Sunday, July 19, 2009

Personal GPS Trackers are a Backpack Essential

By Daniel Stouffer

You should never consider a trip into the wild country without one of the best personal GPS trackers in your backpack. Trekking always requires a great deal of preparation and common sense and whether you like it or not, you should always consider a worst-case scenario. If you are traveling alone, especially, you must understand that your journey could take you into areas which are very remote and far away from any quick help. Don't think that nothing will happen to you, as the age old Murphy's Law could dictate misfortune when you least expect it.

Personal GPS trackers can really help to alleviate a particularly stressful situation from arising. We have all seen the coverage on television when a hiker goes missing or a backpacker fails to return at the allotted time. Loved ones get very anxious and experts mount a search and rescue operation This can all be very expensive and can take its toll.

Personal GPS trackers work in virtually every environment. They are designed specifically for emergency situations and can be activated at the press of a button. If you are injured in some way and incapacitated, a simple press will send an emergency signal to the appropriate location notifying them of your exact position. This can, quite literally, be a lifesaver.

Personal GPS trackers work by logging onto a satellite located in "low earth orbit" above you. As long as the satellite is basically above the horizon, your unit will be able to lock onto it and send its signal efficiently.

Personal GPS trackers can record the history of your whereabouts, current location and tracking intervals which can be set every five minutes or so. They are very versatile, very efficient and essential personal security aides.

As time is always of the essence in an emergency, woe betide you if you become lost in the wilderness without one of those personal GPS trackers. Inclement weather and seasonally cold conditions can play havoc with your chances if you have to spend a night in these life-threatening conditions. If you don't have a tracker, rescuers will have to search for your rather than pinpoint your location which could take many hours.

Search and rescue operations often involve a considerable risk to personnel, so many are suggesting that personal GPS trackers be mandated. This legislation may be some way off but it may well be adopted and you will be expected to carry one of these items if you go into the wilderness. Weigh up the potential and alternatives and see how cost effective they can be.

Personal GPS trackers should be one of the first things to pack into your backpack before you set off on your trip. As they are so compact, you should have no problem in making room for your clothing, sleeping materials, first aid kits, fire sticks and other survival aides.

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