Topo vs base map?

[joezha]

I looking to buy a etres Summit HC, and I noticed it came with the Americas basemap. Is this different from a topo map? If the topo map is separate, how much do you have to spend to get one?

[+KG1960]

The basemap is not detailed and shows basically only Interstates and main highways. Check Garmin's website for pricing of the Topo maps. You may get them a bit cheaper elsewhere (?).

 

Another suggestion (since you seem not to have bought the GPS yet) is to do like my son did. He got an Etrex (don't remember exactly which model) in a package that included the topo maps. So, look for package deals, he bought his from Dick's Sporting Goods.

[joezha]

I'm looking at the etrex summit hc right now and it looks lik ei can get a cheaper price than the Dick's price, do you know if I can download the maps for free somewhere?

[Motorcycle_Mama]

Garmin brand/created maps cannot be downloaded for free.

 

Check here for compatible free maps.

 

http://www.gpsfiledepot.com/

[+briansnat]

Check Garmin's website for pricing of the Topo maps. You may get them a bit cheaper elsewhere (?).

 

Correction, a lot cheaper elsewhere.

 

Garmin brand/created maps cannot be downloaded for free.

 

Check here for compatible free maps.

 

http://www.gpsfiledepot.com/

 

The free topo maps that I've seen use a LOT of map memory. For someone with a Summit HC or Venture HC or any unit that doesn't have expandable map memory you might find that you get very little map coverage.