OpenStreetMap - how reliable?

[BobM]

OpenStreetMaps
http://www.openstreetmap.org/#map=5/51.500/-0.100 seems to be a very useful source of map data that one could use via a smartphone on pilgrimage routes in Europe.

Does anyone have any experience with OpenStreetMap (specifically for Italy) that might be helpful?

Regards

Bob M

 

[egar]

I haven't used OpenStreetMaps directly, but I have used then as from with the GPS app (MotionX) on my iPhone. I did the Camino del Norte in October and used MotionX as a backup if I got off course.

MotionX's maps are OpenStreetMap (streets) and OpenCycleMaps (terrain). I also had uploaded a Camino del Norte route that I got from WikiLoc. The OpenStreetMaps and the route worked great. The few times I took a wrong turn, they got me back on track really quickly.

Long way to say that I'm an OpenStreetMaps fan...

 

[BobM]

Thanks for the information, egar.

I have a question about data usage on your iPhone. Does MotionX load maps onto your phone, or does it access the internet whenever you are using a map? The latter could chew up the data allowance for the internet connection. Internet-based maps can be really data-hungry.

BTW MotionX seems to be available only for Apple devices, not android devices like Samsung. But I need to do some more research on that. You gave me a few good leads.

Bob M

 

[NicoZ]

OpenStreetMaps
http://www.openstreetmap.org/#map=5/51.500/-0.100 seems to be a very useful source of map data that one could use via a smartphone on pilgrimage routes in Europe.

Does anyone have any experience with OpenStreetMap (specifically for Italy) that might be helpful?

Regards

Bob M

Any map will depend on who/when created it. Unless somebody knows the exact sections I'm not sure you'll know how good the things are.

OTOH you mention Italy. If your phone is unlocked just get an Italian sim. At most €15 will get you all the data and voice you'll need for a month.

Also with Google maps you can pre load the maps. You'll only need VERY little data for turn by turn.

 

[egar]

Thanks for the information, egar.

I have a question about data usage on your iPhone. Does MotionX load maps onto your phone, or does it access the internet whenever you are using a map? The latter could chew up the data allowance for the internet connection. Internet-based maps can be really data-hungry.

BTW MotionX seems to be available only for Apple devices, not android devices like Samsung. But I need to do some more research on that. You gave me a few good leads.

Bob M

Yes, MotionX is only for iOS devices. There are many similar GPS apps for Android, though I can't tell you much about them.

The better GPS apps will let you download maps for offline use. That's what I did for my Camino -- it worked like a charm. No need for a data plan.

You'll also need to download a route or "track" of the Camino route you'll be taking. In many ways that will be more important than the map. If you GPS shows you on the route, then you are on course. The map is handy for finding sites off the route and for finding you bearings by streets and landmarks to help you get back to the route.

 

[jdpiguet]

Hi BobM,
On Android, you can have a look to Locus or OruxMap.
Both are able to use offline maps.
Have a look to Mobac "the mobile atlas creator", when it comes to prepare the maps...

BR, Jacques-D

 

[BobM]

Thx, egar and jdpiguet. Much obliged to you both.

egar makes good points. My Dakota 20 GPS unit maps (the base map and one on a micro SD card) were deleted by accident last year when I downloaded a GPX file at an internet cafe, but the Route data was unaffected, and it was fine for navigation. A map is helpful if you want to divert from the GPS route, or find your accommodation.

So for next year I am looking a getting an app for my android phone as a backup in case the Dakota 20 fails. Once bitten, twice shy.

BTW, do you find the mobile phone screen usable in bright outdoor conditions? My Galaxy 3 screen is virtually unusable in bright outdoor light. The Dakota screen is fantastic in even the brightest light

Thx for the android leads, jdpiguet. Very helpful.

Rgds

Bob M

PS: Garmin eventually replaced my Dakota maps, but only after several protracted complaints and a letter to Garmin HQ. How they were actually deleted remains a mystery. Maybe malware at the internet cafe?