Which Mapping Software?

[Pam]

We just did a caravan from southern NH to Canada. I used my old version of Delorme's Map and Go, version 7. It is about 5 years old. While I understand it and can manipulate it to plan my travels, I need to update. I was missing the latest information and did not have any detail on Canada.

Any suggestions? We mostly use this for recreational travel and can interface it with the Garmin GPS in the motorhome.

Should I go for the latest version of Delormes Street Atlas Plus? Any other suggestions?
Is there one that can have preferences set for RV travel to flag low bridges, HZMAT restrictions, weight restrictions?


Thanks for the help.

[SilverRanger]

I was going to recommend the software I have been using for the past 4 years: Rand McNally Streetfinder & Tripmaker Deluxe. It came with a GPS receiver and hooked up to my laptop. But, after a cursory search, the most recent version I could find was a 2004 version. I guess it's time for me to upgrade, too. I thought the software was fantastic. It had every alley and dirt road in my state, even the little 2 acre pond on my property was on it. It also included some Canadian border cities on it. When I checked the Rand McNally site, they are now selling the Delorme software.

[ZoominC6]

We use Garmin's Mapsource "Metroguide" Version #6 which is the latest upgrade. It also shows all the little dirt roads, ponds etc. We download to our EMap and use it in our travels etc. Good luck with your choice.

[Cedars]

I was going to suggest Microsoft Streets and Trips but then I compared it to Rand McNally Tripmaker and Street Finder. Hmmm. Rand McNally finds Manilla, Ontario, but the MS program doesn't!
I really LIKED RN and am sad we can't upgrade it!

Elizabeth in Iowa

[Pam]

Thanks for the feedback. Great suggestions. I am continuing to research, but think I will stay with Delorme's at the moment. I am going to give the office in Maine a call to talk with a "live" person. I'll let you know what I find out.

[Pahaska]

Some improvements, but still missing more streets than it should. For instance, a 4-lane bypass around Poteau, OK that has been open for several years is missing. At least, I was able to draw it in so that my mileage reasonably matches the printout.

Best new feature is an "Avoid" feature similar to that feature in the Microsoft Streets and Trips. The DeLorme avaid is a bit better in that you can draw any shape rather than it being a simple square as in Microsoft.

I have used SA long enough now that the poor interface doesn't bother me much.

Wish I could merge the best features of DeLorme and Microsoft.

[balrgn]

We use Microsoft Streets & Trips 2005. Has easy to use bells and whistles. Found it to be very accurate in mileage, time and cost of a trip!