How’d we ever find our way around without a GPS device? We bought almost 5,000,000 of them around the holidays, according to the Telematics Research Group. If you’re shopping for one, here’s what you need to know.

Look for the kind that doesn’t just say “turn right,” but tells you the name of the street. It’s also easier to use one with a “smart keyboard.” It highlights letters as you start to enter an address, narrowing your choices. And get a GPS with a rigid mount. It offers more stability. As for the screen, widescreens are easier to program and view.

Some provide real-time traffic reports and others let you talk on the phone hands-free. Those features cost more.

Full-featured GPS units can cost $700 or more. But Consumer Reports named some Best Buys that are good navigators and cost $250: the Garmin Nuvi 200 and the TomTom ONE 3rd Edition.

You can get more GPS buying advice at: www.consumerreports.org/cro/cars/tires-auto-parts/auto-parts/portable-gps-navigation-systems/gps-sub/how-to-choose/0607_gpsnav.htm.