GPS
How NOT to Lose a GPS
Taking a gadget that can cost hundreds of pounds into the outdoors always presents a risk of it being lost or damaged. Here are seven simple tips to prevent GPS receiver loss:
- Tether yourself to it - If the GPS receiver is attached to you then the chances of losing it are dramatically reduced. A simple cord around the wrist, rucksack strap or through a strong button hole on a jacket is one of the best methods to prevent loss (unless you lose your wrist, ruck or jacket I guess). Hanging it around your neck is a bad idea - it might get caught on stuff (probably will, in fact, you can bet on it) and it'll chafe and you'll take it off.
- Have a pouch or pocket for the GPS alone - not only is it less likely to get damaged when it's not having to fight it out with keys, coins, a pocket knife and other bits and bobs but you can just pat the pocket to know it's there periodically (especially after navigating rough or difficult terrain).
- Never put the GPS receiver down on the ground. This is the most likely time that you are going to lose it - it gets lost in the grass of kicked out of sight and it's gone. Put it in a pocket when not in use.
- If you Geocache, don't put your GPS receiver down inside the cache - unless you want the next person to fill in the log with the words "found cache, took GPS, left McD toy, signed log".
- Be careful about having a large-scale GPS receiver pass around in a group - it's so easy to think that someone else has it safe! Make sure you get it back.
- If using a GPS receiver at night consider adding a light to it - a Glowring that lights without the need for any batteries is great for this. They aren't cheap, but neither are GPS receivers, and the Glowrings are pretty robust and last a long time.
- Finally, add your contact details to the GPS start up screen if possible - phone number and email address is enough. If you lose it then someone might find it and drop you a note to let you know. From a security point of view having your address stored or a HOME waypoint can be a bit of a security risk if you lose the unit.
OUT NOW! Read more ideas for things to do with your GPS in Hacking GPS
Kathie Kingsley-Hughes
Last updated: March 7th 2005
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