BaseCamp, a free download from Garmin, allows you to organize your maps, create routes and tracks, and establish waypoints to be sent to your GPS device. Ideal for planning hiking trips and excursions far from road signs, BaseCamp also lets you download and add maps from Garmin's website. Download the maps to your computer where you can review the terrain and start planning your route, and then upload the data to your Garmin GPS unit.
Step 1
Purchase the desired map from Garmin's website (link in Resources). Select your Garmin device type, destination and planned activity from the drop-down lists to identify the map that best suits your needs. Complete payment to start the download. Take note of the directory to which your computer downloads the map.
Step 2
![How How](/uploads/1/2/5/7/125718524/493342097.jpg)
How To Import Google Maps Turn By Turn Directions Into Garmin Basecamp. Google map will start to create the turn by turn directions. Once done, you can click on the FOLDER icon and select EXPORT TO KML. We want to export the directions we’ve just created. Once the file has been downloaded to our computer, we can now switch to GARMIN BASECAMP and import the KML file into our collection.
Step 3
Step 4
Locate the map you wish to add in the dialog box that opens. Navigate to the folder with the downloaded map and double-click on the file. Transferring a map to BaseCamp can take a few seconds, depending on your processor speed.
View your map by clicking on the 'Map' drop-down menu at the top left of BaseCamp and selecting the map you just added from the options.
Tips
- Some maps are compatible across most Garmin devices, but others may only work on certain models. Make sure you specify the device you plan to use on your trip when downloading a map.
- Keep your version of BaseCamp up-to-date by checking the Garmin website for updates and patches.
- Connect your GPS device to your computer and use the 'Send To' option from the Edit menu to export the tracks and routes you make on your map to your Garmin device.
- If your Garmin device allows you to create tracks on the go, you can also import that data back into BaseCamp. When connected to your computer, your device and any data stored on it should appear in the left column of BaseCamp. The program supports drag-and-drop file transfers, so all you have to do is click on a file and drag it from your device list to a BaseCamp list.
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Car GPS Units
The advent of GPS systems have certainly been a blessing to drivers everywhere, as we no longer have to depend on road signs and paper maps. GPS units used to be a luxury that cost a bomb, but they are now much more affordable. While you can now also navigate using smartphone apps, car GPS units are still a good investment due to a number of reasons.
What are the types of car GPS units?
Generally, you can find two main types of car GPS units in the market. These are:
- In-dash car GPS units - Many luxury and mid-range cars are now bundled with in-dash GPS units when purchased. These units are installed into the dashboard of the car, and range from a basic navigation unit to those with extensive features. You can also buy in-dash units externally to install into your dash.
- Mountable GPS units - These units are standalone devices you can purchase for your car. You can affix these units to the dashboard or your windscreen using a holder. Mountable units are a great investment if your car doesn't already have an in-dash GPS unit.
Why should I buy a car GPS unit if I have smartphone navigation apps?
While smartphone navigation apps can get you from point A to B, they tend to consume a lot of battery on your phone, and may leave you stranded if your phone battery goes flat and you don't have a car charger handy. You also need an activated data plan when using these apps, which means you will also receive notifications and messages from other apps. A dedicated GPS unit does not need to be connected to the Internet constantly, and has a longer lasting battery. It also does not have the distraction of other apps.
How do you choose a car GPS unit?
Buying a car GPS unit can be fast and easy by taking the following steps:
1.Decide on whether you want to buy a mountable or an in-dash unit. To purchase an in-dash unit, measure the size of the space in your dashboard so that you can buy the right size later.
2. Determine the types of features you would like your unit to have. Some features to research include portability, display quality, USB input, data memory, options to exclude highways and tolls or select the fastest or shortest route, advanced lane guidance, incorporated dashcam, and pedestrian mode. These are only some of the popular features, you may come across more.
3. Browse through different models and brands. Some well-known brands for car GPS units include Garmin, TomTom, and Magellan. All of these brands have different models with a variety of features, so you will likely find something that fits your needs.
4. Purchase and install/use. Once you make your decision, all you have to do is buy the unit of your choice and proceed to install it into your car. Do remember that you may need to buy additional mount to hold your mountable car GPS if you don't have one already.