Navigator for Non-US

[Awkragt]

In the planning stages for a trip through South America. Current plan for navigation is mostly iPhone based solutions as that seems like what the locals use. I'd like to supplement that with a dedicated device with a robust map set but everything seems pre-downloaded with US only and international coverage involves downloading OpenStreetMap files. I'm not sure I want to buy a device that is basically maps.me with a larger screen. Looking for suggestions or experience.

Off-line
MAPS.ME
iOverlander

Online
Google Maps

 

[out.wandering.McL]

I recommend a waterproof android phone loaded with Locus, caltopo, and oruxmaps. You can find free maps to download from Openandromaps.org and download whole countries so you have them without cell service. I would not recommend a device such as Garmin for your trip as it is a more specialty device and does not support all the maps you will want outside the US. Peace

 

[Ozarker]

Contact the local cartel leader and have them escort you where you need to go, the cost is about the same.

 

[tallaviento]

We use Gaia maps here in Colombia and it is very accurate. Can be used offline.

 

[alanymarce]

We use Garmin GPS units - one has the Colombia map installed, the other has a map for wherever we're travelling outside the country. Some Garmin maps are fine, others less so (in Africa we use T4A).

For what it's worth we don't use them for navigation - we use them for location (where are we relative to the river we're trying to reach?). WE also use the iPhone (google maps and maps.me), ITMB pdf maps on the iPad, some paper maps when they provide local detail not available on other means, and (the most sophisticated technique) ask locals - which works everywhere except Brazil.

 

[Joe917]

We did a year in South America. 10" Samsung Tablet, Garmin InReach mapping.
Maps.me was by far the most accurate and easy. Works seamlessly with ioverlander.