Should I Get a GPS for My Snowmobile?
Written by
Ann Herro has been writing about insurance and employee benefits for over 15 years. She covers topics ranging from car insurance to healthcare costs.
Reviewed by
Cara Carlone is a licensed P&C agent with 20 years of experience. She has her P&C license in RI and TX and holds CPCU, API, and AINS designations.
There's fresh powder begging to be explored. But if you choose to take your snowmobile off the beaten path, will you be able to find your way home? Thank goodness that GPS, or global positioning systems, are not just for cars. A snowmobile GPS is a great way to help you navigate your snowmobile and stay safe.
And before you head out on your snowmobile, be sure to talk to a local independent insurance agent about helping you find the best snowmobile insurance for your needs and budget.
What Is a Snowmobile GPS?
Snowmobiling is an exhilarating way to spend a winter day. But it can also be dangerous if you get lost, run into some unexpectedly difficult terrain, or get caught in bad weather. Sometimes, trail signs are worn or missing, and paper maps are simply too clumsy to view on a windy winter day. A snowmobile GPS will help you stay on track and keep you safe.
GPS tracking devices for snowmobiles have become common for theft recovery, search and rescue operations, and simply for the peace of mind of knowing where your equipment or loved ones are located. A snowmobile GPS must also be able to withstand extreme temperatures and stay connected in remote areas where other forms of communication may be difficult.
If something happens to you or your snow machine, you need your GPS tracker to transmit your location without fail. It must work in all weather conditions and be able to pinpoint your exact location.
As a bonus, a snowmobile GPS can also tell you when to expect the sunset, the distance to your destination, weather conditions, and how far you've traveled.
What Kinds of Snowmobile GPS Are Available?
There are three basic types of snowmobile GPS available. You can choose from a GPS cellphone app, a portable GPS, or a built-in component. Each system has pros and cons. Let's take a closer look.
Cellphone GPS
For $10 or so, you can download a GPS app to your cellphone for simple navigation. As a bonus, these apps link to your existing internet connection and sync with Google Maps.
You can review your trek at a later time or bring up a favorite route to explore once again. The drawbacks? These only work in areas with a cellphone signal and internet connectivity. This option is not for you if you're venturing far into the wilderness.
Portable GPS
Do you love all winter sports? If you plan to hike, ice fish, cross-country ski, and snowmobile during the snowy months, a portable GPS might just be your best buddy. This can go with you anywhere to keep you safe and findable. However, if you leave it behind at the fishing hole or the batteries drain too quickly, you might be stuck in the wilderness without any guidance.
Built-in GPS
When you're traveling a long distance or using your snowmobile for rural transportation in rugged terrain, it's best to have your GPS system simply be part of the sled. It's always with you, powered by the sled's electronics system, and dependable. The only downfall is the inability to take it with you if you combine sledding and hiking adventures.
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What Features are Important in a Snowmobile GPS?
Before grabbing the first GPS system that fits your budget, consider some of the key bells and whistles of these intelligent systems.
- Communication range: Each system covers a set radius, which generates a few questions. Will you be sledding with a group? Do you want to be able to communicate with a home base? Do you need to buy the optional auxiliary antenna to get reception in a rural area?
- Displays: These can be colorful and filled with graphics or simple black-and-white text-based systems.
- USB Interface: Do you want to be able to download maps and courses into your GPS?
- Sending and receiving capabilities: Some systems will communicate with other snowmobile GPS systems. For example, a friend could view your location on his GPS, and vice versa.
- Extras: There are even more features to explore, including average speed calculators, elevation readings, distance logs, and Google Maps compatibility. Be sure the GPS you choose has, at a bare minimum, an easy-to-read compass and weather feed. You don't want to get caught in an unexpected storm.
Find the Best Snowmobile Insurance With Help From an Independent Insurance Agent
Having a GPS with you whenever you spend time on your snowmobile brings you one step closer to having a safe travel experience. You must also stay safe by wearing a safety helmet, putting reflective tape on the sled, and operating the vehicle while alert and sober. What's more, you need snowmobile insurance to help you pay for damages if you have an accident.
A local independent insurance agent can work with multiple insurance companies that offer snowmobile insurance. You can compare quotes and choose the best coverage for your needs and budget.