If someone on your gift list already has a GPS or personal navigation device, or a GPS-enabled smartphone, such as the iPhone, consider an affordable accessory gift. Inexpensive cases can prevent screen scratches when storing a GPS in a glove compartment, purse, or briefcase. A larger case can hold the GPS charger, plus other electronics, such as a camera. Other gifts, such as portable chargers, keep an iPhone alive while using juice-guzzling GPS applications. There are some GPS accessory gifts here for the athletes on your list, as well.
TomTom Leather GPS Case ($35 - $40)
TomTom
GPS maker TomTom is strong on design, and that shows in its attractive leather GPS case. The case, which fits either widescreen (4.3-inch) or square screen (3.5-inch) GPS devices, has the look and feel of a nice leather wallet. The case permits access to TomTom's headphone socket.
Garmin Nuvi GPS Case ($25 - $27)
Garmin
Garmin's simple but sharp-looking leather GPS case protects both widescreen (4.3-inch) and square screen (3.5-inch) GPS devices.
Case Logic GPS Travel Case ($25 - $27)
Case Logic
If you want to protect and carry your GPS, plus its charger and other accessories and electronics such as a camera, the Case Logic GPS Travel Case is the way to go. The GPS Travel Case has multiple pockets, and six removable pouches to store and secure electronic goodies for any trip. This (9.5"x4"x8.25") EVA hard case zips up snugly for terrific protection.
Griffin Roadtrip Charger and FM Transmitter for iPhone ($107 - $123)
Griffin Technology
Apple iPhones burn through battery charge quickly when running GPS navigation apps. The Griffin RoadTrip serves multiple functions, keeping your iPhone charged while it's in your car, securing your iPhone where you can see and operate it, and local-broadcasting an FM signal you can tune in on your car radio. RoadTrip's SmartScan technology automatically searches the radio dial for the three clearest FM frequencies. The FM connection lets you play music and hear directions from your iPhone while you drive.
Mophie Juice Pack 3G ($95 - $106)
Mophie
I use GPS apps heavily on my iPhone, and they burn through battery power quickly. I like the Mophie Juice Pack 3G, because it effectively doubles the battery life of an iPhone, making it possible to use the iPhone's navigation, music, phone, and apps heavily for a full day without recharging at an outlet.
Garmin Fitness GPS Heart Rate Monitor Strap ($70 - $78)
Garmin
If someone on your gift list is an athlete who uses a Garmin fitness GPS, such as the Forerunner or Edge, or a mapping handheld Garmin GPS such as the Colorado, Oregon, or Dakota 20, they will appreciate a heart rate monitor strap. The strap is ready to use with compatible Garmin units right out of the box. No need to purchase anything else. Just set up the GPS menu to monitor and record workout heart rate. The user may even upload heart rate and other workout data to the free Garmin Connect training log site.
Tune Belt Sports Armband for iPhone and Other Smartphones ($15 - $17)
Tune Belt
There are a lot of sports armbands on the market, but this is the one to use for iPhones, and other GPS-enabled smartphones such as the BlackBerry and Palm Pre. It's comfortable, adjustable, and washable. Its clear screen permits touchscreen control. Match this up with one of many GPS sports and fitness apps on the market, and you have a nice gift combo for the athlete.
Sony GPS Digital Image Geotagger ($108 - $120)
Sony
If there is a camera enthusiast on your gift list, give them the ability to easily geotag all of their photos with Sony's Digital Image Geotagger. This little GPS device, which runs on one AA battery, precisely records location, date, and time on an SD card. When plugged into a PC with its included software installed, and with pictures uploaded, it matches the embedded photo timestamp data with precise location data, and updates every image file with GPS data.
Arkon Anti-Glare Clip-on Sun Screen for GPS ($10 - $13)
Arkon
Windshield-mounted GPS screens can be difficult to see on very bright days. Enter Arkon's anti-glare clip-on screen, which comes in versions to fit either widescreen (4.3-inch) or square screen (3.5-inch) GPS devices. This glare screen fits virtually all brands, thanks to its adaptable clip-on mount. It installs without tools, and won't scratch the GPS.
