In the last two decades, the use of GPS for navigation has become widely popular. We’ve become so dependent on the technology that we find it almost impossible to navigate without GPS and read the read map. We can’t even imagine how people were travelling from one place to another using road maps.
God forbid! Someday, your GPS might stop working while you’re on a hiking trip or for a night out. It becomes a threat to your life.
However, one good news is that you don’t have to take this risk and learn to read a map and navigate without GPS. This is not just a basic survival skill, but your way to a safe and happy journey.
In this blog, we’ll take you through the amazing journey of road maps and how to navigate without GPS.
We’ll also share with you the top-notch driving schools in Baulkham Hills. So, you can learn to drive efficiently.
Start With The Map Key
The legend or key helps you understand what the symbols mean. You’ll find icons for petrol stations, rest stops, hospitals, and more. The map displays road types in different colours or line styles. Take a moment to look at this before planning your route.
Know The Directions
Most road maps are drawn with north at the top. Use a compass or even the sun to figure out which direction you’re heading. A compass rose on the map shows north, south, east, and west. If the sun is rising on your left, you’re heading north. If it’s sitting on your left, you’re going south.
Use The Scale
Maps show distance using a scale, like 1 cm = 10 km. This helps you figure out how far your destination is and how long it might take to get there. You can use a ruler or your fingers to measure the distance between two points. Then calculate the time it will take based on your average speed.
Find Roads And Landmarks
Look for main roads or highways marked in bold. These are best for long trips. Smaller lines show local roads and are generally smaller paths to your destination. Additionally, keep an eye out for rivers, parks, or towns. These help you stay on track as you drive.
Tips For Reading Road Maps Correctly
Get The Right Map: Selecting the right type of map is the first step towards your map learning journey. There are different types of maps available at different scales. Choosing what’s most relevant for you is the key here.
Learn to Understand All Features on Maps: Highways and main roads are usually marked in bold or coloured lines. These are the fastest routes between cities or towns. Local or secondary roads may be thinner and less direct. Use them when you want to explore smaller areas or scenic routes. Further, also learn to identify hills, bridges, buildings and streams to make your journey smoother.
Trust Your Map: When you get stuck somewhere, go to the last feature you understand on the map and then navigate from there. Additionally, we suggest practising it as well. The more times you have used it for finding your way, the easier it will be for you to use it when the situation demands it.
Green & Gold Driving School-All Your Driving Lessons In One Place
Now, you understand the importance of learning maps for navigation. It’s time to meet your reliable driving lessons partner, Green & Gold, a reliable name in the driving school industry.
We’re one of the most reliable driving schools in Castle Hill, well-known for offering top-notch driving lessons to our students.
We give special attention to the safety of the learners and other road users. Our expert team delivers quality driver training and ensures learners understand the concepts.
So, if you’re looking for more tips on driving, navigation, or road safety?
Check our blog section or visit us for expert insights designed to make your driving journey smoother, whether you’re a learner or an experienced driver.
