Waterproofing maps

[Chasbmw]

What's the best way to make a paper map more durable?

I've heard rumours about Nikwax but not sure how to apply it?

[rodyorkabr]

laminate them...the edges also double up at great teeth cleaners

[byewayrider]

Or buy the waterproof version lol....

[Jak*]

Hi, I either buy the Lamfold OS maps which I find are worth the extra money due to their durability or use a map case designed for hill walkers or orienteering. The only disadvantage of the Lamfold maps is they are slightly bulkier. The map case hangs on a strap round my so it is easy to access, ideal for doing new trails with a lot of junctions or events like the Taffy Dakar were you are checking the map frequently. I also quite often photocopy the pages I want for instance if I am going through the edge of France on my way somewhere else I would copy the pages of my French atlas rather than taking the whole thing.
Cheers Jak

[herman]

Butcher's grade plastic bag under a bungie net on the tank. Been using them for years now as they stay clear for ages and you can get large sizes. B)

[IainD]

Photocopy (or scan and Print) the bits you need at A4 and laminate them, leaving the original map unmolested. Print double sided if you need to.

You can buy a laminator and pouches really cheap.

Funnily enough I am heading up Ben Nevis in a week or so, depending on weather, and I'm wondering where my map is so I can do the same (even though I'm just going up the path).

[Andi_Archer]

Search area required and expand to the scale needed

http://mortimermaps.appspot.com/wtp3/wtp3.htm


Also http://maps.the-hug.net/

[BigBashBonanza]

Fablon them. It's just as waterproof as laminating but foldable and hardly takes up any additional bulk. If you buy the 'Matt' version, it's easier to write/draw on - even in pencil so very handy.

It can be tricky to do without getting bubbles in the finished map, but it's never bothered me. As long as it's waterproof and I can still read it.

Fablon can be bought in any craft shop as well as DIY places and comes in rolls of various sizes. Cut off all the map info you don't need and you can even cut off and stick to the rear of the map all the info (conventional signs etc) to reduce the physical size of the map before fabloning.

[Trev]

This is the sort of thing that makes this forum a mine of info, simple but effective ideas (thumbs)

[boatman]

Nikwax make a specific product for waterproofing maps (thumbs) (thumbs)