In today's world, most people rely on technology for just about everything. Tools like maps are being replaced by the GPS on smartphones. In most cases, this is fine. Unfortunately, although technology is supposed to solve many of our headaches, it is often the cause of several headaches. Smart phones may work fine in urban areas, but when you are driving through rural areas, coverage is often spotty. This can cause major problems if you have an emergency out in the middle of nowhere. Having a reliable map in such a situation can be the difference between life and death. I realize that this is an extreme example, but even in normal situations, having access to a map or atlas can save you a major headache.
For example, a few years ago, as we were driving through rural Pennsylvania, we were relying on the GPS to get us to Gettysburg. It was during this trip that my wife's GPS earned the nickname Miss Taken. Miss Taken got us on the wrong highway, driving the wrong direction. She then proceeded to give instructions like, "In 500 yards, turn right." However, there was a huge field to the right without a single street in sight. She would then chastise us for not following her instructions. It was extremely frustrating. I finally pulled over and found the atlas. I figured out where we were, where we were going, and the best route to get there. By turning off Miss Taken, and following the atlas we were able to make it to Gettysburg exactly at 10:30, barely in time for our 10:30 am tour. Unfortunately, this wasn't the only time Miss Taken led us astray on that trip.
I realize that most of the time, your smart phone's GPS will work just fine. As problems are fixed, they become continually more accurate. We replaced Miss Taken with a new GPS, which has been much more reliable. Still, whenever you are going to be traveling long distances over unfamiliar terrain, it is wise to have a physical map that can't disappear due to a dead battery or technology glitch. Good luck on your travels.
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