Table of Contents
Introduction
While getting ready for a snowmobile trip, there are important gears you should have ready. Depending on your needs, they include snowmobile jackets, snowmobile helmets, backpacks, and much more. Another gear that’s handy that should be in your checklist is a snowmobile GPS map. Yes, and even so, free snowmobile GPS maps.
Why free snowmobile GPS maps?
Unlike paper maps which can’t determine your exact location, GPS maps can detect that as long as your location services are turned on. That way, you can avoid getting lost while engaging on new, unfamiliar trails, and even if you end up getting lost, you can quickly get yourself back on track.
Free snowmobile GPS maps do not require mobile data when transmitting signals. This remarkable feature makes free GPS maps all the more resourceful because you don’t want to be stuck in the midst of nowhere and still need to worry about mobile data before getting back on track.
What is the best way to mount a GPS unit on a snowmobile?
It is recommended that you get a mount suitable for your snowmobile. Many GPS units are accompanied by their mounts. However, if you have to purchase a mount, make sure it has a strong suction cup or is highly adhesive. Then, you can connect the mount to your snowmobile’s windshield and add the GPS unit to the mount. It is best to have your GPS unit mounted before engaging on a trail.
How should a snowmobile GPS be used?
Before snowmobiling with your GPS unit, you should ensure it is charged and know how to operate the unit. It is better to understand how to use the unit and fully know how it works before taking it for a ride. You can determine your exact location on the map your snowmobile GPS unit displays. This is usually represented by a clearly visible indicator that cannot be missed. You can also search for the locations of spots around you and get a step-by-step guide to access these spots on the trail.
How to choose the best free snowmobile GPS units
Look out for these qualities when considering the best free snowmobile GPS for your snowmobiling activities.
External conditions:
A snowmobile GPS unit must be strong and well-built to withstand harsh weather conditions without breaking down. It must also have an appropriately wide display screen to provide sufficient information that you can see without having to squint your eyes. It will help if the screen is a touch screen for easy accessibility. The GPS unit must also be portable, enough to fit in small spaces like your pockets or where it would sit on your snowmobile.
Type of map uploaded onto the GPS unit:
This quality is very crucial. The GPS map must be a high-resolution map that you can see easily. Before taking off on your snowmobile, ensure the map is up-to-date with the most recent information available. The map must be well detailed and must be able to serve its purpose of continuously giving you map information.
Battery:
Just as in the selection process of phones and other gadgets, you must also carefully examine the battery life of the GPS unit. Some GPS units have batteries that live up to a day (24 hours). Snowmobilers with this kind of GPS unit can stay on the trails as much as they want to because they are confident they can easily find their way back.
Your GPS unit must be functional regardless of the time you wish to snowmobile. Be it during the daytime or nighttime, it should be able to constantly provide accurate locations. You should also be able to perform cool stuff on it, like creating a route on the maps. This feature is great, especially if you are going on a trip with other people.
Google Maps: How to use Google maps anywhere without using data
You must be wondering how this is possible. All you need is an older phone model and the sign-in details to your Google account. As mentioned earlier, getting GPS signals is free. However, getting turn-by-turn directions to nearby locations requires using your mobile data. The only way to access this feature without using your data is to download the specified area on the maps while on a Wi-Fi network.
When your phone is no longer connected, your enabled location services will still monitor your location and continue to update it on the downloaded map on your phone. You do not get to access all the features of Google Maps with your mobile data turned off, but it provides your exact location on the map and gives your turn-by-turn directions to your destinations.
“Won’t this process take up space on my phone?” Yes, it will. If you don’t use a map after it has been downloaded for a month, it deletes itself.
Why do GPS maps need an update?
New buildings, monuments, and other features are built every day. A map from the ‘90s will definitely not have the exact features a map from today has. That is why GPS maps need an update. The update makes sure you have the most recent information on your map. This helps to eliminate the element of surprise when you encounter an obstacle on your trail that shouldn’t be there, according to your map.
How to update your free snowmobile GPS maps
Before updating your maps, you must know whether or not your GPS can be connected to a computer. You must also know the type of GPS you use. After fulfilling these requirements, conduct an internet search for the program your GPS needs. Then, connect the GPS unit to the computer system using a USB cable. Download the maps directly to the unit by selecting the unit’s folder for maps when downloading.
Final Notes:
Now you know why you should take a GPS unit along with you on that snowmobiling vacation. A free snowmobile GPS map should be considered. You should carefully examine your choices while selecting your preferred option.
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