Why I Stopped Using Paper Maps and Switched to THIS

[@5thGenNativeTexan]

Hey Brad, good note on the GPS not included in the WiFi-only models (GPS is integrated into the cellular chip on the cell version). However, you CAN purchase an external GPS w/antenna that will connect to the WiFi-only versions via bluetooth. They typically run about $100-$150 depending on model. The difference in price of a wifi iPad mini and a cellular/gps iPad mini is about that same cost, so if someone is buying new, it's better to buy the cellular version. BUT, if you have a wifi-only model laying around, you can add the external bluetooth gps.

[@gernest2]

Was just going to mention this 😂

[@LookJohnItsaRubicon]

Apple uses A-gps which pulls additional data from cell towers. I find that in some locations in Ontario, even on my new 14pro,when there is no or low cell signal,the gps by itself is slow to update. My stand alone Gps receiver delivers a much more consistent connection. Connects to my WiFi only iPad and IPhone at the same time over Bluetooth. Definitely worth the $100 . The receiver needs to be able to see the sky,which is easily accomplished,whereas a cell phone may be more out of the line of sight ,lower on the dash mount.

[@rckullberg]

I use a Bad Elf Pro GPS and it links to my iPad with bluetooth and Gaia GPS. Works great and gives me a stand alone gps option for back up if the pad or phone die and I have to use my paper map back ups.

[@JM1701ABCD]

GPS is included on Wifi only on certain samsung tablets. Samsung Tab A for sure.

[@yanzhou8784]

@@JM1701ABCDYes. I got Galaxy A8 with 128GB for $180 at Amazon. This is a more economical route.

[@joerghallbauer6595]

I'm like you, I ave OnX, GiaGPS, and Trails Offroad all loaded on my iPhone. I then simply use CarPlay to display them on my 12" screen in my Bronco. This avoids the "shaking" issue of other mounts like you mention in the video. I have that problem with my GoPro mount. No matter how much I tighten the clamp it shakes it's way loose and trying to read that tiny screen on a trail while it's bouncing around is a pain. On another note, I lead some trail rides, and when I do, I plan the ride (usually on OnX or GaiaGPS) and then export the .gpx file so I can send it off to the rest of the folks on the trail ride. That's a cool feature you didn't mention in your video I use a lot.

[@NvFlyAngler]

I’m not an overlander, but I use Gaia GPS when I’m on dirt in search of trout. I really like being able to plan routes on my PC and upload them to my phone. Then, using Apple CarPlay in my F-350, I can see everything on its display. Thank you, sir!

[@nathankelley1088]

OORAH!!!!! I'm so happy to find another Marine going over jeep stuff!!!!

[@TrailRecon]

I was a Navy Corpsman, stationed with the Marines a couple time during my service... Oorah!

[@fj9460-lr]

Semper Fi Nathan, I hope you’re having a great time bouncing through the rocks and stuff!

[@nathankelley1088]

Rah devil! Haven't gotten to do any with my Jeep yet. This is my first Wrangler. But when I was stationed at Mitimar, we went to Ocotillo Wells every weekend with Quads.

[@lauriesnyder8603]

Hey Brad, Can’t thank you enough for showing the details of the “how to” use nav apps and your equipment. As a newbie I found this video was the best because you really covered all the topics that I had been searching for. So appreciate you taking the time to share it. Thanks again it was perfect.

[@TrailRecon]

Great to hear and glad it was helpful!

[@ajfarson]

Great video, Brad. Modern navigation is one of the hardest things to teach to folks in my Land Cruiser club. I wrote up a lesson on how to use GaiaGPS and your video covers just about all of it. Keep up the great content, shipmate!

[@samedoi]

As always, I appreciate these types of videos as well as the pure adventure ones. I've been following TrailRecon for a long time and it's taken me FOREVER to finally get a Jeep, get it paid off and finally start building it. Just did my first trail ride last weekend. The content you put out has always been top notch and really helps us newbs with stuff we may never think of on our own. Much thanks!

[@fj9460-lr]

Yeah Brad we chatted last year during one of your live podcasts, I had seen your Marine Corps banner on your garage wall during your tech videos and thought I would comment; to me a Navy Corpsman is as close a brother as you’ll ever need!

[@TrailRecon]

Oorah!

[@2Dawoods]

love my Tread xl. plug and play and go. No running to find cell service to upload maps or turning on the Starlink. Also no worry about Gaia loosing your Data which has happened.

[@neilcorey2900]

I down loaded the 3 apps and immediately found out who owns a large property that I have been trying to learn who owns for a very long time. It has no address but the owner was shown on the map. I can use these on multiple devices from large to small for hiking, dirt bike off road and 4x4 all with a single subscription. I am out and about constantly and this video improved my experience.

[@TrailRecon]

Glad it was helpful!

[@steveegbert7429]

Thanks for the rundown Brad. I run a Samsung android tablet because it has built in gps without cellular. GAIA is great. I have my entire state of Oregon downloaded on mine. The public lands overlay is helpful in my area where there is a lot of checkerboard with private timber land and BLM. I need to have a look at OnX. I still need to find a good mounting system for my 4Runner as I have none at the moment.

[@RogerCampillo]

I recently moved to the farming tread overland 8” and it’s a fantastic tool. As it’s Android os, I can still have Gaia, OSMand, Google maps, Sygic GPS (for on road off line). Plus I can use it also as roadbook reader, and super important for me, I can use it also on the Motorcycle. Off-roadingon the bike with a conventional tablet is not the best way to go due to vibrations, dust, falls, temperature and recharging solution.

[@fj9460-lr]

Hi Brad, Frank here from New Mexico (USMC); anyway you answered every question I had about your navigation setup; I run Gaia GPS Premium on my iPad Pro 11 inch 3rd Gen and I learning to use all its functions. I don’t get out as much as you do but I’m working on it. Thanks for sharing👍🏼 Semper Fi Brother

[@TrailRecon]

Right on and thanks for your service!

[@Earlywinters09]

I really appreciate you sharing your system. When I got my JK three years ago I watched your video and adopted a similar system. It has worked great. I now run both Gaia and OnX. Gaia for navigation and OnX for figuring out private/public property. Thanks!

[@GriffinConway]

Nice one Brad! I’m pretty much in the same boat. I like Trails Off Road’s interface for finding and exploring trails, but I like OnX for marking waypoints. I also use the same feature for uploading the GPX tracks from Trails Off Road to Gaia for actual trail navigation. Thanks for sharing!

[@TrailRecon]

Maybe someday there will be one app that rules them all! LOL!

[@rubiconadventurewithscotty3258]

Is ONX that much different than GAIA? I held off on re-newing my Gaia when ONX seemed prevalent but that kinda seemed liked forced ad splash but several YT content providers so I did not jump on ONX Thank You

[@rocklanderoffroad]

@@rubiconadventurewithscotty3258 It seems to me Gaia rarely loses GPS signal where ONXY seems to.

[@JuanVargasPro]

I knew it, Gaia GPS for the win. That's what I have. I also use Trails OffRoad to find trails that have been done. I've tried other apps and I just stick to those 2.

[@LoneStarSwirl]

In my opinion and my personal experience, GAIA GPS on an iPad is my favorite. I use the bigger iPad because, you know, I'm from TEXAS ... 😉 It does it all plus more than the competitors for my needs.

[@jeffmclinn3168]

Thanks again Brad. Been looking to buy the iPad mini Wi-Fi only for a long time. Now changing to the Wi-Fi plus cellular. You saved me again. Thanks

[@flightofthecrowswing]

We regularly use Google maps for general navigation, including on many National Forest road BLM roads. Downloading areas for offline use is the key. We also have a huge Gaia file set. We tend to run it with their Overland map but we keep their Public Lands, Private Lands, Satellite, Gaia Topo, Wildfires, Nat Geo, Mines and Minerals, and a Historical map at ready to overlay. Public Lands and Satellite overlays are super helpful to find campsites, as is Google Satellite View. We've traveled all over the country using this set up and like you, it would be quite the task to transfer all of our Gaia info over to something else. Great video.

[@offgridrecon]

A couple things them at help me: 1. Gaia works in airplane mode, and as often as I fly I can see where I am, and how far to go before landing. Show’s elevation, direction, speed, etc. very helpful. 2. When marking camp spots, I use the hotel icon (🏣) if the spot will comfortably hold more then 3 rigs. At a glance I can see larger spots for group camping. 👍🏻❤️🇺🇸

[@leonthomas4270]

Great video. I typically travel with an organized Jeep group. I always see the iPads, but never understood how it all works together. Thanks! Great video!

[@knightscape]

For my phone mount, I'm using an ESR Halo Lock MagSafe Charger... strongest magnets on a MagSafe charger I've found, almost never falls off while rock crawling, never for daily driving... super convenient. Mounted to a 67 Designs rail with a 17mm to 20mm adapter arm.

[@donaldnorman6350]

MC, I like the info for Navigating and a sample for set ups. Which answered my question about what trails to pick from as a 1st Timer. Loads of good advice...Thanks, USN (RET). Getting the TOAD ready for next year.

[@garretlewis4103]

I love a paper map. Christine thinks I am addicted to paper maps. For off roading, I don’t currently have any electronic/GPS except Google maps. Glad to hear your comments about the Garmin. I have been seriously considering one. I like the stand alone device. Additionally, I am not too much of a month subscription/fee guy. And, in Virginia (or the east coast in general) there isn’t as much public land as out west.

[@jhr2112]

Definitely liking Gaia GPS, use it with my Pixel phone displayed via Android auto on the Jeeps display. I gave up on the external displays like iPads just because I seemed to lose too much visibility with Jeeps already small windshield.

[@DonovanGoodwin]

Been loving Gaia. You put us on it years ago and I've built us such a large repository of waypoints, trails and all sorts of things in Utah. Such a good tool. I've got an Android Head Unit in my JK and it runs great there. The nice part is that it has its own GPS and cellular and Bluetooth which makes it perfect for Gaia.

[@27Reeder]

Great review. I’ve had great results with GAIA gps for the last 3 years. I’m not affiliated with them…just a retired guy who loves the outdoors.

[@xpendabull]

You should make a dedicated video on how to read a map and compass. I can read aviation charts a little but I haven't used a standard map since the Boy Scouts

[@devinholzer]

I pair my iPad with my Garmin InReach to take advantage of the InReach GPS....I find it's more "accurate to the foot" than my iPad built-in cellular GPS chip was.

[@captainkettel]

Wow... I asked myself that very question when I was viewing your latest YT video... Thank you so much for the info... Keep up the strong work...

[@davidgrondona1422]

This is so helpful 🙌. I am pulling the trigger on the Mini, and just downloaded Gaia after seeing this. Just became a Jeep owner, and your vids are very helpful. 🏆

[@TrailRecon]

Glad I could help!

[@richardcarrier367]

Love the set up! Thank you for sharing, been having a hard time finding one.

[@ctrlnull7228]

I agree, tablet is a very comfortable option. I used a 10" then switched to 12.5" and loved it. Now I cleaned up my dash and just got the Samsung fold. It's hard to decide which is the best.

[@TrailRecon]

I've been using the iPad mini for years and even when I try new things, it's what I go back to.

[@TX_Patriot]

Most Samsung WiFi only tablets, S7 and up, have built in GPS. So those of you using an Android device can still take advantage of Brad's setup.

[@IronWolfOverland]

Please do a video showing how you adjust when you lose cellular. My most recent experiences in remote areas: 1) Love gaia, I make sure that I have downloaded map of area while still on cellular or wifi 2) I usually do gaia using carplay on built in screen, keep my iPhone just about exactly where yours is using RAM mounts 3) I have learned to turn off cellular when signal is unreliable; otherwise gaia glitches for me (screen locks up, not fun at trail intersections) Biggest problem I had last time was figuring out how to show someone else’s shared track on gaia after I was out of cellular range. Was annoying - I had been looking at someone else’s track for Top of the World near Moab. Drove out there, no signal, couldn’t figure out how to make sure that I could still see that public track on gaia without a cellular signal. GREAT VIDEO, BTW!

[@christyrattay5213]

I think you might have to download that track that you want in addition to the map itself. Or create your own route ahead of time that follows that track and download it for offline use.

[@IronWolfOverland]

@@christyrattay5213, Thanks! I’ll try that

[@xplorefurther]

I have been using iPad mini 4 with cellular for navigation as well as flying drone while sitting inside the Jeep.

[@nealjohnson1461]

Great update Chief!!! Because I’m old as dirt I am still a paper topo map and compass guy. I do have OnX on my iPad with Google earth Pro and that is my primary nav system but I honestly feel unprepared without a map and compass. I am in complete agreement with you in that it’s important to try different nav systems. I mean I have never liked Garmin and do not use their GPS units. That being said I do intend on trying Garmin Tread after after watching your video!!

[@VetJeeper]

Guess I need to find a class on map reading and compass use! Great video Brad!

[@georgecook1374]

great info specially for those of us that are just getting into this hobby. specially how you have stuff mounted. As that what i have been wondering more then anything else

[@abnpthfdr2934]

Thank you for making this video. I know I just asked you about you navigation app on your last video or two videos ago. Yo replied and told me you were using Gaia. It just caught my attention that the graphics on it looked like graphics on military maps. Thanks for the info on all the different ones you have access to.🤙🏼

[@taurota1554]

Great content as always.Thanks for sharing and taking us along

[@terryquan9052]

Good info. I’m using a 9” Apple CarPlay head unit. Using Gaia and Onxy off-road with a Garmin Glo2 Bluetooth gps connected to my phone.

[@Powerstroke73TurboD]

Nice information Brad. I have been using Back Country Navigator Pro since probably 2017. Many folks i know are using Gaia and On X though also.

[@mtnessler]

Thanks Brad for the information!! This is very helpful for those of us just starting to overland!

[@jeffbettenga]

I have 2 Android tablets mounted one does Google maps on the street and Gaia or OnX standard maps offroad. The other I spend the time to download offline satellite maps. I like seeing the actual terrain, etc. It can also be much more helpful finding possible camp sites up ahead.

[@Jan-pw4po]

Brad, another informative video, i was wondering about navigation systems, going to give Gaia a try! Thanks

[@theundead1600]

This is super informative . Living in Wi we have few places and getting there almost feels like it’s a secret. lol. I got some gpx files for the trans wi pipeline route but on my Topo app it’s not really navigating. The cellular iPad sounds perfect

[@stevepoland1406]

Thank You!! I was one of many asking you the questions that you just answered and very much appreciate all the amazing information.

[@MegaRetr]

Keep up the great content, shipmate!

[@photog1529]

Bought an iPad a while back but I wasn't aware that the wifi version didn't have GPS capability. Fortunately, Garmin makes a very small GPS receiver that will connect to my iPad via bluetooth...I just mount it on the dash of my Suburban with some velcro...works just fine so far.

[@scottm6125]

Thanks for the honest review, I like Giai maps for off road also. I think that google maps is very good for on road navigation, but will use Giai for when I hit the dirt.

[@oneshotoverlanding]

Great overview, I also added the Zoleo app to my tablet. Cheers!

[@jujujohnson01]

Great to see this. I also was wondering. Being from San Diego also, the huge deserts we play in, its very easy to get turned around out there and while I carry a map and compass, proper technology makes it more enjoyable. Been meaning to get a proper mounting system also, so this definitely helps convinces the wife to let me buy more. :)

[@mark12.31]

Good info. That iPad Mini is a couple or so generations old now but if it works it works. But it's not the latest. But good info on the cellular vs wifi-only version; many people don't know that about the GPS.

[@norm5785]

Thank you for sharing. Good information to have. Everyone stay safe, happy and healthy. From Henrico County Virginia

[@casualsweats]

I am trying to get back into off-roading but havent been able to due to financial reasons. Looking forward to getting back our there in a full size truck soon. I am not into the extreme trails, just the peace and tranquility of being off the beaten path away from it all.

[@TrailRecon]

The best part about getting off-grid is the peace and quiet.

[@toogood222]

Excellent video. I love these more in-depth explanation videos! 😎👍

[@markparry3258]

Hi Brad, that was quick, I only asked you this last week… We start our trip from UK to South Africa, early next year. I have been researching all sorts of different navigation devices, but kept coming back to the versatility of the iPad, due to the wide range of apps.. I was considering the 10.8” iPad, but your thoughts on the iPad mini have me reconsider the size. Brilliant content as ever

[@TimCarter-y4p]

Thank you for your help. I’m hoping to route a Moderate trail , to Alaska Cheers

[@marklus406]

Great video. What is the box behind the rear view mirror??

[@ReKnHaVoc]

Great video! I recently upgraded to a 9" touchscreen android headunit. I'm pretty sure I can download all of these aps. I use android auto a lot but, also has carplay.

[@robert5712]

Thank you Brad, I have been using GAIA but still have a problem with managing save tracks and waypoints. Also GAIA is different when working between MAC, iPhone and iPad. Can you have another video on how to GAIA saved items and organization.

[@TheHillbillyhotrod]

Been waiting on this one, really enjoyed this episode, thanks amigo!

[@philp411]

Thank you for this video. I’ve been using iPhone/iPad for several years. It’s nice to see how people navigate their trips. Do you rigidly plan your route or do you wing it as you go? Do you have planned way points at set times with contingencies? I’d also like to hear/see how you plan your trips, as it pertains to how you plan your resupply needs (especially fuel).

[@noverlanders4709]

Good stuff, hope to see you soon and catch up!

[@PittiesAndMore]

Maybe you could do a tutorial on how to use a compass and map.

[@zacksmith-s2c]

This is all awesome information. I have noticed in a lot of of your videos that you tow a patriot camper. We have an off grid expedition series 2.0 that’s fairly new to us and I don’t have a lot of experience towing trailers off-road. What app do you recommend the most to prevent from getting in situations where it’s a dead end or just not a good place to drag a trailer?

[@brettbaust5782]

Great video. Also, do you still have the power wagon? Any updates?

[@overlandingsmith]

Great video Brad! Very interesting to see what you're using and prefer. We use a Garmin Overlander with all its programs and apps and my phone with Gaia and Google maps and sometimes Google earth. And yes I know what you mean with the rattling noises with the heavy overlander 😄

[@camronbay1]

Same I use the overlander it’s really good I mount my overlander in the cup holder Toyota Tacoma.

[@junomas_7327]

Absolutely enjoy your content, inspiring, informative, and entertaining thanks Brad and Regena

[@justsmy5677]

Thanks, nice video. Can you review and/or show how your dashboard bar/mounting system attached to your vehicle? I worry about drilling or cutting on the vehicle to install the bar mount system. Are they unique to certain vehicles and designed to use existing attachment points. Thanks.

[@crjmoto]

Gaia has been great for me on moto's, MTB, hikes, 4x4. Well worth the $ IMO

[@USNRET]

Thanks Brad for the update to my question.

[@mega_desk_2268]

Great video Brad, I am interested in your JK. Did you have a bad experience with the stinger Heigh10?

[@allenc5108]

Thanks for the detailed review of your set up and apps. The problem I’m trying to resolve is glare from the tablet. Can you suggest an anti glare screen protector?

[@TrailRecon]

Sorry, I haven't really had a problem with glare so I don't have any recommendations.

[@jnatiw]

Great video, Brad. Thanks. When can we expect the paper map and compass video? 😉👍👊

[@TrailRecon]

I actually have something up my sleeve on this topic...

[@douglaschinn7660]

Great informative video. Helps me decide which app to use. Which headliner did you install

[@TrailRecon]

Glad it was helpful. t's the hot heads headliner

[@douglaschinn7660]

@@TrailRecon do they make much of a difference?

[@Big.D.]

The land ownership overlay in Gaia seems to be on par with OnX.

[@davidnelson5728]

Does it have to be an apple product? Or can I use those apps on Android? As always great content.

[@woodwalker777]

Just an FYI you can use an iPad without cell capabilities. You just buy an XGPS160 gps receiver and that Bluetooths to your iPad, I’ve been using this set up for about 7 years. This allows you to buy the cheaper iPad

[@jamesatkins30]

Great stuff, these tips are very much appreciated.

[@TrailRecon]

Glad to hear it!

[@carlosandrade7439]

You are probably the only Californians I like and subscribe too, you're doing a good job!

[@jrfuentes2688]

Thank you for this video! Super informative

[@can5projects563]

love your jeep and all those gadgets

[@erichughes9098]

Thank you for the information Brad😎👍

[@catherines.2955]

Do you have details posted someplace about your setup in the van? Thank you!

[@TrailRecon]

No, sorry. Maybe in the future.

[@zain-zeus]

Hi Brad why don’t you use the Jeep screen with Apple Carplay ? Gaia already supported in Carplay

[@TrailRecon]

I've tried it, but honestly just prefer the responsiveness, tools and features using it directly on the iPad.

[@rubiconadventurewithscotty3258]

Slow when you're just casting it to the Jeep display?

[@rubicon4wheeler]

Like you, I've tried seemingly every GPS mapping app out there. I just can't get myself to like OnX as much as I LOVE Gaia. The integration with Trails Offroad is great as well. What'll it take to get you to share your .GPX library with us? :)

[@edwardsimmons3721]

That is valuable information. Great stuff.

[@inthebackyardwithdel438]

Great video , Thank you for sharing .

[@fyrmedic22]

Brad, Is the 1 inch ball on the back of the RAM mount for iPad mini compatible with the 67D arm for the 20mm ball? That looks like a great setup that I would like to try. Thanks.

[@garyfinley9140]

If you have an old iPad that does not have cell conductivity you can still use it. Buy a Garmin Glo GPS receiver. It will bluetooth to your iPad and give extremely accurate GPS location. It is aviation certified. About $100.00 but cheeper than new iPad.

[@GentleGiantFan]

What's the green/gray device on the passenger side of your Jeep? Great video. I have the Vector bar on my JKUR. Right now, I just use a spare phone as my tablet.

[@TrailRecon]

My Zoleo for emergency communications: bit.ly/trailreconstore-zoleo

[@andrewford4100]

Trails Off-Road has the better info. They dont have as much, but what they do have is better.

[@zapman2100]

I wish Garmin and OnX would get together would be the best device ever.

[@gregy3660]

Any updates or thoughts on that stinger off-road head unit you installed been curious about your thoughts on it

[@CraneGuru]

Can you post a link to the RAM mount you speak about

[@mnhockeyone]

Another outstanding video

[@canyonoverland5003]

We use Gaia, but on a full size iPad with cellular and GPS. Except in our case, the wife holds on to it and plays the navigator role :)

[@joejimenez8068]

Can I get more information on your rail system use for your 67 design