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Inevitably, vacations come with questions. And the most common one is “How do I get to where I am going? What directions?”

It used to be that traveling from A to B meant asking around for people who have been there. You needed to remember sign posts or landmarks. You had to know to read a map and a compass. And you also need to know how to ask the right questions.

Then online navigation services like MapQuest appeared. Now you could plan, then print out the turn-by-turn direction. A step up from a map.

Today, all you need is a GPS receiver with optional internet connection. Instant gratification, directions at your fingertips.

The GPS navigation system ranks as one of the best inventions of all time. It helps you get from point A to B. And when combined with the correct applications, plan your vacation.

SMARTPHONE APPLICATIONS

So you might ask, “What GPS receiver should I use?” I will say that the best GPS to use is one that you already likely have. Your smartphone with a well-designed and reliable navigation app like Google Maps.

Mapquest is still around. It is also available on your smartphone. And there are other choices available: Apple Maps, Yahoo Maps, Microsoft, etc. These aren’t bad, Google Maps is just works better for me. I am sure there are those who disagree.

When to use a smartphone app.

• Convenience. You almost always have your phone with you.
• You do not want to carry a separate device.
• You need the latest traffic information.
• You need the most current available map.

When to avoid a smartphone app.

• Screen size is an issue for you. You may not own one of those phones with gigantic screens.
• Concerned with what happens if you receive a phone or text message.
• Concern over dropped of internet connection
• Privacy. The free app services are likely tracking your trip and will monetize that.

DEDICATED GPS RECEIVERS

A dedicated GPS receiver from Garmin or TomTom are among the more popular models available. These devices are mounted on the vehicle dash or windshield, or come built-in the vehicle console.

Most of these devices require a map to be downloaded and installed. These maps will need regular updates.

When to use a dedicated GPS:

• Privacy. Google Maps is good, but the application is also constantly gathering data on you.
• Screen size. Phone sizes can be ridiculously big sometimes, but this can’t compare to a dedicated GPS. Especially the built-in ones that come with newer vehicles.
• Convenience. A dedicated GPS, mounted in the vehicle correctly, can just stay there, ready to use at a moment’s notice. Your phone is free to use for other like phone calls or playing music.
• Peace of mind. A dedicated GPS will have a built-in map of the area you are driving through. If you purchased it. A phone using Google Maps depends on constant internet connectivity. If you are one of those who panic when the phone stops working due to dropped connectivity, then stick to a dedicated GPS.

When to avoid using a dedicated GPS

• You need live traffic information
• The mapping data on your device is old and inaccurate.
• You do not want to pay for updates.
• You do not want to pay for the extra service that comes with the vehicle rental

CONCLUSION

In the end, your choice will depend on your individual preferences, and tolerance regarding privacy, outdated maps or how you react to the sudden loss of internet connectivity. Much of this will depend on where you are taking your vacation.

If you rent a vehicle on your vacation, you can opt to have GPS navigation service included, for an additional fee. This should include the latest map of the area.

Or, you can decide to save yourself some money and just rely on the mapping service you already carry with you on your phone.