While GPS (Global Positioning System) is not that new, the world has recently exploded with GPS sales making it the new “gotta have it” electronic gadget. In the past GPS were relegated to handheld units, which are great for outdoors-y type people, but now that you can get GPS with larger screens built right into your car, everybody wants one. If you have never experienced the benefits of GPS first hand then ask around until you find a friend or colleague who has one. Their reaction will be unanimous: they love their GPS and now will never be able to live without one.

If you are looking to pick up a GPS then here are a few things you should be aware of.

• Permanently installed or Portable: Do you want it professionally installed so there are no messy wires, or would you like the ability to take it with you on a day hike? You can get a GPS mounted to your windshield with a suction cup or some even come with a mount that fits on your vent. If you get the portable option then be prepared to always take it with you when you leave your car otherwise you’re a prime target for theft! 

• Screen: how big you want to go is up to you, but make sure you get a screen that can be viewed from all angles and in all lighting conditions. A GPS isn’t worth that much if you have to twist your head in a weird position just to see the screen.

• Maps: Where will you be driving? If you plan on driving in the States a lot then ensure it either comes with US Maps or that it allows you to download them later when you need to.

• Voice directions: Pretty much all GPS will actually tell you where and when to turn. Once a route is planned it will say out loud, “Turn right at Main Street in 250 meters.” Some GPS have the option to download famous people giving directions. Imagine driving along with Mr. T as your navigator! There are even some GPS units out there that allow you to record your own directions. If you get the whole family involved then it makes those business drives a little more comforting as you hear your own children provide you directions.

• MP3: Use your GPS as your media player! Upload media files to the GPS and then play them through your car speakers. If this is interesting to you then you might want to ensure that it also has memory card expansion so that you can add even more media later. Some others have iPod or MP3 player connection so you can connection your iPod to the GPS, which would then be connected through your car speakers.

• Bluetooth: Why would you want a GPS with Bluetooth? If you have a Bluetooth enabled cell phone then you can set it up so that you can have hands free right in your car with no earpiece wrapped around your ear. Not only that, but some GPS units have the phone numbers of certain points of interest in its database. This means you can call certain businesses just by knowing their address!

• Traffic warnings: If you do a lot of driving in busy cities then you might want to look for a GPS that will give you warning when there are traffic issues on your route. While this specific service will cost a monthly fee, this can save frequent travelers a lot of time.

No matter which extra options you go with, you are still getting the basic GPS experience, and that is what everyone is excited about. Armed with this extra knowledge though and you should be able to find a GPS that better suits your needs.