Lost or lasting? Long-term spatial memory retention 2 years after a single map-aided navigation episode

How well do you remember a route that you navigated once, years ago? While extensive research exists on spatial knowledge acquisition, little is known about spatial memory retention over long periods—especially when navigation is aided by ubiquitous GPS-equipped maps. This longitudinal study investigated spatial memory retention 2 years after a single navigation episode along a real-world route using a mobile map aid enriched with visually salient landmarks (abstract vs. realistic 3D). We also assessed whether the landmark visualization styles, spatial abilities, familiarity, and GPS reliance predicted long-term spatial memory retention. Results revealed that several aspects of spatial knowledge remained above chance but declined over the 2-year retention interval. Aside from increased GPS reliance predicting poorer memory for distances, none of the other measures were associated with memory decline. These ecologically valid findings highlight that even a single map-aided navigation episode can result in long-term spatial memory lasting several years.