Garmin MapSource MetroGuide U.S.A. CD ROM 10215-03

Pros: Very detailed maps, large database of information!
Cons: Expensive and takes up a LOT of space on your computer.

Because my Garmin eMap GPS only had major streets, I purchased this CD set and a data card to load the smaller streets onto my GPS unit.

This software comes on multiple CD's (all contained in one package) and installs onto your computer. You...

Pros: Very extensive information - very easy to use.
Cons: HUGE - it's bloatware

This is some decent software if you want to tie your GPS system to mapping software. In addition to ...

Pros: Good maps, useful extras, easy to use, enhances your GPS when traveling
Cons: Wish they had interim map updates on the web for purchasers

I use MapSource MetroGuide to extract and load maps into my Garmin eMap GPS. I got it for the detailed street level maps, but my wife and I have come to appreciate the extras -- while driving we can see what service stations and restaurants are located at the next exit, for example. Driving into a new town, we can search for types of restaurants, find where they are and how close, get the phone number and make a reservation.

These maps are highly compressed. We recently loaded up all the maps needed to drive from San Francisco to Scottsdale, AZ -- and our eMap has only a 16 megabyte data card in it. For a longer trip, I'd probably buy a slightly larger data card, now that memory is getting so cheap.

Loading up all the maps on your PC is viable now that they are almost giving away hard disks.

If you enjoy traveling and are comfortable with your Garmin GPS, this tool can enhance your experiences and leverage your GPS investment.