GPS Mapping Software Review

So what exactly is a topo map? A topo map is a way of turning the usual two-dimensional map into a three-dimensional one as well as viewing the earth's terrain. The three-dimensional feel is achieved by adding contour lines to show elevation changes. GPS mapping software allows you the ability to better map out locations based on the terrain. This is especially helpful for hikers, bikers and geocachers.

GPS mapping software also include a myriad of deeper information for your exploring pleasure. Most will show different road classifications. If you are a short-trip hiker you wouldn't want to end up on a 50-mile stretch of dirt road to spend a few hours climbing.

Geocaching has certainly increased in popularity over the last few years. You might be wondering what geocaching is. Geocaching is similar to a modern-day treasure hunt or game of hide-and-seek. Items are placed into water-tight containers along with a pen or pencil and a log book and then hidden in various locations. Geocachers record the coordinates of the cache along with other details relating to the location of the cache. Then geocachers are free to go searching for their next "buried treasure."For more information on what geocaching is please take a look at this article in our learning center. For more information on geocaching, read our articles on GPS mapping software.

Topo maps, GPS units, and GPS mapping software are definite must-haves if you are a geocacher.

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Also keep in mind the following criteria that we used when rating these products.

What to Look For In GPS Mapping Software

Ease of Use
When you are purchasing GPS mapping software be sure to explore how easy the program is to use. If it's not user-friendly chances are that it may never even make it out the box.

Feature Set
Different mapping software applications offer different features. Make sure you know what type of features you are looking for in mapping software. 

Points of Interest (POIs)
Many mapping software applications allow you the flexibility to choose which icons you'd like to add for specific POIs. This can be helpful when differentiating between a historical landmark and a convenience store.

Map Customization
Being able to customize your map to your needs definitely makes your planning time more enjoyable. Use mapping software that is tailored to your customization level. If you want to have the ability to draw on your map and highlight more than one route to your destination, be sure to check for these fun features before purchasing your topo software.

Safety Features
Today's roads are littered with traffic, orange construction cones and disgruntled drivers. Be sure to look for topo software that can offer safety features to keep you on the right road and help you get back on the right track if you do take a wrong turn. You also want to look for software that offers up-to-date information on construction delays, traffic reports and telephone numbers for current weather information.

Ease of Setup
If a mapping software is difficult to set up then chances are that it will never be used. You want to find one that installs with ease so you can spend your time planning your route instead of setting up the mapping software.

Help & Support
A good mapping software will offer plenty of help in case you run into problems. Important items to look for include a FAQs section, phone number, email address and on-line forums. 

For the best GPS mapping software we found please take a look at Topo North America, OziExplorer and ExpertGPS.