Using GPS internationally

[wisemolv]

Does anyone have experience using GPS in other countries?  I'm doing a 7 day trek in Peru and would love to have it mapped out. A friend thought that it might not pair with the satellite or that I might have to do something to make it work.

Thanks!

[SunsetRunner]

GPS isn't locked to a specific country. The GPS satellites are in orbit around the earth, designed that at any place at any time there are at least 3 satellite signals available for any device (with gps receiver) to know the location.

Anywhere there are satellites, the gps on the tracker can be used freely. No need to do anything.

[Marcy]

The GPS satellite system is reliable and has worldwide coverage. Your GPS device works as a radio receiver and does not pair with the satellite so that part is fine. You may want to consider a mobile battery charger as navigation functionality tends to reduce battery life on devices more quickly. Also if you plan to use maps while you are out, consider preloading maps of the hiking area onto your GPS device/smartphone otherwise you would need a reliable data service for the maps. Depending where you are trekking, you may not have complete data service coverage or may incur roaming charges.

[Dominique]

Are you talking about using your Fitbit (if it’s a Surge, the only Fitbit tracker that currently has GPS built-in) or your phone? If using your Surge, no charges will be incurred. However, you probably won’t be able to record a full day worth of trekking on a single charge (GPS on the Surge sucks battery like crazy), so it’s a good idea to carry a mobile charger, as suggested by @Marcy.

If you’re using your phone’s GPS, you can preload maps of the areas where your trekking is going to take place (again, as suggested by Marcy), after which you can disable mobile roaming if you want (in order not to incur high charges).

[EdsonFitbit · Accepted solution]

@wisemolv The GPS on your Fitbit tracker will work fine in Peru. Will you do some GPS art out there? I just discovered this awesome hobby many users are having a great time with.

On another note, I would recommend taking a look at these tips to travel with your Fitbit provided by @Travelor. Have a nice trip.