> Also, I find trying to follow a bearing using a GPS only to be very frustrating. The only decent way to follow a GPS bearing is to use a good compass.

I'm a bit surprised to hear people say this, as I've not had any problem. Maybe it depends on which GPS unit you have. Mine (GPSMap 60, without digital compass or colour screen) can display a map "trial up", or a rose, which makes it obvious if you are walking in the right direction. With this approach you leave the device switched on while you walk. Maybe the difference is that you guys switch it off, walk, stop, switch it on, then are surprised the bearing is wrong?