First of all we are wannabe's and have only rented class A and C' motor homes on several occasions but I feel compelled to share what I consider a necessity when traveling in any vehicle. I have used GPS navigation systems for about 9 years now and would not consider going on a trip more than 50 miles from home without it. I am absolutely not an expert on all the GPS products on the market. I have only used 3 different systems Delorme Map Mate (for use with a laptop computer) GM's in car navigation system and Garmin Nuvi 350.
My purpose is to enlighten those that are not familiar with how GPS navigation systems work. These little wonders can make traveling stress free.. I will concentrate on the features of the Nuvi which although very expensive, it is the ultimate travelers companion. First of all, for those that are unfamiliar with GPS please go to the Garmin site http://www.garmin.com/aboutGPS/ for a good explanation. The manual for the Nuvi 350 is also available on line at http://www.garmin.com/products/manual.jsp?product=010-00455-00.
For me the overwhelming feature of this device is the touch screen. Having direct access to the navigation keys make operating the unit much easer than using GM's joy stick or a mouse pad in a laptop. The size is another important feature. At 4"X3"X1" with an internal battery it is the smallest full featured GPS on the market. Because of its size it can be used while walking or bicycling around an unfamiliar town. Even though it is very small, it is very easy to view while going down the highway. It will automatically switch to night mode when used after dark so you are not blinded by the display.
When navigating the unit provides voice guidance in several different languages and different accents and is by far the most natural sounding computer generated voice I have heard. For detailed reviews of this and other GPS devices search online.
When approaching a turn the map zooms in to show the details of the turn while the voice guidance talks you through the turn.
The preinstalled map data base includes street level detail of the United States, Canada and main road detail of Mexico, South America and all the Caribbean Islands. Additional map data bases are available for Europe
The feature that makes GPS invaluable is the Points of Interest data base included in the more expensive GPS,s. The Nuvi has a huge data base that is similar to a national Yellow Pages directory. The data base includes gas stations, RV parks, state parks, all types of stores, post offices, all kinds of restaurants, hospitals, GOLF COURSES and a host of other categories. One can also enter their own POI's with a free loader available at Garmin. I have loaded a POI data set for all WI-FI parks in the US that I found on the internet.
Ok you ask, what will this widget do for me? Consider the following trip. I want to travel from Palm Bay, Florida to the Circus Circus Casino RV park in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The first thing I need to do is to enter my destination by navigating in Nuvi to my destination POI and select Circus Circus RV park. The Nuvi will show the destination its address AND give me the phone number so I can make a reservation. Since I am going to Las Vegas I want to save money on my trip for the one armed bandits' by staying in Wal-Mart parking lots. All I have to do is tell Nuvi to search for ALL Wal-Marts that are along my route. In a short time I have a complete list of all the Wal-Marts within a mile or so of my route, their locations and the stores phone number. During my trip I can find the closest gas station or even a nearby Starbucks for a quick break.
A nice feature is a trip stat page that list distance traveled, average and max speed, time in motion and time stopped. The speedometer located on this page is very accurate and can be used to verify your vehicles speedometer.
At my destination Nuvi will guide me to the nearest post office, grocery store, movie theater, local historic building and a host of other points of interest. The optional Fodor's travel guide provides travelers with the most up-to-date, accurate and comprehensive travel information available.
I consider the Nuvi an invaluable device in case of a emergency on the road. It will list emergency services such as hospitals, pet hospitals, drug stores, towing services, gas stations and everything else one might need and list them from the closest to the most distant from your present location with phone numbers and will navigate you to them.
The Nuvi has a lot of other things it can do like a money converter, simple calculator, JPEG photo viewer, MP3 player, audio book player, world map, world time map, language and phrase guide which will convert English to another language or another language to English and even say the phrase for you. There is certainly a lot of technology packed into a really small package. Data, music and photos can be read with the built in SD card reader or connected to a computer via a USB port. The Nuvi also has a 700MB memory for storing data or photos. When using in a vehicle the Nuvi is powered by attaching a 12V adapter to the USB port.
Howard, You can even use the Nuvi to find a craft store that sells beads for Linda. J I know what you are thinking Howard "IT'S NOT IN THE BUDGET". Considering it will definitely improve your quality of life while on the road and in unfamiliar surroundings it is worth the price. No more hunting for bicycle repair shops or the hidden state parks and a host of other tasks. When you get one you will wonder how you did without it!
Sorry about the length Howard, I will try to keep it down next time.
Rick
Larry said
10:19 AM Aug 24, 2006
Actually, I've also wondered why H&L haven't brought up the use of a GPS system for all of the travelling they are doing. I've been using a Garmin C-330 Streetpilot and would not do with out it. I'll have to look into the Nuvi.
-- Edited by Larry at 12:19, 2006-08-24
Howard said
11:51 AM Aug 24, 2006
I may not have a very good answer for why we don't use a GPS in the truck cab, but I have an answer nonetheless. As if that is a surprise.
We just have not seen a need for it. We like map reading. We get maps and directions from multiple sources on the web, before we take off. We usually double and triple check directions. In a year of traveling in places we've never heard of, we have made no more wrong turns than people we know with in-vehicle GPS systems. We have been in the car with folks having GPS systems that still got lost. We have seen people turn off their GPS systems or ignore them and take their own route.
For us, it's one of those things we have never had and haven't missed. It probably is something we would love if we had one, but I can't see it improving our quality of life enough to make it a necessary purchase. I'm sure we will have one someday, but for now I'd rather have an inflatable boat (or two).
Old Snipe said
04:22 PM Aug 24, 2006
I have one and use it regularly in both my MH and car. It is great to find the nearest Walmart, gas station, historic site, etc. Keeps me from wandering around in circles in Iowa (don't ask).
It also helps when I leave the campground in an unfiamiliar area, I can store the campground location in the GPS and then I can always find my way "home". Also gives elevation, driving west through NM on I-40, I thought my MH was losing power until I saw I was ever so slightly climbing (a total of over 7000 feet) when everything looked like it was flat!
The only downside is now I have a second female to answer to when I make a wrong turn!
Best Regards!
Ken & Sarah said
08:41 PM Aug 24, 2006
If you have a pocket PC you can buy software and receiver for it. I have a Dell Pocket PC and use Destinator software. It has most of the features listed, mainly voice directions, street detail, points of interest etc. If I lose or break the one I have I will check out the one listed in these posts, they sound interesting.
Luvglass said
07:49 AM Aug 25, 2006
We bought the Garmin Street Pilot 2720 a few months ago, and now couldn't imagine being out here moving around all the time without it. One of the best features is to find the local stores and attractions when we change towns every week or so. It's also great for estimating how much longer to your destination, and getting "home" at night without thinking about it. Some of these campgrounds are in the middle of nowhere.
I would really recommend it for the "must have" list.
Fred
mikeway said
10:27 AM Aug 27, 2006
Several years ago, while dragging the grand daughter to historic places in the NE, my wife had to fly back to tend to her mother.
That left me, pushing the motor home, in unfamilar places, with a teenager that could not read a map. I found a Cabela's and purchased a Garmin IQ3600. I don't know how I got along with out it.
When we are traveling, it sits on the dash board of the MH, attached to an external antenna. When the MH is parked, it rides in the pickup. It has proven invaluable, providing the shortest route to Walmart or the campground. Even better when I taught her to enhance the basic route I wished to follow. She also tells about altitude and lat-long.
By the way, we named her "Gladys Garmin." She holds a secure digtal card and I have 2 1 gig cards that hold the eastern and western US, overlapping around the Texas- Lousiana region. She also doubles as a PDA, and provides backup email addresses and calendar (as do the iPods).
We did out fox her one time on the backroads of central Florida. She just said, "I can't do this" and switched over to passive mapping. But, for a change, I knew where I was going.
Mike
simonsrf said
08:46 AM Aug 28, 2006
We couldn't imagine travelling with the 5er without a GPS unit. GPS keeps our marriage together, less stress, finds goods and services, and gets us home every time from unfamilliar places.....nah, throw the boat out! We'll go for a bicycle ride, a walk or whatever.....will always have a GPS and what we save we'll buy an inflatable boat.
While in Eugene OR last month, we needed a hardware store and had no city map or yellow pages, the GPS found 5 hardware stores, their distances from our current location and turn-by-turn directions. After our hardware purchase, GPS took us home using the shortest distance (fuel savings).
With the cost of diesel, can't afford to make to many wrong turns. We locate gas stations that have diesel, and using online information, we can easily locate the station with the lowest cost. The GPS takes us to the address with no wrong turns, usually.
Think you're missing it here, Howard.
Robbie (and Alice)
Howard said
11:12 PM Aug 28, 2006
So much peer pressure. Okay, okay. I'll take a closer look at the GPS thing - but no promises. You people are quite convincing.
ehde said
09:38 AM Sep 3, 2006
Great run down on the Nuvi 350! Thanks.
Does it successfully route around bridge height and propane restrictions?
I'm convinced that a GPS is indispensable when you're towing 4 down with a motor home and can't back up without disconnecting the dinghy. I bought the CoPilot Live 9 Laptop product just before we left on our recent 37 day trip to New England and the Canadian Maritimes. It's a full featured product, howerever it failed on several occasions, but never got us into a situation we couldn't drive out of going forward. One drawback is having a notebook PC open and contiuously operational on the coach dashboard.
Jack Mayer said
11:22 AM Sep 3, 2006
Howard,
You are going to like using a GPS, I predict. You will still us a paper map, but the GPS tells you exactly where you are, which is more difficult on a paper map. The best feature of the ones being discussed here is the POIs. Since we are always (as fulltimers) in strange towns, the POI mapping is invaluable.
bjoyce said
05:42 PM Sep 6, 2006
We have a computer all set up to navigate us with Delorme Street Atlas and use it when we have to find something obscure, like some Elks lodges. Otherwise we use maps or print a couple out of our trip routing software before we go. Spending $500 or more for a dedicated unit just doesn't make sense to us, we just don't need it that much.
Howard said
06:10 PM Sep 6, 2006
Yep, I'm with bjoyce on this one. I've done a little checking and I'm still not convinced that there is enough value there for $500 plus for us. I just can't justify paying that right now to try one out.
But if I can get Garmin or Magellan to donate one to us, I'll be happy to give it a go and give a full report.
bjoyce said
06:27 PM Sep 6, 2006
I also realized that Howard and Linda are like us, they have satellite internet and have online ways to get those POIs (points of interest), we mostly use http://yp.yahoo.com. It doesn't help when we are with friends in a vehicle and decide to go somewhere with no prior thought, but in those situations you have to remember to bring the GPS if it is not your vehicle.
simonsrf said
10:23 AM Sep 7, 2006
Well for you doubters, I can make it real simple.
We use various methods to find/map our destination before driving, but once on the road, the GPS takes over.
I don't have to watch road signs anymore, night or day. The GPS gives me plenty of warning.
I don't waste fuel driving around looking for a gas station. From any location, I can find the closest grocery store, post office, police station, campground, museum, mexican food restaurant, mechanic, city park, zoo, and when 4-wheeling the topo feature shows me elevation and the closest major road.....guess you should get the idea here.
My wife and I don't squabble about the best route to take or where to turn, she still loves me. There is no undo tension while driving.
After using a GPS for 8 years, I can say, we get there safely every time!
$500 bucks? Cheap!
Robbie
bjoyce said
07:12 PM Sep 7, 2006
Robbie, your GPS maps must be more up-to-date and perfect than any others I know. Everyone I know has some interesting stories. Since you are familiar with the Seattle area I will use an example that a family member tried to use a GPS to bring their RV to our Woodinville house. It routed up a residential street in Redmond where they came to a barracade and could see the barracade about 1/4 mile further where the street restarted. In between there was no road. It took a while to backtrack the RV on the narrow streets and took a few miles to make the GPS stop trying to take them back the same way since if the street really existed it would have been the shortest route. GPS points of interest are not always complete or as useful as they sound, they do not tell you a gas station is RV friendly or if the streets are too narrow to drive a big rig on.
It sounds like it works best in your family to have a GPS. We do have a GPS to hook to our notebook computer and have used it, we just don't use it enough to think we should get either a dedicated GPS or a small (used?) notebook just for GPS navigation. We are not ignorant, just don't see it as that important for us. We were just at the Issaquah, WA Costco and they want $500 ($499) for a Garmin that can be updated and has a road construction database service for $60/year.
Darrell and Judy said
05:22 AM Sep 8, 2006
Yeah, I know - I'm getting into this late. I never figured that we needed a GPS either. I've never been lost in my life - confused once for three days, but never lost. Anyway, we were coming back from Florida and was just north of Cincinnati when we came to a complete stop. Traffic backed up due to an accident and the police were detouring us from the highway. Now we found ourselves heading east instead of north and needed to reroute. Maps are great for highways, red and blue roads, but don't do much for local routes. It would have saved us time and frustration if we had had GPS on board. Guess what? We have GPS on board and we also use it for geocaching, biking, hiking, whatever. It's a Garmin, but don't ask me what model - I know they don't make it anymore, but it works great.
PJandBob said
10:17 AM Sep 8, 2006
I just bought the Microsoft Streets & Trips with the GPS receiver, for our laptop. I found it at Sam's Club for $110. Since I already have a laptop, it seemed like the best way for us the go. I've tested it around town, but will really check it out when we go to north Georgia next month.
RVDude said
12:59 PM Sep 8, 2006
Bjoyce sums it up nicely. Here's some recap.
Map Updates: Be careful to differentiate between map updates and software updates. Just because you have the latest GPS (or Street&Trips or DeLorme) does not mean you have the latest maps. Map updates can take several years to make it into a new GPS unit or even worse before a map update is issued. You will also pay for that map update when available. Most GPS makers buy the maps from other sources like Navteq hence the delay and charge. Also street name typos abound. For example, Streets&Trips2006 has several of the same missing roads (i.e. interstate level) as did Streets&Trips2004. That's 2 years of software update and zero years of underlying mapware update. Software and mapware are different. Dedicated GPS suffer the same dilemma.
GPS Software Update: On occasion you may have an update for the software (not the maps) in your unit. This will NOT include map updates, only corrections to the actual software itself as mentioned above.
POI database: The points of interest (shops, gas, attractions, etc.) vary wildly in quality, consistency, utility, accuracy. Wal-Mart, WalMart, Wal Mart are all in every POI database and can not be searched for the same way. Business addresses are typically pulled from business licenses addresses meaning you'll often get the owners home address! None of the listings are ever truly up-to-date or worse yet, even complete. Not even the big names. Not all Starbucks are included, not the latest WalMart addresses, etc. Not all gas stations, grocery stores, etc. are included meaning that nearest according to the GPS may not really be nearest.
RV Special Needs: No one (that I have found) addresses RV issues like height clearance, weight limits, road widths, RV accessibility, etc. You can find some private databases of these obstacles (especially on the DiscoveryOwners web site) that you can download to some GPS units which help but these are not "Truckers road atlas" quality and far from complete. But they do help. A lot.
GPS Routing Algorithms: Again vary wildly in accuracy. Just because a route is mapped using "shortest time" does not mean that it really is. Just play with your unit in a familiar area and see how something like shortest time routing can be far from that due to more numerous stop signs, traffic, not-up-to-date roads, etc. Also "nearest" may not really be nearest.
Construction Detours: If this is important to you a very cheap solution is to buy Microsoft Streets&Trips w/o the GPS for your laptop (Costco typically has it for $14.95) and you get freebie construction updates automatically from Microsoft.
Would I be without one? NEVER! Not on the road and not on the trail.
Just be aware of the limitations (not of GPS but of the underlying data) and have some overview of where you are going so you know if the GPS is really taking you to the right place. Also, keep your paper maps handy, technology can break!
PS: I run Garmin/eTrex, Magellan/RoadMate, Google Earth, National Geographic TOPO!, Microsoft Streets&Trips w/GPS and power my website using Google Maps with feeds from all of these.
Paul and Bonnie said
04:21 PM Sep 8, 2006
We also wondered why High Tech Howard and Linda were not using a GPS!! We have been using a GPS and the Delorme Street Atlas on our laptop computer for several years. We also have the Delorme Topo USA 5.0 We even used the Delorme when we do Geo Caching. It gives three dimensional elevations and more trails when you get to a place you want to explore. We would not think of leaving on a trip without it! It is just so nice to let that lady in the box tell my husband what to do. One time we got off the interstate looking for a gas station that was advertised on a sign. It turned out that we were on a country road in the middle of nowhere and didn't want to travel too far to get to a gas station. But there was no place to turn around. I saw on the computer screen that there was a housing development ahead and that we would be able to go around the block to get turned around. That saved us a few miles of unnecessary traveling. After that we checked Delorme to find a closer gas station. Last summer we had to replace the bicycle crank and pedal that had fallen off Paul's bicycle while we were traveling and we found several bicycle shops with our dependable Delorme.
Paul and Bonnie said
04:36 PM Sep 8, 2006
Howard,
I didn't read all the post completely, so I don't know where the $500.00 is coming from. If you go to this web site http://www.delorme.com/ and look in their shopping section you will see the GPS and Delorme Atlas for $149.00 and if you shop around you can get it for $99.00. It is more than worth that much to know where you are and where you are going. It especially comes in handy when you are traveling through large cities with fifth wheel behind you. It just gives you a little comfort zone to be able to see what is ahead of you. It also lets you know how far it is to your next exit or next turn. It will warn you if you get off route and tell you how to get back on track. Do a little more research before you give up on the idea, I think if you try it you will like it.
bjoyce said
06:37 PM Sep 8, 2006
$500 is for a stand-alone GPS with a color map display that you put on the vehicle dash. Many do not have a good secure place to put the notebook computer while driving. In fact many don't even have the notebook computer, there are a lot of desktop computers in RVs. In our case the copilot has to keep the notebook computer in their lap, so we only use the GPS software when we have to.
You can get a simple Garmin eTrex handheld for $80 or so to geocache. For about $20-25 more you can get a serial cable to hook to a computer, though most now need another cable to convert from USB to serial. Then you need software on the computer that can run the GPS, RV-Dude points to Microsoft Streets and Trips from Costco for $15. You can get dedicated USB GPS/software combos from both Delorme and Microsoft for about $100 (we paid $95 for Delorme 2006 with the yellow Earthmate GPS). Delorme is better for real time tracking with the GPS, but Streets is much faster at routing so we use it for trip planning. The dedicated USB GPS's have no display, not for geocaching unless you want to lug you whole computer with you.
Now you know where the $500 came from.
I am glad we don't seem to be directionally challenged. We really do get by just fine without pulling the computer and GPS out for months on end. It seems to always be Elks lodges, but that is another story.
Bill
Paul and Bonnie said
02:29 PM Sep 9, 2006
That's what I like about people who RV. There are just about as many opinions as there are RV'ers on just about every topic. At least any question anyone has gets plenty of opinions and one can make an informed decision. The bottom line is however you get there is up to you, just get there!.....and make sure you share your experience and your opinion with us here on this forum. Happy traveling to everyone.
Larry said
01:52 PM Sep 16, 2006
One thing to look for in a unit is whether the unit has a hard drive or is flash based memory. Although we use the C330 street pilot garmin (hard drive based) I feel a flash based unit would be a more rugged unit. I think the Nuvi would be a great vehicle unit and pocket unit combination.
foxriverguy said
10:04 AM Sep 17, 2006
Hi Rick
Thank you for the thoughtful and well-written post obout the Nuvi. Even though my wife and I are 35 months away from jumping into our RV (to be purchased in mid-2009) and heading for a no-snow area as we start our journey as full-time RVers we definitely will purchase a NUVI.
But, I have a question. Because we really don't want to spend much time on Interstate Highways, can the Nuvi be set to NOT select Interstate Highways as part of the shortest distance from point A topoint B?
By the way, we are discovering that there are lots of really great people out there in their RVs and we can't wait to meet some of them.
Best wishes.
RVGuy (George and Sandy)
Brian and Tam said
11:22 AM Sep 17, 2006
Howard wrote:
Yep, I'm with bjoyce on this one. I've done a little checking and I'm still not convinced that there is enough value there for $500 plus for us. I just can't justify paying that right now to try one out.
But if I can get Garmin or Magellan to donate one to us, I'll be happy to give it a go and give a full report.
Frankly Howard, I'm supprised that with the large footprint your website/forum covers that Garmin/Magellan haven't given you one to test. It would be great advertising for them at such a small expense.
I have a Delorme LT-20 that I use with my laptop. I am not happy with it as that it got lost the only time I used it. I also plots my inputed lat/long locations about 1/2 mile from known (POI) locations. I guess you get what you pay ($90) for...
RVRamblers said
08:22 AM Sep 19, 2006
For anyone who may be interested in GPS, here is a great website with lots of GPS information. The site is: http://gpsinformation.net/
Howard said
11:20 AM Sep 19, 2006
Well, by now many of you know that I broke down and bought a Garmin nuvi 350 yesterday based on what has been reported in this forum and our latest foibles on the road.
In my first hour with it, I was thinking "What have I done? This thing as a HUGE waste of money. Those people on the forum are crazy!"
But after playing with it, learning more about how to use it, and reading the owners manual (Gasp!), I have a feeling it will be well worth it. I'll take my time in making any huge recommendations, but it looks promising.
It does NOT give height clearances, but it does allow you to select whether you are a pedestrian, bicycle, car/motorcycle, truck (semi, I assume), bus, etc. I'm guessing the truck or bus setting would be good for RVers.
You can also set it to avoid U-turns, Highways, Unpaved Roads, Toll Roads, Carpool Lanes, etc. in your route.
One feature I have noticed already that I love is that it will automatically recalculate your route if you ignore a direction, miss a turn, or just go another way you prefer. It finds your "off-route" location and supplies new directions. Pretty neat.
There are a bunch of other features that I'm finding the more I become familiar with it. I might just be a convert.
PriceRunner.com shows price ranges of $569 - $900 as of today. Not cheap, but if it works as well as advertised, it just might be one of those "must have" accessories.
jmayleben said
06:38 PM Sep 19, 2006
Glad you broke down and bought one of these GPS units. I don't know how we got along without ours.
I use the Delorme atlas with a generic USB sending/receiving unit that plugs into my laptop. It works so well and gets so much use, we built a stand for the laptop between the front seats so that either person can see the directions.
I agree that the re-draw directions is one of the nicest features.
The only thing I wish the Delorme had was the low bridge feature that the one that camping world sells (Co-Pilot, or something like that).
I prefer the large screen format of the laptop over the smaller screens but either one will prove very beneficial for you.
Larry said
06:45 PM Sep 20, 2006
I traded my C-330 in last night as they have a Li-ion problem and can melt so today I get to use a Nuvi, haven't used it alot but I really like the size. Had to get the E-trex looked at as it cannot locate sat's and keeps dropping the ones it finds. Ah, it needs updated software and maps anyway.
Howard, just remember that the GPS units usually work terrific, it's the mapping software that Garmin buys that is not always up to date, i.e. don't shoot the messenger!
Paul and Bonnie said
07:53 PM Sep 20, 2006
We agree with you imayleban about the Delorme and the laptop. We have been using it for about three years now and would not leave home without it. We like the large screen too. It makes it so much easier for both of us. We have our laptop partially balanced on the consol between the seats with the top leaning on the dash. We put velcro on both sides to hold it, but that occassionally comes loose so we have to replace it. Tell us how you built the stand. That is exactly what we have been talking about, but why re-invent the wheel if you smart people out there don't mind sharing your idea with us. I don't know anything about the other GPS and mapping programs that everyone is talking about, but even as much as I love the idea, I probably wouldn't get one if I had to spend that much money for it. Howard, you will have to let us know if you think it is worth it. We have found the Delorme does everything we need. I think my DH likes the lady that tells him what to do better than having me tell him what to do
jmayleben said
08:07 PM Sep 24, 2006
As for how I built the stand... I simply used black pipe that a plumber would use for a natural gas line in a house.
I used short threaded sections with 45 degree angles. For the "table" I used plexiglass and an aluminum piece of trim that is a ninety degree angle.
I don't know how to post the photos....
If anyone would like them, simply email me at jmayleben@sbcglobal.net and I will send a copy to you.
John.
galeanna said
07:08 PM Sep 25, 2006
Since we are still sitting at home and trying to make decisions has any one used the TomTom by Tele Atlas? We see it at Best Buy as well as the Garmin nuvi 350 Personal Travel Assistant.
Differences? We see what you are saying about the nuvi does anyone use the other one? Thanks for any response Gale & Anna
They show a comparision of several GPS receivers and TomTom is one of them.
galeanna said
05:24 PM Sep 27, 2006
Thanks for the link. We are looking at it and comparing our options. Gale & Anna:
Delaine and Lindy said
04:17 PM Sep 29, 2006
Hi all, well we have researched on line and read forums trying to decide which GPS system to buy. We order a Garmin 2720 from Wall-Mart ($737.00). We like the screen and it has a bean bag type mount, plus it has a remote control. Had to have it mailed to DW's parents address. Since going full time we haven't gotten a mail system set up yet. Will have to wait awhile to try the Garmin 2720, I had to have Surgery at FT Campbell Ky. for a old injury. Good Luck on your choice...GBY..
dreamjosie said
08:15 AM Oct 4, 2006
I know there has been a lot of discussion on the pros and cons of GPS in general so I thought I would put my two cents in. We've experienced the same frustrations as Howard in the mistakes she makes. Most of the time we just laugh about it. We feel the pros outweigh the cons. Although we have laptops and internet, and research driving directions there, as well as carry the papermaps, we like to have her directing us as well. The voice prompts give us the heads up for turns coming up, let us know how far we have to go and a feel for where we are in the trip.
The POI's can't be beat. Sometimes we are out driving and decide to find a grocery, or a restaurant, or a gas station, or a drug store. We don't always plan enough to sit in front of the computer before we go out and find out where all our destinations are. (I'm talking about being out in the truck, not when we are towing.)
In short, I don't know how we got along with out it, and wouldn't trade her for anything! Well worth the money. We have the Garmin 2720. It has the best and brightest screen. We started with the beanbag method of putting her on the dash, but once we decided she was a keeper, mounted her permanently. Even the permanent mount has the ability to disengage her to bring her inside and update the software. Fred signed up for update notices that keep the software current. He just plugs her into the computer and downloads the update.
We also just got the new CD that completely updated all the maps and POI's big time, first time in about 1.5 years. We're hoping that will eliminate some of what we call her "mistakes", but was really just outdated information.
Everytime we check into a new campground we "tap" the location in as a "favorite" and then whenever we leave to go do stuff, she always brings us "home" easily.
bjoyce said
08:35 PM Nov 18, 2006
Today we were in the Costco in Mesa, AZ (nice area in winter) and noticed they were selling two different Magellan Roadmates, the 2000 for $350 ($349.99) and the 3000T for $500 ($499.99). I thought, "$350 is a low enough price to get some people to try a GPS navigation system." On the way out of the store they handed us a coupon flyer and I just looked at it. They have a $50 off coupon on the 2000 good November 24 through 26th, bringing the price down to $300 ($299.99) plus tax.
The 2000 only covers the lower 48, the 3000T is all of North America. The 3000T can also handle real time traffic reports, for an extra cost.
We use our Garmin Street Pilot 2720 all the time if out of Los Angeles. We know LA. She "the voice on the nav" gets a little bossy but we listen to her, she's been right 95% of the time. One time she took us to a field and another she wated us to drive through the mall to get to the other side.. Love it!
dreamjosie said
09:50 AM Nov 19, 2006
We've got the same Garmin 2720. I used to like her until she took us to so many wrong places or gave us goofy directions. We recently got the upgraded software and I thought she would get better, but it seems like she's gotten worse. And bossy doesn't begin to describe it.
That said, it's still better with her than without her in a lot of ways. Just frustrating that she can be wrong. I guess in today's high tech environment, I expect perfection.
Tmcblane said
10:15 AM Nov 19, 2006
I have been using gps to direct me for many years. My first was the original Street Pilot in black and white. I now use the 2610 and the largest majority of time it is right even when I try to out think it. I almost always get burned on that! Most of the time when the gps is wrong is when they have done major construction and changed exits. Nashville is a good example of this. I have run across this many times in the last year. Updating the software is your best bet but sometimes it is just poor mapping. Price of updates are pretty high I think and there is no guarantee that the previous errors are corrected. The worst error I was ever given by the gps and I choose this time to trust it was when we were heading to Morro Bay to visit Firedude from Rv.net. I saw the sign saying RT 1 was straight ahead 12 miles or some such thing and the GPS told me to turn left onto Old Creek Rd. questioning this I went to my other gps an Alpine unit. It agreed that was the way to go. I make the turn but pull over to mull the decision of the gps over. Reluctantly I decided to take it's advise, WRONG! Old creek rd is 8 miles long till you can come to an exit, it consists of 8-10% grade, extremely narrow and CURVY with not guard rails on the passenger side and sheer cliffs to a large body of water. Turns are sharp and narrow enought I was not sure we could make it around without dropping a tire off the edge on the trailer. Running 1st gear all the way trying to keep speed below 10 mph I had to ride the brakes 95% of the way down the 8 miles. Mind you this is not an exageration (sp). To boot on the way down the highway crew is doing work on the road. After passing all their laughing faces shortly thereafter one of the state highway dump trucks attempts to PASS us on this curvy road because we are going to slow!. Moral of the story, GPS is not all great knowing and this incident proved it . If you think I am joking and you need an experience try Old Creek Road.
For those interested check your gps mapping software. Old creek rd runs off of RT 46 and ends at RT 1. Notice shortly into the trip the shart left, right, right, left turn.
-- Edited by Tmcblane at 11:28, 2006-11-19
RVDude said
11:59 AM Nov 19, 2006
tmcblane - What a ride that must have been! Looking at the map, Old Creek certainly is the "shortest distance" and/or "shortest time" route - the typical GPS routing defaults. But, with a big rig certainly these "shortest" routes may not be the "best" route for your driving. Like you said, GPS does NOT know road conditions! They only know distance and road category (interstate, primary, secondary, etc.) and make all their decisions based only on that data. Most units allow some means of input in how they choose routes. Can you set your unit to choose routing like "most use of freeways" or something similar? Such a setting might have kept you on rt1 or rt101 the entire way (adding a few miles to the drive and a couple more years to your life).
-- Edited by RVDude at 13:01, 2006-11-19
Tmcblane said
01:09 PM Nov 19, 2006
Dude, yeah I can change the routing. 99% of the time it does just fine but sure burnt me that time! That would be the second time it got me......I got myself into trouble. The rest of the time it sure is nice just to cruise while it keeps an eye on what I'm doing so I can relax and just drive.
darbyjudy said
02:35 PM Aug 19, 2007
Rick I have to tell you my experience using the Streets & Trips GPS. We were moving from Corinth Campground which is West of Cullman Alabama to Cheaha State Park which is East of Birmingham, Alabama. It did well until we got fairly close to Cheaha. It then took me down a dirt road which was one lane wide, overgrown with trees and very hilly and curvey. Once I got on the road there was no way except to backup to get off of it. I was in a 37 ft MH towing a car. Well we proceeded down this dirt road rubbling trees and having a terrible time getting around the corners, then we came upon a stream that they had poured concrete into in order to cross it. It was just barely wide enough for the MH wheels. Also following me was my brother in law in his class C. Most of the time I could not even see him for the dust from the red dirt. Now this road was at least 10 miles long and I was moving at no more than 10 to 15 miles per hour. I never seen another vehicle while crossing this road. This was the first time I was misled with Streets & Trips and I still don't know exactly how it happened but I am sure I will check my paper maps from now on. When we got to the campground we had to wash everything . After I got home several months later I raised the hood on the vue and it was still covered with the red dirt. But we laugh about it now but it was very stressful during the ride across that road.
D and J said
03:55 PM Aug 19, 2007
Users of Delorme, Microsoft streets, and CoPilot users need to take a look at (and bookmark) the add-ons available at the Discovery owners web site. http://www.discoveryowners.com/cginfolinks.htm
there are some fantasic add-ons for boondocking, low clearance, Flying J's Loves, etc.
bjoyce said
12:59 PM Oct 25, 2007
Now that we are in the East we have found ourselves in trouble finding our way around in our car. Nothing like an experience we had in Genoa, Italy where it took about 20 minutes of one way streets to get back to where we made a wrong turn with a good map, but still no fun. Old roads updated for cars can be difficult to get around. Plus those pesky trees do block seeing stores and restaurants from the road making them hard to find.
Prices have come down so we now own a Magellan Maestro 4040, which was $350 + tax at Costco. My other choice was a Garmin Nuvi 250W for $300 + tax and shipping. The Magellan came with more features, the Garmin with a better review. Luckily an update solved some of the review issues with the 4040.
It has been interesting playing with it the last week around Miami. I know it would have helped a lot in in some places we had been recently, like Charleston, WV (main roads in valleys between steep hills), Washington, DC area, Asheville, NC and Savannah, GA.
We don't have much trouble finding our campgrounds so we will probably just let it run as we go down the road between campgrounds. I have it set up to display restaurants, rest areas and grocery stores as icons on the display and they can be checked while driving.
Good things: 1) We could find restaurants and stores that were hard to see from the road. 2) We can quickly get the longitude, latitude and approximate elevation with one "click". This is useful for setting up our satellite dish and placing our location on mapping software. 3) It fits in a compartment opening in our Honda CRV so we don't have to use a windshield mount and invite thieves (who also look for the suction cup mark before breaking windows). 4) It comes with a 120volt adapter that can be plugged in behind the copilot seat so there is no tripping problem like we have with a 12volt cord which is in front of the seat. 5) The 104MB update we downloaded made it nicer and handled many criticisms GPS Magazine had on its online review. 6) Canceling the route is easy, we were told this is not true of many GPSs.
Irritants: 1) When we hit the "back" buttons it always says "CANCEL". This gets old quickly. 2) Our closest grocery store is a Winn-Dixie, one that has existed for years, but is not in the points of interest. Other Winn-Dixies are close by. 3) One auto parts store it sent us to is so defunct the location is now another store. 4) You have to run over the location it thinks the place you are going is or you have to cancel the route. It thinks the entrance to this campground is about 50 feet east of the real location, so if we come from the West we have to cancel the route. One restaurant had an address on the street but was in a strip mall so it was convinced we were off-route going in the strip mall. 5) It has way too many restaurant categories to easily find what we want, the category list goes on and on and takes too long to navigate so we lookup by name or "all".
We can get a small part and a $60/year service to be alerted to traffic problems. We can pair the GPS with a cell phone to use as a hands free kit. Interestingly the driver has trouble seeing the map, but the passenger doesn't so we think this is on purpose. It does have route planning with multiple destinations but will use the computer for most of this.
Yesterday we went down to the Upper Keys and got all the way to the Seven Mile Bridge. Diane found it interesting to compare the GPS to what we were seeing, some causeways were shown as bridges, some boat slips were shown as roads, but it also showed that some side roads led somewhere and others didn't.
I guess for us $350 was a threshold where we could add a navigation GPS to our toys. We know it can lead us wrong and we know its points of interest database is not perfect. It is much smaller than the laptop computer.
GPS Primer
First of all we are wannabe's and have only rented class A and C' motor homes on several occasions but I feel compelled to share what I consider a necessity when traveling in any vehicle. I have used GPS navigation systems for about 9 years now and would not consider going on a trip more than 50 miles from home without it. I am absolutely not an expert on all the GPS products on the market. I have only used 3 different systems Delorme Map Mate (for use with a laptop computer) GM's in car navigation system and Garmin Nuvi 350.
My purpose is to enlighten those that are not familiar with how GPS navigation systems work. These little wonders can make traveling stress free.. I will concentrate on the features of the Nuvi which although very expensive, it is the ultimate travelers companion. First of all, for those that are unfamiliar with GPS please go to the Garmin site http://www.garmin.com/aboutGPS/ for a good explanation. The manual for the Nuvi 350 is also available on line at http://www.garmin.com/products/manual.jsp?product=010-00455-00.
For me the overwhelming feature of this device is the touch screen. Having direct access to the navigation keys make operating the unit much easer than using GM's joy stick or a mouse pad in a laptop. The size is another important feature. At 4"X3"X1" with an internal battery it is the smallest full featured GPS on the market. Because of its size it can be used while walking or bicycling around an unfamiliar town. Even though it is very small, it is very easy to view while going down the highway. It will automatically switch to night mode when used after dark so you are not blinded by the display.
When navigating the unit provides voice guidance in several different languages and different accents and is by far the most natural sounding computer generated voice I have heard. For detailed reviews of this and other GPS devices search online.
When approaching a turn the map zooms in to show the details of the turn while the voice guidance talks you through the turn.
The preinstalled map data base includes street level detail of the United States, Canada and main road detail of Mexico, South America and all the Caribbean Islands. Additional map data bases are available for Europe
The feature that makes GPS invaluable is the Points of Interest data base included in the more expensive GPS,s. The Nuvi has a huge data base that is similar to a national Yellow Pages directory. The data base includes gas stations, RV parks, state parks, all types of stores, post offices, all kinds of restaurants, hospitals, GOLF COURSES and a host of other categories. One can also enter their own POI's with a free loader available at Garmin. I have loaded a POI data set for all WI-FI parks in the US that I found on the internet.
Ok you ask, what will this widget do for me? Consider the following trip. I want to travel from Palm Bay, Florida to the Circus Circus Casino RV park in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The first thing I need to do is to enter my destination by navigating in Nuvi to my destination POI and select Circus Circus RV park. The Nuvi will show the destination its address AND give me the phone number so I can make a reservation. Since I am going to Las Vegas I want to save money on my trip for the one armed bandits' by staying in Wal-Mart parking lots. All I have to do is tell Nuvi to search for ALL Wal-Marts that are along my route. In a short time I have a complete list of all the Wal-Marts within a mile or so of my route, their locations and the stores phone number. During my trip I can find the closest gas station or even a nearby Starbucks for a quick break.
A nice feature is a trip stat page that list distance traveled, average and max speed, time in motion and time stopped. The speedometer located on this page is very accurate and can be used to verify your vehicles speedometer.
At my destination Nuvi will guide me to the nearest post office, grocery store, movie theater, local historic building and a host of other points of interest. The optional Fodor's travel guide provides travelers with the most up-to-date, accurate and comprehensive travel information available.
I consider the Nuvi an invaluable device in case of a emergency on the road. It will list emergency services such as hospitals, pet hospitals, drug stores, towing services, gas stations and everything else one might need and list them from the closest to the most distant from your present location with phone numbers and will navigate you to them.
The Nuvi has a lot of other things it can do like a money converter, simple calculator, JPEG photo viewer, MP3 player, audio book player, world map, world time map, language and phrase guide which will convert English to another language or another language to English and even say the phrase for you. There is certainly a lot of technology packed into a really small package. Data, music and photos can be read with the built in SD card reader or connected to a computer via a USB port. The Nuvi also has a 700MB memory for storing data or photos. When using in a vehicle the Nuvi is powered by attaching a 12V adapter to the USB port.
Howard, You can even use the Nuvi to find a craft store that sells beads for Linda. J I know what you are thinking Howard "IT'S NOT IN THE BUDGET". Considering it will definitely improve your quality of life while on the road and in unfamiliar surroundings it is worth the price. No more hunting for bicycle repair shops or the hidden state parks and a host of other tasks. When you get one you will wonder how you did without it!
Sorry about the length Howard, I will try to keep it down next time.
Rick
Actually, I've also wondered why H&L haven't brought up the use of a GPS system for all of the travelling they are doing. I've been using a Garmin C-330 Streetpilot and would not do with out it. I'll have to look into the Nuvi.
-- Edited by Larry at 12:19, 2006-08-24
I may not have a very good answer for why we don't use a GPS in the truck cab, but I have an answer nonetheless. As if that is a surprise.
We just have not seen a need for it. We like map reading. We get maps and directions from multiple sources on the web, before we take off. We usually double and triple check directions. In a year of traveling in places we've never heard of, we have made no more wrong turns than people we know with in-vehicle GPS systems. We have been in the car with folks having GPS systems that still got lost. We have seen people turn off their GPS systems or ignore them and take their own route.
For us, it's one of those things we have never had and haven't missed. It probably is something we would love if we had one, but I can't see it improving our quality of life enough to make it a necessary purchase. I'm sure we will have one someday, but for now I'd rather have an inflatable boat (or two).
I have one and use it regularly in both my MH and car. It is great to find the nearest Walmart, gas station, historic site, etc. Keeps me from wandering around in circles in Iowa (don't ask).
It also helps when I leave the campground in an unfiamiliar area, I can store the campground location in the GPS and then I can always find my way "home". Also gives elevation, driving west through NM on I-40, I thought my MH was losing power until I saw I was ever so slightly climbing (a total of over 7000 feet) when everything looked like it was flat!
The only downside is now I have a second female to answer to when I make a wrong turn!
Best Regards!
If you have a pocket PC you can buy software and receiver for it. I have a Dell Pocket PC and use Destinator software. It has most of the features listed, mainly voice directions, street detail, points of interest etc. If I lose or break the one I have I will check out the one listed in these posts, they sound interesting.
That left me, pushing the motor home, in unfamilar places, with a teenager that could not read a map. I found a Cabela's and purchased a Garmin IQ3600. I don't know how I got along with out it.
When we are traveling, it sits on the dash board of the MH, attached to an external antenna. When the MH is parked, it rides in the pickup. It has proven invaluable, providing the shortest route to Walmart or the campground. Even better when I taught her to enhance the basic route I wished to follow. She also tells about altitude and lat-long.
By the way, we named her "Gladys Garmin." She holds a secure digtal card and I have 2 1 gig cards that hold the eastern and western US, overlapping around the Texas- Lousiana region. She also doubles as a PDA, and provides backup email addresses and calendar (as do the iPods).
We did out fox her one time on the backroads of central Florida. She just said, "I can't do this" and switched over to passive mapping. But, for a change, I knew where I was going.
Mike
While in Eugene OR last month, we needed a hardware store and had no city map or yellow pages, the GPS found 5 hardware stores, their distances from our current location and turn-by-turn directions. After our hardware purchase, GPS took us home using the shortest distance (fuel savings).
With the cost of diesel, can't afford to make to many wrong turns. We locate gas stations that have diesel, and using online information, we can easily locate the station with the lowest cost. The GPS takes us to the address with no wrong turns, usually.
Think you're missing it here, Howard.
Robbie (and Alice)
So much peer pressure.
Okay, okay. I'll take a closer look at the GPS thing - but no promises. You people are quite convincing. 
Great run down on the Nuvi 350! Thanks.
Does it successfully route around bridge height and propane restrictions?
I'm convinced that a GPS is indispensable when you're towing 4 down with a motor home and can't back up without disconnecting the dinghy. I bought the CoPilot Live 9 Laptop product just before we left on our recent 37 day trip to New England and the Canadian Maritimes. It's a full featured product, howerever it failed on several occasions, but never got us into a situation we couldn't drive out of going forward. One drawback is having a notebook PC open and contiuously operational on the coach dashboard.
You are going to like using a GPS, I predict. You will still us a paper map, but the GPS tells you exactly where you are, which is more difficult on a paper map. The best feature of the ones being discussed here is the POIs. Since we are always (as fulltimers) in strange towns, the POI mapping is invaluable.
Yep, I'm with bjoyce on this one. I've done a little checking and I'm still not convinced that there is enough value there for $500 plus for us. I just can't justify paying that right now to try one out.
But if I can get Garmin or Magellan to donate one to us, I'll be happy to give it a go and give a full report.
We use various methods to find/map our destination before driving, but once on the road, the GPS takes over.
I don't have to watch road signs anymore, night or day. The GPS gives me plenty of warning.
I don't waste fuel driving around looking for a gas station. From any location, I can find the closest grocery store, post office, police station, campground, museum, mexican food restaurant, mechanic, city park, zoo, and when 4-wheeling the topo feature shows me elevation and the closest major road.....guess you should get the idea here.
My wife and I don't squabble about the best route to take or where to turn, she still loves me. There is no undo tension while driving.
After using a GPS for 8 years, I can say, we get there safely every time!
$500 bucks? Cheap!
Robbie
Robbie, your GPS maps must be more up-to-date and perfect than any others I know. Everyone I know has some interesting stories. Since you are familiar with the Seattle area I will use an example that a family member tried to use a GPS to bring their RV to our Woodinville house. It routed up a residential street in Redmond where they came to a barracade and could see the barracade about 1/4 mile further where the street restarted. In between there was no road. It took a while to backtrack the RV on the narrow streets and took a few miles to make the GPS stop trying to take them back the same way since if the street really existed it would have been the shortest route. GPS points of interest are not always complete or as useful as they sound, they do not tell you a gas station is RV friendly or if the streets are too narrow to drive a big rig on.
It sounds like it works best in your family to have a GPS. We do have a GPS to hook to our notebook computer and have used it, we just don't use it enough to think we should get either a dedicated GPS or a small (used?) notebook just for GPS navigation. We are not ignorant, just don't see it as that important for us. We were just at the Issaquah, WA Costco and they want $500 ($499) for a Garmin that can be updated and has a road construction database service for $60/year.
Bjoyce sums it up nicely. Here's some recap.
Map Updates: Be careful to differentiate between map updates and software updates. Just because you have the latest GPS (or Street&Trips or DeLorme) does not mean you have the latest maps. Map updates can take several years to make it into a new GPS unit or even worse before a map update is issued. You will also pay for that map update when available. Most GPS makers buy the maps from other sources like Navteq hence the delay and charge. Also street name typos abound. For example, Streets&Trips2006 has several of the same missing roads (i.e. interstate level) as did Streets&Trips2004. That's 2 years of software update and zero years of underlying mapware update. Software and mapware are different. Dedicated GPS suffer the same dilemma.
GPS Software Update: On occasion you may have an update for the software (not the maps) in your unit. This will NOT include map updates, only corrections to the actual software itself as mentioned above.
POI database: The points of interest (shops, gas, attractions, etc.) vary wildly in quality, consistency, utility, accuracy. Wal-Mart, WalMart, Wal Mart are all in every POI database and can not be searched for the same way. Business addresses are typically pulled from business licenses addresses meaning you'll often get the owners home address! None of the listings are ever truly up-to-date or worse yet, even complete. Not even the big names. Not all Starbucks are included, not the latest WalMart addresses, etc. Not all gas stations, grocery stores, etc. are included meaning that nearest according to the GPS may not really be nearest.
RV Special Needs: No one (that I have found) addresses RV issues like height clearance, weight limits, road widths, RV accessibility, etc. You can find some private databases of these obstacles (especially on the DiscoveryOwners web site) that you can download to some GPS units which help but these are not "Truckers road atlas" quality and far from complete. But they do help. A lot.
GPS Routing Algorithms: Again vary wildly in accuracy. Just because a route is mapped using "shortest time" does not mean that it really is. Just play with your unit in a familiar area and see how something like shortest time routing can be far from that due to more numerous stop signs, traffic, not-up-to-date roads, etc. Also "nearest" may not really be nearest.
Construction Detours: If this is important to you a very cheap solution is to buy Microsoft Streets&Trips w/o the GPS for your laptop (Costco typically has it for $14.95) and you get freebie construction updates automatically from Microsoft.
Would I be without one? NEVER! Not on the road and not on the trail.
Just be aware of the limitations (not of GPS but of the underlying data) and have some overview of where you are going so you know if the GPS is really taking you to the right place. Also, keep your paper maps handy, technology can break!
PS: I run Garmin/eTrex, Magellan/RoadMate, Google Earth, National Geographic TOPO!, Microsoft Streets&Trips w/GPS and power my website using Google Maps with feeds from all of these.
I didn't read all the post completely, so I don't know where the $500.00 is coming from. If you go to this web site http://www.delorme.com/ and look in their shopping section you will see the GPS and Delorme Atlas for $149.00 and if you shop around you can get it for $99.00. It is more than worth that much to know where you are and where you are going. It especially comes in handy when you are traveling through large cities with fifth wheel behind you. It just gives you a little comfort zone to be able to see what is ahead of you. It also lets you know how far it is to your next exit or next turn. It will warn you if you get off route and tell you how to get back on track. Do a little more research before you give up on the idea, I think if you try it you will like it.
$500 is for a stand-alone GPS with a color map display that you put on the vehicle dash. Many do not have a good secure place to put the notebook computer while driving. In fact many don't even have the notebook computer, there are a lot of desktop computers in RVs. In our case the copilot has to keep the notebook computer in their lap, so we only use the GPS software when we have to.
You can get a simple Garmin eTrex handheld for $80 or so to geocache. For about $20-25 more you can get a serial cable to hook to a computer, though most now need another cable to convert from USB to serial. Then you need software on the computer that can run the GPS, RV-Dude points to Microsoft Streets and Trips from Costco for $15. You can get dedicated USB GPS/software combos from both Delorme and Microsoft for about $100 (we paid $95 for Delorme 2006 with the yellow Earthmate GPS). Delorme is better for real time tracking with the GPS, but Streets is much faster at routing so we use it for trip planning. The dedicated USB GPS's have no display, not for geocaching unless you want to lug you whole computer with you.
Now you know where the $500 came from.
I am glad we don't seem to be directionally challenged. We really do get by just fine without pulling the computer and GPS out for months on end. It seems to always be Elks lodges, but that is another story.
Bill
Thank you for the thoughtful and well-written post obout the Nuvi. Even though my wife and I are 35 months away from jumping into our RV (to be purchased in mid-2009) and heading for a no-snow area as we start our journey as full-time RVers we definitely will purchase a NUVI.
But, I have a question. Because we really don't want to spend much time on Interstate Highways, can the Nuvi be set to NOT select Interstate Highways as part of the shortest distance from point A topoint B?
By the way, we are discovering that there are lots of really great people out there in their RVs and we can't wait to meet some of them.
Best wishes.
RVGuy (George and Sandy)
Frankly Howard, I'm supprised that with the large footprint your website/forum covers that Garmin/Magellan haven't given you one to test. It would be great advertising for them at such a small expense.
I have a Delorme LT-20 that I use with my laptop. I am not happy with it as that it got lost the only time I used it. I also plots my inputed lat/long locations about 1/2 mile from known (POI) locations. I guess you get what you pay ($90) for...
Well, by now many of you know that I broke down and bought a Garmin nuvi 350 yesterday based on what has been reported in this forum and our latest foibles on the road.
In my first hour with it, I was thinking "What have I done? This thing as a HUGE waste of money. Those people on the forum are crazy!"
But after playing with it, learning more about how to use it, and reading the owners manual (Gasp!), I have a feeling it will be well worth it. I'll take my time in making any huge recommendations, but it looks promising.
It does NOT give height clearances, but it does allow you to select whether you are a pedestrian, bicycle, car/motorcycle, truck (semi, I assume), bus, etc. I'm guessing the truck or bus setting would be good for RVers.
You can also set it to avoid U-turns, Highways, Unpaved Roads, Toll Roads, Carpool Lanes, etc. in your route.
One feature I have noticed already that I love is that it will automatically recalculate your route if you ignore a direction, miss a turn, or just go another way you prefer. It finds your "off-route" location and supplies new directions. Pretty neat.
There are a bunch of other features that I'm finding the more I become familiar with it. I might just be a convert.
PriceRunner.com shows price ranges of $569 - $900 as of today. Not cheap, but if it works as well as advertised, it just might be one of those "must have" accessories.
I use the Delorme atlas with a generic USB sending/receiving unit that plugs into my laptop. It works so well and gets so much use, we built a stand for the laptop between the front seats so that either person can see the directions.
I agree that the re-draw directions is one of the nicest features.
The only thing I wish the Delorme had was the low bridge feature that the one that camping world sells (Co-Pilot, or something like that).
I prefer the large screen format of the laptop over the smaller screens but either one will prove very beneficial for you.
I traded my C-330 in last night as they have a Li-ion problem and can melt so today I get to use a Nuvi, haven't used it alot but I really like the size. Had to get the E-trex looked at as it cannot locate sat's and keeps dropping the ones it finds. Ah, it needs updated software and maps anyway.
Howard, just remember that the GPS units usually work terrific, it's the mapping software that Garmin buys that is not always up to date, i.e. don't shoot the messenger!
As for how I built the stand... I simply used black pipe that a plumber would use for a natural gas line in a house.
I used short threaded sections with 45 degree angles. For the "table" I used plexiglass and an aluminum piece of trim that is a ninety degree angle.
I don't know how to post the photos....
If anyone would like them, simply email me at jmayleben@sbcglobal.net and I will send a copy to you.
John.
Since we are still sitting at home and trying to make decisions has any one used the TomTom by Tele Atlas? We see it at Best Buy as well as the Garmin nuvi 350 Personal Travel Assistant.
Differences? We see what you are saying about the nuvi does anyone use the other one? Thanks for any response Gale & Anna
-- Edited by galeanna at 21:12, 2006-09-25
Galeanna, check this website: http://gpsinformation.us/joe/gpscompare/gpscarnavscreencompare.html
They show a comparision of several GPS receivers and TomTom is one of them.
The POI's can't be beat. Sometimes we are out driving and decide to find a grocery, or a restaurant, or a gas station, or a drug store. We don't always plan enough to sit in front of the computer before we go out and find out where all our destinations are. (I'm talking about being out in the truck, not when we are towing.)
In short, I don't know how we got along with out it, and wouldn't trade her for anything!
We also just got the new CD that completely updated all the maps and POI's big time, first time in about 1.5 years. We're hoping that will eliminate some of what we call her "mistakes", but was really just outdated information.
Everytime we check into a new campground we "tap" the location in as a "favorite" and then whenever we leave to go do stuff, she always brings us "home" easily.
Today we were in the Costco in Mesa, AZ (nice area in winter) and noticed they were selling two different Magellan Roadmates, the 2000 for $350 ($349.99) and the 3000T for $500 ($499.99). I thought, "$350 is a low enough price to get some people to try a GPS navigation system." On the way out of the store they handed us a coupon flyer and I just looked at it. They have a $50 off coupon on the 2000 good November 24 through 26th, bringing the price down to $300 ($299.99) plus tax.
The 2000 only covers the lower 48, the 3000T is all of North America. The 3000T can also handle real time traffic reports, for an extra cost.
You can read the details on each unit here: http://www.magellangps.com/products/product.asp
That said, it's still better with her than without her in a lot of ways. Just frustrating that she can be wrong. I guess in today's high tech environment, I expect perfection.
For those interested check your gps mapping software. Old creek rd runs off of RT 46 and ends at RT 1. Notice shortly into the trip the shart left, right, right, left turn.
-- Edited by Tmcblane at 11:28, 2006-11-19
tmcblane - What a ride that must have been!
Looking at the map, Old Creek certainly is the "shortest distance" and/or "shortest time" route - the typical GPS routing defaults. But, with a big rig certainly these "shortest" routes may not be the "best" route for your driving. Like you said, GPS does NOT know road conditions! They only know distance and road category (interstate, primary, secondary, etc.) and make all their decisions based only on that data.
Most units allow some means of input in how they choose routes. Can you set your unit to choose routing like "most use of freeways" or something similar? Such a setting might have kept you on rt1 or rt101 the entire way (adding a few miles to the drive and a couple more years to your life).
-- Edited by RVDude at 13:01, 2006-11-19
there are some fantasic add-ons for boondocking, low clearance, Flying J's Loves, etc.
Prices have come down so we now own a Magellan Maestro 4040, which was $350 + tax at Costco. My other choice was a Garmin Nuvi 250W for $300 + tax and shipping. The Magellan came with more features, the Garmin with a better review. Luckily an update solved some of the review issues with the 4040.
It has been interesting playing with it the last week around Miami. I know it would have helped a lot in in some places we had been recently, like Charleston, WV (main roads in valleys between steep hills), Washington, DC area, Asheville, NC and Savannah, GA.
We don't have much trouble finding our campgrounds so we will probably just let it run as we go down the road between campgrounds. I have it set up to display restaurants, rest areas and grocery stores as icons on the display and they can be checked while driving.
Good things:
1) We could find restaurants and stores that were hard to see from the road.
2) We can quickly get the longitude, latitude and approximate elevation with one "click". This is useful for setting up our satellite dish and placing our location on mapping software.
3) It fits in a compartment opening in our Honda CRV so we don't have to use a windshield mount and invite thieves (who also look for the suction cup mark before breaking windows).
4) It comes with a 120volt adapter that can be plugged in behind the copilot seat so there is no tripping problem like we have with a 12volt cord which is in front of the seat.
5) The 104MB update we downloaded made it nicer and handled many criticisms GPS Magazine had on its online review.
6) Canceling the route is easy, we were told this is not true of many GPSs.
Irritants:
1) When we hit the "back" buttons it always says "CANCEL". This gets old quickly.
2) Our closest grocery store is a Winn-Dixie, one that has existed for years, but is not in the points of interest. Other Winn-Dixies are close by.
3) One auto parts store it sent us to is so defunct the location is now another store.
4) You have to run over the location it thinks the place you are going is or you have to cancel the route. It thinks the entrance to this campground is about 50 feet east of the real location, so if we come from the West we have to cancel the route. One restaurant had an address on the street but was in a strip mall so it was convinced we were off-route going in the strip mall.
5) It has way too many restaurant categories to easily find what we want, the category list goes on and on and takes too long to navigate so we lookup by name or "all".
We can get a small part and a $60/year service to be alerted to traffic problems. We can pair the GPS with a cell phone to use as a hands free kit. Interestingly the driver has trouble seeing the map, but the passenger doesn't so we think this is on purpose. It does have route planning with multiple destinations but will use the computer for most of this.
Yesterday we went down to the Upper Keys and got all the way to the Seven Mile Bridge. Diane found it interesting to compare the GPS to what we were seeing, some causeways were shown as bridges, some boat slips were shown as roads, but it also showed that some side roads led somewhere and others didn't.
I guess for us $350 was a threshold where we could add a navigation GPS to our toys. We know it can lead us wrong and we know its points of interest database is not perfect. It is much smaller than the laptop computer.
Adding GPS Magazine review of the 4040 and Garmin Nuvi 250W .
-- Edited by bjoyce at 18:15, 2007-10-25