08-03-2026, 08:51 AM
I've experience with GPS navigators - that I use as a walking tour leader, clipped onto my pack. But they get fooled under some circumstances.
1. Adverse weather conditions
2. In a wood or forest
3. In mountain valleys, where satellite visibility is restricted
That is why I always pack a map and compass. However even that has got gotchas
1. Proximity of magnetic parts of your kit, (mitts, water bladder attachments etc). Been there, done that. Takes a while to work out how you have magically lost the ability to navigate accurately.
2. Proximity to a mobile phone - these can and do reverse the magnetization of the needle, or demagnetize it entirely. Seen that three times (wife and son are two). In poor visibility that can easily put you over a cliff.
Craig
1. Adverse weather conditions
2. In a wood or forest
3. In mountain valleys, where satellite visibility is restricted
That is why I always pack a map and compass. However even that has got gotchas
1. Proximity of magnetic parts of your kit, (mitts, water bladder attachments etc). Been there, done that. Takes a while to work out how you have magically lost the ability to navigate accurately.
2. Proximity to a mobile phone - these can and do reverse the magnetization of the needle, or demagnetize it entirely. Seen that three times (wife and son are two). In poor visibility that can easily put you over a cliff.
Craig
