Which GPS

[rbpru]

On our recent trip to FL we realized that a GPS system would be very handy. We managed okay with computers, maps and Google but it was obvious that a real time system would be better.

We usually cover a lot of territory at a slow pace, checking out things as we go, so we are on the road for several weeks at a time.

Looking on the internet there are a host of models from $69.00 to $369.99; basically more features more money.

My question is, which features do I really need?

[Speedogomer]

I also agree with Garmin. I've used Magellan and we currently have Tom Toms for work... They're absolute garbage. Everyone universally hates them at my job.

Features? Really what you need is lifetime map updates (otherwise you have to pay), and as large of a screen as you can fit. Live traffic helps in a city, but otherwise it's not very worthwhile.

[Ole_Man_Dan]

We have a couple of Garmin's. Swear by em.
Much easier to use than others.
New Garmin's acquire satellites much faster too.
I like the turn by turn directions.
Ex... In Trussville, Al. I got directions to turn in front of a 'Staples'. Didn't realize one was there.

I also agree that you should go big with your GPS.
5" is not too big.

New Garmin's have update of maps feature that old ones lacked.

[bob_nestor]

my toys wrote:
I had a Tom Tom. My friend had a Garmin. We took them both on several outings to compare them. My Tom Tom did not show things (gas stations, stores...)even when we were right in front of them. My Tom Tom was newer than her Garmin. I threw the Tom Tom away. I now own a Garmin. I love it.

Amen! I've always used Garmin and have a couple of old handhelds, so I was familiar with them. But my 2010 Roadtrek came with an Eclipse AVN4430 TomTom in-dash unit. I struggled with it trying to make peace with it, but it couldn't find it's way out of the driveway. This week I yanked it out and installed a Kenwood DNX571ND Garmin (new for 2014).

I'm donating the AVN4430 to a fellow RVer who just loves TomTom. Hope she still feels that way after she gets it installed in her RV!

[Dennis_Smith]

5 inch screen DO NOT GO SMALLER. I have three different ones, different prices, and to me they are all about the same. Up dates are so so. It takes a long time for most updates to be posted. We love it for restaurants, punch in BBQ and lets see what we get. I have found so very good places this way

[my_toys]

I had a Tom Tom. My friend had a Garmin. We took them both on several outings to compare them. My Tom Tom did not show things (gas stations, stores...)even when we were right in front of them. My Tom Tom was newer than her Garmin. I threw the Tom Tom away. I now own a Garmin. I love it.

[boosTT]

Free map updates are important. Bigger screen helps. Live traffic depends on where you travel (and when).

Other features don't make a difference for me.

I still think google navigation on a smart phone is the best though.

[2oldman]

There are a ton of gps posts in technology. Search 'gps' in heading.