gpsrequipment

Where to buy?

Online shopping will pretty much always land you the best price for the least amount of “actual shopping” involved, but beware of internet specials, or used merchandise (like found on eBay.) We personally recommend reliable stores and online sites, such as REI. Click on the picture link on the right to be taken to their site for shopping!

Before you go overboard- Here are some suggestions regarding what you REALLY need, and what is necessary for geocaching.

A GPSr

Is a GPSr really necessary? Most cachers will say yes. I will tend to agree. I have gone on several geocaching expeditions, forgetting my GPS sitting at home. It was MUCH harder to find the caches! I recommend you purchase a GPSr, but I do know people who have found thousands of caches, and don’t own a GPSr. You can use programs like Google Maps, or Google Earth to pinpoint a cache location, but when you arrive at the star on your printout, you are still left searching a rather wide area.

Colorado 300 by Garmin*

As far as handheld GPS receivers go, we here at geocachehunter.com don’t necessarily recommend one major brand over another. But we do strongly recommend major brands over cheap knock-offs. You get what you pay for! If you try to save a few bucks, you may lose out in the long run! The major brands we recommend researching before purchasing are:

Magellan, Garmin, Lowrance, DeLorme and Bushnell.

(Click on any of the brand names above to be taken to their manufacturer’s site.)

* Note: Geocachehunter.com is not sponsored by any brand of GPS. All pictures depicting GPSr models throughout the site are purely for educational reference, they are not meant to be a guide for purchasing.

How much should you pay?

That all depends on he options you would like on your GPSr. For example, a very basic model such as the Magellan eXplorist 100 can be purchased new for around $80.00 If you are looking for more features, such as connectivity (ability to connect the unit to your computer to download caches, maps or info) you will pay more, such as the Garmin eTrex Legend which can be found around $100.00.

eTrex Legend by Garmin*

eXplorist 100 by Magellan*

As the number of features goes up, so does the price.

You can spend over $800.00 on a GPSr that has a built in camera, light and all the topographic maps of North America. If you program it correctly, it will go get the geocaches for you, sign your name and replace them perfectly for the next cacher. Well, almost. The point is that the more features you want, the more the cost will rise. Other advanced features may include; Backlit screen, color screen, expandable memory (using removable cards), rechargeable battery, compass, water-resistance and the ability to send a signal to have rescuers find you. One other thing to keep in mind is that newer models are coming out every year, with more and more advanced features. Waiting and doing your research before purchasing should help you find the best GPSr for your needs and budget.