Using plotaroute with a GPSFORUMS HOME SEARCH FORUMS

OK thanks Julien I will look into that.

If anyone has experience of GPS that would be helpful.

Jonathan

Hi Jonathan,

Battery life can be an issue indeed, especially if you're taking a lot of photos.

Downloading the route beforehand and switching your phone to airplane mode is probably the most effective.
This way, whilst following the route, only the GPS is running.

On the app itself, there a some settings you can change to improve battery life, like not keeping the screen on whilst recording or following a route.

Feel free to try it out; this is the best way of knowing if your phone can handle following a route and taking pictures.

If not, maybe someone on the forum has a recommendation for a simple GPS device.

All the best,
Julien

Thanks Julien I will have a look at that link. I use my phone for photos etc when walking so a bit worried about battery life if using an app for navigation. Maybe one of the simplest GPS devices would be ok for me in conjunction with a paper map.

Hi Jonathan,

I'm no expert on GPS devices, but from what I understand, this probably depends on the device you buy. Some might come with OS maps on them, and others will need you to pay for maps.
Maybe someone on the forum can be more specific about this or even recommend devices.

I do have a question: would you consider using an app instead of a handheld GPS?

I'm asking because as Premium member on Plotaroute, you can link your account with Visorando and also benefit from the Premium subscription there.
One of the Premium features of Visorando is access to topographic maps on the app. This means that you would have access to OS maps on your smartphone, just as you do on the Plotaroute and Visorando websites.

If this sounds appealing at all, make sure to read more about it in this topic.

All the best,
Julien

I currently do all my walking with map and compass but considering buying a handheld GPS. I currently use plotaroute in advance of a walk to give me distance and ascent. I understand that I can download my route onto the GPS using a GPX file but will the OS map show on the GPS screen as it does on my computer or do I have to purchase maps to go on the GPS?