New to GPS help!

[tp1986]

I am a grad student currently working on my Masters in Middle East studies at the American University in Paris. Growing up in Alabama I went camping, hiking and hunting a lot and miss that. I would like to get a handheld GPS that will allow me to go out and about in the rural areas of Europe but also one that I could use when I do research trips to the Middle East and North Africa. One thing I do know is that I want it to be GLONASS enabled from what I am told in America it may or may not make a difference but in Europe and Middle East/North Africa it makes a big difference. Another thing I would like is to be able to download maps so I won't be going broke buying multiple maps and SD cards.

 

What I have been trying to figure out is touch screen vs buttons. I have and use an iPhone daily so that is somewhat similar but I am also not incompetent so I can learn the buttons.

 

Things I am not sure on are extras like the 3D compass do I need this function or barometer/altimeter? I have all of these on my Suunto watch.

 

I don't need or want a camera as I will have my phone or my full time camera.

 

If there are anything else that I need or should look at please let me know.

 

Sorry for all the questions but how can a newbie learn if not asking questions lol.

 

Now to look through the forums for ideas.

Edited April 12, 2014 by tp1986

[+luvvinbird]

I am a grad student currently working on my Masters in Middle East studies at the American University in Paris. Growing up in Alabama I went camping, hiking and hunting a lot and miss that. I would like to get a handheld GPS that will allow me to go out and about in the rural areas of Europe but also one that I could use when I do research trips to the Middle East and North Africa. One thing I do know is that I want it to be GLONASS enabled from what I am told in America it may or may not make a difference but in Europe and Middle East/North Africa it makes a big difference. Another thing I would like is to be able to download maps so I won't be going broke buying multiple maps and SD cards.

 

What I have been trying to figure out is touch screen vs buttons. I have and use an iPhone daily so that is somewhat similar but I am also not incompetent so I can learn the buttons.

 

Things I am not sure on are extras like the 3D compass do I need this function or barometer/altimeter? I have all of these on my Suunto watch.

 

I don't need or want a camera as I will have my phone or my full time camera.

 

If there are anything else that I need or should look at please let me know.

 

Sorry for all the questions but how can a newbie learn if not asking questions lol.

 

Now to look through the forums for ideas.

It sounds like what you're looking for is a Garmin eTrex 20. It features GLONASS and has buttons and a thumb stick. Super easy to use and compact but loaded with features. It's dropped in price here in North America and is generally below $199 U.S. It has a micro SD card slot for purchased or downloaded maps. I like it's compact size.

[+splashy]

Only the last about 2 years some outdoor Gps'es and car satnav work also with GLONASS as an addition, but most of the time it doesn't really add something, not in Europe not in Africa or anywhere else.

 

A must is an Sd card, for the rest you actually have to see the screens in bright light and the feel of a touch or button.

Etrex will do as well as Garmin 62 or 64, Oregon or Montana.

 

The 3axes compass IN the Gps is needed when you geocache, barometer not so very important.

Edited April 12, 2014 by splashy

[tp1986]

Thanks luvvinbird that device looks nice but small. One thing I forgot to mention is I would like to be able to attach it to my motorcycle if possible. I bought a Bennelli 125cc to get around on while I am here so that would be a plus if thats possible if not its no big deal.

[tp1986]

Thank you Splashy keep the replays coming I am learning a lot from this community. Well I will use this device for everything traveling the roads and mountains as well as the deserts and back areas of places like Istanbul or Algiers.

[+splashy]

When it's use is mainly on a motorbike check also the Zumo.

The Montana, usable for on and off the road, I mentioned before has a special bike holder.

It also has a Nuvi mode and all kind of make yourself programmable profiles.

 

The more expensive models have a steep learning curve, it's not a buy and go like a car satnav.