GPS Navigation Systems???

[felpa41]

I do not have OnStar and I am wondering if anyone out there has experience with some portable GPS in-cab navigation systems (like the Garmin Street Pilot III).

Are they as convenient as their ads say they are? Do you think they are worth the $800 cost? Do they give you accurate and useful turn-by-turn directions and voice prompts? Are they cumbersome or inconvenient to operate if you are driving alone? Can you find the location of and directions to full-service grocery stores in unfamiliar towns and cities (I do some RVing)?

Any comments based on your personal experience would be appreciated!

[sonofagun]

felpa41,

I RV too and use a Street Pilot III. It sits on the dash, is very user friendly and the voice system is quite good. I did buy the City Navigator program (nationwide in my case but you can get individual regions too). Take a look at 4x4books.com for some great prices on Garmin products.

I have found super walmarts, etc. using in in unfamiliar towns. I haven't used it much to find motels, restaurants,etc.

Be sure you stay current on the updates as Garmin is quite proactive in upgrading the software for users.

The screen is big enough and the price is easily half of the dealer or factory installed systems available today. An added advanatage is you can move it to other vehicles.

I would suggest you get an external antenna. You get good satellite coverage with the one on the unit but much better response and data flow with the external unit. It is magnetic and I just place it in the roof running the wire up the rubber door trim.

Good luck,
Bob

[stillracing]

I am running a hand held GPS unit and find it works quite well and it is portable. Check my signiture.