Looking to get a GPS

for the car.
Wife will be traveling downstate and feels she needs one in the area where she'll be driving.
Any suggestions for a GPS that's decent, but won't break the bank?
We've always used paper maps, but she'll be alone or with Gkids, so it would be nice if she could put in a destination and just go.
The SUV we took to N.C. had one in the dash, and really came in handy.

 

Thanks WS.
Was just looking at a couple Garmins on Amazon.

 

I am a fan of Garmin products but regardless of what unit you get, take a few minutes and plan the trip with paper maps the way you are used to and then use common sense while using the GPS because sometimes GPS units will want you to do some strange things. Like get off the highway only to get right back on.

Knowing you need to drive about 60 miles and get off at exit 23A for example will save you some headaches on the trip.

I do a lot of travelling and use both automotive and handheld GPS's a lot. They are good 99% of the time but can get you into trouble when the operator stops thinking and just follows directions blindly.

 

We're both slightly familiar with the area, but it's changed a lot in the last 10 years since we lived downstate.
Devil's in the details.

 

+1

 

Knowing that the area has changed in the past 10 years, some of these changes may not show up on all GPS's. Consider a unit that has map updates included. Garmin unit will have LM in the unit number indicating Lifetime Map updates.

 

I use Waze quite a bit. Helps sometimes knowing if the Po Po man is around!

Gary

 

I'm not really impressed with my Garmin.
The first one I had was good, but the last one I got ... it just isn't very good at navigating.
I now use my smart fone more often than the GPS

 

A smart phone with data running Google maps or the Waze app (my preferred as it shows detail like traffic and police locations) are good options. I just recommend a mount for the phone (most states and provinces have hands free laws) and a power cord that works in the vehicle as running these apps keeps the screen on which uses a lot of battery.

 

2-3 hours of navigating kills my fone battery

 

Yep. Shows construction and delays with audible alerts and tells you if you should stay the course or detour to a faster route

 

I had a little TomTom a few years ago but back then they didn't do traffic reports or at least mine didn't and really only needed it for an alternate route
I just use my iphone now if I need it. Mostly To check for accidents/backed up traffic and take an alternate route.

 

Had two or three garmins and enjoyed them all.
The last garmin was a refurbished from wally that has performed great.
Good luck

 

Well, we only have one phone....the iphone 7 I just got, and the data is 2 gigs (I think) for 3 people on the plan.
She'll be down there for several days shuttling grandkids around.
I like the idea that she can just look at or listen to a GPS unit instead of messing with the phone.

 

Don't leave it or the mount in the car. Ne'erdowells will pop a window to look for it.

They must not be selling as many as they used to, don't recall seeing any displays this Christmas.



Just stay offa facebook for a coupla days. LOL.