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Route planner software

Before using my Garmin, I used google maps and a phone. Google maps is detailed and easy to use. But then I thought I would purchase an expensive dedicated Garmin. Since doing so I have looked at the software and I have to say, I find it very basic and difficult to use. Has anyone out there got any tips on which software to use.

  • I just got an XT and thought Basecamp and Explore could be used but i's like they were written for 1990's mainframes. I'm pretty computer savvy and at the end of two hours spent trying to figure out how to create and load a route into my new unit I am completely flummoxed. I'm getting ready to return the thing as Google Maps is WAY easier to use.

  • Same here. I love my XT, but the software to plan maps on my Mac is as you say, useless. Something from the old main frame days. If you want to plan a route, the software doesnt even recognise a postcode, only a YELP address for a landmark, restaurant.

  • If I could get an alternate 5 inch screen that is waterproof, touch screen and uses google maps, that would be good.

  • I'm thinking maybe just buy another phone. I can get a Pixel (that's fully waterproof) and tether it to my primary phone.

    I did get Basecamp to load a map but so far it ls been calculating x direct route from Memphis to Knoxville for 10 minutes and is still thinking.

    I could not be more disappointed with Garmin right now. Total POS.

  • Basecamp is so bad in fact that I wonder how people use the Zumo for complicated trips. I mean, there's got to be a way to use it. I'm trying to get it to work so that I'm not dependent on cellular networks and I really like the weather radar overlay and other bit about Garmin GPS displays. I tried using Google maps to create a route but can't figure out how to upload the file to the device (another gobsmacking issue that shouldn't be there).

  • Dont think you can upload Google map to the device. The only way I have been able to plan my routes is directly on the device itself. Forget the software on your laptop or mac, its about as useful as a chocolate fireguard.

  • Many use BaseCamp without issues, I've done so since it was released. A good tutorial is here, although it's aimed at Zumo users most is applicable to all Garmin models

    www.newenglandriders.org/.../

  • That's a real treasure trove. Thanks!

    I did manage to create a route in Basecamp thanks to a couple of well done (as in "Basecamp for Dummies-like Youtube videos), so I see that it can be done. Definitely not something one can just pick up on the fly. Years of Google-ease has made me lazy.