Why buy a GPS?
When we go out to the mountains, we normally do so following defined or marked trails, but some may suffer natural changes, such as landslides, trees blocking the path, trails hidden under the vegetation, or the marks being erased with the wear of time, when a of these situations and the path disappears, you can become disoriented or make you take a wrong direction and end up getting lost in an unknown area.
Unfortunately, these situations occur more often than we think, and year after year the number of mountain rescues by emergency services increases.
Mountain rescues have increased by 21% in the last year
That is why both mountain guides and professional services always recommend the use of GPS to go out into the mountains, even if you follow a marked route.
Why do you recommend carrying a GPS in the mountains?
Carrying a GPS with quality maps of the area with you, in a moment of doubt can mean the decision to take the right path, get lost or choose a path with an ascent or descent beyond your capabilities.
In the event that fog appears, you will have a device that will mark the correct route to follow and prevent you from leaving the planned itinerary. Sending acoustic signals if you do, marking the distance of the detour and the alternative to get back on the road again.
In case of exhaustion or doubt, you can check the distance and level of ascent to the end point of the route, and thus be able to decide whether to continue or better stop or look for a lighter alternative.
Through the GPS you will be able to retransmit your route and send emergency signals with your exact location.
Through the GPS you will be able to retransmit your route and send emergency signals with your exact location.
Why is it better to buy a GPS than to use a mobile?
Although there are APPs with maps where you can upload your tracks, unlike a mobile phone, a GPS has a higher battery, so you won’t have to suffer due to its status, even if the route takes several days.
GPS also have perfect visibility under sunlight and allow you to consult the map without vision problems, unlike mobile phones, and much more accurate position.
GPS are robust devices made to withstand shocks, extreme temperatures, water and vibrations, so it is almost impossible for them to suffer an accident during your route.
If you have doubts, you can read our article: Smartphone or GPS: What suits you best according to your activity?