Garmin GPS devices can be updated by knowing the procedure. Garmin map update can be a great way to ensure that your Garmin GPS unit is working properly. We will show you how to do Garmin map update or Garmin express. Garmin Geo locations offers both free and paid upgrades. These features allow users to pinpoint the exact locations and track the route exactly. Garmin maps can be downloaded and updated to make sure you have the best GPS device.
Garmin Map Updates are Free: The Main Benefits
Garmin offers free map updates on several of its GPS units. Visit the Garmin map update webpage to learn how you can purchase one. This will allow you to download Garmin express map utility and install it. You can follow the steps below if Garmin express has not been installed. You can then update Garmin maps after installing Garmin express. The map website has a link for installation instructions, click on that.
It’s easy to download and install Garmin Express.
Garmin express is the best way to update maps on multiple gadgets. To download Garmin express and install it on your computer, first follow the below steps.
Step1: First, connect your Garmin unit to your computer’s UBS port
Step2: Next, download Garmin Express for Windows or Mac and then open Garmin Express.
Step3: Make sure that the program searches your device automatically to verify that it is connected properly
Step4: You will be asked to update your Garmin software or maps.
Garmin Map Update – A Simple Procedure
Garmin express can be used to update Garmin maps. Garmin express allows you to update Garmin software and maps in the right way. If you’re not already using the free Garmin Basecamp tool, I highly recommend getting it. It will allow you to browse maps, create tracks, and is invaluable in planning hikes.
Street Garmin Maps –
You can purchase street Garmin and road maps if you don’t have lifetime maps. Road map packs can be downloaded or updated using an SD card.
Garmin Golf Course Maps –
Garmin Golf gadgets come fully loaded with a Garmin map update lifetime. Garmin express can also be used to update Garmin Golf course maps.
Garmin map update can be completed by following the above steps. Garmin software and maps can be used to pinpoint exact locations.
List of Garmin products OpenStreetMaps are the Wikipedia of maps.
The first thing you’re going to want to do is visit the GMapTool website, specifically the USA OSM Topo Routable page.
Tips for Windows Installation
The directions on GMapTool site aren’t very descriptive for Windows. Here are some tips from fellow hiker Dave T. on how to install the free maps on Windows.
- Run the “bat” file as described on the GMapTool site.
- Open Garmin Basecamp to ensure that the maps have been installed.
- Use the free Garmin MapInstall program to send the maps to your device. OR you can also install them directly from Basecamp. Right click on the internal storage and selected install maps (thanks to John S for the tip).
- Or use the maps at garmin.openstreetmap.nl, Download your map first. This will create a single “img” file for each map you download. Then copy that map file to your Garmin (the drive if you have a micro SD card, not the device) in the “Garmin” folder (which you must create first if it doesn’t already exist).
If These Free Garmin GPS Maps Don’t Work For You
There are other free maps for your Garmin GPS, and again, they might have different instructions for installation. Check the website where the maps are offered for directions on how to install them.
If you’re having trouble finding the GMAP folder, this tip has helped some folks (thanks to Liz S!).
Some Final Thoughts
I recommend planning your hike and creating a GPX file beforehand. Most Garmin GPS units are too small for anything more than impromptu navigation planning. I have a tutorial on how to plan a hiking route for your Garmin GPS here.
