Hi all; I'm replying to my own post that started this thread because
there were too many good posts to reply to all of them.

In case anyone cares, I got a Magellan SporTrak Map and uploaded the
nearest 200 public use airports and VOR's to my home as user waypoints
using EasyGPS. (When the time comes, I could choose up to the 500 most
useful waypoints for any particular trip.)

The unit is currently only $105 at PlanetGPS. It's definitely on the
cutting edge of obsolecense, but its basemap corresponds surprizingly
well to the way the features look from 3,000 feet.

It also works well in one hand -- fits comfortably with buttons that
are easy to use. That's why I didn't do the PDA route -- I don't want
to have to land after dropping three styluses on the floor.

Thanks for the helpful suggestions and thoughtful discussion.