Episodios

  • GPS Training Podcast – number 123

    GPS Training Podcast – number 123
    Apr 1 2026
    In this month’s podcast Garmin software updateGPS Amnesty – get free OS maps on a TwoNav GPS unitUK GPX Walks DirectoryPremium OS Planner – within online resourceTrade in – get an instant priceAndy’s Top Tips 1 – Garmin’s software update The Problem (In Simple Terms) Garmin released new software updates in March 2026: – Montana 700 / 700i / 750i / 710 / 710i / 760i Updated from 24.30 → 24.50 – GPSMAP 67 / 67i Updated from 9.35 → 9.38 These updates were intended to fix issues (including a “copy reversed” track problem), which is all well and good… 👉 But in the UK, they’ve caused a much bigger problem. ❌ What’s went wrong? After updating, users are reporting: – OS Maps (Topo Pro V3 1:25k, 1:50k, 1:250k) no longer display – Preloaded TopoActive maps also disappear – You’re left with a very basic, almost unusable map screen In short… your premium GPS unit suddenly feels very basic. And that’s not acceptable, especially when many users rely on Ordnance Survey mapping for safety and navigation. – FIX NOW AVAILABLE (23rd March 2026) Good news. Garmin have now released new firmware updates which resolve the issue with OS maps and TopoActive maps not displaying correctly on affected devices. If you’ve been affected, you can now safely update. New Firmware Versions Montana 7 series** → v24.70GPSMAP 67 / 67i → v9.40 You can read the full story on the GPS Training website, please just go to gpstraining.co.uk > More (top menu bar) > News > Garmin Update Issue (March 2026): OS Maps Missing on Montana & GPSMAP 67/67i – Here’s What You Need to Know 2 – GPS Amnesty – get free OS maps on a TwoNav GPS unit Upgrade your GPS for less with our limited-time GPS Amnesty. Trade in any old unit, working or not, and receive credit towards a new TwoNav GPS. How the GPS Amnesty Works 1. Fill in the form Tell us about your current GPS unit and which new TwoNavNav unit you’re interested in. 2. Receive your pack We’ll email you a printable PDF with full instructions. 3. Send us your old GPS Print the form, include it with your unit, and post it to us. (It doesn’t need to be working.) 4. We assess your unit We check it matches the details provided. 5. Get your credit or mapping upgrade Depending on your device, you’ll receive a voucher or mapping credit (minimum £59, often much more). 6. Order your new TwoNav GPS Use your credit towards your new unit and mapping. Key points: Open to any GPS unit, even broken or very old onesRuns for a limited time (27 March to 10 April 2026)Old units are either recycled or donated to community groups Walk and talk videos – Walk and talk – TwoNav Terra – watch it here – Walk and talk – TwoNav Aventura 2 plus – watch it here To find out more go to GPSTraining.co.uk > More > News > GPS Amnesty – 2026 3 – UK GPX Walks Directory What is a GPX file? Our community sharing their walking routes Currently, 218 walks to download Training videos underneath take you through how you download them and transfer onto a GPS Unit/ GPS watch If you have walked routes (tracks or courses) please do upload them to the GPX library. Be the ambassador for your area, if you have a large number of walks to upload get in touch and we can help you or give you some free training if you prefer to do it yourself. To find out more go to GPSTraining.co.uk > More > UK GPX Walks Directory There is a premium (full-screen version) within the Online Resource > Courses > GPX Library > Day Walks 4 – Premium OS planner Everybody had access to the Free OS Planner – GPSTraining.co.uk > OS Planner (top menu bar) But this sits within a window and people have been asking for a ‘Full screen’ version. This was brought to the fore, as we had our first TwoNav GPS Training course, and we decided to make this the default route planning software to plan on (on our TwoNav GPS training Courses) There is a premium (full-screen version) within the online resource > Courses > Premium Ordnance Survey Route Planner 5 – Trade in – get an instant trade in price If you are looking at upgrading your GPS units, we can take your old unit as a trade in. In the past you filled in a short form and we came back to you. Now, according to you answering a handful of questions it will give you a trade in price, there and then, and even give you a trade in form to print out and include in with your GPS unit. On any product mage (both units and watches) you will now see a big button. 6 – Andy’s top tips Memory issues on computer can cause problems when downloading Purchased maps to TwoNav or updating Topo Active Europe Maps TwoNav Map install – When downloading maps using TwoNav downloader on a computer , the maps are first saved on temp files within the Downloader program before going to your device, if you have low memory the downloads can fail, also make sure in your power settings computer not set to shutdown ...
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    46 m
  • GPS Training Podcast – number 122

    GPS Training Podcast – number 122
    Mar 1 2026

    GPS Training Podcast – Episode 122

    **Interview with Martin Overton, Founder of TalkyToaster Maps**

    In this episode, we sit down with **Martin Overton**, the founder of TalkyToaster Maps, to explore the story behind one of the most detailed and widely used third-party map providers for Garmin GPS devices.

    1. What Are TalkyToaster Maps?

    Martin explains what TalkyToaster maps are and who they’re designed for. With over 500 maps covering almost every country and updated monthly, TalkyToaster provides highly detailed, Garmin-compatible maps built using OpenStreetMap data and NASA elevation models.

    We discuss how these maps differ from standard Garmin topographic maps. TalkyToaster maps often include additional detail such as:

    * Field boundaries
    * Stiles, gates and benches
    * Water points
    * Enhanced footpath routing
    * Frequent updates

    For many walkers, hikers and geocachers, this extra detail improves confidence and navigation accuracy, especially in rural and remote areas.

    We also explore why users choose TalkyToaster over official Garmin mapping. Cost, routing accuracy, map freshness and level of detail all play a part.

    —

    2. Martin’s Journey from Cybersecurity to Cartography

    Martin shares his fascinating background in IT and cybersecurity, including over 35 years in computer security and ethical hacking.

    A lifelong outdoor enthusiast who grew up hiking mountains such as Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis, Martin combined his technical expertise with his love of the outdoors after buying his first Garmin GPS for geocaching in 2008.

    Frustrated with the mapping available at the time, he began creating his own. What started as a hobby quickly evolved into TalkyToaster Maps.

    We talk about:

    * The early days of map-making
    * The learning curve from cybersecurity into digital cartography
    * How programming skills and technical thinking helped shape the business

    —

    3. The Story Behind the Name (and the Man)

    Yes, the name *TalkyToaster* does come from the Red Dwarf character.

    Martin explains how the name began as a geocaching handle and eventually became the brand itself.

    We also uncover some unexpected sides to Martin:

    * Keeping tarantulas and scorpions
    * Publishing articles for the British Tarantula Society
    * Playing guitar
    * A love of science fiction

    It’s not your typical mapping company backstory.

    —

    4. Supporting Mountain Rescue

    TalkyToaster’s British Isles map operates on a donation basis, helping to raise funds for UK Mountain Rescue teams.

    Martin explains why supporting Mountain Rescue matters to him personally and how the outdoor community benefits from that approach.

    —

    5. For Walkers, Hikers and Tech Enthusiasts

    We round off the conversation by looking at how TalkyToaster maps serve two audiences:

    6. For Outdoor Users

    * Improved trail and footpath coverage
    * OS-style appearance with added detail
    * Reliable routing for walking and hiking
    * Regular updates

    7. For Tech-Focused GPS Users

    * Built from OpenStreetMap and NASA elevation data
    * Garmin-compatible formatting
    * Monthly updates across 500+ maps
    * Technical challenges behind contour generation and routing

    We also discuss device compatibility, installation options, and how TalkyToaster caters for both plug-and-play users and those who prefer full manual installation.

    —

    This episode is ideal for anyone using Garmin GPS devices who wants better mapping, greater detail and a deeper understanding of what sits behind the screen when navigating outdoors.

    If you enjoy your navigation with a side of geeky detail and real outdoor passion, this one is well worth a listen.
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    1 h y 4 m
  • GPS Training Podcast – number 121

    GPS Training Podcast – number 121
    Feb 4 2026
    Big news from Suunto, updated UK Grid reference finder, the end of the Garmin GPSMAP67 and Andy’s top tips. 1. 90 Years of Suunto Suunto was founded in 1936, celebrating 90 years in 2026Anniversary marked with the Suunto Vertical Titanium Limited EditionOnly 1,936 units worldwideJust 22 coming to the UKGPS Training is expecting at least 6 units What makes it special Titanium buildBased on Suunto’s flagship outdoor watchA nod to Suunto’s expedition and navigation heritage, not fashion or hypeThis is a watch for people who actually go outside and use their kit This is one of the most meaningful limited editions Suunto have ever released. Proper heritage, proper scarcity, and a watch that’s actually designed to be used. More information about Suunto’s anniversary can be found here. 2. GPS Training Website Update: UK Grid Reference Finder Improvements What’s changed Nearest postcode now shown, not just exact matchesDistance to nearest postcode displayedShareable link that opens the map at the exact selected location Why it’s useful Convert between: Grid referencesPostcodesLat/longEastings and northingsWhat3Words Ideal for: Finding car park grid refsSharing locations with friendsDropping accurate points into a GPS You can look at the UK Grid Reference Finder online here. 3. The Last GPSMAP 67 Sold: A Handheld GPS Milestone GPS Training has now sold the last GPSMAP 67Marks the end of a hugely important handheld range Brief history GPSMAP 66s October 2018First appearance of this case design GPSMAP 66i InReach satellite communication added GPSMAP 66sr Multi-band GNSS for improved accuracy GPSMAP 67 / 67i Refinement rather than reinvention Why this range mattered Rock-solid reliabilityPhysical buttonsBig improvement in screen and battery over older modelsTrusted by walkers, mountaineers, and professionals Garmin GPSMAP67i – more here 4. Andy’s Top Tips Suunto Web Based Route planner: Did you know Suunto have a web-based Route Planner routeplanner.suunto.com Rather than the App you can plan on your computer, bigger screen, use a mouse for easeRoutes you plan can be synced to the mobile app with one click of the mouse so that when you open the mobile app they are there to quickly send to your watchOf you plan routes on other software’s on your computer i.e. OS, GPS Training route planner etc or downloaded from websites, rather than email them to yourself to then open and import to app simply import them into web planner and select the upload syncYou can view routes you have planned on the app within the Web planner Online resource – Multi Activity Watches – Suunto Race or Vertical – Module 3 unit 5 Using the Suunto Web browser Route planner Garmin FENIX 8 Pro tip using LTE tracking only £7.99 a month unlimited LTE tracking Using Live Track on Garmin devices in connect app will pull down phone battery, With the new Fenix 8 pro from Garmin you can use LTE tracking on the watch standalone, will use more watch battery but not your phone Make sure in the Connect App More menu – Safety & Tracking – Live Track – Auto start on, you can have show course & spectator messagingThen on the connectivity settings on your watch turn of phone connection and then also in Connectivity settings make sure Garmin Share enabled and on LTE & Satellite Status does include an option with LTE & LTE Mode AutoTested using Fenix 8 Pro 51mm with route navigation and LTE Tracking, Satellites Auto, screen on gesture and would have achieved approx. 28 hrs 16-mile hike only a couple of very small parts, loss of LTE , LTE 4g signal will depend on area
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    34 m
  • GPS Training Podcast – number 119

    GPS Training Podcast – number 119
    Dec 1 2025
    The final episode of the year – winter GPS tips, end of an era for the 67, multi-day adventures, Christmas wish-lists, and the AI Bot in action. Episode Overview In this month’s episode, Jon and Andy wrap up 2025 with a bumper winter edition of the GPS Training Podcast. They discuss the sudden end of the Garmin GPSMAP 67, compare the best units for winter use, dive into watches vs handhelds for multi-day adventures, and explore what people are asking the GPS Training AI Support Bot. They finish with their Christmas gear wish-lists and Andy’s shortcut tips. 1. Is This the End of the Garmin GPSMAP 67? Garmin have quietly stopped supplying new GPSMAP 67 stock — despite saying in October that there were “no plans to discontinue” it when the new GPSMAP H1 series launched. Key points No more GPSMAP 67 units on order from Garmin — stock is now extremely limited. The 67 has been hugely popular thanks to: A massive jump in battery life (way beyond 100 hours). Its robust build and reliability. Button-only control, ideal for poor weather. Second-hand 67 and 67i units are selling fast — proving the demand is still strong. What about the 67i? The 67i is still incoming for now — but Jon expects it may also disappear in the near future. Many people prefer the 67i over the H1i+ because: It’s £350 cheaper. Some users don’t want picture messaging or voice memos. It still offers excellent battery life and proven inReach SOS. You don’t need to activate an inReach subscription to use the 67i as a normal GPS. Verdict: If you’ve been thinking about a 67 or 67i, now is the moment — stock won’t last long. 2. Best GPS Units for Winter Walking Cold weather affects batteries, touchscreens, and usability. Jon and Andy break it down into budget, mid-range, and large-screen options. 💷 Budget: Garmin eTrex 32x Around ~£200. Uses AA batteries (ideal for cold temps if kept warm in a pocket). Joystick + button control = excellent with gloves. Basic but extremely reliable. Brilliant as: A backup navigation tool. A device for quick grid references. A simple, safe winter companion. 💷 Mid-Range: TwoNav Aventura 2 Plus Andy calls this “an undersold gem”. Good size screen with joystick + button control. 36-hour battery life. Battery is removable (spare available), plus optional AA battery pack. With OS 1:25k maps, around £579. 💷 Large Screen / Premium Units Includes Garmin H1, H1i+, GPSMAP 67i, and Montana 700 / 710 / 760 series. Garmin H1 / H1i+ Buttons and touchscreen. Touchscreen performs extremely well in the rain. Bigger, clearer input buttons than a smartphone. Around 60–70 hours battery life. Garmin GPSMAP 67i Over 100 hours battery. Buttons only. Still one of Andy’s all-time favourite units. Garmin Montana 700 series Pure touchscreen, but excellent glove performance. Rain & glove modes in Settings > Accessibility. Removable big battery, plus AA pack for non-“i” versions. Winter rule: If you wear gloves a lot, buttons (or a mixed interface like the H1) are your friend. 3. Multi-Day Adventures – Watch, GPS Unit, or Both? Andy gives an honest look at how he uses watches and GPS units across events like the Montane Spine, Winter Lakes events, and long DIY challenges. How watches have changed In 2015, the Fenix 3 gave ~20 hours battery life. In 2025: Fenix 8 Solar: up to 149 hours GPS. Fenix 8 AMOLED: ~84 hours GPS. Suunto Race 2: ~55 hours (all systems). Suunto Vertical 2 AMOLED: ~65 hours. These battery gains mean a watch can now last most ultra events without daily charging. Why Andy still uses a watch Quick glances without removing gloves or stopping. Instant stats (distance left, current pace, ascent). Vibrations every mile help with pacing and morale. Perfect when using poles. Why he still carries a handheld Bigger OS map for tricky nav decisions. inReach SOS & satellite communication. Night navigation in poor visibility. If he had to choose only one… If forced: 67i, purely because of inReach safety. But realistically?→ Watch for recording + stats, GPS for tricky nav is the perfect pairing. Best budget pairing A brilliant low-cost combination: Suunto Race 2 (~£300+). TwoNav Roc handheld for OS maps and emergency navigation. Cheaper than a single high-end Garmin unit. Event rule reminder Some events (e.g., the Montane Spine) require a handheld GPS at kit check.Jon is doing kit checks this winter — so brush up! 4. Ask the Bot – December Questions The GPS Training AI Support Bot now runs on 6,776 indexed pages of training videos, guides, and troubleshooting steps. A few questions from the last 24 hours: • “Where are the setup sheets for the Garmin GPSMAP 67?” Bot linked directly to the correct downloadable setup sheets. • “How often should I calibrate my altimeter?” Bot recommended calibrating: At the start of a walk (when height is known). After big weather changes. Or leave ...
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    53 m
  • GPS Training Podcast – number 120

    GPS Training Podcast – number 120
    Jan 1 2026
    Getting to Grips with Your GPS in 2026

    In this New Year’s Day episode, we look at one simple question many walkers and runners ask at the start of the year:

    “How do I actually get confident using my GPS?”

    Rather than talking tech for tech’s sake, this episode walks through the practical training options available through GPS Training, helping you choose the right level of support for how you use your GPS.

    What’s covered in this episode

    1. The GPS Training Online Resource – more here

    • 24/7 access to step-by-step training videos
    • Covers current GPS units and older models
    • Ideal if you like learning at your own pace
    • A single GPS unit can have 50+ dedicated videos

    2. One-to-One GPS Training (Zoom or In-Person) – more here

    • Tailored entirely to how you walk, run or navigate
    • Perfect if you want focused help on specific issues
    • Ideal for people short on time or lacking confidence

    3. Two-Day GPS Training Courses (Nationwide) – more here

    • Hands-on, outdoor, practical GPS training
    • Learn route planning, following routes, trackback, and emergency scenarios
    • Designed to build real confidence, not just button-pressing knowledge

    4. Follow-On & Refresher Training, GPS in the hills – more here

    • Options for those who already own a GPS but want to go further
    • Particularly useful if you’ve never fully used your device’s features

    5. Choosing the Right Training for You

    • Advice on matching training options to your experience level
    • Why there’s no “one size fits all” when it comes to GPS learning

    Key takeaway

    Getting the most from your GPS in 2026 isn’t about buying new kit — it’s about understanding the kit you already have. With the right training, a GPS becomes a genuine confidence tool rather than a frustration.

    If you’ve ever thought “I know my GPS does more than I use it for”, this episode is a great place to start.
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    39 m
  • GPS Training Podcast – number 118

    GPS Training Podcast – number 118
    Nov 1 2025
    Welcome to the GPS Training Podcast, where we explore the latest outdoor navigation kit, training opportunities, and tools to make your time on the hills easier and safer. In this month’s episode, Jon and Andy dive into a packed line-up – 1. Field-Tested Review – Garmin eTrex Touch After several weeks of walking with the Garmin eTrex Touch, including filming a new Walk & Talk video, Jon and Andy share their real-world impressions.They cover: How well the touchscreen performs in wet and cold conditions Battery life and handling in the field The lack of a micro-SD card slot (and how that affects TalkyToaster map compatibility) Who it’s best suited for — whether you’re a day walker, family user, or new to GPS navigation Andy has also added new walkthroughs, setup guides and practical tips to the Garmin eTrex Touch online training resource, available via the GPS Training website. They finish by asking — is the eTrex Touch still one of the best entry-level GPS units on the market? 👉 Explore the Garmin eTrex Touch at GPS Training 👉 Watch the Walk & Talk video on the Garmin eTrex Touch 2. GPS Training Courses for 2026 The 2026 GPS Training course calendar is now live, with more locations than ever before.The two-day Garmin GPS courses are running in: South Downs Northamptonshire Gloucestershire Peak District Lake District Northumberland These courses take you from “I’ve got a GPS” to “I actually know how to use it properly”. Early booking is recommended — places are already filling up! New for 2026, GPS Training is launching TwoNav One-Day Courses in the South Downs and Northumberland, helping new TwoNav users get up and running with setup, mapping, and our free OS route planner. And for those who’ve already completed the two-day Garmin course, there’s GPS in the Hills, an advanced one-day course focused on real-world route planning, on-hill navigation, and problem-solving. 👉 View all Garmin GPS Training Courses for 2026 👉 View all TwoNav GPS Training Courses for 2026 3. Free GPX File Cleaner If you plan your routes in apps like OS Maps or OS Explore, then export a GPX for use on a GPS device, you’ll know how messy those files can get — with thousands of points, gaps, or strange spikes. To fix that, GPS Training has launched a Free GPX File Cleaner — a quick, easy-to-use online tool that: Removes excess data points Fixes formatting errors Ensures compatibility with Garmin, TwoNav, and Suunto devices Simply upload your GPX, let it process, and download a cleaner version ready for your next adventure. 👉 Try the Free GPX File Cleaner 4. Garmin Fenix 8 Pro Review Andy shares his first-hand impressions of the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro, the latest evolution of Garmin’s flagship adventure watch.Discussion includes: Key upgrades from the Fenix 8 The introduction of LTE-M and inReach messaging directly from the watch Improved battery life and brighter AMOLED screen If you’re thinking about upgrading your outdoor watch, this one’s worth listening to. 👉 Shop the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro 5. Ask the Bot! The GPS Training AI Support Bot has had a busy month — helping users get to grips with Garmin, TwoNav, and Suunto devices. In this episode, Jon and Andy highlight some of the most common questions, including: How do I delete a track from my Garmin Montana 700? Can I navigate to a saved location on my Fenix 7X while still recording an activity? How do I open topo maps from an SD card in Garmin BaseCamp? What software should I use with a TwoNav device on my computer? Why does my Suunto watch show only a basic clock until I press a button? As ever, expect a few light-hearted exchanges with the bot voice along the way! 👉 Try the GPS Training AI Bot 6. Andy’s Top Tips We wrap up with Andy’s tried-and-tested navigation tips: Garmin Fenix 8: Turning off auto-lap for activities other than ultra mode, setting useful watch-face shortcuts, and holding ‘Back’ for quick access. TwoNav: Understanding the new “cross” icon on map screens and managing overlapping map layers (like British Isles vs GB Topo). These are small tweaks that make a big difference when using your GPS devices in the field. Outro That’s it for this month’s episode! We’ve covered: The Garmin eTrex Touch field test The 2026 GPS Training Course Calendar The Free GPX File Cleaner A hands-on Garmin Fenix 8 Pro review This month’s Ask the Bot And of course, Andy’s Top Tips As always, you can find more info, videos, and free tools at GPSTraining.co.uk.Stay safe on the trails, and we’ll see you next month!
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    58 m
  • GPS Training Podcast – number 117

    GPS Training Podcast – number 117
    Oct 1 2025

    In this month’s GPS Training Podcast, Jon and Andy are back together — and there’s plenty to talk about!

    What’s inside this episode:

    • First thoughts on the Garmin GPSMAP H1 / H1i Plus

      We take Garmin’s brand-new handheld out into the field and share our first impressions: the rugged build, touchscreen performance, new features like the flashlight and siren, and whether it’s worth upgrading if you already own a GPSMAP 67i.

    • Andy’s Windermere Lap adventure

      Andy laced up for a full circuit of England’s largest lake. We cover the distance, terrain, highlights, and the gear he used along the way — plus tips if you’re tempted to take on the challenge yourself.

    • New launch: Suunto Vertical 2

      Released yesterday, the Vertical 2 brings a stunning AMOLED screen, offline mapping, colour elevation plots, and OS grid references right on your wrist. Andy’s been testing it — hear his verdict on usability, battery life, and whether it’s worth the upgrade.

    • New launch: Garmin eTrex Touch

      Another fresh release, this update to the eTrex series brings a modern touchscreen interface, improved satellite accuracy, geocaching features, and easier GPX sharing. We explain where it sits in Garmin’s lineup and who it’s best suited for.

    • Andy’s Top Tips

      • How to lock buttons on your Suunto Race or Vertical so you don’t stop recording by mistake.

      • Managing voice alerts and Bluetooth audio on the new Garmin GPSMAP H1.

    Links mentioned in the episode:

    • Garmin GPSMAP H1

    • Garmin GPSMAP H1i plus

    • Suunto Vertical 2 and other Suunto watches

    • Garmin eTrex Touch
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    59 m
  • GPS Training Podcast – number 116

    GPS Training Podcast – number 116
    Sep 15 2025

    Welcome back to the GPS Training Podcast! This month Jon sits down with adventurer Ian Hughes, whose journey has taken him from leaving school with no qualifications to serving in the Royal Green Jackets, working as a deep-sea saturation diver, and now aiming for one of the biggest challenges on earth — the Explorers Grand Slam.

    Tomorrow, Ian begins his GPS Training course ahead of attempting a solo, unsupported ski to the South Pole. In this episode, we hear his story so far, how he’s preparing, and what keeps him motivated to take on such extreme adventures.

    🔑 What’s in this episode:

    • Ian’s early years – from school to the army and beyond

    • Life underwater – his time as a commercial diver and running diving companies

    • Becoming an explorer – why he’s drawn to big challenges

    • The Explorers Grand Slam – what it is, and why he’s chasing it

    • South Pole prep – training, kit, and mindset for skiing solo and unsupported

    • Using GPS in polar expeditions – how tech plays a vital safety role

    • Motivation & resilience – lessons from pushing the limits

    🌍 Links & Resources

    • Support Ian’s Explorers Grand Slam attempt: GiveWheel page

    • Ian’s Instagram page
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    54 m