GPS Training Podcast #114 – GPX Files, Suunto Insights & Long-Distance GPS Choices
Welcome to another packed episode of the GPS Training Podcast!
This month, Jon is joined by Andy from GPS Training to cover:
1. Reflections on the Suunto Interview (Podcast #113)
Andy shares his key takeaways from the mid-month chat with Dan Southam, Suunto’s UK Marketing Manager.
Watch the full video interview with Dan Southam here »
What stood out?
* Suunto's long heritage in navigation, starting with their liquid-filled compasses in the 1930s
* Why Suunto watches are sports watches – not smartwatches
* Focus on simple, accurate, fast-to-orient navigation
* Designed for people who want brilliant mapping and fitness features without the distraction of unnecessary "smart" tech
Explore the Suunto range we stock here:
Suunto Watches at GPS Training »
2. GPX Files – What Are They and Why Should You Care?
We break down:
* What a GPX file is (it's a route, track, or collection of waypoints in one handy file)
* Why GPX files help with day walks and long-distance trails
* How to use them with your GPS watch or handheld
* The difference between a route, track, and course on Garmin and other devices
Watch tutorials and import GPX files easily in the
GPS Training Online Resource »
Recommended GPX download sites:
See our updated list:
Top Sites for Free GPX Walks & Routes »
3. Best GPS Units for Long-Distance Trails
Andy shares what to look for:
* Long battery life
* Larger screen for clear mapping
* Built-in OS Maps (or worldwide mapping if you're heading overseas)
* Satellite communication (e.g. Garmin inReach)
Top Picks:
* Garmin GPSMAP 67i – Long battery life + built-in satellite communication
* Garmin Montana 700/700i/750i – Large screen and touchscreen mapping
* TwoNav Adventurer/Terra – Great for planning on-the-go with live tracking
Compare GPS Units for Long-Distance Walking »
All GPS units from GPS Training come with:
* Free setup
* Full UK OS maps
* 1 year’s access to our Online Resource
* Support from real humans who walk the walk
4. Andy’s Top Tip – Why You Should Use Garmin BaseCamp (Even if You Hate It)
Even if you plan your walks in another app, BaseCamp is your friend when:
* Checking if a GPX file is a route or a track
* Making sure it’s got the right number of points
* Cutting down long-distance trails into day-by-day walks
* Renaming files and adding proximity alarms
Learn how in the
Online Resource – Module 3 »
(You’ll find full BaseCamp guides for both Mac and PC.)
5. Questions to the GPS Training AI Bot – What You’ve Been Asking This Month
Some of your top questions this month:
* How do I adjust the screen brightness on a Garmin GPSMAP 67?
* How do I remove waypoints from a planned route in OS software?
* How do I create escape routes on my Garmin GPS?
Try it out:
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