One of the first things I’m going to recommend to have is a GPS device. The more you travel to unfamiliar areas the more likely you can get lost. A gps won’t replace good old fashioned maps but can enhance the overall results. There are many makes & models out there so do your homework and find the one that best suits your needs. do you want it to be portable or vehicle mounted? do you want a bargain model or the top of the line?? do you want a self contained unit or something that can interface with your PC??? there are many choices out there.
I use the Garmin eTrex. I’ve had it for years so it’s not the latest or greatest. it doesn’t have a color display or onboard maps but it’s weather resistant and has been reliably working for the past 2-3 years. Below is the Amazon link to the model I have but you may want to find a more modern model. Using the data cable I can connect it to my PC and with 3rd party software I can view the results on full color maps.
Kingerick Entertainment