I've got a GPS - and really don't know how to use a map with a compass. I know that the compass reads north and how to tell what direction I'm going - but as far as being able to tell where I'm at on the map - that's another story. Probably best bet for me would be to bring extra batteries and be really careful with my GPS. lol. The first few trips I'll being going on - I'll be going short distances and down some regularly used trails, so hopefully I'll be able to get a little experience finding my way before really taking off into the unknown. So I could definitely eliminate those items until I learn how to use them.
Learn to use the map and compass. Take the map and compass.
The GPS by itself is not going to be enough - our local SAR rescued people off a ledge by helicopter when they were trying to use a GPS in a panic trying to get back to their car as fast as possible. A GPS is a convenience, not an essential.
Use the map before you get lost and you will always know where you are. You don't wait until you are lost to pull it out. The best place to practice this is somewhere populated, not out in the wilds without trails. Take a class, teach yourself, do your friends, family and the local search and rescue a favor.
http://www.princeton.edu/~oa/manual/mapcompass.shtml
http://rockyweb.cr.usgs.gov/outreach/gps/map_and_compass.htmlhttp://www.buckskin.org/Resources/Outdoor/compass1.htm
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