Bikepacking Israel | Navigation devices

The devices that let you ride your chosen route safely. Yes, a phone works too, but nothing beats a reliable GPS unit for a pleasant, safe ride.

What to look for

01 Every device has the same job: show the route clearly, prevent navigation mistakes and record the ride (it has to go on Strava).
02 You don't need the most expensive one, but if you want the cheapest, stick with your phone. It'll do just as well.
03 Avoid small screens. You'll have to stop every time to check the way, and it's hard to explore alternatives when you go wrong.
04 A good device battery should last at least 20 hours. Don't settle for less.
05 Look for a device with a real trail map like Shvil-Net, so you know what's around you, where ruins hide and what the nearby stream is called.

Our pick: TwoNav

Our pick

This time we'll break our habit and recommend the device we think is best for riding in Israel.

TwoNav's big advantage is Shvilnet: it's the only device that displays Shvilnet maps perfectly, with every trail, trail marking, stream, spring and site, just like a printed hiking map.

It's the difference between following a line and really exploring: you see where every trail leads, what the stream next to you is called, where there's water and where ruins are hiding. And when you need to change plans mid-ride, every alternative is right there on screen.

It isn't the cheapest, but for riding in Israel there's nothing like it.

TwoNav at a discount for site visitors

Full Shvilnet maps The most detailed Israeli trail map, shown on the device exactly as it is, even with no signal.

The LAND app In our view the best route-planning app in the world. Overlay Shvilnet and build routes easily, including trail quality.

Precise routes Handles routes with over 10,000 points, so the line on screen hugs the real trail.

Phone sync Very easy to use, and routes move from phone to device in a few taps.

Power for the whole trip Many models, including versions that also run on regular store-bought batteries.

Compact TwoNav Cross Small and light, for riders who want a neat bar unit without giving up the map.

Big screen TwoNav Trail · Aventura A large, clear screen for reading the map while riding, especially suited to bikepacking and long trips.

All-rounder TwoNav Terra A handheld unit that works for riding, hiking and off-road driving alike.

Navigation tips in the field

01 Download maps and files in advance. Much of Israel's open country has no signal.
02 Keep the route on your phone too, as a backup if the device freezes or runs flat.
03 Turn on the off-route alert, so you know immediately when you've missed a turn.
04 Check the file direction before you set off. A reversed route is a very common mistake.
05 Dim the screen and turn off connections you don't need to stretch the battery on a long day.
06 Before leaving the route, look at the map, not just the line: a trail that looks short may be blocked or very steep.