I believe), Maps.Me maps will not.
If the cell service in your area is out of order, use your phone in airplane mode so that it doesn't continuously and desperately looks for a cell to connect to, which will drain the battery VERY quickly. Also use it on the lowest practical brightness setting to save battery power.
If not too late, get big USB power banks (>=10000mAh such as this one) and fully charge them beforehand. It's good as barter items and it can be nice to recharge your things when you have no access to a generator (on the go, or if you don't want to run the generator to avoid attracting attention). You can also get USB lights (this one for instance) and your powerbank doubles as a flashlight with a very long battery life.
Get a first aid kit, and not just one with bandaids... Get a CAT tourniquet, trauma dressing, Celox (preferred) or QuikClot bandage, triangular bandage, SAM splint, ... and know how to use them. Also get the basic medecines (stomach/diarrhea relief, basic painkillers, anti-allergy, and any prescription medecine if you require any). Remember 911 service may be unavailable for some time and you need to be able to take care of injuries. Tourniquets save lives, everyone should have one readily available.
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I am a radio amateur and in these situations I like to have one or two portable radio for two-way communication but I realize it is not for everybody. Still, a pair of FRS/GMRS radio can be helpful. Please note that GMRS requires a (cheap) license in the USA. I would recommend this model which also allows to be used as a scanner and to program the NOAA weather frequencies (do it beforehand) and some local police/EMS/fire frequencies (if allowed in your juridiction).
Please DO NOT use a radio made for amateur radio use, where you can transmit on any frequency, such as the UV-5R; you may interfere with emergency communications, even if you can't hear them, miles away. Please stick to the FRS/GMRS frequencies. The radio above guarantees safe operation and still allows to be used as a scanner.
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Take pictures of all your important documents (ID, properties, ...) and store them in a waterproof plastic bag. Try to keep at least your passport and driver license with you during the storm...
If you have a sump pump, try to arrange so that it can be battery powered and/or connected to your generator. If using battery power, get a battery charger and/or a generator connection, if the outage lasts and the battery runs down. Sometimes homes are not affected by the main storm but are flooded due to the lack of power around the storm and are still ruined, and that's totally preventable.
Also, beforehand, depending of the situation you might want to BLOCK your main sewage pipe. This way you might avoid sewage backflow into your home. There are normally valves already installed but in case of serious flooding (high backpressure) they sometimes are not up to the task.
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Download a few offline movies on the Netflix app (if you have Netflix). I never lived though a hurricane but I assume after a few days/weeks, you might want some entertainment. You can also download e-books. Bonus if it's survival-related e-books.
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Hope this helps... good luck to those affected
PS: oooo, thank you stranger for the gold, I think I never had one before ! Happy prepping :)
First off, this sounds extremely risky and if you were someone I knew I would heavily recommend against this, especially if you are going alone.
But if you are really set out on this then here are some thoughts to consider.
Invest in some form of personal defence, and train with it so you develop familiarity and reaction with it. Not trying it once, but to regularly train with your preferred defence mechanism. You would most likely be overpowered by your adversary, so stick with mace, knives, and guns. Learn how to fight with them from a professional.
Second, establish a schedule with a second agent so they know when you will leave and when you should be returning. Set up scheduled wellness calls. In the event you should miss any of these check ins, your agent will be able to send in the alert or come to your assistance in the event that you are incapacitated. Also tell the location and individual you will be meeting with to your agent. If you want to preserve privacy until worst case scenario, put the info in a sealed letter. Your agent doesn't have to be in the area, just alert about your situation and able to send assistance if necessary.
If you want to spend money, you can buy a Spot Device for under $300. Which allows you to send all clear and emergency signals to a designated email, which could be a way to implement the communications with a secondary agent in a discrete way. It has satellite tracking and can alert 911 as well.
Lastly, make sure your situational awareness is up to snuff. Trust your gut, and never trust anyone wholeheartedly. See who else is there, make sure you go during the day, have clear line of sight, know where the exits are, know where everyone is, make sure your contact doesn't get to close, always now where your defence mechanism is and make sure you've practised drawing it from your normal clothes.
Godspeed.
I'm following this thread on /r/news. Seriously, you guys should check out the horrendously bad advice people are giving in the comments: "Just follow a stream!" "Just walk downhill!" "Just follow your compass in any direction and you will come to a town!"
The blind leading the blind. They're going to get somebody killed. I was on a hike with a social group yesterday. One of the sixtyish women with us had never been hiking before, and this is in a state famous for outdoor recreation. Several people had no extra clothing or much of anything except their cell phones.
I know it's not true survival gear, but you can get a GPS ridiculously cheap nowadays.
https://www.amazon.com/Garmin-Foretrex-401-Waterproof-Hiking/dp/B002EOSQII
I got mine at REI for around $125. There are newer ones that go for $600, But that is only if you are SUPER OPERATOR HOOAH.
I mean, the real moral of this (probably fake) story is that you shouldn't go off in the woods without some kind of emergency sat contact. Garmin makes several models, and I highly recommend it for anyone who is planning on going camping or hiking in remote areas. It's well worth the expense, IMO.
As others have said, WiFi only iPads do not have a built in gps. You have a few options... you can either get the cellular pad (you do not have to activate a data plan) and have the built-in gps, or you can find an external gps off Amazon.
Many of the external GPS’s are advertised for general aviation because us pilots like to use them for our flight materials. I personally recommended Dual GPS and can attest to using it several times successfully for Pokémon Go (also using a hotspot if you have no data plan). Another good option is bad elf. I personally like dual because it is Bluetooth and cross-compatible with other devices. Bad elf locks you in because it plugs directly into the device, which blocks the port, but you don’t have to worry about recharging it.
Yeah, whatever it takes. The hardest step in running is over the threshold of your door.
Let's start from the ground up.
Socks: Choose from any of the Smartwool Run Socks. They are expensive, but awesome! If you get blisters easy or your feet get cold easy, try the injinji toe socks
Pants/tights: I wear tights when it's less than 40 F out or windy. Again [Smartwool] makes a good pair of tights. But really, just go to a local discount store and get some running tights, most of them are similar. for pants over running shorts, I just use sweats or any ol' athletic pants that I can find.
Underwear: Saxx makes some nice undies. Read about their design before you knock em. I wear underwear when I'm running in tights, but not in shorts because shorts have a liner.
Shorts: Nike has a lot of really cool designs for shorts. I have a couple pairs. When you are looking for shorts, think about pockets, do you want pockets or just one in the back? Anyway, Nike has you covered.
Singlet: I have a bunch of fun singlets. I wear a singlet with it's over 55F-ish. Nike has a bunch of good ones. I have a Saucony singlet, which I love because it's really light. I also have one with cats shooting lasers our of their eyes, an american flag one, and a bunch of other holiday ones. Just do a search for running singlets and you will find all kids of fun ones!
Shirt: For fun shirts, I got some of the superhero compression shirts, and they are fun. usually I just wear any ol' performance fabric shirt. During the winter I wear a long sleeve [New Balance](http://www.newbalance.com/pd/beacon-half-zip/MT53202.html?dwvar_MT53202_color=Harbor%20Blue%20Heather#color=Flame Heather) running shirt. I wear a lot of high visibility because I don't like cars running me over. I bought mine at tjmaxx
Jacket: I have a Asics rain jacket that I wear when it's raining, and I have cheapo Fila jacket that I wear when it's really cold out (no link sorry). Check out all the stuff from Asics.
Vest: I have a Nike Aeroflot vest that is Awesome! I bought it at Ross for $20 and could never recommend someone spend $200 on a running vest. I also have a thin high visibility vest that I use as a wind block, I think it's from walmart.
Hat: Nike hat. I got it in black and high Vis.
Glasses: Get the cheapest polarized sunglasses you can find.
Pack: I don't have a pack yet, but i'm trying to decide between the Ultimate Direction and the s-labs.
Tech: I've got a Garmin Vivoactive. But any ol watch will do. Check out DC Rainmaker for GPS Watch Reviews. I also have a headlamp, and some red flashy lights that I use when it's dark.
OK, That's enough about that. Please don't buy this shit at full price, Go to discount stores or look online. Don't go try stuff on at your local shop, and then buy online (that's a dick move). Wear whatever you want, whenever you want, and if anyone says anything, tell em' to fuck off. Good luck out there! Keep up the good work.
I posted it elsewhere in this thread, but my Garmin VivoActive gets ~18 days of battery life, has an always-on colored screen, is very thin, and has GPS if you want it. There is a newer version with heart rate monitoring that I bought my dad, and he loves his.
You're going to want a triathlon watch, but I don't have any specific recommendations for you as I've never bought one.
This one is 4* on Amazon.
If this isn't acceptable here...Mods feel free to delete or recommend a better place.
I have a SPOT Satellite GPS messenger that I received as a gift like 5 years ago...I've never used it. I opened the package and some of the inside packaging has been removed, but other than that is all intact.
I'm just never going to use it and thought someone else might want it. I'm giving it away for free...but if you are able to cover shipping cost that would be great. If no one offers to cover shipping, I will just pay for it and give it to whoever replies first...better than throwing it away!!
I'm pretty sure it's this one https://www.amazon.com/SPOT-Satellite-Messenger-Orange-Black/dp/B002PHRDO2
note: I think these do require a subscription online to get the most use of.
He's a member on here too: https://www.reddit.com/user/FrozenBananaStand
I know this doesn't help in the present, but I always have one of these with me when flying these days. Would allow me to send an SOS in areas with no phone coverage with my exact coordinates. Worth considering for anyone in this community.
Emergency Locater Beacon. This one is popular;
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Spot2-Personal-Tracker-Satellite-Messenger/dp/B002PHRDO2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1393773011&sr=8-1&keywords=spot+tracker
AFAIK iPad Mini 2 and 3 are pretty much the same thing, except the Mini 3 has Touch ID and the Mini 2 does not. Thus, if you were considering the 2 vs. 3, you should just go for the 2. If you were considering the 2 vs 3 vs 4, it should now be down to the 2 vs the 4. If it were me, I'd go for the WiFi Mini 4 and get one of these for $79, which is a lot more dependable and accurate than the built-in GPS, and doesn't rely on a cellular lock to get an initial fix: http://www.amazon.com/Dual-Electronics-XGPS150A-Universal-Bluetooth/dp/B006M49G80/ref=pd_sim_107_4/181-6262862-5258717?ie=UTF8&dpID=51FcZY5%2B5CL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR135%2C160_&refRID=03P84W5BRQXAH5H42JFT
Actually $249 on Amazon
I use the Dual Electronics XGPS150A, the newer version of the XGPS150 (only change is the power adapter can now support 12-28v). It's $99, really small and portable, connects via Bluetooth, and has a battery life of like 8 hours. Bought it pretty recently and just got to try it out in mid-July -- absolutely thrilled with the performance of the device.
You'd have to purchase maps for either the US or the UK, depending on where you buy - most GPS units won't come with both. Something to consider in GPS purchases then is storage space for maps. I recommend something with a few gigs for storage and easy map purchases, like a Garmin.
Low-end ($175 or less)
Mid Range ($175-$300)
High-end ($300+) Sky's the limit here!
What I do (assuming I'm doing an adventure trip, and not just seeing Rome or something) is activate on month with a Delorme InReach satellite tracker/text-messenger. It's ~$200 for the device and then around ~$40/month but if you want them to know where you were kidnapped in the desert of Africa I think it's your only real choice (or a satellite phone which is more expensive)
https://www.amazon.com/Delorme-AG-009871-201-DeLorme-inReach-SE/dp/B00BX7TJ2O/
I use the Dual XGPS and it works great with ForeFlight on my iPad 3 WiFi. Though I've read it doesn't work above certain flight levels or internationally (can't remember what the exact complaint was but it didn't apply as I'm just a PPL student).
Great battery, 8+ hours, accurate & Bluetooth. Also, cheap.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006M49G80/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_n-piub01QR60H
If you have a wifi only iPad model then I can recommend the Dual XGPS150A. I've used it with both my iPad and Android devices and it's terrific. EDIT: if you have an iPad with cellular data then it should already have a very accurate GPS and you won't benefit from getting an external one.
https://www.amazon.com/Dual-Electronics-XGPS150A-Universal-Bluetooth/dp/B006M49G80/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1468216199&sr=8-1&keywords=dual+xgps
As for comms, what issues have you run into? I have both ham and CB and the CB gets WAY more use. Have you tuned your antenna / checked your SWR?
You can hook the GPS to your PC and use VisualGPS or the software from the GPS maker called u-center
It might just be a fluke thing with reception. Other then that, the VK-172 is a tested GPS and is proven to be reliable as far as the software goes.
The antenna is small and not as sensitive as others.
The BU-353-S4 is a remote GPS that can be located in a better spot than the stratux might be.
The RY835AI, in addition to having AHRS and pressure altitude on the chip, has a large antenna and the 4(2 835s and 2 836s) that I have have gotten their first fixafter opening the package from China in under 45 sec indoors in my living room(one story house). The GPS can be hooked up by USB and that would be enough. Alternately, the device could be soldered up to provide AHRS and Pressure altitude.(these features are in beta right now)
I used to get GPS On my ipad using a GPS receiver (http://www.amazon.com/Dual-Electronics-XGPS150A-Universal-Bluetooth/dp/B006M49G80/) which worked perfectly fine, but you still need data to get the most use out of Waze.
Just bought a wrist GPS. Garmin 401 Foretrex. It had the best ratings on Amazon. I love it. http://www.amazon.com/Garmin-Foretrex-401-Waterproof-Hiking/dp/B002EOSQII/
I use it every time I go out now, it's very cool taking whatever route you want and at the end knowing exactly how far you went, being able to actually see the route you took, average moving speed, total moving time, etc.
It does so much cool stuff. Elevation logging, speed, compass, time of course, even has features for HALO/HAHO jumping (parachuting). Badass piece of equipment and like I said it has the absolute best ratings on Amazon in the handheld GPS section. Enjoy.
edit: And it's an addon but it plugs right on in for the heart-rate monitor, you just need the strap. I think it's on that same page i linked to above under the "Also purchased by" or whatever
I carry a Delorme InReach (you might be able to find it cheaper elsewhere) because I usually am solo. You might opt for a more traditional PLB (I recommend the ResQLink), but for me the benefits of two-way communication outweighed the benefits of the 406MHz beacon.
I don't carry a gun and personally I think you'd be silly to. Honestly, I and a lot of hikers I know would feel pretty uncomfortable around a hiker who feels the need to carry one. You are so unlikely to end up in a situation where you will need a gun in the wilderness. The most I've carried is bear spray in grizzly country.
If you really want to protect yourself from actual dangers you might encounter instead of imagined ones, learn about lightening safety, take a first aid class, learn to identify which plants to avoid in your area, tell people your itinerary before you leave, and make sure you always have the 10 essentials with you Edit: and know how to use a map and compass and practice using them even if you carry a gps with you. The biggest danger to you in the wilderness isn't other people or animals or anything like that. It's you. Be knowledgeable and hike smart and you'll likely stay safe.
One of the points I bring up related to that is that some of the 9/11 terrorists also disabled the transceiver from the cockpit so this is not the first time this has happened. I think like MH370 it was also a 777.
It would have been known in the industry that it was possible to disable the transceivers from the cockpit. If someone hijacks a plane its obvious they would have access to the cockpit.
You can buy GPS beacons online for $90. Many hikers and people who tour the country on motorcycles use them for safety. It would have been possible to have a GPS beacon on the plane that cannot be disabled from the cockpit that pings its location to a satellite for under a couple hundred dollars.
We are talking about a 777 that costs millions of dollars and is one of the most sophisticated aircraft in the sky. In a post 9/11 world where TSA has to take my shoes off to inspect them before I can get on a plane how is it possible they don't have a GPS beacon on planes yet that can't be disabled from the cockpit? (ie, can only be disabled from outside the plane or something)
This is an inexcusable oversight to the extent that it should be considered actual criminal negligence.
Amazon too!
You're not missing out on the Fuji app's geotracking feature, IMO. It doesn't update the location in real time, it just syncs your phone's location at the moment you pair it with your camera, so every photo you take afterwards will be geotagged at that original location; it's only useful if you're staying in that location for the entire shoot or if you just want a ballpark estimate you can then fine-tune manually in Lightroom's map module.
What I do is record a GPS track of my route using something that can export a GPX file, making sure the camera's time is synced to the GPS time. You can use something like a simple handheld GPS (like a Garmin eTrex), but I use the GPS Tracks iOS app (I always carry an external battery pack so battery use is not a concern). Then in Lightroom, after I import my photos, I can import the GPX track in the map module and it'll geotag my photos.
Another thing I do, especially when on road trips where I don't want to geotrack the entire trip but I'm still making a few stops for photos, is take a photo with my phone at each location, and then import them to Lightroom to use as reference to place the others manually in the map module (I use the Lightroom Mobile app to take them, so they're synced automatically to the desktop app, saving me a step).
If you frequently go backpacking I'd consider getting a gps other than your phone. You can find them for fairly inexpensive given that they could save your life. I have a Garmin eTrex 20x lots of free maps online that can easily be added to it with expandable storage its just about all you'll ever need in terms of maps. Some of the maps available are routable so it makes sure you don't hike way out of the way from missing a sign, a mistake I know all too well.
They are 80$ off on amazon right now. Here's a link. Good luck on your search!
Edit: Grammar.
In cellphones it's still the device's ability to transmit that's to blame for the eventual surveillance. It's just in the case of cell phones the undesirable transmission of your position is muddied with legitimate transmissions you normally have no problem with. Cell towers do need to be able to ping you so you can receive calls.
Another way for me to explain it is like this: A bare-bones GPS device that only does GPS, like what you'd use to hike through the woods, is only capable of receiving data. They are not capable of being used to spy on you by anyone. They don't talk to satellites, they only listen. Any surveillance device that spies on your position with GPS is going to be require a transmitter. Put another way, GPS records/makes data. But unless you can transmit that data, its useless for surveillance.
There is arguably one possible exception: A GPS you attach to somebody's car, then detach later to record data with no transmission (and is thus not real-time surveillance), but I'd argue in that case it's the attachment-and-retrieval that's to blame for the surveillance (basically the intrusion upon of property).
If the device had some kind of GPS or cell modem, then that would likely solve the problem. Location services pull from different places, like IP, GPS, Cell Modems, and other things.
Looks to be a Garmin Foretrex. I've got an older model, and unless they've made some changes it's not remotely accessible.
I bought a cheap refurb Garmin Vivosport for the same reason. If you are coming from a fancier smartwatch/tracker, it'll be annoying for you with it's limited functionality and tiny screen. But for a basic watch/tracker and Strava GPS use, it works just fine. Well worth The $100 I paid for it. Looks like they are even cheaper now. $85 at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Garmin-v%C3%ADvosport-Smart-Activity-Tracker/dp/B079Y6R6HP/
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EDIT: It is the Vivosport. Wrote Vivofit for some reason initially.
opencpn with this
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008200LHW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Fun part is it is free. So if you try it and say. "This is shit" you lose nothing (assuming you are going to use that GPS for something else.) I just bought that GPS thing last week to replace the one I lost. Worked great in Windows 10.
This is how I got my wife to let me go: http://amzn.com/B00I6EY01C
Click on this link to look to the right to "find a retailer". Typically it will be an outdoor shop.
https://www.findmespot.com/en/index.php?cid=100
Otherwise, it's $148 on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/SPOT-Satellite-GPS-Messenger-Orange/dp/B00C8S8S4W/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_bdcrb_top?ie=UTF8
Keep in mind.... there is a $200/yr fee. You can cancel the subscription for the following year if this is a one time trip. https://www.findmespot.com/en/index.php?cid=130
While not the cheap, the device and one year subscription will cost about the same as a nice one night hotel room. Good insurance and the 5 minute tracking means loved ones can log into a private webpage to see where you are at any time.
Pretty much any of the android set top boxes will do screen mirroring with something like miracast, and you can add gps to any of them with a receiver like: https://www.amazon.com/GlobalSat-BU-353-S4-USB-Receiver-Black/dp/B008200LHW
You just plug it into USB, and run something like the GPS Status to initiate it.
This is the external GPS I used.
Dual Electronics XGPS150A Multipurpose Universal Bluetooth GPS Receiver with Wide Area Augmentation System and Portable Attachment https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006M49G80/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_hYglDbYT3N667
If you're not using one already, definitely check out spot gps. Two major benefits on it, emergency help if needed to an exact location and you can keep track of where you're going while showing it on a map in realtime. Be safe down in Mexico!
I use one of these, if your open to USB. Works great, good signal even in buildings http://www.amazon.com/GlobalSat-BU-353-S4-USB-Receiver-Black/dp/B008200LHW%3FSubscriptionId%3DAKIAILSHYYTFIVPWUY6Q%26tag%3Dduckduckgo-d-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3DB008200LHW
Should also search, lots of posts on the topic, and lots more on web searches
This one on Amazon got great reviews. I'd caution you to do some more research and make sure it'll work with your apps and your device, but this should be a decent starting point for research.
I bought it on Amazon. It's not bad. It has a long battery life and is fairly water resistant. It's a few years old, now. On the downside, it has a habit of throwing out completely incorrect data points now and then, especially if you take it indoors, or even walking in a big city. This will throw off your distance count by a lot, which isn't great. So you have to manually remove the wild results.
I think there are better options out there today. These, for example, will talk with your smartphone in interesting ways:
I think the Wintec is "good enough" that I won't upgrade, but if I was buying new I'd look at the newer items. Also, most smartphones will probably be more accurate, because they use GPS and cell signals, both.
Really depends what you are looking for.
I got my dashcam for ~250-300 but it has a built in GPS and traffic/bluetooth.
You don't even necessarily need used to come in under $100.
http://www.amazon.com/Garmin-eTrex-Worldwide-Handheld-Navigator/dp/B00542NV32/ref=sr_1_3?s=gps&ie=UTF8&qid=1395258071&sr=1-3&keywords=garmin
You're right on the GPS accuracy, and some phones are better than others. The Wifi Accuracy is kinda a joke, and not going to be available on a course unless you're picking up open hotspots from homes.
If you could find a good 3d guy, he could easily sketch up a shield that snapped over that bluetooth keyboard and provided custom buttons and a belt clip. 3D print a prototype and away you go.
Additionally, I know there are some external GPS units that connect via bluetooth and provide much better accuracy. (http://www.amazon.com/Bad-Elf-2200-Black-silver/dp/B008VWNBBE/ref=pd_cp_e_1) but you're now talking about some serious cost increases in the usefulness of the App.
Background: I wrote android software that heavily utilized the GPS for a few years. It was eventually ported to iPhone (by someone else)
Top - Bottom:
9mm-single-stack-2-mags.html) - First carry gun, love it so far
Street map and topographic map of where? If you're fleeing you will quickly leave the area covered by a large scale map and small scale map of general area wouldn't have the resolution to help you navigate through cities or understand the terrain.
I think you'd be better off with a pocket atlas of your region and a hand held GPS receiver which you can load with free USGS topographic maps from any GIS clearinghouse (if you live in the US...I've never looked to see where you can find free downloadable maps outside of the US).
Garmin foretrex.
https://www.amazon.com/Garmin-Foretrex-401-Waterproof-Hiking/dp/B002EOSQII
GOOD JOB! Also just checked, the Spot Gen 3 is only $45 on Amazon today after a post purchase rebate!
Spot 3 Satellite GPS Messenger - Orange https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00C8S8S4W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_d7ZoDbVBBQB01
Basically a personal tracker. SPOT is brand name.
https://www.amazon.com/SPOT-Satellite-GPS-Messenger-Orange/dp/B00C8S8S4W
OP- I have both a series 3 and a dedicated cycle computer (Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt) and I love both. The only times I’ve tried to use my watch while riding I’ve been frustrated or it felt dangerous at anything but a slow/relaxed speed.
Glancing down at a dedicated cycle computer on your handlebars vs looking at your elevated wrist (you have to lift your wrist for the screen to turn on) are VERY different.
If you have little interest in using an Apple Watch OFF the bike- you should just look for a similarly priced cycle computer. It really will work better as a cycle computer than an Apple Watch.
On Amazon:
Garmin Edge 520 Plus - $229
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B07C1TDBZC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_nfIFDbRQZTT7V
Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt - $249
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XT3YX7T/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_qgIFDbC6STS0D
Lezyne also has multiple in that price range- I don’t know their product line enough to make a recommendation, but I’ve only heard good things about them:
https://ride.lezyne.com/collections/gps-devices-computers
What you can do is purchase a GPS device that connects to your iPad. Bad Elf GPS was made specifically for this purpose and it's what I purchased.
However, I tend to forget to turn off my GPS after my drive and the battery dies by the time I drive again. But for the most part it works quite well.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HWL9BQ4/ref=cm_sw_r_taa_ZA9Oyb843BM9M
Most of the nuvi stuff is on-road only, so this or the Oregon series is best for your purposes. But be prepared that if it comes to this, the GPS network will be disabled.
I use a Delorme InReach SE with a monthly plan. I cancel the plan over the winter, and pay $15 a month for a safety plan over the summer.
https://www.amazon.com/Delorme-AG-009871-201-DeLorme-inReach-SE/dp/B00BX7TJ2O
Can you go often, but buy fewer things?
Our store is five minutes by car, and it's a nice walk for me. You might be out walking and have a seizure, so that's something to balance this with, but you could maybe walk to the store, and walk home. The important thing is, you could do it yourself. Check the trail system (fewer people around to check on you than sidewalks, but you won't wander into the roadway). Check into a Spot (https://smile.amazon.com/SPOT-Satellite-GPS-Messenger-Orange/dp/B00C8S8S4W/ref=sr_1_2?crid=3P9PQK3E3VELN&keywords=spot+emergency+beacon&qid=1557965640&s=gateway&sprefix=spot+emergen%2Caps%2C215&sr=8-2) so even if you are out and walking, you can get help if you feel a seizure and you're on a trail. You don't need to call 911, you don't need to get your phone out, you don't need to do anything but push a button. Conversely, you can send a different message, if you want, giving an, "I'm ok" message.
But maybe you could go to the store three or four times a week. I know going to the store isn't the most exciting thing, but hey, it's out of the house and you can do it yourself. Believe me, I know. Some weeks my biggest accomplishments on my own are going to the store and the drug store. But, it's also really good exercise.
I saw you ask someone else about waiting six months. I drove for 25 years, and I got diagnosed last December. Seizures started in October out of the blue. We're still playing with my dosages. Just upped my Trileptal this week (OMG, my stomach! I woke up yesterday morning, naturally while on a business trip, and had to dash to the toilet to sit there and be sick a bit. Then leave the meetings and go sit in the bathroom some more. How do you explain that one to colleagues. "Yeah, we just upped my anti seizure drugs and I'm having a side effect issue, so I'm currently shitting out my brains, I'll be back in a few minutes, sorry for the smell! I know, I hadn't told you I'm an epileptic. Well, this is a shitty way to find out, get it?"). Legally I can drive, but I couldn't deal with hurting my daughter or someone else. So I've put it on myself to be six months between seizures. My husband is dealing with it, but not super well. "How many days until you can drive again?" It's not been easy for our family. A huge change in our lifestyle. And like you, we live in a place that is NOT set up for life without a car. But I walk. I walk a lot (though not this last week, I hurt my hip a bit, and that pushed me over the edge and I cried). It's good for me, I like it, and I kind of hope I continue it after I can drive again. We'll see.
But I'm actually anxious about driving. I'm excited to get my independence, but I'm scared. I'm still having auras. And the side effects are weird, making my body feel curved (like my hands are on the computer, my elbows are to my right, and my body and head are seeing the computer). Can I really drive? Is this safe? And what if the seizures come back? What if, what if, what if.
I know it's frustrating. It will always be frustrating. I won't tell you to NOT be frustrated, because this is life with epilepsy. Last week I was so frustrated I had to call my best friend to give me a ride (I couldn't take another Lyft, just couldn't) and I broke down in ugly tears in his car (my husband was out of town, otherwise I would have parked myself in his building for six hours until he was ready to go home for the day). But, hope for the best, and look at the amazingness you have. And, when the frustration comes, know you have awesome people around you who you can lean on (in real life, and people in your pocket online) who totally get it and who support you.
But seriously, look into walking. :)
I don't doubt it! You might want to help them assemble a kit for the car, including basic first aid (and make sure they know how to use it!), a 36-hour food/needs kit, paper/pens for leaving a note (but also instructions as to when they should and shouldn't leave - teach them S.T.O.P.: STOP, before you do anything, and relax; THINK about where you could have gone wrong; OBSERVE: what do you have that may help you, what's the weather, what natural resources are available, and where is a good place to make camp; and PLAN a course of action that will best utilizie your limited reservoir of energy. If it's dark, stay where you are.), and consider getting them a Spot Gen3 Satellite GPS Messenger - basically a way for their mom to see where they are and for them to get a message out in an emergency. They're only $150 and can not only help them out of a tough spot, but also help everyone involved (them, the mom, the authorities) get piece of mind and locate them quickly.
Ninja edit: You may already be well aware of this stuff, so apologies if I'm stepping on your toes by making these suggestions. Glad they're safe!
I have the Garmin etrex 20. It uses 2 double a batteries and runs for days on them. Don't have to worry about running down your phone.
http://www.amazon.com/Garmin-010-01508-00-eTrex-20x/dp/B00XQE6ZFG
It is a bit of a pain in the ass but there are tons of free maps you can load onto them.
http://www.gpsfiledepot.com/maps/state/all
> That's because it's an aviation GPS function, not just something you "buy" on Amazon.
This is complete BS and it literally is
I was just doing some remote field work in Alaska and northern Canada for the past 6 weeks and I carried one of these with me:
https://smile.amazon.com/SPOT-Satellite-GPS-Messenger-Orange/dp/B00C8S8S4W?sa-no-redirect=1
Also, I suggest taking a wilderness first aid course and buying/borrowing this book or a similar one:
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/p/the-wilderness-survival-guide-joe-oleary/1117737219/2680888273567?st=PLA&sid=BNB_DRS_Marketplace+Shopping+greatbookprices_00000000&2sid=Google_&sourceId=PLGoP24104
I rent a lot of planes, so I integrated the survival bag into the flight bag. Now it just comes with me everywhere. Here's what I have:
It all fits in a small pocket in my pack, and gives me everything I need. I can communicate with other airplanes or rescuers. I can treat life threatening injuries. I can remain warm and build a shelter if needed. And I can tell precisely where I am, which I can communicate to my rescuers.
That's the bare minimum basics. If I owned an airplane I'm sure I'd cram more into a dedicated kit, but since I'm only doing short day trips I don't anticipate being very far from civilization.
If you are looking for a good starter activity/heartrate/sleep tracker for your mom, I would suggest a refurbished vivosport from Amazon starting at $54 for the small/medium size wristband. It's a small, basic, touch interfaced device that's relatively simple to use. Refurb Vivosport Amazon Link
Ohh, garmin etrex 20. Runs for days of 2 AA batteries.
https://www.amazon.ca/Garmin-eTrex-Worldwide-Handheld-Navigator/dp/B00XQE6ZFG
I'll give you an option that will go a little against the grain, and won't follow the general opinion:
Get one (or two, since you have the budget) of these:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/forumdisplay.php?f=1938#subForums
and add one of these:
http://www.amazon.com/Dual-Electronics-XGPS150A-Universal-Bluetooth/dp/B006M49G80/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1377575170&sr=1-2&keywords=bluetooth+GPS+android
And combine it with this package (I prefer ODK because once deployed you can build forms with a lot of power very easily. Also, its free and open source):
http://opendatakit.org/
Or any of these:
http://gis.stackexchange.com/questions/21296/list-of-gis-applications-for-android-os
Essentially, by using an android-enabled camera with a full 22x optical zoom, wifi, bluetooth GPS, and all the other features you get from having android in a camera, you can collect a lot of information all-in-one.
You get:
A 15mp camera with optical zoom and video capabilities.
You can take high-quality pictures with embedded GPS tagging of decent accuracy (via the extra bluetooth GPS module)
Better data-logging. Think of this: http://i.stack.imgur.com/qGaqs.jpg with a good camera and GPS included.
Some of the other solutions suggested will give you good positioning, but lack the ability for buitl in data collection. The juno has both, but requires expensive software, and is itself quite expensive (whereas you could get 2 cameras for the cost of a juno). Using a data-gathering package like ODK would allow you to combine good GPS accuracy, a good camera, and great data logging forms that can sync to a central server.
The cameras could also serve more than just field data gathering purposes. If your non-profit is pretty small, a camera could have other general uses.
If you are really worried you can always purchase a [Spot Satellite GPS Messenger](https://www.amazon.com/SPOT-Satellite-GPS-Messenger-Orange/dp/B00C8S8S4W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8 &qid=1479135499&sr=8-1&keywords=spot+GPS) You just push a button and emergency services are notified of your GPS coordinates but it requires a $15 a month subscription.
I don't think you need this because of the number of people on the trail but if you or a loved one needs some peace of mind it is an option. I am surprised how often I see people carrying gear because a loved one at home is concerned and made them promise to bring something.
Dual Electronics XGPS150A Multipurpose Universal Bluetooth GPS Receiver with Wide Area Augmentation System and Portable Attachment https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006M49G80/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_iQLdBbCDS2HVE
That’s what I have. The Stratux, like the other guy mentioned, is pretty good too if you want ADS-B and such
This is a Wifi iPad Pro 12.9
I’ve come to learn that a hotspot alone does not provide accurate GPS locations (LTE iPads come with gps chip). Fortunately, there are these Bluetooth gps devices that provide accurate navigation for any iPad - Dual XGPS150A
As for the mounting, they’re Scosche MagicMount. After using this for months, two magnet mount is more than enough to hold the weight of the iPad Pro+case. I lower the ipad slightly to touch the bottom portion of the dash for support.
A Spot unit does the trick but the Garmin units all rely on BT connection to your phone which in turn uses your data plan to relay location...basically a convoluted version of the RoadID app.
Edit: these are the Spot units, worth the money if you do a lot of backcountry and off grid sports. If you do backcountry ski or snowboard do not expect this to work as an avalanche beacon, get a true PIPS unit.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00C8S8S4W/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1449369551&sr=8-2&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=spot&dpPl=1&dpID=419EjY0YtwL&ref=plSrch
Just bought a Garmin Forerunner 35 refurbed from Amazon
Not sure about the manufacturer warranty as it's not from Garmin directly, but it's a good deal on a normally kinda pricey watch. I've had it for about a week and so far it's fine.
The Geocaching app from Geocaching.com is really the one-stop-shop. It pretty much does everything. It's not free, but it's worth it. ($9.99 maybe?)
I haven't tried in some time, but I just tested my iPhone 4S inside a metal building.. Still getting about 30ft accuracy in POOR conditions, which is where MOST geocaches will be. I'm still going to stand by my "Get a GPS" recommendation..
http://amzn.com/B00542NV32 is all you need. I have the first generation of this one, before it even included maps (which you don't need). At the time it was a good deal at $90, but WOW, this eTrex 10 is unreal for $90. You can almost bury these new ones in a lead box covered in concrete and they'll get a lock.
https://www.amazon.com/GlobalSat-BU-353-S4-USB-Receiver-Black/dp/B008200LHW
The Garmin Forerunner 35 has just been replaced by a newer model (the 45) but the 35 is still a great watch and perfect for most beginners. And it can be used for cycling as well as running.
New model for $120
Renewed model for $100
Damn, that's a good deal. I have the one with the wrist HR but I only use the strap when I run so I can't personally say that the strap is definitely more accurate (I like the extra data you get with the strap). However, from the reviews I've read, it seems like the wrist hr monitor is slightly less accurate than the strap during runs, but still pretty useful. I wanted the one with the wrist hr just so I'd still have hr data if I forgot to wear the strap or whatever.
Also, I really like that silver/red combo. I wish the 3 HR had come in more colors (I know different bands are available but the watch itself is only available in dark grey, as far as I know).
Actually though, that reminds me of one other benefit of the 3 HR- its also the sapphire model, which means the crystal is of a higher quality than the standard version (at least according to the salesman I talked to). If you tend to beat up watches, you may want to get that version, which is also on sale without the wrist HR. Even the titanium version, which also does not have the wrist HR, is on sale too. The 3 HR does not appear to be on sale though, at least not yet.
Any reason you don't want to use some hardware you probably already own? Does it have to be a watch?
Alpine Quest on your phone (or even a little burner phone) will do all the tracking you want plus show maps in a pinch. With your phone in airplane mode and the screen off, only GPS on, you can expect a solid couple of days of use as least. Throw it in your (or her) pack if you're worried about a pocket bulge or dropping/breaking it.
A $10 app isn't a real great gift idea, though.
I used Apline Quest on my phone during a 4 day hike through Dolly Sods the other week, tracking myself over 27-some-odd miles during all four days, and returned to the trailhead with something like 33% battery still remaining... I think that's better than you could hope for with any GPS enabled watch no matter how expensive it is.
Similarly, handheld GPS receivers, especially relatively basic monochrome models, can get excellent battery life and do everything you require (except come in watch form factor). Get an older model online or used and you can pay peanuts for it. You can get a Garmin eTrex 10 for about $80, these days.
Hey the Garmin Vivioactive sounds like it might fit the bill.
From what I've heard it has some strong pros and cons.
+Long battery life (they claim 3 weeks)
+Sturdy build
+Reliable software performance
+Very thin and reasonably sized
-Screen is comparatively small and low resolution
(probably why it lasts so long)
-Screen is very dim, apparently hard to see sometimes
Also the new Pebble stuff is coming out in a few months, they look pretty good too.
The deals will be closing very soon though (for a product you won't get until the fall.)
The Garmin Vivoactive is just over 8 mm thick.
Isn't android wear and it isn't round but it is thin.
It doesn't have to have GPS, but it helps immensely. It's not accurate at all when it has to determine its position solely through the hotspot.
If I had to use one for a lengthy amount of time, I'd probably get something like this:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006M49G80/?coliid=I30NJ04KXARET&colid=ZEOX2TYLFE1B&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it
It comes down to "what do you want it to do?"
If you want smartphone integration and you have an Apple phone, there's really no question.
If you're just looking for no-frills GPS tracking then there are a bunch of Garmin watches that could fit the bill just fine. I've been using my VivoActive for a while now and it does a good job.
At a slightly higher price-point you can get wrist-based HR and that sort of stuff, if you want.
Best advice is to figure out what you think would be useful, read some reviews (DCRainmaker is great) and drop the hammer on something that fits within your requirements and budget.
Yeah I use this one with great success and then use Google Earth and a program called GooPS. Use it everyday at work in my truck. You just have to deal with precaching google earth or having a hotspot on.
If you’re even close to half-serious, only fancier, more expensive models have a barometric altimeter. Plenty get the data just fine using GPS.
For reference, neither the Amazon’s Choice $80 Garmin ETrex 10 nor its $150 upgraded 20x model have barometers. To get one, you have to get the even more premium 30x model, which MSRPs for $300.
Garmin Foretrex 401.
It's not super cheap, but it has USB data logging, ANT+ sensor interface, GPS obviously, magnetic compass and real barometer (as well as altitude from GPS) so it's pretty full featured.
I like that it gives map references, so you can use it for navigation either with uploaded waypoints or in conjunction with a map; or to tell the emergency services where in the mountain wilderness to find you when you fall off and break your leg. ;)
Bracket wraps around the bar and cable ties, and works like an 'artificial wrist'. Works a treat.
Bad Elf 2200 GPS Pro (Black/silver) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008VWNBBE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Xr71Bb42J1BS5
Yeah, I started ingress on nexus 7 with hotspot, so know how that works for location based games. My wife used iPad + external GPS + hotspot and that was just a bit too ungainly. I already owned the GPS from earlier geocaching with an iPod touch though, so it's what we had laying around.
If she had something like this she likely wouldn't have gotten lost. We already have GPS coverage for the entirety of the planet.
And they have better battery life than most phones with GPS capability
But that said, she was hiking alone, even with a gps device she still would've had problems due to having sustained a broken leg.
When I was first getting started I just used my phone, which worked out well for spur of the moment caching in town! I'll still use my phone if I'm not going anywhere were I can't see power lines. The Garmin is great for the more rugged areas since its water and shock resistant, and with two AA batteries it runs for months. I can also set an SOS location before I start my hike so if I get turned around it will point an arrow straight towards that location. Even if you don't use it for geocaching I highly recommend it for hiking! This is what I have.
Your questions is sorta confusing. But anyway yes you can do this. Take a generic laptop, with, say, windows 7.
I used to wear a wristband that says: "Be content, but never satisfied." It was given to me by my track and field coach for good performance, and getting PRs (breaking previous records).
Now, I currently wear my Garmin Vivoactive, which looks pretty sleek. The functions include the following:
It helped a good amount in losing weight, and tracking my workouts. I'm also motivated by the step-tracking. It can also easily be dressed up and down, similar to a pair of chelsea boots.
A spot device is the correct gadget if things go ugly and you are out of cell range. Some have the ability to send messages so you can send checkin messages to those back at home. Usually hardware + subscription, but not terribly expensive compared to a sat phone plan.
Antenna height makes a big difference - more of a line of site. I get ~4 miles on the ground with a 5w aviation radio, and around 8nm once I'm a few thousand feet in the air. (double that if the aircraft has an external antenna) I wonder if one could broadcast up to the planes flying overhead on 121.5 if things were truly an emergency. I know I've been able to relay information from someone on the ground to ATC when flying. Wrong tool for camping, however.
While it does not help with broadcasting - a shortwave radio is a lot of fun to pack in camping. One of the guys we camp with will pack in a shortwave and what seems like a hundred feet of wire as he attempts to listen in to Swedish radio from the BWCA in Minnesota.
They're going for $90 new on Amazon currently so it's not too bad. I scored one on eBay for about $20 a few months back and that was a steal of a deal so $50 is not too bad in my estimate.
78s is a 62s, they even share the same exact firmware update. Only difference is cosmetic. But I agree, the GPSMAP series have a great rep.
Tetracove: Yea, in USD. Etrex 20x is discontinued, replaced by the Etrex 22x. You could have gotten the 30x even in your currency for just a fraction more.
Current amazon prices.. But you can get cheaper on other sites.
Etrex 20x
https://www.amazon.com/Garmin-010-01508-00-eTrex-20x/dp/B00XQE6ZFG/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=etrex+30x&qid=1571795353&sr=8-4
Etrex 30x
https://www.amazon.com/Garmin-eTrex-010-01508-10-Handheld-Navigator/dp/B00XQE6Z92/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=etrex+30x&qid=1571795436&sr=8-2
I don't know what kind of budget you have but I dropped some coin on this and never been happier. You can update online down load a whole shit load of maps on a card, and so much more.
This is the receiver I’ve used. A friend has it paired with his tablet and uses it and an iPad in his Cessna for navigating. Nothing jailbroken, works fine. I use a USB receiver with my laptop, but plan to switch over to a tablet soon now that I’ve played around with that setup. Lots less cords to deal with.
Glad to hear the tour is a good choice!
Okay, so we did have the SPOT beacon, so we'll look into getting GPS unit. Nothing showed up on Eastern Moutain Sport's website so I took a look around amazon, is this what you're talking about?
https://www.amazon.com/Garmin-eTrex-Worldwide-Handheld-Navigator/dp/B00542NV32/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482009320&sr=8-1&keywords=gps+hiking
We're planning on leaving our itinerary with safetravel and our emergency contacts, so we'll be set in that department. And yeah, we're not planning on sending out an emergency call unless we're physically stuck.
Here's a more detailed look at our itinerary:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TsUwgaFMoquH9ccH8BZiUh1CW_82UTmdZEythZMZQpM/edit?usp=sharing
Also, I totally get what you're saying about multiple mountain trails. the frustration is that these websites (which are official ones!) don't list like 8 trails, they just give driving instructions to a parking lot at the base of whatever location and say "the trail is clearly marked from there". Example: http://www.icelandtrails.com/trails/hafnarfjall/
Finally, for robust and massive spikes, those Grivel G10s look like the kinds given out when we go on the glacier walk tour. I don't want you to feel like I'm arguing (from a position of little knowledge, no less) but could you help me understand their necessity for climbing up a gravelly/rocky/dirt-ish slope? In comparison to the microspikes, of course, we wouldn't go without something at least equivalent to the Kathoola Microspikes.
I like the Dual AV XGPS150. It's $99 at Amazon and works great for caching. Pair it via bluetooth with your iPod (or iPad in my case) or your android and you have great location (better than that in the phone) within a few meters.
I cache successfully with it and it's very reasonably priced. Add in the maps from your iPhone or Android device and you're golden.
Yeah, mine is a different model, the Explorer and not the SE nor the Explorer+.
https://www.amazon.com/AG-008727-201-Explorer-Satellite-Communicator-Navigation/dp/B00I6EY01C/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1505814435&sr=8-4&keywords=inreach+explorer
So maybe the problem only affected the old SE model and not the Explorer. The OP also specifies that their model is the SE.
Just confirming, this is the one I have:
https://www.amazon.com/DeLorme-inReach-SE-Satellite-Tracker/dp/B00BX7TJ2O
Basically, if I push down somewhat hard (not even 'that' hard) with the lock engaged, it gets pushed a little to the side and then the SOS button can activate.
That's great that yours doesn't do that, who knows... maybe a common manufacturing defect?
Or this for much cheaper.
i used this.. no subscription, you can link it to NAVIT for free but i just used it for MPH since my speedometer is off and elevation.
it just uses existing satellites, so no one has to work harder for you having the service.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008200LHW/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_0iIQCbEE448N6
I've honestly never understood the attraction of these as opposed to a plain old bike comp plus a $100 hiker's GPS - why do you like it so much?
What do you get from one of these you can't get from a $50 Cateye plus one of these?
For Windows there is Vistumbler that I found works, but very slowly and WiGLE support is limited to the old Network Stumbler format.
For the best results I've found use Kismet on Linux.
My setup is.
Cheap laptop running dual boot Kali Linux and Windows 10.
Alfa AWUSO36NH
2.4GHz 15dBi RP-SMA Male Wifi Antenna
Garmin 64st
I didn't buy the gps just for wardriving either, I use it for geocaching as well.
That GPS you posted should be good for Linux and Kismet since it can be used with the gpsd program.
Were you speaking of the Vivoactive? Or Vivoactive hr? Here's The Vivoactive
V1
;
V2
How would you say those GPSr's you mentioned compare to this? I know it's fairly basic, but it seems to have what I need. Plus it's wrist-mounted so my hands would be free when using it.
I find the best way to deal with Prime Day (or some other "fire sale!") is to keep a running wishlist of stuff and have a basic idea of how much that stuff costs. For instance, I did actually save $100 from the normal price on a hiking GPS on Prime Day. I just stuck to buying only the things I had been watching the price on (there are a couple of sites that help you do that too, but I just kept looking at my wishlists).
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01A1HL79E/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
This is what I use. It's a combination of GPS & Dashcam so you can punch in where you want to go easily. It keeps track of a bunch of data like driving speed and recent addresses.
Which one do you have? I just ordered https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00RE1UL52/ref=ya_st_dp_summary it comes today.
I am using the GlobalSat BU-353-S4 USB as well. Although I had to make a couple of code changes to v0.5b5 which I flight tested last week and it worked great. I am planning to update to the latest releases and see what else needs to be done to make it a simple auto-detected and auto-configured device.
Oh, oh. Am I going to be sorry that I bought the Globalsat? There was one review in December by aerojoe777 who said that he was using it w/ Stratux.
For emergencies, I have Garmin inReach Mini. I currently pay for the emergency plan, which provides access to text and SOS should I require it. You, unfortunately, won't receive text messages for evac notices, but as another pointed out, there are other ways to receive these (such as radio).
Obviously, the Garmin inReach isn't a replacement for a mobile hotspot or internet access. It would allow you to keep in touch with family members (although slowly) and fire off an SOS if you need help. If you wanted to make phone calls, your best fail-safe is likely a satellite phone.
I know this probably isn't what you're looking for, but it is a perspective that perhaps you can consider.
Not OP, but I use the Garmin VivoActive watch to track my runs. Its cheap right now, since they just released their 2nd version (the original version works just fine). https://amzn.com/B00RE1UL52
If you don't want to upgrade tech, I suggest mapping your runs on mapmyrun.com. That way you can either setup a course or see what you did (you just have to remember your route)
http://amzn.com/B002PHRDO2
And your saved...
Link Here
Amazon Description
Life is good when you're in your running shoes, but life is even better when you have a cool Garmin Forerunner 35 GPS Heart Rate Running Fitness Watch wrapped around your wrist. Turn up your favorite jam and hit the trails with this slim and lightweight running watch. It shows off a wrist-based heart rate sensor perfect for monitoring your heart on daily runs and during training and races. It features all day activity tracking including counting steps, calories, sleep, intensity minutes, and reminds you when to move. The built-in GPS tracks how far, how fast, and where you run and smart notifications display emails, texts, and other alerts while you are running your heart out. Rock it every day, all day and run baby run with this Garmin Forerunner 35 GPS Heart Rate Running Fitness Watch as your fitness partner in crime.
Features & details
24/7 heart rate monitoring - warm gives you heart rate all day and night -no additional Strap required.
Vibration alerts - helpful vibration alerts notify you of running prompts, activity tracking milestones, smart notifications and virtual pacing progress.
Updated display - new high resolution display that is perfect for indoor/outdoor viewing.
Smart connectivity - auto uploads, smart notifications, live track, music controls and automatic sw updates.
Edit: Spacing
This guy. The plans are annoying but not terribly expensive.
The Explorer isn't worth the upgrade money. The yellow one is a good deal.
It does spot weather forecasts which are alright. But the best part is the texting - have someone who can read gribs well watching for you and texting you once per day. If you don't have someone to do that, I'm more than happy to (though I'll be sailing south as well, may or may not conflict).
The alternative is SSB. This is the one that comes recommended, but I haven't gotten it to work well. I also haven't put in much time because my inreach system works great. If you can do it, you can tune into not only daily voice forecasts but weatherfax (works with computer and phone apps).