Smart Phones: Most smart phones come pre-loaded with a “Maps,” or “Directions” app that uses GPS. If you do not have one, search and download an app, like Google Maps, from your app store to use GPS. [1] X Research source GPS Devices: These are small, rectangular devices that specialize in driving directions and finding restaurants, airports, and other points of interest. Examples include TomTom and Garmin, and most cost under $170 dollars.
Your location is sometimes stored under the heading “Where am I?” “Favorite Locations,” or “Current. " iPhone users can see their current location using the built-in Compass App. Make sure you “Allow Location Services” for the compass under “Settings” → “Privacy” → “Location Services” → “Compass”
Some GPS’s will prompt you with a button labeled “Get Directions. " Choose this if there is no search bar to input an address. If you know the exact latitude and longitude of your trip, use these; they will give you the most accurate location possible.
If you are struggling to keep up, check your GPS’s settings and make the “Turn Warning Frequency” setting longer – giving you more time to hear the next direction.
An example (guess where it is!), is 37°26'46. 9"N, 122°09'57. 0"W. Sometimes direction is noted by positive or negative numbers. North and East are considered positive. The previous example could be written as: 37°26'46. 9”, -122°09'57. 0” If there is no notation, know that the latitude always comes first. [2] X Research source
Complex scientific GPS systems often let you mark specific waypoints – artifacts, streams, rock formations, etc. The more points your save into your GPS, the more accurate your map of the area when you get home.
“Add to Favorites” might be labeled by a star or flag as well. Click “Saved Locations” or “Favorite Locations” to see you waypoints anytime. You can click on them to get directions from anywhere in the world.
If you are mapping a specific area, make as many waypoints as you can for an accurate map. The more data the program has, the better the final product.
Find the “About” button, usually located in “Settings. " Scroll down to see Map Information. If this is more than 6 months old, you will need to update. Plug your GPS into an internet-enabled computer using the cord that came with the unit. Perform an internet search for “your GPS + Map Update” follow the onscreen instructions. [5] X Research source
Cell phone GPS uses cell towers and internet signals to find your location, so they won’t work in the wilderness. [7] X Research source
Tunnels, caves, and basements may all keep your GPS from communicating to satellites and working successfully.
Turn your GPS off and restart it if you are having problems. Make sure you have a clear view of the sky. You may need to reset your GPS the first time you buy it by clearing the memory. Refer to the manual for instructions. [8] X Research source
Signs that you have a bad signal are changing directions, jittery locations, or error messages. [10] X Research source
Apps and Internet enabled GPS (like those found on phones) will always have this feature. Many portable GPS devices have a section labeled “Nearby Locations” or “Find Locations” that list businesses within a short radius of your current location.
