Bicycle touring in Italy

GPS is an acronym for Global Positioning system that can be useful to navigate when bicycle touring in unfamiliar area. You must still carry a map, GPS units don’t always work the way you might expect, and you don’t always have the coordinates you need for a destination, so you need a paper map for reference as backup. GPS units don’t work well, if at all, in under tree heavy cover so if you’re in a forest, you may need to find a clearing to set your position, which isn’t always easy.

Some of the things you need to look for:
Ease of use – you need a GPS that is easy to learn how to use, some offer touch screens
 
Construction – it is important your GPS is rugged, compact and lightweight. You will require a handheld type unit instead of a GPS designed for auto use, an excellent accessory is a bicycle mount for your handlebars. It should also be waterproof as it is sure to rain at some point during your bicycle tour.
 
Map Display – you need a GPS that can be easily read in all light conditions. You will want to test the unit from different viewing angles in direct sunlight for visibility.
 
Maps – a key your GPS is access to maps of your bicycle touring destination. Some GPS have built in maps but that may not be helpful if cycling in Asia or Europe. Fortunately most GPS units have a USB connection to enable you to download maps from your computer for your destination.
 
Batteries – do carry spare batteries but it is best to use common batteries such as AA size that can be purchased during your bicycle tour. if necessary. Also long battery life is essential; some two battery models have a longer life than the models with four batteries. Some people carry rechargeable batteries but the charger can add weight which you are trying to reduce while bicycle touring.
 
Accessories – you might want to consider a bicycle handlebar mounting kit, GPS maps, battery packs or a protective carrying case.

Using a GPS while Bicycle Touring
Before your bicycle tour, select some “waypoints” along your route, such as intended camp sites, towns, intersections etc, and using print or online maps with degree/minute/second guides, input the waypoints into the GPS unit to use as guideposts along the way so you don’t get lost. 

 A secondary reason for a GPS is that it can provide information about your bicycle tour such as knowing how far you’ve gone and what elevations you have climbed although a good bicycle computer will accomplish this as well.