Amazon[amazon.com] has Garmin eTrex 32x Rugged Handheld GPS Navigator for $219.99. Shipping is free.
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Handheld GPS units like this are intended for loading large map sets (like the entire US) and using in remote areas. Battery life is usually longer than phones and easily extended by carrying a couple of extra AA batteries.
Phones use satellites just like these, but some phones may need access to cell towers for best accuracy.
I haven't used my etrex in years, though. I preload maps on my phone's GPS app, and put it on airplane mode if I'm somewhere remote. I'll have a battery pack backup with me just in case. My phone's been fine.
So what does this have over a phone with offline maps? Truly wondering. And, yes, too lazy to google…
Because the gubmint can't track you...duh! Just kidding (and not if you got warrants )
....but you could duplicate something like this with free maps via something like OsmAnd and an old android phone. If you side load the app it is free vs paying on the Play store (siding loading directly from the Devs, not suggesting pirating) however like others have said this should have a MUCH MUCH MUCH better battery life being on all the time and GPS reception should be superior as well being many phones, while having GPS, actually depend on cell towers more than you think for accurate data and when topography doesn't allow them to 'see' the satellites.
This also smaller (but thicker) and should be more waterproof and rugged vs your average phone. Bonus points for showing up on your doorstep ready to go.
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Edit: so sorry this wasn't "helpful" to the down voters but thank you to those who took the time educate me!
Phones use satellites just like these, but some phones may need access to cell towers for best accuracy.
I haven't used my etrex in years, though. I preload maps on my phone's GPS app, and put it on airplane mode if I'm somewhere remote. I'll have a battery pack backup with me just in case. My phone's been fine.
....but you could duplicate something like this with free maps via something like OsmAnd and an old android phone. If you side load the app it is free vs paying on the Play store (siding loading directly from the Devs, not suggesting pirating) however like others have said this should have a MUCH MUCH MUCH better battery life being on all the time and GPS reception should be superior as well being many phones, while having GPS, actually depend on cell towers more than you think for accurate data and when topography doesn't allow them to 'see' the satellites.
This also smaller (but thicker) and should be more waterproof and rugged vs your average phone. Bonus points for showing up on your doorstep ready to go.
Join The Conversation
Share your experience with the Slickdeals community
Share information with the community. Please follow our Community Guidelines and be kind!