If you own a GPS unit, you will quickly find that there are some accessories for GPS units that you just can’t live without. Here are a few and why they are so useful:
Windshield Mount or Dash Mount – This is definitely a must-have accessory, especially for handheld units. This handy tool will allow you the freedom to place it wherever you want it, to be able to see it, and navigate its buttons with one hand. The suction cup windshield mount allows you the freedom to move it to whatever vehicle you choose, but there are also semi-permanent ones. The dash mount also allows you to move it frequently to best accommodate your uses.
USB Cable – This is undoubtedly another tool that once you use, you will find you can’t live without. The USB cable allows you the freedom to download your user waypoints directly to your GPS unit via your computer, instead of manual entering them by hand. This saves time, as well as eliminates the possibility of human errors with manual inputs. With various software available, you can also move waypoints from your GPS to a database. This is a great way to keep track of all those wonderful places you have found along the way.
Bike Mount – Whether you are a recreational biker, serious competitive biker, bike for exercise or anything else, this is one of the accessories for GPS units that you’ll want to own. A bike mount is designed to mount directly to the handle bars, so your screens and buttons are right where you need them to see your speed, saved routes, distance biked, and much, much more.
Covershield – If you are like most people, you will likely use your handheld GPS unit for multiple things. One way to keep it in top shape is to invest in a covershield. This will help protect your screen from scratches from day to day use that will make the screen hard to read over time. If you are especially tough on your screen, perhaps you should in vest in two or three covershields at once to switch them out when they get bad. If you have ever tried to read a screen in between scratches, you will know that this is an accessory that will certainly be worth its investment.
Auto Power Cable – Most any handheld GPS runs on AA batteries. A very handy tool to own is an auto power cable that plugs into a standard cigarette lighter. The cable then plugs into the back of your GPS where it runs off the power of the vehicle instead of the batteries in the GPS unit. While it’s not a charger, it will certainly extend the life of your batteries. Definitely one of the must-have accessories for GPS.
Carry Case – Along the same lines as the covershield, this item will help protect your GPS from the wear of your day to day use. There are various materials to choose from. Anything from neoprene to nylon. The different materials have their own unique reason for being good. Sometimes it depends how and where you will be carrying your GPS.
All of these accessories are great additions to any GPS unit, and will be the best way to enhance your enjoyment of it. Some will help prolong its life, and others will just make them more user-friendly.