GPS for field work that i can also use with city maps?

Question

I do a lot of work in the field, so i want to buy a field gps that has all the features of a hicking gps (Battery operation, good memory for tracks and waypoin ts etc.....)

Is there a GPS that has this and at the same time has at least some Automotive GPS functions, like city maps and stuff?

Answer 1

I got a Garmin GPSMAP76-CSX. It comes with a basic map set that does not have auto-routing but shows main and most secondary roads. However, it has a microSD slot for adding pre-burned maps or you can buy the DVDs and burn you own.

I added a Topographical mapset on one microSD card, and then added the City Navigator mapset on another. The City Navigator has auto-routing capability, so it will give you text-based turn by turn instructions. The Topographical maps aren't as good as NGS/USGS topo maps, but are good for basic hiking purposes.

The unit itself has top of the line features, built-in altimeter and compass, geocaching, etc. It's nice but not cheap. Mapsets aren't cheap either, but I wasn't looking for cheap, I wanted good functionality.

Answer 2

Most mapping handhelds will do the job.  They either have built-in memory or a memory card slot you can use to load road maps.  Some examples from Garmin are the 60Cx/CSx, 76Cx/CSx, eTrex Legend HCx, eTrex Venture HC, Colorado, and Oregon models.