new to hill walking

[edd78]

hi all

i have just starting of hill walking i have done ben lomond it was ok for navigation i know there are more trickier routes out there want to know what is the best maps to buy/download

[HighlandSC]

OS Landranger (1:50k) maps are the main ones folk use.

But also consider OS Explorer (1:25k) or Harveys Maps (1:25k or 1:40k)

[scoob999]

Personally i use MemoryMap...
http://shop.memory-map.co.uk/acatalog/maps-digital-map-shop.html
that way i can print off the area i need and laminate it instant light waterproof map you can also print at
1:25,000 scale so you can see detail better, especially if your eysights getting worse! still at 1:50,000 though if you know what i mean? you can then tick of features as you go, so you know where you are without ruining a paper map
I also like Harvey maps, although more expensive i find them easy to read and i like the 1:40,000 scale

[Caberfeidh]

i have just starting of hill walking

Stop now while you still can ! O too late....

[IamAJMiller]

Pros and Cons of OS maps Landranger Vs. Explorer can be found on this thread:

http://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/Forum/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=22964&p=145019#p145019

While I initially used the Landranger and favoured them over the 'cluttered' Explorers I have since given the later a go and am starting to like them now I'm a bit more used to the way they look. I put this down to the fact that the Explorers of the Lake District are great when compared to the frankly almost unreadable Landranger of the same area........but that's just my personal opinion! I also use Memory map for my laptop which is great.

[CharlesT]

Memory map on my lap top every time. Plot route beforehand and download to GPS, printing the chosen route to use as hard copy when on the walk. Always carry spare batteries for GPS and appropriate Landranger or Explorer map and compass as back up and know how to use them, plus a good torch or head lamp (and spare batteries). Sounds nannyish but it's very easy to get lost and confused and without the tools you could be in trouble.

Most of all, enjoy it!!

Charles T

[edd78]

thank you all for your help

what is the best budget gps system to buy for about £160

[basscadet]

I've got a Garmin etrex vista Hcx.. Does everything you could possibly need, and some things you wouldnt
They have a newer model out now, but the battery life is significantly shorter, so I wont be buying one anytime soon.. i think you would be able to get one for significantly less than £100 if you look about..