Advice on Which to Bring GPS? Reg. road maps/atlas?

[MnateyN]

i was wondering what would be better to bring on cross country trips.. digital-GPS handheld or in dash screens/ or Maps/atlas both? what do you all think? should i spend the extra money for the digital stuff? Is it worth the money?

Nate

[illusion]

I would say that if you want adventure you should go with the old way, maps.
If you need to go from A to B in a certain time then a GPS is very handy..

[Foy]

Hello Nate-

I will say that in my humble opinion, there is no COMPLETE substitute for maps, the ability to read them, and common sense. I like GPS and navigation systems in general, but I would not leave my home county without maps.

Then again, I'm 53 years old and hold a "Curmudgeon-In-Training" certificate.

Foy

[Midwest Michael]

Welcome to the RTA Forum!

Personally, I've never used a GPS for a roadtrip, and really have never found a need or even a use for one.

That said, plenty of people do like them and find them to be helpful, but I would never use a GPS as the only navigation tool available. A good map/atlas should be a must carry, even as a backup to the latest technology.

[MnateyN]

THanks guys! I definately agree with all of you! i have a gps in my car but i just feel kind of vulnerable when i go on day trips to whereever the road takes me. But Thats my fault for not taking a paper map/atlas! i'll prob take both on my Orange county run, but I'll leave the gps for when im in a time binding situation!

-Nate

[PNW Judy]

There is no substitute. Of course, I'm a Curmudgeon-in-Training, too. (LOL, Foy.)

GPS can be handy for helping you find a hotel, restaurant, gas station, etc. if you need one and aren't finding one via road signs.

[Foy]

I've always thought blind reliance on digitized data is troublesome. It's the kind of thing that might produce change of $165.27 when you buy a cheeseburger at McDonalds and pay for it with a $20. The cashier sees $165.27 on the display, and by George, that's what you're getting........

Foy

[Mass Tim]

I work in software, and I too actually prefer using paper maps when on the road. GPS is great for finding places to eat, shops, etc. as mentioned, but I like using paper maps (and to some extent, digital) when on the road, and when planning a trip.

[MnateyN]

thanks guys ! paper maps it is! i have always liked paper more but my car has a gps and only like it because it has a voice of a female swede :) 'turn left here' ha but yeah!

[Mark Sedenquist]

Here are a couple of threads you ought to read:

Tom Tom Trials

Microsoft Streets and Trips with GPS

Mark