RWGPS for crossing the US - Garmin or iPhone?

[crichman]

I'm planning a ride from DC to Astoria via the C&O and GAP trails, the Chicago-NYC Philly alternate, Eastern Express and TransAm routes.

I'm debating whether to have my Garmin 830 on my handlebars or my iPhone 16 Pro. 

The Garmin battery life would certainly be better, though I'll need to have my phone out of airplane mode at least some of the time so family won't fret too much.  But I don't like the tiny screen for maps very much and it would be One More Thing to carry and fuss with.  And I'd still need RWGPS on my phone for info on food, shelter, etc.

If I go iPhone only I'd certainly need to keep the screen off most of the time, and daily charging would be inevitable.  Either way I plan to carry a 20,000 mAh battery pack to recharge my phone and the really bright taillight I use all of the time.  I know the C&O trail in particular doesn't have a lot of charging options.

What do folks who've done long RWGPS rides think?

Charlie

[John Nettles]

Due to the greatly shortened battery life when using RWGPS as route guidance on my phone (even in airplane mode with downloaded routes), I carry both a GPS and a phone. 

While I know this is not for everyone, this works for me since not only do I have a backup in case the GPS craps out/stolen/lost but the GPS is much easier for me to follow my routes.  Also, I use the phone as my primary source for service info (food, lodging, etc.) as Google Maps have WAY more info than RWGPS.

Additionally, I am reluctant to rely solely on my phone as it is not uncommon for me to lose stuff on a tour and if I lost the phone or it craps out, I would need to abandon the tour if that was my sole source of route navigation.  Sure having both a phone and a GPS adds around 12oz or so overall, but for me it is worth the weight and the hassles of battery management to have the flexibility and tour reliability.

However, do what is best for you, regardless of what anyone else says. 

Tailwinds, John

[crichman]

Thanks, John.

Charlie

[John Nelson]

I use a Garmin and am addicted to it.