Garmin Map Updates Explained

Garmin Map Updates

Whether you own an in-car Garmin Nuvi or a handheld outdoor GPS for Geocaching there are a number of different official Garmin map update options available from Garmin. In this short overview we are going to explain to you what the different Garmin map updates are and how you can download them. Some are free GPS maps, and some will require a payment – all of them though are 100% official and will be compatible with your Garmin product.

Garmin Map Updates for Nuvi Automotive GPS

The Nuvi range of in-car automotive navigators are the most popular in the World, being responsible for millions of car and truck journeys every day. The maps on the Nuvi always come pre-installed as software so over time it is possible that the maps become out of date and need a refresh.

There are a number of options available for people wanting to update their maps, the most affordable being the nuMaps Onetime update which retails at just under fifty dollars. By downloading this option you will instantly have the latest version of the City Navigator NT mapping software on your GPS.

Free Garmin Map Updates

Occasionally it will be possible for customers to download free Garmin map updates; however this type of install is only available to Nuvi GPS products within the first 90 days of it receiving a satellite signal. To see whether you are eligible for a free Garmin map update you will need to register and login at their myGarmin customer website.

New Garmin TOPO Maps for Handheld Outdoor GPS Products
Garmin also produce outdoor GPS products including the popular Colorado and Dakota Series, and have recently released their new top-end models which go by the name of Montana.

If you love the outdoor life and are a fan of Geocaching then you will occasionally want to install new maps – this is particularly relevant if you are traveling to a new National Park or an area previously not included on your GPS handheld.

The most popular type of map download for Geocaching devices are the Garmin TOPO maps which offer detailed mapping including elevations, geographical points, and terrain contours. The TOPO map updates come in two different varieties – TOPO 24k and TOPO 100k.

If you require very detailed mapping then you should download Garmin TOPO 100k maps as these are just like using a more traditional paper-based map at 1:100,000 scale. These map update downloads include items such as:

· Conservation Areas , National Parks, and Forests
· Roads (For example, local roads, interstates, state highways, and trails)
· Water Locations
· Points of Interest (aka POIs)

To download new Garmin TOPO maps navigate to the official Garmin website and access their mapping section from the top black navigation bar. They have a handy map finder tool that lets you type in the Geocaching handheld GPS you own, and asks you where you are going to use it. The online system will then display all the different Garmin map update options that are available to you.

Not sure what maps you already have installed? If that’s the case all you need to do is register the handheld GPS on the myGarmin website and the dashboard will tell you what maps are loaded once you connect the device to the PC or Mac using your compatible USB cable.

It really is very easy to download and install Garmin map updates, and we would always recommend you go down the official route – as this will ensure you do not compromise the software on your GPS and will probably keep any warranties you have intact and up to date – which is great for peace of mind.

Geocachers List Garmin 205 Among Favorites

Garmin 205

This GPS, the Garmin 205 is a sort of a travel assistant that you can wear on your wrist. Since it is portable and affordable, you can make use of its services no matter where you are located or where you plan to go.

Garmin 205 Attributes

Garmin Forerunner 205 is highly sensitive and perfect for tracking purposes. People who use these kinds of devices are often addicted to them and they get lost if they do not own a device with such capabilities.

Just by tapping  into the screen, you get a world of information and you never have to ask anyone for directions. Garmin 205 is very simple to use and its navigator will provide you with clear directions throughout.

There are different models of GPS devices and some of them are listed below. Each has a special function and can be rightly called the best GPS for geocaching.

The Garmin GPS 76 is a device that you will not be able to live without because it gives you off road information, on road information, maps your movements and even serves you while you are out on the sea. Since the Garmin GPS 76 is something you may not be able to do without at times, you will be happy to know that its performance will not be affected even if it is dropped into water. You can store all your important information in the Garmin GPS 76 since the device can store up to 500 favorite places.

The Garmin Etrex HCX will never let you down, but it is expensive for the average customer. It is sturdy, waterproof and stores all the information that you enter in its Micro SD memory card. The sharp and strikingly accurate display of Garmin Etrex HCX makes it a legend because there is no end to the list of outdoor activities you can do with it. Professional anglers, seamen and hunters can use a Garmin Etrex HCX. The calendar, stopwatch, calculator, tracking, finding and gaming capabilities of the Garmin Etrex HCX cannot even be compared with another. It is also categorized as the best GPS for geocaching.

Garmin GPS 72 is the best GPS for geocaching for many mariners. The built-in celestial data of Garmin GPS 72 supplies you with all that you need including information on the tide, hunting and fishing and even details of the sunrise and sunset. The Garmin GPS 72 is just as useful to people on land.

For an inexpensive high-resolution monochrome version, you can buy the Garmin 60 GPS. The Garmin 60 GPS proves that just because something is affordable, it will not have all the features you need and love. Garmin 60 GPS is WAAS enabled and this gives you accurate readings of all locations.

Garmin 205 Among The Best

As you can tell the best gps for geocaching boils down to personal preference, but among geocachers, you will typically always hear the name Garmin 205 mentioned.

Garmin Etrex Legend GPS For Geocaching

Garmin Etrex Legend GPS

With no doubt, Garmin Etrex Legend GPS is a great value for money product and it is used as a general-purpose global positioning system tool.

Since it is WAAS enabled it can accept radio signals that make the information it transmits totally accurate and reliable.

Garmin Etrex Legend GPS Is Accurate

The accuracy reading of Garmin Etrex Legend GPS is usually within 2-3 meters. It has a huge memory for storing data related to waypoints, routes and directions and this feature makes it one of the best global positioning system devices for geocaching.

The Garmin etrex Legend GPS is totally waterproof which makes it eligible for marine uses. Another highlight is that it keeps a tab on the routes that were traveled and keeps them stored in its memory.

The unit is lightweight and features an internal antennae, so it is perfect for outdoor activities. One disadvantage with this tool is that the signal weakens, but only on rare occasions. The rubberized plastic shell on this makes it easy to grip.

This highly chosen device for global positioning systems for geocaching has other models too, namely Garmin GPS 72, Garmin 60 GPS and Garmin GPS 76. Garmine GPS 72 is also WAAS enabled and you can rightly call it your personal navigator.

The Garmine GPS 72 is usually used by mariners and can withstand some amount of water splashing and dunking. Both professional fishermen and amateurs use this tool to get the latest information on the weather and tide. This rugged gadget has a huge memory and will remember many of your favorite places and destinations.

The Garmin 60 GPS is also considered one of the best for geocaching and it is WAAS enabled also. It has a removable MicroSD card and a highly sensitive direction device. The Garmin 60 GPS has amazing navigation features and accurate and unbeatable global positioning system capabilities.

It is affordable so people who are put off by the price of other models can just buy this one. With just a couple of batteries, you can get more than 28 hours of outdoor life and it has unrivaled geocaching features. The monochrome display and bright LED display will allow you to find your way about quite easily.

Garmin GPS 76 is another hand-held marine tool that is trusted to the core by its regular users. It can store loads of information and is a perfectly reliable device on land too. Waterproof, the Garmin GPS 76 will give you a straight route to your destination and at the same time provide you with input about hazards and weather conditions.

It is also the best universal direction tool for hunting down cache because it is quick, accurate and has a decent battery life.

Top Choice Garmin Etrex Legend GPS

All in all, the best gps for geocaching is probably an individual decision, but the Garmins we’ve discussed here especially the Garmin Etrex Legend GPS device are listed among geocachers worldwide as favorites.

Garmin eTrex Venture HC GPS Receiver

The Garmin eTrex Venture HC GPS Receiver pulls ahead of its nearest competitor by at least 32 lengths.  This Garmin GPS device is affordable yet has the sought after features usually reserved for far more expensive GPS systems.

Why is the Garmin eTrex Venture HC GPS Receiver the Balm?

It has high-sensitivity providing you with continuous reception whether you are out in the cannons, among tall city sky scrapers, under heavy cloud cover or traipsing through the tall Red Woods of California.  In fact, this WASS-Enabled GPS receiver maintains a strong signal even if you are in the bottom floor of  your apartment building.  Name me another GPS under $200 that can do that!

The Garmin etrex Venture GPS is a durable device that is accurate to within 10 feet of your target, an important consideration if you are an avid geocacher.  It runs on two AA batteries which are systematically good for 14 hours.  If you are going on a long trek, take a few extra batteries along.

It’s unique cool 5-button layout lets you use the various functions using only one had, and because the buttons are located on either side of the unit, the face area is reserved for the large, clear display screen.  Some of the other makes and models have a screen that is so tiny you need a magnifying glass to read the way points.

Speaking of the display, it has a 256 color, sunlight readable TFT display which makes it easy to tell map details no matter what time of day  it is.  Be assured that you will not have to get under a tree to get decent contrast from the large display screen.

The easy as pie menu lets you create and view up to 500 different waypoints, 10 track logs, and it has 24 MB of internal memory and a detailed base map.  There is plenty of memory so you can use the included MapSource Trip & Waypoint Manager software to load waypoints and routes.

Reviews about Garmin eTrex Venture HC GPS Receiver

Rave reviews abound when the subject of the Garmin eTrex Venture comes up in any discussion about which is the best gps for geocaching.  In fact, this Garmin outdoorsman favorite enjoys many 5-star reviews, and many outdoor enthusiasts wouldn’t think of making an excursion without first packing their Garmin etrex Venture GPS Handheld and a few extra batteries.

Geocaching is an exciting yet very challenging hobby which can only be described as a Easter egg hunt for adults.  Accuracy is a must in any GPS system used in this highly popular worldwide game of hide and seek.

There are many occasions when you can be standing almost on top of your targeted cache, and not be able to find it.  A GPS unit that will take you to within 10 feet of the target is an absolute necessity if you want to locate your targeted caches before sundown.

Whether you are an hard core goecacher, camper, hunter, fisherman, or hiker you will love the the Garmin eTrex Venture HC GPS Receiver.

Outdoor enthusiasts of every description know there is a certain comfort in knowing that they can not only always know where they are but they can also always find their way home as long as their Garmin eTrex Venture HC
is along for the ride.

Garmin GPS 76

While the Garmin GPS 76 is aimed at the serious fisherman, hunter, and wasteland trekker, it should also be considered one of the top choices for hard core geocachers as well.

Of course, you can get by with less expensive gps systems, but if you are a serious geocacher, then you will want to take a look at the 76 series from Garmin.

Why the Garmin GPS 76?

The Garmin GPSMap 76Cx is a favorite of boaters and marine enthusiasts, which makes it ideal for targeting caches in the off shore islands. However, if you do you geocaching on land or in the city among tall buildings, you will still get top notch reception and you’ll easily be led to within a few feet of your cache for the day.

Imagine having a small, only 7.6 ounces, yet totally accurate, highly sensitive GPS unit that will not only precisely track your position around the coastal water ways, lakes, canyons , heavy tree and cloud cover, and among city sky scrapers!

Garmin has outdone itself with the color display screen on the Garmin GPS 76, you do not have to hold your had over it to read it, the contrast is so good that it can be easily read in bright sunlight. It has a sunlight-readable color TFT display, a feature usually reserved for more expensive models.

Additionally, the Garmin GPS 76Cx Handheld GPS device comes with a 128 MB microSD card for storing optional maps. This little unit, while compact, is packed with terrific GPS mapping abilities.

Whether you intend to use the Garmin GPS 76 on the land or on the water, you will appreciate that the device will float. Geocachers, are always dropping their GPS systems in puddles or streams; it just comes with the territory. The lightweight device is water resistant to IEC 60529 standards, which means that it can be submerged in one meter of water for 30 mins.

Never worry about running out of power either. Using only two AA alkaline batteries, you can track your cache for up to 30 hours. Think you will be out for longer than that? Just take a few extra batteries.

After considering other makes and models, I think that you will agree that this lightweight, water resistant, easy-to-use, and easy to read GPS unit makes an excellent choice for geocaching enthusiasts of every description.

Look at any best gps for geocaching guide and you will see that the features inherent in the Garmin GPS 76 are just the ones you need to be a top drawer geocacher.

Where is the best deal for a Garmin GPS 76?

Click Here for more detailed information about the Garmin GPS 76 and to read five star reviews from satisfied users.

Garmin GPS 60CSx Handheld GPS Navigator

As is the case of finding bargains on anything today, GPS best prices, can usually be found on line.  Who would have thought it?

Internet GPS Best Prices

And, in recent years, when I’ve been shopping on the the Internet for the best GPS prices for my geocaching club members, it has been my experience that  GPS Best Prices and the best prices on GPS system accessories can be found on Amazon.

Amazon’s online store basically has every kind of GPS unit known to man, the main thing is you kind of need to know what type of GPS will work best for you before you head on over to Amazon’s GPS dept to select the best priced gps.

Basically, all GPS gadgets do precisely the same thing; they display where you are right now, and they also show you how to get to get to your chosen destination.  No company can rightfully claim that it makes the best gps for geocaching, though some units are more suited to the game than others.

GPS Best Prices For All Types

This is the case whether they are handheld gps units, dash mounted, marine, portable, golf, geocaching specific gps devices or whatever else they are being used for at any particular time.

There are a gazillion different models to choose from and several different top rated manufacturers, of which Garmin, Magellan, and TomTom are the most popular and the best rated.

Probably, Garmin has the absolute best rated and has the best prices for gps units overall, but the other manufacturers have some good ones too.  Garmin is considered the leader in the field, and they have a mind boggling selection to choose from.

Also, Garmin’s engineers are always improving some little something about one of its models, and then putting the new and improved model on the market.

This happens almost on a yearly basis for every Garmin series, and when it does,  the previous year’s model can be purchased from Amazon for a huge eye popping discount.

GPS Best Prices Deeply Discounted

Here is a situation where you can find Garmin GPS best prices like none other.  I’ve even seen them sell for less than half their original selling price.  I saw one just the other day at Amazon for 59% off the regular selling price.  Talk about GPS best prices, that kind of deal would really help out at Christmas time.

There isn’t a thing wrong with last year’s model, and like we’ve already said, all GPS gadgets do basically the same thing; tell you where you are and get you to where you are going.

So if you’re one of those people that can live without the latest and greatest, and you don’t just have to have the gadget with all the newest bells and whistles, then you can just focus all your attention of shopping for GPS best prices.

But, before you go looking for the best GPS prices, you’ll need to ascertain a thing or two.  And, a good starting place for anyone looking for their first GPS system is to decide what activities you’ll be using the unit for.

Will it be used as a personal travel assistant, getting you across the city and to a certain address or point of interest?

Maybe you’re into RV’s and want to travel the country with your dog and spouse, or maybe you want the GPS to take along on family vacations so you won’t get lost trying to locate one of six million points of interest.  Yes, some of these low cost GPS unit’s store up to that many points of interests, POI’s as they are called.

Imagine touring Washington D.C. for example and being able to drive, without fear of getting lost, your own car right to The White House and Capitol Hill, to Arlington National Cemetery, the Smithsonian, to Mount Vernon, Gettysburg, and Williamsburg.

Will you be using it aboard your boat, then you’ll want to look for a best priced GPS that has coastal water ways maps.  Will you be using it outdoors for camping, hunting, fishing, goecaching, or multiple sports activities such as running, cycling, or cross country skiing?

Some of these units come with a bicycle mount, or there are some that can be strapped to your wrist, like a watch.  I love these watch-like units, because they are hands free and you don’t have to worry about dropping them in a puddle or banging them around too much.

Also, these sleek-looking little wrist mounted gps units, like the Garmin Forerunners, can double as personal training assistants.  You can use them for running, cycling and various other sports as well as for geocaching.  The down side to the watch type gps units is that they don’t have as much memory storage as some of the other gps devices.

Or maybe you’re interested in one of the new golfing gps units.  These units come preloaded with thousands of golf courses.  I’m a golfer, and I would love to find one of the Garmin Approach G5 golfing GPS gadgets in my Christmas stocking.

Since the golfing gps devices are fairly new, I wouldn’t look for too much of a discount on these handy little golfing gps gadgets though.

I would certainly be the talk of my little golf club. if I had one of the golf specific gps models.  They tell you things like how far it is to the hole no matter where you are on the course, and they also show you all the sand traps.  They are so deadly accurate, that they are not allowed on the professional tours.

In any case, once you’ve decided how and where you’ll be using your new GPS, then you’re all set to go on over to Amazon’s online GPS store to find their  best prices for GPS units.

Maybe you’re interested in one of their new handheld gps devices like the pictured Garmin GPS 60CSx Handheld GPS Navigator for geocaching, camping, or hiking.

Or maybe you like to travel by land and by sea, then you’ll need a portable GPS device that can be taken right from its vehicle dash mount and placed in its marine mount right on your boat.

If you are a geocacher, Remember the best gps for geocaching doesn’t have to be all that expensive, it fact, it can be one of the least expensive.   Look on Amazon’s GPS best prices, without a doubt you’ll be able to find a real steal of a deal.