GPS receivers for outdoors and those meant for cars are two completely different systems. Auto units have larger screens, come with cigarette-lighter adapters and have audible driving directions. It is what they don't have that make them unsuitable for the trail. They lack features like altimeters, electronic compasses, barometers, and resistance to being damaged by the elements.

And don't even think about purchasing one of the newer crossover GPS receivers. Although these new units combine the characteristics of car units
(larger display, driving directions) and handheld GPS units (lightweight and easy-to-carry), most GPS reviewers agree that crossover GPS units aren't as good for either purpose as the better separate products. Most reviews of crossover GPS units recommend that your best bet is to buy separate units.

Okay, so you are convinced that a separate outdoor hand held GPS is in your near future. What should you consider when you make that purchase? How can you find the best hand held GPS for your outdoor activities?

Get the highest quality hand held GPS unit that your budget allows. You won't regret it. First on my list of considerations is water resistance. Will you be outdoors in fog, mist, rain, or routinely hiking in places with streams, rivers, lakes, oceans? Then spend the extra money to get a model that is rated IP X-7, the highest waterproofing standard on the market. Sure, you'll save money if you buy a hand held GPS unit rated IP X-4, water resistant, but what will you do if it gets wet on a hike and you have not been paying attention to your route? You might be lost and you might be in danger.

Next consideration is battery life. Of course you will not need to have your hand held unit constantly on while hiking the trail, but when you do turn it on to check your position, you sure want that battery to have plenty of power.So buy the hand held GPS unit with as long a battery life as you can afford to buy. Most have fifteen hours life, but some are rated up to thirty two hours and a few even thirty five.

Now consider the screen. Monochromatic might save you some bucks, but a full color screen is worth the extra money and extra battery power for ease of use and clarity of map resolution.

What about maps? Most hand held GPS units come with a set of North American base maps, but they really excel when you use them with map software. You simply load more detailed maps as you need them. Some inexpensive handheld GPS receivers don't use maps at all; they rely instead on waypoints and coordinates.

The majority of hand held GPS units look like large mobile phone walkie-talkies. They have their own built-in GPS antennae. Most offer the ability to store up to 1,000 or more waypoints and access to 12 or more satellites. A waypoint is simply a coordinate for a selected location. You can program waypoints while you're traveling, or you can preprogram waypoints before you leave home or camp. It is rather like leaving virtual breadcrumbs on your trail.

Lastly, consider the ways in which you plan to use your hand-held GPS. Keep in mind that your technical needs will vary depending on whether you are looking for a unit for camping, hiking, cross-country skiing, running, boating, or bicycling. Hand held GPS receivers are being designed more and more for special uses. Take advantage of that and purchase a unit that will enhance your enjoyment of your favorite outdoor sport, whatever it may be.