How do you pick the right satnav for you?

The most important factor is ease of use, and the best satnavs make it as simple as possible to locate your destination, choose a route, and locate nearby amenities.

Because having a screen in the car can be distracting, the interfaces are designed to minimise driver interaction, and many now include voice controls, which eliminate the need to use the touchscreen as frequently (although in our experience, accuracy leaves much to be desired). When you do reach for the screen, you’ll be glad to know that it uses the same capacitive technology as smartphones. Resistive touchscreens are found in cheaper and older models, which require more pressure to press a key and don’t provide as clear or vibrant an image.

What role will satnavs play in making my journey more comfortable?

All satnavs receive signals from GPS satellites, which allow them to calculate your location and direction of travel. They combine this information with maps to plan a route to your destination and track your progress along it, giving you directions for turning, changing lanes, and exiting a roundabout.

Even the most basic satnavs now include lifetime map updates, so you won’t be confused by changes in road layouts or the appearance or disappearance of roads and roundabouts along the way. Furthermore, the two leading manufacturers, Garmin and TomTom, have spent years perfecting their map displays and voice guidance, providing clear, timely directions that guide you through what you need to do and when.

Is there anything else I should be on the lookout for?

Manufacturers of satnavs are now adopting a “if you can’t beat ’em” approach to smartphones, adding features that work with your phone or bring useful features to the surface. Some also function as in-car Bluetooth systems, allowing you to make and receive calls using the built-in microphone and speaker, which is useful if your vehicle lacks built-in support. Others will use your mobile connection to get real-time traffic updates or display text message notifications on your navigation screen. Some have their own built-in SIM, allowing you to avoid exceeding your monthly data allowance on your smartphone.

Garmin also has a line of satnavs with built-in dash cameras. Not only does it record what’s going on in front of you, but it can also send you camera-assisted drive alerts, such as when you’re driving too close to the vehicle in front of you or drifting out of your lane. When you’re close to a destination, it’ll even draw an arrow in the live-camera view to help you find it.

Use SatNavGPS.co.uk to compare the features and prices of these devices. Don’t waste money on devices that offer bloated extra services that you’ll never use, buy the device based on the functions that you need or would find useful.