I have a Garmin 296. Didn't use it at all during training (not allowed), but use it all the time now (though I still draw routes on charts and work out wind corrections etc, 'cos the GPS might pack up, and anyway I like doing it!!) The 296 is a fab bit of kit, lots of functions, including airspace incursion and terrain warnings etc, and a good battery life, 7 - 10 hours. Well recommended, but never get too reliant on it, you never know when Dubya might switch the system off!!