Hello, I think I'm about to make the switch to an android phone and was wondering if anyone had suggestions for gps applications?

I've been using Backcountry for a few months now and haven't had a problem. Costs $10, but you can try out the free demo to see if you like it first.

+1 for Backcountry

Backcountry Navigator

I've got Trimble Outdoors and the file is only 2 mb. I could probably send it to anyone as an attachment if you're interested. You would have to use Astro to install it, but that's no big deal. PM if interested.

I downloaded the trial version of BackCountry Navigator. I'm in the process of downloading the entire Olympic Park from mytopo and from what I've browsed of the device....it is pretty slick.

I think the biggest complaint I've seen with these gadgets is battery life. It is a mini-computer so it can suck a battery dry quick if you don't use it sparingly. Use it in Airplane mode and just turn on the GPS when you need it to acquire a location. Turn it back off and keep all the cellular features off and you should be able to get reasonable use from it.

I'll update once I've actually used it in the field but from the living room, I'm pleased with how it works. I'll still carry paper but this certainly gives me another reference when I'm going off-trail. It also doubles as my emergency phone, camera, emergency flashlight and night time entertainment. Well worth the extra 5oz.

I've tried using my phone as a GPS for backpacking and the battery just doesn't last long enough. I'll maybe get 7 hours of life out of my Droid X with the GPS activated. Are you guys carrying a mobile type of charger with you?

I just keep it off until I need to use it. Like you, I find the battery doesn'tt last long enough if it'd left on.

I've been using the Goal Zero Nomad 7 to keep my Droid charged. It kicks off tons of power, and is super easy to attach to the top of your pack.

+1 on goal zero, awesome little thing, I have a guide 10 kit (on sale now at rei):

http://www.rei.com/product/814776/goal-zero-guide-10-adventure-kit-solar-charger

the bonus is most of my stuff runs off AAA... so I always have power...

that said, everyone ready to be bashed for bringing gizmos in the woods? :)

Most of the phones use Lithium Polymer batteries that are fairly light. Turning off features and only using the GPS when needed will help. I have an HTC Evo Shift which gets better battery life than most Android phones. A battery weighs 1.1 ounces. You could carry a lot of batteries for the weight of a solar charger. Many HTC phones use the same battery making it cheap and easy to find extras.

I use Backcountry Navigator as well. Well worth the $10.

For me its View Ranger but I am based in Europe so not sure if Us mapping is available.

Hi Everybody,

I am an old timer and I like to use compass and a paper map.

Recently I bought a Nexus 2 phone (great phone) and probably I will use the backcountry – not sure if it is better than my old paper maps, but who knows.

I also have created the ‘Instant Panorama’ android application that draws panoramas and names all visible peaks from any location. I was wondering if you will find it useful?

Chris from New England

Hi,

I can recommend Oruxmaps and Locus as the best mapping applications imho.
You can add offline and custom maps.

I also recommend androgeoid.com for those interested in the topic