Originally Posted by
colorado_rob
After a couple of decades of using various Garmin GPS units, I've finally made the Big Switch to using my phone for back country navigation, using the free app, er, "backcountry Navigator". I just couldn't be more pleased at how well this app (and I'm sure, many others) works. Folks rave about Gaia, and I'm sure that's an equal or better app.
Cell phones get more rugged with every generation, and their battery life seems to also improve, that is if you manage their apps and settings appropriately. These navigation apps (at least BC navigator) runs in airplane mode just fine, except of course the maps of the area you're in have to be loaded in cache.
For me, it's a convenience and weight thing. My latest phone (pixel 2) is 5 ounces, and has an excellent camera, kindle app for reading, and by the way also works as a phone. Couple that with an external battery , like the Anker 10,000 maH at about 6 ounces, and you are set for a long time for serious navigation.
I notice zero difference in navigational accuracy between my phone and latest Garmin GPS unit.
The real test came when a group of us did the Sierra High Route (well, 90% of it before winter-like weather chased us off) last summer/early fall. This is a very difficult, off trail mostly, route to follow, but with a track & waypoints to follow on my phone, it was a lark, easy-peasy and fun.
This all being said, if I were solo, and there were navigational safety concerns involved, I'd be carrying a backup, specifically my Garmin Fortrex 401, a little 1.5 ounce gem of a stand alone GPS. As it was on the SHR, we had multiple phones loaded with the route, so that was our backup. And of course we carry physical maps and a small compass for such trails/routes.
I personally think stand alone GPS units will be obsolete soon, maybe 5-10 years or so, except for professional uses. Just my opinion.