Sat-Nav

Driving to an unknown destination or in an unfamiliar location can be a cause of stress and frustration for motorists. 

Whether a driver is using their vehicle to fulfil business commitments or simply as they go about their personal life a satellite navigation system, or sat-nav, can be a valuable addition to their in-car arsenal and help to take the stress out of road travel.

The sat-nav satellite navigation system uses GPS global positioning to accurately pinpoint the devices location, wherever drivers are in the world. Using this information the sat-nav then references the vehicle’s position against map databases in order to be able to choose the best route for the driver to reach their destination.

Using a sat-nav system to find routes to unfamiliar locations means that drivers who travel alone need not make a number of time consuming stops to continually check the road atlas, and can also reduce the friction between driver and passenger often caused when the former is relying on the latter to navigate them to their destination. 

Sat-nav systems are easily installed in any vehicle and can also offer drivers access to a number of useful extra features. Many sat-nav systems from trusted manufacturers such as Garmin, TomTom and Navman, feature Bluetooth mobile phone connection, which allows drivers to connect the sat-nav unit to their own mobile phone and facilitate safe and legal calling during a journey. 

Many sat-nav systems come with mapping information which includes details such as safety camera locations, which can alert drivers to areas where other road users are likely to slow suddenly, which can cause problems for following drivers when it happens unexpectedly.

While most sat-nav systems, including those from brands such as Pioneer, Medion and Snooper, will come with a basic UK map programme already installed, drivers can opt to upgrade their mapping software to include international areas, meaning they can take their sat-nav abroad with them when they travel. 

Motorists can even opt for an interactive mapping option that will show local amenities when travelling in unfamiliar areas, helping them to find facilities such as toilets, restaurants and places to stay when travelling away from home.

Any motorist looking to buy a sat-nav system should first compare the models available in their price range. Whether a driver is looking to fit a cheap basic model or a more upmarket sat-nav model, they should take the time to research the options available. Good sources of information include online consumer review sites and consumer magazines such as ‘Which?’.