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GPS sports watches are now common, but they are not suitable as a primary device for bush navigation.
Depending on the manufacturer and model, a GPS sports watch can provide the following features:
- GPS – useful to get a quick grid reference, but note that GPS use flattens the battery.
- Apps for specific activities and other functions, e.g. altimeter/barometer.
- Digital compass – but not useful compared to a baseplate magnetic compass.
- Maps – but screen size is too small to be useful for bush navigation.
- Connectivity with mobile phone is a standard feature that should be avoided while bushwalking as it will flatten both the watch and phone batteries.
A wide range of GPS sports watches are available ranging from $80 to $1200. Consider the essential features needed when purchasing. Battery life is a key consideration.
Pros and cons of using a GPS sports watch for navigation
Pros
- Can get grid reference of current location.
- Grid reference format can be set to required map datum.
- Can create and label waypoints.
- “Track back” function can retrace a route.
Cons
- Short battery life when GPS is on; e.g. when using mapping or tracking functions.
- Screen size too small to display a topographic map that is useful.
- Need to convert longform grid reference to 6 figures for referencing a paper map.
- Controls and menus fiddly and non intuitive – difficult to access information.
- Touch screen doesn’t work well when wet.
Tips for using a GPS sports watch
- Set the map datum (usually UTM).
- Do not leave the GPS or tracking function on all the time – use these only when needed to avoid flattening the battery.
- Learn how to convert from long grid references to 6 digits to plot locations on a map.
- Carry the charging cable and a battery pack on extended trips to recharge it.
Note: this section intentionally avoids excessive technical detail.