Ask the expert: Satnav on a shoestring

Q. I know in-car satnav has dropped in price quite a lot, but they’re still pretty fancy and many come with more features than I need. I want to spend less than £100 and still be equipped with a solid piece of kit that’s going to simply get me from A to B easily and on time. Is this possible, and if so can you point me in the right direction?

A. Absolutely. Indeed, many of the latest satnav units come loaded with a boot-full of top tech extras, but if you’re after a super straightforward no-frills solution we’ve got three for you.

Solution 1: Budget dashboard directions
Slapping a satnav on your dashboard doesn’t need to be expensive. The MyGuide 3100 packs all the features you need to get from one place to another, with voice guidance, a 3.5 inch screen and maps of the UK pre-loaded. Best of all, you’ll have enough for a tank of fuel with the change (or maybe half a tank, at today’s prices).
Best option: MyGuide 3100, £64.99

Solution 2: Upgrade your phone with GPS and navigation
If your phone has GPS built in, it can act as a satnav. Nokia phones pack their own mapping software, and can be upgraded for a monthly fee to include voice guidance too. There’s plenty of alternative software too, and if your phone doesn’t have GPS built in, you can grab a wireless adapter that uses Bluetooth to serve up satnav positioning.
Best option: CK3300 GPS Car Kit, £122

Solution 3: Satnav doesn’t have to be limited to your car
Grab a pedestrian-friendly handheld satnav, and it’ll also guide you on foot. Of course, when it’s slapped on your dash it’ll act just like a dedicated in-car GPS box. The only trade off is a slightly smaller screen, but considering the money you’ll save, it’s a small corner to cut.
Best option: Garmin GPS Map 76Cx Europe, £49.99

Get chatting about sat-navs over at the PriceRuner forum.

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