GPS

Map and Compass skills are vital for any Scoutmaster on an outing.  That said, a GPS will come in handy on many outings and will take much of the guess work out in an emergency situation. 

Types of GPS

The two main options are dedicated GPSs and Smartphones.

Dedicated GPS

A dedicated GPS such as a Garmin eTrex comes in handy.  It is simple and can be loaded with maps, routes and waypoints

Pros:

• Reasonable cost (if you use it a LOT)

• Use of regular batteries are easy to replace

• Does everything you need

• Works

• Generally waterproof

• Rugged 

• Extra batteries are lighter than a powerbank

• Pings satellites more frequently than smartphone - so faster and more accurate reads

Cons:

• Very fussy setup and use - Once you load it up, it's fine, but learning how to use it is not intuitive

• Painful to use in age of smart phones

• Depending on model - limited battery life if you leave them on all the time

• Not multifunction (No messaging or camera)

• It is possible to upload new maps, but it can be pricy or painful

• Uploading routes is not intuitive 

Smartphone

The smart phone has come a long ways and does everything.  It can work as a reasonable GPS once set up with proper apps and Maps

Apps:

• Google Maps

  • Great for Urban areas

  • Limited trails 

  • Can download entire regions for offline use

• AllTrails

  • Very popular app has reasonably up to date information on many trails

  • Paid version allows you to download offline maps for Smartphone or GPS

• Gaia GPS

  • Allows for finding new trails, recording your route, and saving hike statistics and performance

  • Paid version required to download and sue offline maps

• Guthook Guides

  • Designed for offline use

  • App best suited for Pacific Crest Trail and Appalachian Trail

  • Provides distance, elevation, waypoints, and location of water sources and campsites

  • You need to purchase trails individually 

• Cairn 

  • Another popular app

  • Allows you to share you GPS location

• CalTopo 

  • Great avalanche shading feature

  • Allows you to print out with multiple layers

Pros:

• You probably already have a smartphone

• Does many things

• Easy to use (although you will need to figure out apps and how to download maps)

• Easy to read screens 

• Can be linked to Satellite Messenger for remote messaging 

Cons:

• GPS systems are phones are regulated by the FCC and have limited function

• So many uses means you may need a backup battery or charger

• Not designed to run navigation constantly - heat and energy consumption issues

• May not be waterproof

• Some will fail from humidity, rain or submersion 

• Not as durable if dropped on rock

• Great sadness if lost

• Good navigation apps require a monthly or annual fee

GPS Messengers

Some GPS models come with a built in Satellite Messenger.  These have obvious benefits.  Downsides are that these are often very heavy, bulky and expensive.  

GPS Watches

Like gadgets?  The GPS watch may be the most techy one you get for an outing.

Pros:

• Small, light and compact

• Great backup GPS

• Great for tracking metrics 

• Can be linked with phone or Satellite Messenger 

Cons:

• Expensive

• Limited battery life (depending on watch) - need to limit use

• Tiny screen

• Difficult to set up

• Technology advances so much that your investment is at risk of becoming outdated befor fully enjoying it