Is a backup GPS essential

For you experienced drivers. I'll be going OTR in four weeks. I have a list of goodies including a high dollar fridge which is putting a squeeze on my budget. The Garmin on list is $378.00. Okay, I have been all over the lower 48 with four wheels. I relied heavily on Garmin, Google and road maps. In my experience it is to have at least one back up GPS because they seem to let you down when you need them most. Unlike road maps.

Is the Qualcomm better? Is a back up GPS essential or more of a luxury?

 

Backup gps? You mean map? Lol no ive never had a backup and I don't even turn mine on half the time. I use a combination of things, paper map, google maps, and most importantly directions from the shipper\reciever

 

I have a backup, only b/c my rand 520 died while under warrantee.

so I upgraded to the 720 and the replacement 520 they sent is now stashed for emergencies.

does your truck have an APU? or are you allowed to idle? cause that high dollar fridge wont do much good if its not running....

 

Lots of Folks, did OK without a GPS..
So backup isn't needed IMHO.

 

What's a GPS? No, in all seriousness, the only thing I use on occasion is the maps on my I-phone. IMO, money spent on a GPS could be put elsewhere, it's not needed. Invest twenty or thirty bucks in a Motor Carriers Atlas and when you need directions call the shipper or receiver. That's how it was done for years.

 

Nothing wrong with a back up GPS but don't get too depended on it.Plan your route from a truckers atlas then compare it with your GPS.

 

Man use a map dude. C'mon seriously??? Just get an atlas and u will be fine.

 

No APU. Not sure how much idle time I'll get without being punished. The fridge is a Dometic (CF-035AC110) Portable Freezer/Refrigerator. Recommended by a member of this forum. Suppose to use very little power. Although I think he has the smaller version. Ice is always an option but could get an igloo for a lot less. I figure if I'm going to be out three weeks at a time, why not make it as comfortable as possible. A good fridge/freezer, oven, and coffee maker. If the Qualcomm and Rand McNally spiral bound is adequate I may hold off on the Garmin and save my money.

 

If you need a GPS to backup, then you shouldn't be driving forward.

 

if you're running national to different accounts all the time a GPS is extremely handy. I have an older garmin 465 that I use for heads up speed and compass. then I use 760 for main map. lol even airlines use GPS...I'm not into thumbing thru the atlas while I'm driving.