Magellan eXplorist GC geocaching GPS handset

The Magellan eXplorist GC is a new GPS handset designed to cache in on geocaching, a hobby for people who own their own waterproof trousers. It boasts a SiRFstarIII GPS chipset for 3-metre accuracy, and integrates with the Web to track down secret stashes hidden by fellow geocachers.

Geocaching is a 21st-century cross between orienteering and Anneka Rice running around the countryside. Geocachers search for GPS co-ordinates posted online and uncover secret stashes hidden in the real world. Each hidden container usually holds a log book in which you record the time you found the cache, and items you can swap out such as coins or toys. Items that are moved from cache to cache are called 'hitchhikers'. Non-geocachers are dorkily charmingly referred to as 'muggles'.

The GC integrates with geocaching.com, a leading site for intrepid Johnny and June Caches. You download cache instructions to the handset via USB so you don't have to print them out, then head off into the wilderness with them on the colour screen. It's also pre-loaded with popular geocaches. You can add waypoints and notes, and when you locate caches, the GC will record your accomplishments -- gotta cache 'em all.

Magellan claims two AA-batteries will give you 18 hours of running up hill and down dale. Seeing as most days we can't find our own keys, we'd probably need to pack some spares.

The Magellan eXplorist GC will be available in the US in April for $200, and includes a free 30-day membership to geocaching.com.

Rugged Magellan Triton 2000 boasts National Geographic maps

For those looking for navigational insight whilst trekking, Magellan's Triton 2000 should certainly fit the bill. Boasting a rugged, water submersible exterior, a two-megapixel camera, 2.7-inch QVGA touchscreen, digital compass, a barometer, built-in LED flashlight, and an SD expansion slot, this handheld GPS device even touts the ability to record and attach audio to waypoint files -- you know, so you can keep track of exactly how frantic you're getting as you venture off course.

Furthermore, this gizmo is reportedly the first to offer "full, on-screen compatibility, usage, and display of National Geographic's maps," including its 28 TOPO! outdoor recreation mapping software titles that cover all 50 states. The Triton 2000 is slated to launch in North America next month and in Europe this October, and will retail for a stiff $499, but if you won't be needing all the niceties already mentioned, there's a full line of lesser-spec'd Triton devices on the horizon that are far more budget friendly.