Travel Map

[STindy05]

What do you guys use to layout and plan trips. I have seen different maps people have posted and would like to use one to plan a three day weekend trip. I don't have a GPS so I won't be loading it. Just want one to carry with me and give me an idea of travel times. Is there a website for this?

Landon

[Fred D]

For home use, I use Microsoft Streets & Trips.

Not all that familiar with on-line trip/route planners. I think some use Google Maps, and I've occasionally used Mapquest.

I don't think the on line planners give you control over your route as easily as a dedicated mapping program, i.e. Streets & Trips.

Group Rider (http://www.grouprider.com/index.php?action=default) may have potential.

[STindy05]

Fred...on the Microsoft version, do you have to have internet to download maps? Or is it all on a disk? I don't have the internet at home(just at work). Wondering if I can just load it on my computer at home and make a map.

Landon

[rdfeatherstone]

MS Streets and Trips, is a stand alone program, sold on CD. I've used several versions over the years and usually buy a new copy every two or three years. I hate software upgrades over the Internet. The program does refer to the Internet to get upgrades on construction and/or other route information. I've been very happy with it and find it suits all my needs for route planning.

You do have some leeway in customization on route planning and map printing. You can select scale and degree of details printed, such as eateries, hotels, parks, tourist sites, etc.

Ralph

[STindy05]

Sounds like what i need! Where can I pick it up? Walmart? Best Buy?

[Fred D]

Like Ralph said, it's a stand-alone program that you load onto your computer. Then you can plan routes, print maps, etc.

Latest version (2007) is on DVD, previous versions were on CDs. 2007 has two versions, one version for mucho dinero has a GPS function. The cheaper version (which goes without saying) is the one I have.

Periodically, it will prompt you to update the latest road information, but it's not a show-stopper if you don't.

I got mine at Sam's Club, but it's readily available, don't remember what I paid, shop around for the best price.