Hello
I was wondering if anyone could recommend a good handheld GPS for walking around European City Streets?
In the US I use Google maps app on my IPhone, but in Europe I don't have a cell plan and roaming charges would add up.
Thanks for any recommendations!
Larry
You could check some of the GPS units designed for vehicles, as some have a "pedestrian mode". I use an older Garmin Nüvi but you could also check models from Tom Tom. Just be sure that the unit you buy has European maps installed.
I've just been using Google maps on my iPhone lately as the data charges haven't been too expensive. The GPS unit in the phone will work without data, but of course it's necessary to load the maps using the internet (such as via Wi-Fi at the hotel).
you can use google maps offline
https://support.google.com/maps/answer/6291838?co=GENIE.Platform%3DiOS&hl=en&oco=0
download them before you go or use local wifi - no need for another device
CityMaps2Go uses offline GPS -- as long as you are in a city. Download city map using your hotel WI-FI then use your phone for navigation.
I also just use the downloadable google maps. Couldn't be easier, just pick the area I want and create an offline map I can use without a data connection.
DJ
I think I'd just take a phone with an offline GPS app, so you're not using a lot of data. I used both CoPilot and Google Maps during my last trip. I liked the navigation with CoPilot better when I was driving but I liked the Google search feature better. CoPilot was horrible while I was in bike mode, so it might not be very good for walking either. I turned my wireless data off when I wasn't actively searching for something, to be sure it didn't consume data I didn't need to use.
As the others have noted offline mapping is probably the way to go.
But if you find you need or want cellular data, then you might want to consider getting a local SIM card. It does require some research, unlocked phone, time, effort, etc.
