tourist maps and GPS; Safe guidance on the way

Tourist maps and GPS systems play an important role in today’s world and have made travel easier, more accurate and safer. Tourist maps, often available physically or digitally, help travelers discover new destinations and obtain important information such as directions, attractions, amenities, and distances.

On the other hand, GPS (Global Positioning System) as a powerful tool for orientation, enables accurate location identification and real-time guidance. Combining satellite data and digital maps, this technology makes individual and group travel more efficient and minimizes the risk of getting lost. The use of these tools is necessary not only for tourists but also for various industries such as transportation, relief services and urban planning.

Learn more about tourism and GPS maps:

Features of tourism maps suitable for travel

Good travel maps should have features that help travelers have a smooth and trouble-free experience. These features make tourism maps a useful tool for travel planning and orientation and provide a pleasant experience for travelers. In the following, we mention the most important features of such maps.

_{Photo source: newlyswissed.com. Photographer: Unknown}

Accuracy and update: The map should have accurate and up-to-date information about routes, roads, scenic spots, and geographic changes. Older versions may cause confusion.

Offline usability: In many remote places or without internet access, offline maps are essential. Having a version that works without an internet connection makes the travel experience safer.

Show tourist attractions: The map should include important information about attractions, museums, parks, historical and natural areas so that travelers can plan better.

Guide to routes and distances A clear display of routes, distances and approximate time to reach the destination is one of the key features of a good map.

Details of welfare services: Information such as the location of gas stations, restaurants, medical centers, hotels and other amenities should be clearly displayed on the map.

Comprehensible language and signs: The use of simple language and graphic symbols understandable to everyone makes the map more user-friendly. Translation into different languages ​​can also be useful for foreign tourists.

Appropriate scale: The map must have a scale suitable for the traveler’s needs; For example, larger maps are suitable for long routes and more detailed maps for local details.

Ability to search in digital maps: In digital versions, the ability to quickly search for places and get suggested routes can be useful.

Coordination with GPS: The map must be compatible with GPS or other positioning software so that the routes are shown in real time.

Strength and durability of paper maps: Physical maps must be made of resistant and waterproof materials so that they can be used in different weather conditions.

Advantages of using GPS in travel

Using GPS while traveling has many advantages that make the travel experience easier and safer. In the following, we examine the most important advantages.

_{Photo source: linqo.eu. Photographer: Unknown}

Precise and real-time guidance: The GPS system provides accurate and real-time guidance and guides travelers through complicated and unfamiliar routes. This technology prevents getting lost on unknown roads by showing exact location and suggested routes and gives users confidence that they are always on the right path.

Saving time and money: One of the great advantages of GPS is providing the shortest and fastest routes to travelers, which reduces travel time and fuel consumption. This feature is important for long and road trips and has a significant impact on reducing the side costs of the trip.

Increased safety: The GPS system provides useful information such as heavy traffic, road accidents and dangerous areas. This information helps travelers make better decisions and navigate safer routes.

Offline usability: Many GPS applications provide the ability to download maps. This feature is very useful in areas where internet access is not possible. Travelers can use maps and manage their trip without worrying about internet connection.

Access to essential information: One of the valuable uses of GPS is to show essential places such as gas stations, restaurants, medical centers and hotels. This feature helps passengers to easily meet their needs along the way and travel more confidently.

Better travel planning: By using GPS, it is possible to plan the trip accurately and users can check the suggested routes, stops and approximate time to reach the destination before starting the trip and start their trip with full preparation.

Support for multiple languages: GPS systems usually support different languages ​​and this feature is very useful for foreign tourists. With this feature, users can benefit from directions and information in their mother tongue or familiar languages ​​and have an easier trip.

Compatibility with different devices: The GPS system can be used in a variety of devices such as smart phones, car navigation systems and even smart watches. This flexibility allows users to use this technology according to their needs and have a simpler and more organized trip.

The best GPS devices for different trips

Choosing the best GPS device for travel depends on the type of road, mountain, sea or air trip and your needs. When choosing a GPS, consider factors such as battery life, weather resistance, offline usability, and additional features such as safety alerts to choose a device that fits your travel needs.

Below are some of the best options for all types of trips:

Garmin brand

“Garmin” is one of the leading brands of GPS devices that is known for its high accuracy and stability. Offering updated and accurate global maps, this brand is a suitable option for activities such as climbing, cycling, sailing and road trips. Resistance to harsh weather conditions, including waterproofing and shock resistance, make Garmin devices very practical for challenging environments. Also, long-life batteries in many Garmin models allow for long-term use. The variety of models, from small and portable GPS devices to advanced car and airplane devices, makes Garmin an ideal choice for both professional and casual users.

_{Photo source: hikingguy.com. Photographer: Unknown}

• Oregon 450t model with topographic maps, barometric altimeter, touch screen is very suitable for use in mountains and remote villages.
• The Foretrex 401 model is considered the cheapest model of this brand and is used for cheap and economical trips.
• GPSMAP 62St model with barometric altimeter, topographic maps and high reliability is used for natural environments and harsh conditions.

Magellan

“Magellan” is one of the popular brands in the field of GPS devices, which is an ideal choice for beginners and regular users due to its simple and practical user interface. The products of this brand, with a more reasonable price than competitors, are an economical option for people who do not need professional devices.

_{Photo source: en.m.wikipedia.org. Photographer Nachoman-au}

Special features of Magellan devices, such as displaying topographical details and suitable camping routes, make it a good choice for nature tourism and adventure. In addition, the high resistance of these devices to harsh weather conditions makes it easy to use them in natural and challenging environments.

Tom Tom

The TomTom brand is an advanced and ideal GPS device for the car, which has become one of the most popular choices for drivers in 2024 with its superior features. The devices of this brand with high resolution and accurate and up-to-date maps make the navigation experience much easier.

_{Photo source: fleeto.ae. Photographer: Unknown}

Features such as intelligent routing based on live traffic, speed warnings and speed cameras and alternative route suggestions help you spend less time in traffic and keep you on the right path.

megaforce

MegaForce GPS is one of the new and growing brands in the field of navigation devices, which has found its place in the market by focusing on providing advanced and affordable technologies.

_{Photo source: DigiKala site. Photographer: Unknown}

The devices of this brand with high accuracy and features such as up-to-date maps, smart navigation and the ability to connect to smartphones are a suitable option for general users and travel enthusiasts. Also, the rugged design and long battery life make them a good choice for use in a variety of situations, from road trips to outdoor adventures.

HC Nau

“BHCnav” brand is one of the innovative brands in the field of navigation devices, which focuses on modern technologies and ease of use, providing users with a reliable and efficient experience. The brand’s devices are equipped with accurate and fast-updating maps and offer features such as smart routing, traffic alerts and smartphone connectivity. The compact and durable design of these devices makes them suitable for daily trips and outdoor adventures.

Tips for using digital and paper maps

Better to use digital than paper maps, follow these tips to ensure you’re always on the right track.

_{Photo source: mitpress.mit.edu website. Photographer: Unknown}

• Make sure your digital maps are saved offline in the desired areas; Because in some places internet access may be limited.
• Use the updated versions of the maps to have accurate and up-to-date information.
• When using digital maps for a long time, manage the device’s battery consumption or carry a power bank.
• Learning the basics of reading paper maps, including recognizing symbols and scales, is essential.
• If using in nature or traveling, put paper maps in plastic wrap to protect them from getting wet or damaged.
• Using a pencil or marker, mark the routes and important points on the map so that you can navigate more easily.
• Using a compass or altimeter can be effective along with paper maps.
• Paper maps do not depend on the Internet or electricity and can be a good alternative to digital maps in emergency situations.

Travel GPS selection and maintenance guide

Choosing the right GPS with basic maintenance ensures better performance and longer life of the device and provides a safe and efficient experience in your travels.

_{Photo source: hindustantimes.com. Photographer: Unknown}

Choose the right GPS

• Purpose of use: Determine what you need the GPS for (hiking, road tripping, cycling, or sailing). There are specialized models for every activity. Some devices only display latitude and longitude, while others are capable of identifying a grid reference, altitude, and distance as well.
• Accuracy and speed of routing: Choose a device that has high accuracy in positioning and fast routing.
• Up-to-date and practical GPS maps: Choose accurate, auto-updating maps. Devices that support global maps are useful for international travel.
• Internal memory: Maps take up a lot of internal memory. For this reason, some devices, in addition to the internal memory card, also have an external memory card.
• Display type: Button or touchscreen GPS display is one of the other things that you should consider according to your needs; Because it’s hard to use the touch screen when you’re wearing gloves and it’s cold.
• Battery and charging: Pay attention to the battery life and the possibility of using spare batteries or power banks.
• Resistance and durability: For nature trips or mountaineering, waterproof and shock-resistant devices are a good choice.
• Additional features: Features such as traffic alerts, altitude display, suggested alternative routes and the ability to connect to a mobile phone are invaluable.

GPS maintenance

• Update software and maps: Regularly update your maps and GPS software to ensure accurate information and device performance.
• Protection against adverse conditions: Protect the device from water, dust and impact. For tough trips, use durable cases or waterproof bags.
• Battery management: Charge the device’s battery on time and carry a spare battery or power bank with you on long trips.
• Cleaning: Clean the device with a soft and dry cloth after using it in dirty or wet environments.
• Correct storage: Store the device in a dry environment away from direct sunlight to extend its life.

_{Photo source: plaza.ir site. Photographer: Unknown}

If you have experience using paper maps or GPS while traveling, share your stories, tips and memories with Kajaro audience. Your experiences can be valuable inspiration and guidance for others!

_{Cover photo source: salind-gps.de. Photographer: Unknown}