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I'm new to geocaching. I have been using my iPhone and the geocaching app. I thought about getting a GPS. However, most of my activity will be in an urban environment where I must drive/bike the roads, I cannot travel in a straight line. Can a GPS device show me the correct road route? The straight line from my location to the next geocache is of no use to me. The base map on the Garmin models I have been looking at have only the main roads. If not, is it better to stick with the app?

Thanks.

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In town, you may not notice much of a difference in functionality between using a GPS and a Phone. Depending on your phone, the only advantage might be better screen readability in direct sunlight. But unless you are having difficulties navigating to caches via your phone, a GPS is unlikely to offer major improvements. To be honest, the biggest improvement to your geocaching experience, whether using a phone or a GPS, will be to upgrade to a premium membership. The extra features make the game that much more intuitive and accessible.

 

To answer your question, yes, handheld GPS units can navigate on roads (and trails*) to a geocache. This requires that you have a routable map installed, and luckily, routable maps provided with Open Street Map data are free to download and use. If you're planning to purchase a GPS for more than just geocaching (hiking, cycling, etc.), then go ahead and buy one. I think the Garmin Oregon (700) makes for a great multi-purpose GPS, doubling as a bike computer as well. But if you're only purchasing one for geocaching, I would wait until you accumulate some more finds and decide that you're going to stick with the game long-term before investing that kind of money into it.

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For road routing, you would want a car GPS, not a handheld and they all come with the maps included.

 

I'm sure you can use your phone as well with the correct Geocaching app. The phone fan boys will be along soon to promote their religion and provide suggestions.

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