The simplest navigator for the forest. Tourist and hand-held navigators for mushroom pickers and forests. The best universal navigators for hunters

Garmin occupies a solid niche in the navigation device market

How does a hiker’s or fisherman’s navigator differ from a car or software one? These devices have special requirements. Since hunting and fishing take place in a natural environment, this means that the device must be maximally protected from moisture, dirt, dust and shock. After all, being left without navigation at the most difficult moment due to a simple fall of the device would be very disappointing.

Previously, orientation took place using a compass and signs of nature

Navigators for fishermen and hunters require a high degree of autonomy. After all, sometimes in search of prey they have to travel considerable distances, and this takes a lot of time. Greater autonomy can be provided by a capacious battery. Due to the fact that a traveler is usually loaded with various belongings, every extra gram can count. Therefore, the navigation device must be compact and lightweight.

Advantages and disadvantages of Garmin navigators

Garmin specializes in producing navigators of various calibers. Among them there are automobile, tourist and for hunters and fishermen. The lines of tourist and fishing devices are characterized by high quality assemblies. Thus, the best survivability of the device is achieved even in the harshest conditions. The use of high-quality GPS signal receivers allows you to quickly capture data from satellites and position yourself most accurately.

Garmin devices are shockproof, waterproof and functional

Convenient and intuitive clear interface It will not let you get lost in the settings, since all the settings are on the surface, making it easy and simple to operate the gadget. As for the shortcomings, it is better to consider them based on specific models. Some do not have additional functionality, such as listening to music and playing videos. Others do not have enough battery power, etc.

Purpose of Garmin navigators

The main purpose of the devices is to help determine your location and, accordingly, build the correct and most optimal route to your destination. Conventionally, there are three main categories of Garmin navigators for people who want active recreation:

• tourist;
• for fishermen;
• for hunting.

Tourist navigator for the forest

These devices are designed specifically for long journeys on foot. They usually contain a set of maps, a GPS receiver, a compass and all the necessary functionality that may be useful to a traveler. The devices are powered mainly by regular AA batteries. This is due to the fact that such batteries can be taken with you on the road in reserve and replaced if necessary.

Navigators for hunting

This type of device is similar to travel models. They have the same functionality and capabilities. The difference lies in some models that come with a special collar for the dog. With their help, you can monitor the movements of hunting dogs using an interactive map on the device display.

Navigators for fishing

For fishermen, Garmin produces both simple models with a navigator, as well as “sophisticated” combines with echo sounders, maps, route builders and much more. Which navigator to choose for fishing needs to be decided on a case-by-case basis.

The use of navigation devices with echo sounder functions is the key to successful fishing

Review of the most popular models of Garmin navigators for hunting and fishing

Let's look at the most interesting and popular models of navigators for fishermen, tourists and hunters that the market can offer.

eTrex 20x

A very compact and portable navigator that is suitable for any type of outdoor activity - fishing, hunting or traveling. In addition to GPS support, there is also domestic GLONASS. The software in the device is installed in-house, which bears the same name - Garmin. Control is carried out using physical buttons that are located throughout the device. The data is displayed on an LCD display with a resolution of 240×320 with a diagonal of 2.2 inches.

The device has 3.7 GB of internal memory. It is needed to update maps and save other related content. Among other things, the navigator can view pictures, comes with a set of maps, and also has a waterproof case. You can buy such a Garmin navigator for hunting and fishing for 12,000 rubles.

Another portable navigator of a universal type, the purposes of which are not clearly defined. That is, it can be used by everyone - fishermen, hunters and tourists. The device is equipped with a small 2.6-inch display with a resolution of 160x240. There is 4 GB of onboard memory. The antenna is moved outside for clearer signal reception. You can expand the memory using the existing MicroSD slot. The case is waterproof, which expands the possibility of using the device for all types of outdoor activities.

An inexpensive navigator for the forest and travel. There is GLONASS and GPS. Information is displayed on a small display with a resolution of 128x240. Antenna - internal. Power is supplied by two AA batteries. Their stated operating time is 25 hours. The case is waterproof. The cost of the device is around 8,000 rubles.

Alpha 100 with TT15 collar

Portable universal navigator for hiking in the forest and hunting. The set includes a collar for hunting dogs. Their movement can be tracked on the device screen. Simultaneous control of 20 dogs is supported.

LCD screen, color, 3-inch, with a resolution of 240×400, touch type. The device has 8 GB of internal memory. It can be expanded if necessary using SD cards. Additionally, the device has a barometer and compass. Unlike previous models, this one has its own lithium-ion battery.

This device is interesting because, to save battery power, instead of a color screen, a monochrome size of 4x5.6 cm is used. Its resolution is 120x160. The device is powered by two AA batteries. According to the developers, their charge should be enough for 18 hours of operation. Additional functions include the presence of various calendars for hunters and fishermen, information about the phases of the moon, sunrises and sunsets.

Garmin navigator

Foretrex 401

A convenient wrist navigator for fishermen, hunters and travelers. A small, economical, monochrome screen with a resolution of 100×64 is quite informative. There is a barometer and compass inside the device. The battery charge lasts approximately 17 hours of using the device. The case, like many Garmin products, is waterproof. The price of this Garmin navigator is 14,000 rubles.

This model is a watch with the functions of a portable navigator for the forest, fishing and hunting. Compatible with all known mobile platforms. Using the built-in functionality, you can receive SMS, mail, read social networks, etc. The screen on the device is a 1.4-inch touchscreen with a resolution of 205×148. The watch can catch signals from both GPS and GLONASS satellites. There is built-in Bluetooth for data exchange and control. The device has 8 GB of internal memory. Despite its modest size, the watch is equipped with an accelerometer, compass and altimeter. The device is powered by a built-in lithium-ion battery. The stated operating time is 24 hours.

A universal and functional device, one of the best navigators for hunting and fishing. Equipped with a convenient 5-inch display with a high-quality resolution of 800×480. Comes with your own maps downloaded upon purchase. The device has 8 GB of built-in memory.

The device is powered by its own battery. There are USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi interfaces on board. If you don't have enough memory, you can add an SD card. The case is waterproof. I wonder what this model Can be powered either by its own battery or by AA batteries.

A fairly simple but functional pocket navigator for fishermen, hunters and tourists. Unlike the eTrex models already presented, this one has touch screen 2.6 inches and with a resolution of 160x240. 8 GB of memory is allocated for the needs of the system. The device can read photos and has a built-in compass and barometer.

Probably the simplest and cheapest navigator for fishing, hunting and tourism in the form of a watch. Its cost does not exceed 1,000 rubles. The map is displayed using monochrome screen measuring 3.3x2 cm. The device is powered by its own lithium-ion battery, the charge of which lasts for 10 hours. The device can be used by both tourists, fishermen and hunters, and athletes.

This is a whole combine that fishing enthusiasts will probably rightfully appreciate. There is an echo sounder, a navigator, and many other interesting functions. The device has a large 7-inch screen with a resolution of 800×480. The case is protected from moisture.

From additional features You can note the temperature sensor, display of the bottom structure, determination of the size of the fish and the depth of the reservoir. The device is capable of operating at temperatures down to -55°C. Therefore, the navigator is suitable for winter fishing

Which Garmin navigator to choose for the forest

When going into the forest, you need to imagine what the navigator should be equipped with in order not to go astray and get the most out of your trip. Firstly, the device must have maps of the area. Almost all Garmin devices have them out of the box. Secondly, it would be advisable to have a compass and a temperature sensor, which is especially important for overnight trips. Well, naturally, the device must be able to perform its main function - determining location and plotting a route. In the Garmin collection for these purposes, you can take a closer look at the eTrex, GPSMAP or Montana line of devices. Among them you can choose a device with necessary functionality and a suitable price.

Which Garmin navigator to choose for hunting and fishing

Specifically, fishermen can recommend a series of devices from Garmin Stryker, Echomap or GPSMAP. There is plenty to choose from navigators for fishing, hunting and tourism. These are not only navigators, but also echo sounders, thermometers and much more. All devices are protected from moisture and shockproof.

As for hunters, there are no big differences from tourist models in the requirements. Perhaps you can take a closer look at the Astro and Alpha series with sets of collars for hunting dogs. Otherwise, simple tourist navigators are also suitable for avid hunters.

Review of prices for Garmin navigators

To make it easier for you to decide which navigator to buy for fishing, hunting or tourism, we have collected everything interesting models into one table.

Photo	Characteristics	price, rub.
	Screen diagonal: 2.6″. Memory: 3.7 GB. GLONASS/GPS. Power: 2 AA batteries. Working time: 25 hours Micro SD, waterproof case, calendars, charts, photo viewing.	12 000
	Screen diagonal: 2.6″. Memory: 4 GB. GLONASS/GPS. Power: 2 AA batteries. Opening hours: 16 hours Micro SD, waterproof case, calendars, charts, photo viewing, ANT+.	17 000
	Screen diagonal: 2.2″. GLONASS/GPS. Power: 2 AA batteries. Working time: 25 hours Waterproof housing.	8 000
Alpha 100 with TT15 collar	Screen diagonal: 3″. Memory: 8 GB. GLONASS/GPS. Power: Li-Ion. Micro SD, waterproof case, barometer, compass, collar.	47 000

Today, for Russian consumers, the domestic market offers a huge number of modifications of GPS navigators, which they can use for trips to the forest and fishing. The most popular devices, ideal for hiking, are devices from the Garmin brand. Navigators can be of several types:

• software;
• tourist (pocket);
• automotive, etc.

The best forest navigators have a huge number of functions, the main ones being:

• ability to choose the most active route;
• ability to work uninterruptedly for a long time (at least 20 hours);
• ability to work with Roads software Russian Federation" etc.

How to choose the best navigator for the forest, which one is better?

When choosing a navigator for forest walks, every mushroom picker should pay attention to devices that are easy to use. They must have the following characteristics:

• small dimensions;
• light weight;
• high-capacity battery;
• ability in record short time find a way back;
• assistance with orientation;
• be equipped with a memory card, thanks to which the device can remember a large number of places;
• be equipped with the maximum number of road maps;
• ability to create short routes;
• equipping with a highly sensitive GPS receiver, etc.

Navigator for forest and fishing

The Garmin brand GPS navigator, designed for forests and fishing, will help people minimize the time for the upcoming route. This device can be especially useful in unfamiliar areas, which are fraught with many surprises and road obstacles. The manufacturer of navigators Garmin presented several new series for forestry and fishing for Russian consumers:

• eTrex;
• Oregon;
• GPSMap, etc.

All of these devices are ideal for pedestrians, as they have very compact sizes, a display that glows at night, and an affordable price.

Navigator for Android for the forest

Despite the fact that new gadgets are constantly presented on the domestic market, finding a navigation application in them that would be convenient and multifunctional is quite problematic. Many mushroom pickers install third-party products on Android software, which is freely available. A modern navigator for Android for the forest must first of all be able to plot the most optimal route and guide its user along it. He must be able to download a large number of roadmaps and be able to work with them.

Forest navigator for iPhone

Special software is available for iPhone owners that determines and displays on the screen the route to any point in the Russian Federation. The user of this technical device When going for a walk in the forest, the selected route strip will always be available, on which all traffic situations are determined and indicated. On the iPhone screen, the night and day modes are automatically switched, since the program always takes into account current time. Convenient system Navigator search will allow iPhone owners to quickly plan the upcoming route and not be distracted from searching for mushrooms by carefully studying and memorizing the area.

Garmin navigator for the forest

Garmin brand GPS navigators designed for forests are ergonomic and compact. With this device, the mushroom picker will be able to start working without taking off his gloves, which is very important in adverse weather conditions. Convenient joysticks allow users to quickly move the cursor around the screen when entering data and selecting a route. Locking the joystick will prevent the device from involuntarily starting its operation even under strong physical impact. The durable casing of Garmin devices is reliably protected from any mechanical damage and can retain its original external data for a long time.

Car navigator in the forest

Some mushroom pickers who have their own transport try to use car navigators when visiting the forest. These devices are not very suitable for “silent hunting”, since they are configured specifically for the roads of the Russian Federation and can provide their owners with not entirely accurate data, especially if it is necessary to lay out a route in a dense forest. Car navigators are equipped with maps that allow drivers to determine the distance of the car from a specific city or street. They also provide data to the motorist about all major country roads in Russia. It is able to warn the driver about all traffic jams that are present on his route.

How to use a navigator in the forest?

Every avid mushroom picker should use a portable forest navigator during a “silent hunt”, thanks to which he will not stray from the chosen route and will not get lost. Before turning it on, you need to study the instructions, which will help the user to configure it correctly. It is important to install in advance this device all necessary software. After launching the application, a map of the area will appear on the navigator screen. Special prompts that will regularly appear on the monitor will help you customize it directly for yourself. The mushroom picker must enter into a special section of the menu all the requested data that may be useful to him later. Once the information entry is completed, the mushroom picker can set a specific route and follow it throughout the entire trip.

Previously, the problem of orientation in the forest or on the water was not so acute, since there was plenty of everything near populated areas - birds, game, fish. Now, in order to return home with prey, hunters and amateur fishermen have to travel as far as possible, that is, “fish” in unfamiliar terrain.

Therefore, only a person who is either completely far from such a way of spending time, or someone who is content with a couple of minnows caught in the nearest body of water, can say that a navigator for hunting or fishing is nothing more than a luxury, a kind of fashion statement. This article will tell the reader how GPS devices for fishing and hunting differ from the usual analogues used in vehicles, and what to look for when buying a particular model.

Requirements for navigators for hunters and fishermen

Taking into account the peculiarities of operation, they are understandable, but it would be useful to remind them.

• Increased protection of the “filling” from moisture and dust.
• Mobility, that is, the ability to work autonomously for a long time.
• Light weight.
• Miniature.
• Multifunctionality. As a rule, most hunters are also avid fishermen. Consequently, the conditions in which they have to fish can be very different. That is why it is advisable to purchase a navigator with a large number options.

Navigator selection criteria

Receiver capabilities

• Signals to the device come from many satellites in orbit. How many of them can a particular navigator “work” with?
• Sensitivity. Not all devices that support stable communications in open areas function reliably in the forest. This is one of the reasons why navigators installed in cars, fishing or hunting are usually useless.

Display options

When deciding on a display, you need to take into account the peculiarities of your vision and prepare for the worst situation (the golden rule, which many people forget). For example, you don’t have glasses at hand, the sun is on the horizon or has already gone. Will it be possible to see anything on the navigator screen? And not just vague outlines of contours, but to see a completely clear picture, a diagram.

But whether the display is color or black and white is up to the user to decide. For navigation while fishing or hunting, this does not matter. A color screen is only needed if the navigator has special options for viewing, for example, downloaded files to pass the time. How relevant is this for a person who goes out into nature for a very specific purpose?

It is unlikely that anyone would exchange an evening around the fire for a film that can be seen at home on the TV screen. And considering that the cost of a “color” navigator is significantly higher, such a device is unlikely to be needed for hunting or fishing.

Duration of continuous operation

This indicates how often the batteries will have to be replaced. This determines how much battery you need to take with you.

Availability of memory card

Navigators without this service, which only determine geographical coordinates standing points will prevent you from getting lost. But only on condition that the person has a compass, a map of the area and is trained to work with them. For example, it is correct to “reference”, determine the sides of the horizon, and so on. Therefore, when choosing a model, you should pay attention not only to the ability to load information into the navigator (memory capacity), but also to the presence of a built-in magnetic pointer.

All of the above are nothing more than general recommendations. Manufacturers are constantly updating, introducing, and improving something, so it is unrealistic to cover all the nuances of the functioning of navigators. For example, is it possible to mount a separate device on a dog’s collar (for hunters).

Anglers may prefer a stationary model that is installed on a boat or boat. Some navigators have . For someone who goes to nature not just to sit with a fishing rod, but to return with a rich catch, this is an indispensable help. But a hunter does not need this option at all. But if there is a built-in barometer, it will be equally useful for everyone who is forced to rely on weather conditions. The same applies to multi-level screen backlighting.

And yet – which specific navigator should a hunter or fisherman choose for himself?

Not all the advantages of devices that manufacturers and sellers emphasize to buyers are tested in practice. Some functions actually turn out to be useless, others do not live up to expectations.

• Before going to the store, it makes sense to interview friends who already use navigators. Their opinion and reviews of models are more objective.
• You can learn a lot of useful things by “visiting” thematic forums. On them, fishermen and hunters openly talk about the problems they face when using GPS devices in “field” conditions.

The author did just that. It turned out that the most popular among “average” hunting and fishing enthusiasts are navigators under the GARMIN brand. Firstly, the devices are available in various modifications, therefore, you can choose the most suitable series. Secondly, the functionality is simple, so understanding the peculiarities of the navigator’s operation is not difficult even for a person who is still familiar with modern electronics. Thirdly, the price of the products is quite affordable, and their purchase is not burdensome for the family budget.

"E-Trex" 10 series

The device is sold in a yellow-black case that meets all requirements for moisture protection and shock resistance. Screen size 43 x 36 black and white; simple menu; continuous work throughout the day. The memory allows you to store information about 1000 standing points on 50 different routes.

Price – within 5,500 rubles.

The same 20-series device is capable of working not only in the GPS system, but also in the domestic Glonass system. 1.7 GB memory, color screen, 2000 saved routes and marked points. All this increases the cost of the device.

Price – about 9,800 rubles.

Montana, model 650T

A 4-inch color display, a camera with a resolution of 5 megapixels, a battery with a 16-hour charge, the ability to install additional batteries and expand the memory, dual screen orientation and a number of other features - this significantly increases the cost of such a navigator. It's up to you, the reader, to decide whether to buy it or not.

Price – within 18,900 rubles.

The range of navigators under these and other brands is not limited to the listed models. But, at least, it is already clear what to look for when choosing a device and what approximate prices for such products for hunters and fishermen are found at points of sale.

The number of users who prefer active recreation, traveling through the forest or fishing and visiting the reservoirs of our country, is rapidly growing. To navigate in remote areas where there are no roads or populated areas, you must have a special device - a navigator, which helps you navigate the terrain and determine your location.

Purpose of navigators

Navigator is a device for fixing the user’s location on the ground with determination of exact coordinates. Modern navigators equipped with transceiver devices that communicate with satellites located in stationary earth orbit. Currently there are 2 satellite systems determining the location of users - GPS and GLONASS.

Some devices intended for use by fishermen, hunters and tourists combine 2 devices at once - and a navigator, which can significantly expand their use in various situations. The error in determining the user's coordinates on the ground is 1-2 meters.

For ease of use of navigators, special information accumulated in databases with the possibility of use for orientation on the ground is used:

• voice messages about the user's location;
• warning the user about deviation from a given route;
• the ability to search for necessary objects, settlements and bodies of water using data electronic cards and make an accurate calculation of the required route;
• carry out an accurate calculation of the time spent on the route with determination of arrival at the final point of the journey.

Companies that produce navigators classify them into categories:

• marine GPS navigators;
• portable;
• automobile;
• aviation.

The most common models of devices are portable navigators, which can be divided into groups:

• Pocket;
• PDAs containing a GPS module for signal transmission and a GPS receiver with the ability to connect to a computer.

Currently, pocket navigators are used when visiting fishing, hunting and hiking in remote areas.

Features of pocket navigators

Pocket navigators have a number of advantages compared to other models of devices and methods of determining the user’s location:

• small dimensions of the device body;
• the ability to determine exact coordinates on the ground;
• light weight of the device, which is convenient for long hikes and limited equipment capacity;
• portability of the power sources used (rechargeable battery or battery with the ability to recharge from a current source);
• the presence of built-in memory for saving data processed by the device;
• ability to determine altitude above sea level;
• use to obtain additional data on weather conditions;
• receiving data, maps of the area with display on the device display.

Main characteristics of devices

When choosing a navigator, you need to take into account the main characteristics that allow you to use the device with the greatest efficiency and comfort while hiking or fishing.

The list of necessary indicators that reflect the capabilities of the device includes:

1. Size device - users prefer to purchase a device of small size and weight, which does not burden the pockets of clothing.
2. Performance. The presence of a powerful high-speed processor and capacious built-in memory allows you to quickly process data and obtain results in a short time.
3. Duration work in offline mode . A sufficiently capacious battery allows you to use the device for a long time from 12 to 25 hours without the possibility of recharging.
4. The navigator must be equipped impact-resistant housing and have special protection from moisture penetration.
5. Determining the user's location. This function is used to plot a route to a specific point and record the route taken in memory.
6. Built-in screen size. A fairly large color display with clear image display allows you to use maps of the area and work with the navigator at night with greater efficiency than with a conventional black-and-white monitor.

   But it must be taken into account that a color monitor consumes significantly more electricity and to use it for a long time it is necessary to have an additional power source and a device that allows recharging.

7. Availability of additional devices and functions. Many models of navigators are equipped with additional devices: a compass, barometer, temperature sensor, which significantly expands their capabilities.
8. When choosing a navigator, its cost plays an important role. which depends on a number of factors: the presence of a color display, processor power and slot for an additional memory card, built-in additional devices, versatility.

Most popular models

Most users for their needs prefer to purchase navigators of two famous companies manufacturers of electronic equipment and Magellan, sold at prices from 4 to 25 thousand rubles.

Principle of operation

When purchasing devices and setting them up, it is imperative to read the instructions for using the navigator.

Setting up the navigator includes a number of operations, the sequence of which must be strictly followed:

1. Turn on the device.
2. After the area map appears on the display, it is necessary to enter the requested data corresponding to the user’s location.
3. Set the required route with the final destination.

Features of using navigators

Models of manufactured navigators have a number of features that must be taken into account during operation:

• limited autonomy of the device, which is usually limited to 12 hours (without replacing the power source);
• the use of color displays and additional devices in navigators contributes to increased consumption of battery capacity;
• not all models have sufficient protection from moisture;
• universal navigators are the most convenient to use;
• it is necessary to take into account the price range and functionality of the devices;
• Additional devices play a big role in the use of navigators: built-in antennas, special connecting wires designed to recharge batteries.

Using devices to determine location allows you to better plan your vacation, significantly reducing wasted time.

Hunters, fishermen, tourists and even mushroom pickers have recently increasingly used navigators to go into the forest or go to a body of water. The fact that this convenient and functional gadget will not let you get lost is understandable. But you can mark the usual fish sites and mushroom spots on it, so that next year the basket and the cage will not remain empty.

There are, of course, all kinds of applications for androids, phones, smartphones, tablets and other devices, but, firstly, from among them it is somewhat difficult to choose the most the best option and even if this succeeds, they can fail on a long hike. Phone chargers are not installed on birch or pine trees, and at the most crucial moment your gadget may simply refuse to work. A good navigator not only holds its charge much longer, but makes it possible to quickly change the battery and even use regular batteries. In addition, all these applications will not provide such a volume of necessary and useful information, as a navigator for a hike in the forest.

Types of tourist navigators

The division is understandable to the point of banality, which is good.

• Simple. Black and white, low-functional navigators. Most of them don't even have the ability to download new maps. The most they can do is mark a few points and lay out a couple of routes on an existing map. It is not recommended to take them on a multi-day walking tour, but it is quite possible to mark mushroom spots around the dacha or favorite sites for large bream, carp or catfish pool.
• Complex. There is literally room for imagination on these devices. But this space must be approached, if not carefully, then very thoughtfully. Here you will be offered not only a large selection of maps, which can be constantly updated, but also an altimeter, compass, barometer and even a pedometer. Not to mention building a route and remembering the path already taken. Without certain skills, you can get confused.

Depending on what exactly you want from the device you are purchasing, you need to choose. Marking out a lake so that you don’t come back from fishing without a catch, or stake out a small birch grove full of crap – you don’t need to overpay several times for this. And if you like to leave the benefits of civilization a couple of times a year and go admire unfamiliar forest spaces or picturesque mountains for one and a half to two weeks, then you should shake your wallet and choose an advanced multifunctional navigator for tourism.

Navigator for fishing and hunting

This issue has already been covered somewhat above, so there is no point in repeating it. But still. Fishing and hunting are different. If you engage in these types of outdoor activities close to home, then soon you won’t even need a navigator. But if you are going to a new body of water or to a completely unfamiliar forest, it is better to make sure in advance that your navigator has a map of this area with all the details and an approximate route to a couple of nearby settlements.

Navigation application for android

We have already touched on this issue, but it’s worth deciphering it a little. There are a lot of navigation applications. If someone advised you something specific, and you completely trust the advisor, it’s still worth giving such a navigator a few tries, after downloading it to your Android and definitely before going into the forest. In most cases, additional, but very useful functions are not available in the initial version, and they will have to be downloaded and installed separately, often for additional fee. And most importantly, do not forget to make sure that the gadget’s battery is 100% charged before going into the forest.

Navigator for iPhone

This option will be better than android. Firstly, because good application updates happen online and you will always know where you are. Secondly, the functionality of such applications is much better, and the connection, if a satellite is connected, is much better.

Navigator Garmin

The most affordable model of navigators among hunters, tourists, fishermen, mushroom pickers and just amateurs going on hikes. However, cheapness this time does not mean a lack of quality. The device fully meets almost all requests. Small in size, which makes it easy to handle with one hand without connecting the other. The case is durable, waterproof and non-slip. The joystick is comfortable even for working with gloves and has a locking function, which is very convenient in order not to accidentally lose track of the route or other indicators. The battery is designed for uninterrupted operation for 20-24 hours. The device is equipped with all kinds of useful features and additions. This is a very good helper when searching for mushrooms, fish or the right path.

An absolutely necessary device in a car, there is absolutely no point in arguing with it. It will show you exactly how to get to the forest and from now on you can safely turn it off. It is impossible to navigate in the forest using a car navigator. And not only because the car won’t get through there, but in some places it will squeeze through. But because he is not programmed for this. A map of streets, squares, alleys and country highways is usually loaded into it. They can tell you where it is best to avoid the traffic jam. Forest areas and the surface of the lake on car navigators is indicated by a solid blue or green spot, and for a mushroom picker or fisherman they are the same as “white spots”.

How to choose a navigator for hiking

Before you go to a specialized store, and even in the store itself, you need to pay attention to some parameters of the selected device.

Physical parameters

The size and weight of the navigator plays an important role if you have a long walk ahead over rough terrain. Of course, it won’t stretch your arms or shoulders, but the ideal option would be a device that fits in the palm of your hand and fits into the most convenient pocket, from where it can be easily taken out at any time without slowing down. It is not worth reminding that it should be well protected from moisture, dirt, dust and other troubles.

Display

A color display is not only beautiful, but also much more practical in terms of reading and understanding the displayed information. However, there are two rather significant inconveniences. Such a screen consumes much more energy, which means you will have to worry about additional batteries. On a sunny day, you will have to either look for a shaded corner or cover the screen with your hands, since the contrast can play a very unpleasant joke. The disadvantages are not that significant, but still, if you plan to use the navigator not on long hiking trips, you can get by with a black and white display.

CPU

For avid hikers who have multi-day hikes ahead of them, there is no question about processor power. The more powerful the better, there is no point in arguing here. Standing in one place and waiting for the navigator to process the information on such trips is not only boring, but can also put you behind schedule.

Memory

The same principle applies here as with processor power. The more memory, the more maps can be loaded into the navigator. The ideal option would be a device that allows you to use additional media such as micro SD. Well, the minimum amount of memory should be 1 GB.

Charger

This is one of the first questions that a seller is asked when choosing a travel navigator. And again the principle should be: the more, the better. A device whose passport states that its charge lasts less than 15 hours should not even be considered. On a long hike, you will have to change the batteries more than once or twice, and carry them with you, even to the city, because throwing away charging cells in the forest is harmful to nature, and not very pleasant.

Cartographic capabilities

In addition to the fact that the navigator shows you your location on a certain area of ​​the terrain, it is also good that it allows you to update the maps loaded into it. This will help reduce the error in the indicators and enable the user to make the necessary adjustments.

Housing and case

A cover is desirable. Especially if during the hike you plan to cross rivers, during which the possibility of getting your luggage wet increases significantly. And the navigator is also not insured against falling from a height or onto an untimely stone. Even a high-quality housing of the device itself may not withstand the overloads of a difficult tourist route, so extra protection will not hurt.

The requirements for the case itself were described above, but they are worth repeating:

• Strength.
• Tightness.
• The presence of softening and anti-slip elements.

It's safe to say that in some conditions you will appreciate your forethought.

It is better to go on a multi-day hiking trip with an experienced guide, or a person who has been to these places more than once and knows some signs and features of the terrain that allow you to quickly determine the location of the group and adjust the route in case of deviation from the intended paths.

However, a good tourist navigator can also help out. The main thing when purchasing is to adhere to the parameters and requirements listed above and before going on a trip, thoroughly study all the capabilities of the device, load everything into it required applications and functions and practice a little on familiar terrain. And then your journey will not be overshadowed by an unexpected unfamiliar landscape, which, instead of striking you with its beauty, will scare you with the realization that you are lost.