Planning a journey with a sat nav system is relatively straightforward; to get started, simply programme the start and end destinations in one of the following ways (these may depend on your model):
- Enter the city, street and house number (or street intersection)
- Enter the postcode
- Click on a map location
- The start point can be selected as 'present location' (i.e. where the unit is)
Additional routing options may also be chosen. For example, you may need the route to go through a particular location, if you want to visit a place of interest or if you have to pick a passenger up on the way. This point can be added in using the 'via' or 'waypoint' option. Likewise, many units will allow you to select an option to avoid a certain part of a route, perhaps because it's a traffic black spot.
Finally you may be presented with choices of routes with choices such as:
- Fastest Route
- Shortest Route
- Avoid Motorways
- Scenic Route
- Walking Route
- Bicycle Route
- Avoid Toll Charges
Having made your selection, the unit will calculate the best route and display it on a suitably scaled map. You will usually be able to explore the route in more detail or even view a route demonstration, where your journey will be simulated on the screen.
Once you've planned your journey, simple buckle up and start to drive. As you approach a specific turn in the calculated route, the spoken instructions will let you know what you what to do without you having to take your eyes off the road. For example, "In 100 metres, turn right". The on-screen map will update constantly as you drive, showing your current GPS position and the next turn instruction. If you miss a turn - don't worry; most units will quickly calculate a new route based on your new position and direction of travel.
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