I disagree <img src="/images/graemlins/shocked.gif" alt="" /> You might want to start out with a simple 100$ unit before spending a bundle on the more sofisticated units. That way you will make an informed purchase.
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For remote wilderness adventures: I strongly reccomend you get trained in map & compass. Always have a paper map of the area you are tavelling. Learn to read the coordinates off your map & enter them in you GPS unit... It is the safest way to go. Sure you can rely on a GPS with integrated maps for 99% of your outings, but in the deep woods : map, compass GPS combo is the safest way to go !

Ian,
This is a my two cents response so This is not pointed directly at you.
My opinion is we've all gotten lazy and are depending on technology way too much. Granted, GPS is almost the only way to navigate some of the most primeaval forests like around Seatle or in Michigan where the canopy prevents you from finding many landmarks. But I think every outdoorsman should learn map and compass.

It's my opinion that map and compass are one of the most important skills you can posess. A gps is most effective with USGS topo maps anyway, and what if in a totally hypothetical stuation the GPS system goes down?

I learned in the miltary, so I don't know the value of the books available but, I'd also get a book on map and compass, a GOOD compass, and maps of your area. Practice practice practice.

http://www.us.orienteering.org/

Click on the "clubs" link on the left and look in your area.

In my opinion, everybody who frequents this forum should either be orienteering, or already be an expert on the subject.

To get started, all you need is a good set of walking shoes, a $10 baseplate compass (get a good name brand), a bottle of water, a whistle, and your survival kit. In my area, orienteering only costs $6. Not bad for a couple of hours of challenging fun.