Gadgets Blog

When it comes to GPS accessories, there are plenty.� Most systems for automobile use will come with a dash or windshield mount and power cable, and handheld systems usually include the necessary cables and wrist strap or belt clip.� But you might find, just like the GPS systems themselves, that your GPS accessory needs differ from person to person and activity to activity.

For use inside vehicles, getting a system with weatherproof covering or a waterproof design probably isn�t as important as if you wanted to use the system while hiking. � Likewise, having a spare battery is probably more applicable with a handheld rather than an auto unit that can run off the car�s battery through an AC adapter.

Since most systems will include an instruction manual, video or software in-box, data cards are most likely what you�re going to want first.� These cards hold maps and information for a specific region that you choose, or they can be purchased blank for info uploading from map software.� Which one you�ll need depends on which GPS unit you have.

Helpful items to have on hand for backup power are the spare battery mentioned previously and a battery charger or maybe a car power adapter. � A cradle or docking station with charging capability would also fit the bill.� And to combat lost connections, antenna kits will help your GPS system better receive signal inside your vehicle.

While transporting your system, belt clips, holsters, neck lanyards, wrist straps and carrying cases can aid in keeping your handhelds easily accessible.� Dashboard and windshield mounting systems and mounting locks will keep your system secure inside your vehicle.

You also might find that you want a screen protector or front cover to keep the display from becoming scratched from wear and tear.� Other helpful items are remote controls (for vehicle use), stylus, external speakers and microphones.

Keep an eye out for GPS accessory combo packages.� A complete essentials kit could knock out a few of these extras all in one box.� Here’s one for Garmin Nuvi and TomTom One units for an affordable price:

GPS Combo - Car & Wall Charger + Travel Case: $34.99

Like anything else, look at what�s included with your GPS system; there should be an itemized list on the package.� Then based on what your intended uses are, decide on your GPS accessories.

Also, as an important side note, practice with your new system in a familiar place like around your hometown or another well-known area before taking it out on the cross-country road trip or adventuring through the trails and hills. � Be prepared. � Get used to it and know its functions before the critical moment arrives.

Shop for these GPS accessories and more at Smarter.com.

Finally, summer’s here and the weather is great for playing and staying outdoors.� Camping can be made even cooler if you’ve got the right gadgets to keep you cozy, clean and well-directed — unless you like roughing it, then all you’ll need is a backpack, a can of beans and a Swiss Army knife.� But if you’re like me, you want a few conveniences without feeling weighed down by all kinds of junk.

I like to keep it as uncomplicated and compact as possible.� But hey, maybe it’s your style to drag along the foldout cook top stove complete with waist-high counter and cutting board setup and bring extraneous items like tent decor and a welcome mat for outside the entrance.� Seems like a lot of baggage, but whatever works for you.

Besides your tent, sleeping bag and backpack, here are some interesting gadgets to get you going:

Brunton Camping Combo Kit
From $94.19

Features a stove, lantern, spork eating utensil and canister stabilizer with three extended legs with rubber grips keep stove/lantern steady all in an ultra-compact, lightweight design.� The 11,000-BTU burner boils 1 liter of water about 4 minutes and the lantern burns for 8.5 hours.

Swiss Army Victorinox 53203 Huntsman
From: $23.40

Because these classic gadgets come in handy more often than not, this model comes with large and small stainless steel blades, corkscrew, can opener, small and large screwdrivers, bottle opener, wire stripper, wood saw, reamer with sewing eye, multi-purpose hook, tweezers, toothpick, key ring and scissors.� It’s 3.5 inches long when closed.� It’s surprising how easily key items like corkscrews and can openers get forgotten.� Keep this with your camping gear and you don’t have to worry.

Guide Gear Pop-up Room and Solar Shower

Okay, okay, so it’s not hardcore, but how cool is this?� Easy to set up, made with 70 denier/190T polyester material, fiberglass pole frame and 5-gallon PVC Solar Shower.� Bring your own water and the sun will do the rest.� Feels great after a long hike, not to mention makes sharing a tent a bit easier on everyone’s noses.

Notebook Portable Flat-Folding BBQ: $24.99

We’ve seen the typical campsite grill *shudder* but lugging the full-size BBQ from home is just too bulky.� This non-networking “notebook”� looks like a ready solution.� The compact, sturdy metal design comes with a built-in grill rack and uses charcoal or wood.

Garmin GPSMAP 60CSx GPS Receiver
From: $283.99

Hiking’s fun but getting lost isn’t.� Something like this all-purpose upgradeable handheld locator can help with that.� It has auto routing, turn-by-turn guidance and gives your bearings while you stand still.� It lets you upload up your own digital maps for better reference, has a waterproof and a large, color TFT display for easy viewing, day or night.� Up to 20 hours of battery life.

Image Source: Campist.com

Find at Smarter.com:� Shop for more handheld GPS systems and portable BBQs.
Discounts on Swiss Army knives.