I was in the same boat, for years I used the old compass. I decided to try a basic GPS, Garmin Etrex (yellow guy). My plan was as stated get to know the finer points of using a GPS and use to having one and then by a fancy dancy high priced model. Guess what, I found this is all the GPS I need and haven't looked back. They are pretty basic to use, with a little practice and if possible a knowledgable user to show you some tips it will be money well spent.