Hi, I have just got a garmin etrex summit and wondered which mapping software you find most useful.How long do the batteries actually last?

Cheers Adrian

no idea on the batteries as I have a Geko 301 but FWIW I use Memory Map, does the job for me . Not sure about Tracklogs but you can download trial versions of Memory Map and Anquet

I have the Garmin etrex Venture which these days is only used in emergency's now that the novelty of putting in routes etc has worn off but fully charged nicad's (2300ma)would last about 8-10hrs. (plus it only takes 50 waypoints per route)

The only route which is permanently kept is the route off of Nevis

I use memory map and just do a print out of the section of map that I need with the route marked on it.

Adrian try the following searches on here:
Memory Map
Anquet
Batteries

They give all the advice you need.

Another source is:
http://www.globalpositioningsystems.co.uk/forum/

just sold an etrx summit on e bay! very reliable. i use jessops nimh 2500 milliamp batteries. last easily 24 hours but have never really timed them. i always carry a couple spare, just in case.
for mapping software as above anquet, memory map and if you're buying from new tracklogs v3 but be careful i've had that much trouble with the v3 update i'm on the verge of getting anquet myself. tried the anquet demo and was quite pleased with the results.
the only problem i had with mem. map was that the route profile wouldn't span two adjacent map areas ,which i wanted for planning bike rides. other than that no complaints.
download and try all the demos for a week or so before deciding.

Thanks for the feedback,free trials here we come.