For trip navigation, I've been trying GPS products, computer programs and websites on and off for years now and have settled on the system described below. It touches all the bases for me - free, cellphone based, turn by turn navigation voiced in my ear, routes of unlimited length and a navigation app that handles deviation from route quite well and gives early warning of upcoming turns. Maps zoom in automatically as turns come up. Routes can start anywhere which is fantastic because you already know your local roads and don't need to plot 20 turns to get to parts unknown. You'll be guided to the starting point of the route regardless of where you start.
To construct a route go to the free website gpx.studio. Build a route of any length click by click. If you make a mistake right click on the last segment's tiny circle to delete. Save the route as a GPX file to your computer then email it to yourself as an attachment. Open that email on your cellphone and download the GPX file. Now, open the free OsmAnd app (android based; not sure about iPhone), find and load the GPX file. There's a learning curve with OsmAnd but stay with it. Once going, you'll hear turn by turn instructions in your ear and be able to follow truly excellent maps on your phone superior to the paid Rever service I abandoned. The only glitch is that the maps and routing are excellent but the voice in your ear makes mistakes at least in the boonies of W.Va., so give priority to what you see.
Ideally you'll have a USB charger for the cellphone and a mount. A USB headset is best for keeping your eyes on the road and hearing turn by turn directions. I bought mine cheap on EBay. Search "bluetooth headset for motorcycle helmet" or similar. My Senna compatible unit ran $25 and features a microphone, external volume, radio tuning and long battery life. It paired easily and permanently to my phone.
To construct a route go to the free website gpx.studio. Build a route of any length click by click. If you make a mistake right click on the last segment's tiny circle to delete. Save the route as a GPX file to your computer then email it to yourself as an attachment. Open that email on your cellphone and download the GPX file. Now, open the free OsmAnd app (android based; not sure about iPhone), find and load the GPX file. There's a learning curve with OsmAnd but stay with it. Once going, you'll hear turn by turn instructions in your ear and be able to follow truly excellent maps on your phone superior to the paid Rever service I abandoned. The only glitch is that the maps and routing are excellent but the voice in your ear makes mistakes at least in the boonies of W.Va., so give priority to what you see.
Ideally you'll have a USB charger for the cellphone and a mount. A USB headset is best for keeping your eyes on the road and hearing turn by turn directions. I bought mine cheap on EBay. Search "bluetooth headset for motorcycle helmet" or similar. My Senna compatible unit ran $25 and features a microphone, external volume, radio tuning and long battery life. It paired easily and permanently to my phone.
