Since we have a lot of drivers - SatNav for Canada - buy new or download maps?

ancient_mariner

ancient_mariner

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I'm off to Canada at the end of the month, staying for a few days in Vancouver, then driving over the Rockies to friends in Alberta. While we don't *need* satnav, it can easy pressure/increase relaxation. I'm debating whether to spend $50/£50 on a Tomtom map upgrade, buy a map for the smartphone (don't want to rely on 'live' data from google maps) or simply buy a unit out there in the first Walmart we find. Bound to be someone here who has done this already - any thoughts on the best approach?
 
$C 5.00 on a map at the airport in Vancouver.

I swear it's almost impossible to get lost (geographically compromised it you have fuel) out there.
Western Canada is the easiest place to navigate I have ever come across.

Simples.
 
OK, thanks for that. We need to find our hotel in Vancouver after a long flight, but I guess it can't be any worse than Paris. ;)
 
There are a number of free smartphone apps. My boss has driven round US and Canada a number of times using NavFree on his iphone (it's a free download beforehand so it doens't incur data roaming charges)
 
As mentioned before, just buy a good old fashioned paper map, or a more detailed map book. Everything is pretty well sign posted driving around Vancouver, the Rockies, Alberta etc.

Driving through Vancouver can be quite stressful. Constant traffic, long tail backs, lots of road works, no one knowing where they are going; it does test your patience.

If you're not collecting your car at the airport, then I suggest taking the Skytrain, if your hotel is in the downtown area. It's quicker & cheaper than a cab.
 
We will be collecting from the airport, but thanks for the tip.
 
A new Nav Sat will set you back about $120.00 + taxes in BC, at the current exchange rate, that's around 70.00 quid. A bit rich for something that'll just get used on one trip, isn't it?
 
Yes it is, though ebay UK seems to have a healthy market for pre-owned US/Canada devices. I may buy one, use it for 2 wseeks, then re-sell.
 
I would go for a map (and preferably a passenger to read it) over a SatNav every time.

SatNavs seem to turn people into idiots.


Steve.
 
My wife is my Satnav. Draw your own conclusion on that one. ;)
 
Compared to London / Paris / Birmingham et al...Vancouver is a piece of cake.
 
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