How to Use GPS on Vacation

GPS, or Global Positioning System, allows you to see a real-time projection of your present coordinates onto an accurate map of an area. Taking a GPS unit on vacation can save you lots of time and hassle, especially in places where you have trouble speaking the language. Follow these steps to use GPS on vacation.

Instructions

1. Load new maps. Unfortunately, GPS does not automatically download current maps of the area you're in. This means that you need to plan in advance where you will be so you can find and load maps of those areas. Your GPS device manufacturer will direct you to outlets for compatible maps. So, get ready by buying and uploading the correct maps for your vacation.

2. Do some itinerary planning and prepping. Locate the names and addresses of important places on your vacation, such as your hotel, the bank, post office and airport. Add these locations to your GPS as waypoints so that you can easily refer to them or get directions on the fly. Also, use the GPS to plan days of sightseeing by plugging in one stop after another so you can seamlessly make your way through the day with the help of GPS.

3. Use GPS to track vacation photos. One of the niftiest uses of GPS on your vacation is to keep track of the date, time and location of your photos. Use a program such as GPS Photo Linker to accurately tag each of your photos with the coordinates at which the photos were taken. If you want something more manual, take a photo of your GPS display after you take your vacation photo and enter the data into your online photo sharing program.

4. Make sure you GPS unit is suitable. There are many different kinds of GPS units, each designed for a different use and purpose. If you're relying on GPS to keep track of your location in critical situations, such as hiking or sailing, make sure the unit is rugged and waterproof. If you're always going to be in a car, on the other hand, consider using a SAT-NAV in-dash unit that is more convenient for navigating as you drive.