Maps have been useful for many years and people still get lost. None of the technologies (paper maps, basic GPS, mapping GPS) work well without someone taking the info provided from the map (paper or electronic) and applying it to their immediate situation. Situational awareness plays a major part in not getting lost.

Navigation isn’t something to do after getting lost, it’s what keeps you found. Without good visual reference, once you are turned around and lost, you need to become found. It’s difficult to find yourself on a map while under a canopy where the sun isn’t clearly giving you a sense of direction and there are no useable landmarks. A compass is always good to have and is one input, but without reference, it won’t show you where you’re located. Get yourself lost, and even with map and compass you can’t place yourself on that map without some reference. A GPS receiver provides that reference.

GPS isn’t a panacea. Over-dependence can make you complacent. One thing that I’ve learned is to use all resources in navigation, not just one.