GPS

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A mapping gps just has a screen and internal memory for storing uploaded maps. Not all gps' have mapping capability. I don't use a mapping gps because I don't think it is necessary for my hiking.

Although high sensitivity receivers are the latest, they are not necessary for alot of hiking. They will work better in heavy forested areas without a clear view of the sky. I like the garmin foretrex 101 for a cheaper non-mapping gps.

Unless you are hiking in the Great Plains where it is flat and treeless, I agree, go with a high sensitivity GPS.

I typically hike in forests and when I upgraded, wow, what a difference.

As far a mapping, it's a personal thing. Not necessary for hiking but, it sure is "cool." I have the mapping Garmin 60CSx and I have no regrets! Then again, I like geek toys … wanna talk about my pocket weather station?

I picked up a Garmin Legend HCx for just about $200 from Amazon, also same price on ebay

I needed a high sensitivity since I play in the lowlands of the northeast

I LOVE my Etrex HCX compared to my Geko 301 ;)

"…I like geek toys … wanna talk about my pocket weather station?"

As a matter of fact, I do! Are you selfish and keeping it all to yourself or are you sharing it via APRS? If not, you need an HT with a mini-TNC for your pack (or see Kenwood TH-D7A/E). I don't know of any that qualify as UL, but if you're gonna geek, do it right! Do you have your ham license?
http://www.arrl.org/FandES/ead/classes.html

I carry a GPS on every hike. I've had a Garmin 60C for several years. About a year ago I bought the DeLorme GPS. I like the better mapping capabilities.
OTOH, the Garmin 60 series gets much quicker and better reception in heavy tree cover. Whichever I use I also use the GPS to record my daily distance and speed.
I usually carry 4 sets of new extra batteries. On my last 8 day hike I thought I had new batteries and didn't buy new Lithium batteries. Most of my batteries died the first day. I saved one spare set for the camera. All my batteries were dead on the fifth day. I did the whole hike without any GPS and no pictures the last 3 days.
It took me a day to get back to just using map and compass.

After this I buy new batteries for each hike.

Slosteppin

Edwin,

There are things you can do to extend battery life if you don't need the features. You can turn off the electronic compass. Also, don't use the backlight.

I have a Garmin 60CSx and it will run a couple of days on regular alkaline batteries (in summer) as long as I keep the frills to a minimum.