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Doing the Everest base camp trek in a few weeks. I would like to record the trek on Strava, not sure which would be best way. I could use phone but not sure if I can guarantee recharging it everyday. Second option, I have a Garmin Oregon 700 , I have about 10 good quality rechargeable envelop batteries but I only have uk maps , not sure if Garmin baseman’s would record it . Third option, I am fancying a gps watch , Garmin instinct or Fenix 5 plus , but again not sure about maps. Would appreciate advice, thanks .
You don’t need maps to track an activity, just GPS signal. I assume you’re not needing the device for navigation. Watch will also need recharging too. Oregon + batteries seems the most sensible of those options s
I know nothing about gps or strava type stuff but I have just been researching small portable solar panels for trekking to recharge phone/camera batteries. They look pretty interesting, might be worth a look.
I have been speaking to these guys, they seem pretty helpful
http://www.mobilesolarchargers.co.uk/shop/category/portable-folding-solar-chargers
If you use e.g. the Garmin Instinct you can track yourself on the maps on the Garmin Explore app (I did pretty much that on a recent trip to Patagonia). I have been pretty impressed by how useful and easy it is.
Yes, the Oregon will record a track fine, without any maps.
Though you can download some free maps to install on it if you want. Not sure how detailed they will be around there, but more useful than the basemap anyway.
Try this website: http://garmin.openstreetmap.nl/
Garmin Instinct would also work fine. Battery lasts about 16 hours with GPS on, so would need to charge it every day or two. Just take a decent USB battery pack, it should give you a few charges. Think most of the teahouses along the trek have plugs for charging, if you pay.
Oregon will do the job. Set up all battery saving fearures and a set of AAs would last 12-15 hours. Accuracy won't be that important either so set recording interval accordingly.
So, if I record on Oregon without maps will it display on Strava on maps. I have a good USB charger pack and a solar charging unit. Think I’ve got covered with the Garmin and phone as backup .
Mentioned the Instinct and Fenix as we do quite a bit of walking and use the Oregon on unfamiliar routes but wandered if the watches were more convenient on familiar routes. Does anyone use a Fenix or Instinct for navigating unfamiliar routes . Always take map and compass btw.
The Oregon will record the GPX track whether or not you have mapping. Just make sure you have satellite lock when you first get there as it might take a while (this is true of any GPS device). When you upload to Strava, the track will display in the correct place.
If you take rechargeable batteries then you can charge them in the Oregon by covering the little button in the battery compartment with a thin piece of card before putting the batteries in.
Didn’t realise that about charging the Oregon batteries, will give it a go , thanks everyone .
I’ve done that route (or variations on it) lots of times. I use my Fenix 3 to record it on the power saving setting. The good thing about a small device like the Fenix is that a relatively small USB power pack can keep you going for a few weeks. You can charge stuff at tea houses but it’s not very reliable because it’s solar mostly, maybe a bit of hydro lower down. Have fun!
Some friends did base camp last year, they had no problem charging phones at all on the way.
They even had full 4g Internet coverage on the trek and WiFi at most stops
My wife and I use a dakota for recording multi day hikes. Normally get 2 days out of a set of AA batteries. You don't need the maps to track your route. The oregon would be similar. Put it on low brightness and a simple screen/power saving mode to extend battery life.
You can probably get them here though
https://www.dcrainmaker.com/2013/05/download-garmin-705800810.html
messing around looking at maps eats battery but could be interesting.
I'd be interested in a solar charger. Easy enough to hang off a rucksack while walking. Never really found one that was economical/small though. Guides have always asked the donkey men to hang larger ones off some of the kit. You can sometimes charge things on the way. You are more likely able to buy AA batteries. I've just come back from Peru and I was able to get a coffee 4 days into a hike at 4000m! Where there are tourists there are people trying to earn a living.
Enjpoy the trip, it is supposed to be awesome. It is on the list for some point in the future.