use of maps and/or GPS

Submitted: Friday, Dec 29, 2000 at 01:00
ThreadID: 58 Views:2408 Replies:3 FollowUps:1
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In preparation for our trip, we are wondering:
- should we get a GPS (I think this takes away the adventurous part?)...
- wrt maps: is it recommended to have 1/250.000 scale maps of most areas or will a general atlas of Australia do?
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Reply By: Greg Harewood - Friday, Dec 29, 2000 at 01:00

Friday, Dec 29, 2000 at 01:00
Take away the Adventure? - the opposite to the extreme!! - A GPS is now considered standard equipment for any serious traveller. Dont be put off by the technology - they are relatively easy to use and great fun especially when coupled with a laptop computer and a suitable mapping program such as OziExplorer (see Forum). A GPS will allow you to locate spots you would have great dificulty in locating otherwise - with relative ease, - no scratching your head at track junctions or back tracking(theoretically). You will be able to save all your campsites/favourite spots for future reference and even record the route youve taken each day. A GPS will make your trip much more ejoyable. While getting lost and wasting half a day going up the wrong track could be considered part of an Adventure - plotting a route to a great looking campsite up a little used track the night before and actually getting there with few detours is 100 times more satisifying (and gives you more time to relax which is what its all about). Regards Greg Harewood
AnswerID: 102

Reply By: adrian - Monday, Jan 08, 2001 at 01:00

Monday, Jan 08, 2001 at 01:00
I agree with Greg. I would also like to add that a GPS used in conjuntion with a Sat Phone or HF radio will allow help to arrive a whole lot quicker if you can give them your GPS co-ordinates. GPS readings are accurate within a couple of hundred metres(and thats at its worst). I have used a GPS for a couplke of years now and would not go bush without one. Happy Trails.
AnswerID: 122

Follow Up By: Bart - Monday, Jan 08, 2001 at 01:00

Monday, Jan 08, 2001 at 01:00
thanks Adrian, that sounds like an very valid point to me!
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Reply By: Henrik Jespersen - Tuesday, Jan 09, 2001 at 01:00

Tuesday, Jan 09, 2001 at 01:00
I totally agree with Greg Harewood. Get a GPS, and a version of OziExplorer - and a whole new world will open to you.
To sit at home and pinpoint a location on a map, then export the waypoint to the GPS, and the go out there AND FIND IT - Great FUN!
A good point that Greg Harewood has is the fact that travelling is ALSO about relaxing. It is a great reward to be able to find the spot, and then afterward have time enough to go sightseeing - before supper!!!
AnswerID: 124

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