A vacation somewhere tropical is what people usually wish for when they feel the stresses of life weighing heavily on them. But for many their vehicle is their “great escape”. They’d rather be out exploring new twists and turns and pushing their car, and its abilities, to the limit. However, a professional driver, as many would refer to themselves, should also ponder the dark side of their hobby: getting a speeding ticket or even a reckless driving charge. Enter the new 2009 technology; GPS enabled radar and laser detectors. Don’t leave home without 1 of these products!

The latest in radar detection systems is the Professional Series GX 65 from Beltronics, which takes top awards from both critics and users alike. These devices have everything for the professional driver, as told by its fitting name. To begin with, the GX 65 features GPS navigation that connects your car to a satellite and continues tracking it wherever you are. The Global Positioning System is not there to help you find your way back from a deserted road; this information is used to alert you when you are approaching speed trap sites. Specifically, it contains a database of pre-loaded location of red light and fixed-position speed cameras across North America. So no matter where you’re traveling on this continent, you’re covered.

The Escort Passport 9500i is the other of the top 2 contenders in the world of GPS detectors. This unit has similar features of the GX 65 from Beltronics, including the ability to program additional speed trap locations and speed cameras into the unit when new traps are discovered. This device utilizes GPS, along with its electronic database, to provide an audio warning the next time it is able to locate an upcoming hot spot. The Escort Passport has received a great review from nearly every driver that’s put it to the test. In 2007 and 2008, this unit was ahead in both popularity and positive comments. This radar detector, as well as the GX65, also has built-in false alarm prevention so you won’t have to deal with the annoyance of alarms and voice alerts occurring when there’s nothing to worry about!

The Cobra, Vector, and Escort 8500 x50, and the STI Driver are also excellent picks for some of the best units in best radar detectors. Don’t forget to check out each manufacturer’s Web site and online stores as well as the opinion and view of real drivers who have used each of them. It’s free (and very valuable) information, so get everything you need to know online. They vary in the features that are available, the range of service they offer, and where they post or display (dash or windshield). All of the devices mentioned in this article use standard 12V DC power and some have added accessories like a hard case for traveling and special cords as options.

Many online stores are now offering added bonuses to shop with them versus their competitor’s online cart. How about free shipping, free installation videos, extremely competitive prices, incentives for buying the unit as a gift for someone (like free gift wrapping), and many also have great customer service departments that will reply to your email the same day!