GPS

I have a Garmin eTrex H which I use for traveling and mountain biking. I got it over two years ago and now its starting to freeze up on occasion. It sucks but its time I bought another one since the new ones have such incredible features. I'm looking at the new Garmin eTrex Vista HCx. It comes loaded with maps for all the Americas, Europe and Asia. Simply mindblowing. It also detects altitude and has an electronic compass.

For someone who travels this technology is a Godsend. Its particularly good for me since I like to explore. With this technology I can go hiking deep into the rainforest and not worry about getting lost. Some people like guided tours but often I like to guide myself. I like to imagine what it was like for the early European explorers. Can you imagine how PonceDeLeon or Pizarro would have reacted to hand-held GPS technology? For us, it is the equivalent of a car that could fly to Mars in less than an hour.

Reasons to get GPS

1. You won't get lost. Ever.
2. If someone gets hurt you can mark the location and give the exact coordinates to the rescue team (who will most likely have GPS as well).
3. You can mark locations you may want to revisit on future trips
4. You can make maps of your favorite hiking trails, biking trails, etc
5. You can mark where you parked the car in case you have to walk several blocks to an attraction, concert, whatever.
6. You can have a record of distances and travel times which will allow you to plan future itinerary's.
7. Its just really cool to have
8. Considering what you get, its really not expensive