Navigating wastelands pose numerous problems - even with a GPS device. Scarce landmarks mixed with undulating sand dunes challenge even the best navigators attempting to chart a course. In addition, the underlying danger of hidden canyons to navigate around heightens the degree of difficulty.

Luckily GPS devices can help you navigate a clear path through the desert. Since vegetation is sporadic, your device will have continuous communication with satellites - unlike trekking though densely covered forests that block signal paths. Using waypoints, one can easily chart distances in the desert which can then be indicated on maps that truly reflect the landscape.

Distances are difficult to judge in the desert since usual points of reference (steep drop-offs, unusual tree formations, etc.) are all but absent. To get around this, identify any landmark that is easily distinguished from the background and indicate it as a waypoint on the GPS unit. Seek out one more and indicate that point as well. From those two waypoints distance can be calculated. Judging distance with the naked eye alone can be deceptive.

Since desert topography shifts more than forested areas, maps can contain erroneous information. Nevertheless, using a paper map and a GPS unit allows you to indicate on the paper map the locations of erratic landscapes and places to avoid on the way back, which leads to a safer crossing of the desert.

Taking along a GPS can save your life if used wisely. But it can also carry a false sense of security. Bring your GPS unit but also remember to do the following:

- Always check weather conditions and routes thoroughly before setting off into the dusty horizon. Conditions can change rapidly so check them often..
- If traveling by car, remember to check the oil and gas at the last stop.
- Bring road and trail maps that correspond to your GPS maps and waypoints.
- Bring at least a gallon of water per person per day.
- Never set off into the desert alone. Use the buddy system and inform others of your whereabouts.
- Bring extra batteries for your GPS unit - its not just your body that can become overheated.

Since most areas in North America have been explored, finding a detailed GPS map to bring with you for any of the four major desert systems causes no problem. However, even if you have all the necessities for your trek into the barren lands, remember each desert is different and contains unique dangers.

Still a few years from retirement, Charmian Christie has begun her RV homework early. The Outdoor Adventure Expert for Nomadik.com, she offers practical advice on family RV travel and ways to explore the world in your RV.