GPS navigation devices can be costly if purchased through the auto dealer. After-market systems apply the latest technological advances and mapping programs to get you where you’re going without a problem. And given the progress in technology nowadays, a portable GPS can be bought for a much lower charge than dealers apply when such a device comes with the car.

Many of the portable GPS navigationdevices can be used for much more than just getting directions. Expandability features permit for numerous upgrades together with DVD, Mp3, I-pod integration, and Bluetooth. The after market units are really well worth the investment. Portable GPS navigation units are presently one type of navigation available in the market. These sorts of GPS units are mainly made to be suctioned to your windshield and powered from your car’s DC outlet. The most important feature of these units is their versatility. The device can be easily unplugged to be moved from one vehicle to another.

There are Garmin portable GPS systems available with built-in batteries to eliminate the need for an external power source. The popular and versatile Garmin Nuvi 350 GPS Navigator’s rechargeable lithium-ion battery can last up to 8 hours. It is compact without sacrificing screen size unlike some of the other navigation systems that are available. Moreover, it is not just a navigation system. In addition to providing directions, it also serves as an Mp3 player and audio book player.

Also, you can use a GPS system called the in-dash. This system has an interactive monitor, where you can type in the address to get directions. This unit fits where your car radio goes and replaces it.

With options like Bluetooth, iPod integration, satellite radio, and TV tuners, as well as systems that are designed to fit both standard, and large radios, you can build a system for any vehicle with all the options at a fraction of the cost of dealership installation.

You will have the best chance of finding your destination if you put in as many points of interest as you possibly can. The units come preloaded with maps but you can update the information by downloading more current maps onto a hard drive with a DVD or SD Card. Whichever way you choose the maps are loaded once the DVD or Card is inserted into the unit. As the area that you travel changes these new maps can be purchased to reflect the growth and modifications in any given area.

Now portable navigation systems are affordable no matter what your budget. It’s a small price to pay for all the functionality and entertainment and the satisfaction of knowing that you will never again have to pull over and ask for directions.

The addition of portable GPS navigation in your vehicle is relatively inexpensive especially when compared to the overpriced dealership charge that comes when you order a factory navigation system. Some Garmin portable GPS units have built-in batteries that allow you to navigate without needing an external power source. The Garmin Nuvi 350 Personal Travel Assistant is very adaptable and includes a lithium-ion battery that you can recharge and it will remain charged for up to 8 hours. In some units, maps are loaded onto a DVD which is inserted into the system. New updated DVDs can be purchased in order to update yourself with the growth of your area.

- Brad Seabourne