On Black Friday I got a great deal on a Garmin 820 from one of the UK retailers with free shipping to USA. I just got it and it is the UK version with European maps. Should I try uploading local free maps from OpenStreetMaps or return it? If I keep it will I notice the difference? This is my first Garmin, so I am new to this.

My experience with OSM on a 705:
Pro: They have more detail than Garmin maps, and show every offroad trail.
Con: Routing does not work with OSM.

Might this work?
https://support.garmin.com/faqSearch...6C3FkS9sU5xDcA

There appears to be a variety of options to try when you type "garmin gps change country" into google

I'd replace the chip (and keep the old one in case you sell it on to a European, or go riding over there), and use the OSM maps on a new chip. $15 or so for the chip, free map, and you can see how the whole GPS thing works for you.

I'm pretty sure the only difference between the units is what maps are preloaded onto them. You can tell any Garmin to give you miles or kilometers. Returning it will probably involve you paying shipping and definitely involve several days wait. Putting OSM for your region on the thing might take an hour, and you can use it today.

OSM maps work on newer units.

The 820 doesn't use microSD cards.

I'd suggest trying the OSM maps.

I started with Garmin Maps on a 705. They start nagging you to update after about a year. OSM maps worked on it, as well as on the 800 that replaced it, and no nags if you don't update. I haven't missed the Garmin maps at all. Routing works for me with OSM maps and RideWithGPS routes.

I’ve used a Garmin 810, that came with very basic and useless maps and then downloaded and installed the OSM maps. Now I’m on a Garmin 1000 with Garmin Maps installed. The OSM maps are as good as the Garmin and are easy to install.

How bout an update

Using the instructions on DC Rainmakers site https://www.dcrainmaker.com/2013/05/...705800810.html. I created a regional OSM map and loaded it. It seems to be working fine. It does allow routing. I have not taken it for a test ride because the weather last weekend wasn't very good. I am hoping to get out this Sat and try following a route.
Thanks for you replies.

I was starting to think you might have gotten lost due to having an overseas map on your gps.

Did you look into the link I left?

I ask as I know someone else looking at buying from overseas and wondered if there was a way to redo the garmin maps.

Great that you've found something that works for you.

I'll be able to tell my friend that if not the Garmin, the OSM maps are an option that works.