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. After market units use the most current technology and maps to help you get where you want to go with the greatest accuracy.

The majority of the portable GPS navigation devices which are currently accessible for retail purchase do a whole lot more than just helping you get from place to place. They allow for hooking up with DVDs, Mp3s, iPods, and Bluetooth. After-market systems give you excellent value for their cost. They are designed to be attached to the windshield and to receive their power from your automobile's direct current outlet. Their major advantage is how many different things they can do, and you can move them from one car to another quite simply.

The Garmin portable GPS systems even use rechargeable batteries, so they are portable and you do not have to worry about finding an outlet to use them. They are rechargeable; some models can go for eight hours without having to be recharged. The screens are easy to see and read, but they aren't huge, so they can fit into your travel bag or tote. Others offer other features, such as an iPod player and other audio features.

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.

If you put as much information into the GPS system as possible, it will be easier to find your location. Some maps are on the hard drive of the system, and you can just download the updated ones and put them onto the hard drive as updates. There are also actual maps, which are on a DVD the system can read. So you will have to purchase the new DVD maps so that you can stay up-to-date on new roads.

While they were once expensive, portable navigation systems have become affordable for everyone. Money spent on these systems is more than worth it when you consider all of the utility and fun that you get for the price. Most importantly, however, you will never have to stop for directions again with one of these systems.

Portable GPS navigation in your vehicle is relatively inexpensive especially when compared to the overpriced dealership charge that comes with a factory navigation system. After market units use the most current technology and maps to get you where you want to go. Some Garmin portable GPS units have built-in batteries that allow you to navigate without needing an external power source. It is small enough to fit in a purse or a pocket, yet it has a good sized screen. The Garmin Nuvi 350 Personal Travel Assistant gives you more than just directions. Its features include an Mp3 player and an audio book player!