Is It Worth Getting a GPS With Your Car Hire? Pros and Cons
Is It Worth Getting a GPS With Your Car Hire? Pros and Cons
When booking a rental car, one of the optional extras you’ll often be offered is a GPS unit. While it may seem like a small add-on, it’s worth weighing the pros and cons—especially if you’re unfamiliar with Australian roads or planning to travel through rural areas. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide whether a GPS is worth including in your next YesDrive car hire.
Table of Contents
The Benefits of Hiring a GPS
1. Reliable Signal in Remote Areas
If you’re planning to explore parts of Tasmania or regional New South Wales where mobile coverage is patchy, a GPS unit is more reliable than a phone app relying on mobile data.
2. Battery-Friendly Navigation
Using GPS means you won’t drain your phone battery constantly running maps and directions—especially useful on long drives or if you’re also using your phone for music or calls.
3. No Roaming Charges for International Travellers
If you’re visiting from overseas, using a GPS helps you avoid hefty roaming charges that can come with mobile data use while navigating.
4. Dedicated Screen and Easy Mounting
A separate GPS unit means your phone stays free and you get turn-by-turn directions on a screen that’s often larger and easier to view while driving.
When a GPS Might Not Be Necessary
1. You’re Sticking to the City
If your driving is limited to metro areas like Sydney or Hobart, your phone will likely be just fine with good data coverage and easy navigation.
2. You Have an Up-to-Date Smartphone
Modern smartphones with apps like Google Maps or Apple Maps often provide real-time traffic updates and lane guidance that match or exceed GPS units.
3. You Prefer Offline Maps
You can download maps ahead of time on your phone using apps like Maps.me or Google Maps offline—handy and cost-effective.
GPS vs. Smartphone Navigation
| Feature | GPS Device | Smartphone |
|---|---|---|
| Battery use | Low | High |
| Mobile data required | No | Often (unless offline maps are downloaded) |
| Live traffic updates | Limited | Yes |
| Cost | Extra | Often free |
| Screen size | Larger, fixed mount | Variable, needs mount |
Other Things to Consider
Rental cost: GPS units are usually charged per day—check if it fits your budget.
Ease of use: Some older GPS units can feel clunky or outdated compared to a smartphone.
Multiple drivers: A GPS can make it easier to hand off driving duties—everyone has access to the same nav system.
How YesDrive Helps You Stay on Track
At YesDrive, we offer optional GPS units that are pre-loaded with Australian maps and easy to use. Whether you’re exploring Hobart’s coastlines or Sydney’s suburbs, we’ve got you covered:
Optional GPS hire with all bookings
Road assistance support
Local tips and directions on request
Planning a road trip? Book your car hire with YesDrive and choose the right navigation option for your journey.
