Why I’ve NEVER Carried an SOS Device Backpacking

This is why I've NEVER carried a Satellite Communication Device in over 14,000 miles of Backpacking & Thru-Hiking.
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[@petrhejny298]

Mostly solo hiker. Never used one until last year and thought it was an overpriced device and a subscription cash grab. Wanted to sell it prior to my 2024 PCT thru but my girlfriend insisted I keep and take it. Well two weeks ago alone in Desolation Wilderness I broke my leg and I am so grateful to have had the inReach Mini with me. Not only did it get me extracted from the trail via helicopter but also when I signed up for this year's subscription I opted for the SAR insurance. My body is now healing and my finacial ass saved!

[@olliehopnoodle4628]

yeah, the insurance option is pretty cheap so when I am going off the grid I take mine.

[@44NorthWyo]

So glad it helped you!

[@rkatrails]

Perfect! I use an inReach Mini 2 as well, chose the basic safety plan on an annual basis so I have it available year round, and about 2-3 weeks ago I opted for the optional insurance plan. Like you, I mostly hike solo, so I always send an email to my sister with my plan and I send her check-in's so she knows my whereabouts. I keep my unit turned off except to send check-ins or occasionally pair it with my phone to correspond with ease with someone. Lastly, you never know when you might run across another hiker that's in trouble, not to mention the peace of mind it provides for myself.

[@E_Clampus_Vitus]

Desolation Wilderness is what it isn’t. You see about a hundred people on this trail everyday. You would have been fine without it.

[@chemistryflavored]

@@E_Clampus_Vitus depends on where you go, never hurts to have one. We did the Seven Devils the week before Labor Day and didn’t see anyone for 5 days which was weird. It wasn’t until we were heading back to the TH on a Friday we hit people.

[@pi-sx3mb]

Makes sense. Next time I go on a canoe trip I'm not taking a life preserver because I've never needed one in the past. And on my drive to the river I'm going to take the tire jack out of my car. Total waste of space and about as heavy as an SOS device. "Bears are safe. You just have to love them and act like one." R.I.P. Timothy Treadwell.

[@chach3]

When I am out west, we will get in some really remote areas with no cell phone service and stay there for a few days fishing. I like to have it to let loved ones know where I am at and when to expect to get a call from me when I get back to service. And sometimes I am by myself on these adventures, so it is a no brainer to have. As I get older, I think it is an essential piece of kit that I will always carry.

[@janisstewart2217]

I am an older hiker and purchased one just to use for the SOS feature.

[@KarlGottshalk]

Yup.

[@moyashisoba]

Interesting topic. I, female, always hike on my own, in quite remote areas and my family became very anxious since a female hiker went missing some years ago at the same time I have been out there. They weren't able to get in contact with me for some days due lack of cell service, while I had a great time, whoops. Since then I'm using an inReach just to send them a Good Morning and A Good Night and they are able to see that I'm still moving. I'm not the biggest fan of using the device because my hikes are my me time, but I want them to feel good. And yes, navigation just with the phone or even old school maps.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

It all comes down to what makes YOU feel safe out there! 🤙

[@willek1335]

I agree with you, and personally, decided that my hikes are my own time. The people back home will have to get used to it, like they did all throughout history. The reason why I'm out there is to not be connected. Deal with it!

[@twestgard2]

Related: The more common these things are, the harder it is for malicious people to get away.

[@miketheglassguy7568]

My favorite reason for having one is to communicate with my wife and family when I don’t have service mostly for their peace of mind. Hiking along the Colorado trail I really didn’t have service anywhere except when I got to town. I know your wife is used to it but I feel like for most beginners it’s really a no brainer unless you have a new iPhone.

[@LoremIpsum1970]

I'd still carry both.

[@axelw273]

I’ve had an Inreach mini for four years. I have not used the SOS, but have talked to a backcountry emergency medical professional about an issue related to heat stroke thru the messaging capability. Worth every penny to me. it is a form of insurance. You can opt to pay for it or not.

[@psyched901]

I use a Zoleo device (better than Garmin, IMHO) and it saved me last August while climbing Mt. Whitney in the snow. An ice ledge gave way under me and I tumbled down an embankment, severely separating my shoulder. I used the Zoleo to communicate with a rescue team that helicoptered me out to a hospital. Plus, I can text my wife and family with the Zoleo while out in the back country which is very reassuring to them. In short, I would never go out into the back country without one.

[@VenturingValerie]

Why do you like the Zoleo better than Garmin? I have the motorola defy and a garmin but have never had a zeleo because the subscription plans are so high. Is there something additional it does that makes this device worth it for you? I love learning more about them!

[@iamjoshkoop]

@@VenturingValerieit’s not “high” it’s the ease of turning on and off, maintaining same contact number and lower initial device cost.

[@BeedeeEx]

I’ve used one 3 years now. Only ever used it to check in with my wife to let her know things are fine. She really appreciates it. For the trails I typically hike in the North Cascades of Washington, phone service cuts out miles before the trailhead and you might get a tiny bit from a random hill you’re on…but never something that you can count on. I’m excited for the new iPhone satellite non-emergency messaging.

[@jimkenney134]

I have carried one for a long time. I have used it to get fire info while on the pct, a friend had one and it helped rescuers find and recover his body after sliding down an ice chute, and for my upcoming Arctic Circle Trail hike to be polar bear aware.

[@iviewthetube]

If you want a device unit for only SOS, then there are EPIRBs which don't require a subscription; you just have to register it with NOAA's United States 406 MHz Beacon Registration at no charge.

[@lightwalker4558]

That's one reason why I love my PLB. Another is that it sends a 5 watt signal, over 3x the strength of cell phones and Garmin devices.

[@headwerkn]

@@lightwalker4558different signal types, not easy to compare based solely on wattage output. PLBs use LEO satellites, InReach et al use GSO. In theory PLBs do handle canyons and certain climatic conditions better, however they’re unidirectional, so you don’t know if the signal is getting out until help arrives. Bidirectional comms is the big factor of InReachs and the like, both in emergency and general comms.

[@gregsantos9392]

The iPhone 15 with SOS uses the Globalstar satellite network- not as reliable as Iridium and no coverage in the Pacific ocean.

[@davidschreiner749]

Used a Spot device years ago with my Boy Scouts so parents could track where their sons were when we went canoeing in the Boundary Waters, or backpacking in the Grand Canyon. It was also a part of our emergency plan. Later I upgraded to the Garmin inReach for cross country motorcycle rides, my own backpacking trips and even as a backup communications while outside the continental U.S.

[@MiguelGomezMountainRunner]

You never need one…until you do. Decided to buy one several years ago after my solo winter run across the Grand Canyon and back.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

It's been 9 years, but It will definitely be going with me going forward on some trips 😉

[@MiguelGomezMountainRunner]

@@DarwinOnthetrail I used mine in Argentina last year when a young woman’s boyfriend didn’t come back after 12 hours of hiking up near the base of Mt Fitzroy. They responded pretty quickly and were very communicative. I was impressed. Fortunately, the guy came back soon after I fired it off and he was fine.

[@PerfDayToday]

Be sure to buy an appropriate rescue package too, speaking of GC rim to rim winter sorties.

[@SophisticatedDogCat]

I’m not a fairy so I won’t carry one. Kidding.

[@wanttogo1958]

@@PerfDayTodaythe National Parks don’t charge for a rescue, FYI.

[@jsmit9484]

As a last resort the price and weight are worth it to me. Life doesn't have a price tag, but if it did, the garmin would definitely be within that budget 😅

[@connormcrae5686]

The satisfying message chirp sound alone is worth it. Plus the peace of mind :)

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

That noise always freaks me out when I hear other people's devices go off in the middle of the night when I'm in my tent 😂

[@connormcrae5686]

@@DarwinOnthetrail Haha, hope that wasn't me!

[@unleashtheginger0]

I ordered one the other day because I’ve recently started running a lot of near mountain marathons on my own in areas with no cell phone signal. The ability to be tracked and communicate with folks when I’m about to do something sketchy and then have reached safety is hopefully reassuring for folks that care about me. Multiple people suggested I acquired one, which I took to be a sign. And while my phone does support satellite communication, it’s also my phone so has worse battery life, is more fragile, and used for photos and as my GPS map.

[@yeeisme]

Currently only Emergency SOS is on the Apple Watch Ultra, the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 15, and iPhone 15 Pro. iOS 18 will allow satellite to text as well but is limited to the above devices because of the antennas needed to send a satellite signal from the device.

[@Likes2playinmud]

I upgraded to iPhone pro 15 just for the sos feature. Not sure if it is “reliable” enough though.

[@FOXMAN09]

Samsung Galaxies have SOS to and satellite sms is coming to Android but unclear what phones are capable of this as it was only recently announced

[@ropersix]

@@FOXMAN09 That's more of a "rumor" from last year about Android 14. I got super exited about it, only to learn it never actually materialized. I assume it will at some point, but they're letting a lot of users down in the meantime.

[@jimbojones6169]

Garmin mini travels with me. Mine is paired with my phone… so can text in dead zones. It provides me peace of mind while hiking.

[@loribreecatie]

I got one since I hike alone alot. I recently started rim to rim and tore my meniscus on the way down the north rim. This helped me coordinate someone coming to help. I will always carry it now.

[@guitarhiker4449]

I have never used one either but have considered it. It seems like until you get in a semi bad situation out on trail you dont even think about it. In my case i had a friend i was hiking with who passed out and he was way too big to carry. We had no signal where we were at. We do lots of hikes together and you just never know... So this is something i am going to get very soon! Piece of mind! Safety first! Hike on!!

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Yeah... it's definitely time I start carrying one on most of my trips

[@notquiteultralight1701]

I just picked up a zoleo. It’s got SOS and you can send messages as well as a “im good” message to your spouse with the lat and long.

[@LeonidasontheTrail]

I finally caved and bought one because my wife mentioned it would give her more peace of mind. I had started doing longer solo trips, FKT attempts and trying to push my limits solo. I use it in different ways depending on the trip. I have the trips where she is with me and in that case, it is solely used for the SOS functionality. In an FKT or solo situation, it is setup to live track. I have had to use it once for the messaging feature, I was on an FKT attempt, got really wet, cold and I needed to bail. No service were I was so I used the messaging to let her know I needed a pickup.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Excellent! Hope you're doing well brother! 🤙

[@LeonidasontheTrail]

@@DarwinOnthetrail doing great! Glad to see you back and posting content that you enjoy producing!

[@roc31539]

Wife and I take our 8 yrs old Grandson into remote locations camping. A condition of his parents allowing us to take him is to update them that we are safe and can protect him. I am good with the conditions. Plus he knows how to use the inreach protecting his Grandparents as well. Cheap way to go into the wild and meet everyone's needs.

[@anotherpenny1942]

Same for me. I take my grandson camping but his mom insists I have a way to communicate with her.

[@alangauld6079]

I've been backpacking for 50 years and never used one. But I'm starting to think about it. I'm getting older and I'm regularly in country with no cell service and my wife is starting to worry about me. But cost has been the inhibitor, not just the purchase cost but the ongoing subscription fees. Around 150/year seems to be the cheapest available. That is about my entire annual spend on backpacking so I'd be doubling the cost of my hobby. But I'm getting older, bones are more easily broken, balance isn't as good, maybe it's time...

[@KrizAkoni]

I use a Garmin 67i - mostly to archive detailed GPS tracks of my hikes and to collect and navigate to waypoints along the way. The satellite communicator part I recently started using to communicate with my family when out of service. The sos part is secondary to me and not a consideration for carrying the device.

[@LoremIpsum1970]

How are you finding the barrery life?

[@KrizAkoni]

@@LoremIpsum1970 using no backlight, Multi-GNSS, bluetooth to phone, 10 minute satellite track interval, “normal” GPS local file interval, and 5 messages a day, I get roughly 6 days. If I’m not recording tracks, the unit runs for weeks.

[@LoremIpsum1970]

@@KrizAkoni Thanks for the info, I might just pack a plb when I don't need those features.

[@oscarclaesson3867]

Amongst the mountains in northern Sweden we can spend days without reception. Therefore I use the Inreach mini 2. Not only for my own safety but also for my family to be able to contact me!

[@CanyonNerd]

Former technical canyon guide from Utah here. inReach's can be spotty in deeper canyons. If you're in a Narrow slot with tall walls (something Pariah wilderness, Zion Narrows, parts of the Grand, etc), going to be 50/50 on a chance of hitting a satellite. Important to always know where you can bail from a canyon to get to sat service and always have a check in time and plan with a loved one. iOS 18 will bring 2 way satellite communication to iPhone 15 pro, which will make inReach's null outside the battery life. Hopefully the competition brings down the inReach price, because the fees and subscription are steep unless you're constantly using it.

[@wolfelau5602]

Putting a lot of faith in a cell phone. Even with satellite I could never trust just a phone. InReach has one purpose and one purpose only, and I take comfort in that.

[@RideWithJosh696]

Iphone for the win. wont ever use anything else once that hits

[@RideWithJosh696]

@@wolfelau5602 Its going to work the same as the Inreach so its not any different...

[@Barleyologist]

@@wolfelau5602 InReach is a small electronic device with a sat antenna that talks to the iridium satellite network... Why would a cell phone being a small electronic device with a sat antenna that talks to the iridium satellite network be 'worse' at that function then the InReach? Did a trillion dollar company that has a history of really good hardware fail to design an electronic device capable to communicate with satellites? Just trying to understand your logic.

[@wolfelau5602]

⁠​⁠​⁠@@BarleyologistMy logic is that phones themselves are sensitive to damage, software updates/failures, and can have battery issues (too hot/too cold). I understand that the phone can function the same if not better than an InReach in some cases, but phones aren’t as reliable in my opinion when it comes to them being extremely sensitive pieces of glass with fickle hardware that can fail you when it’s too hot or cold. My phone has disappointed me too many times in the real world for me to trust it as my MAIN lifesaving device when I’m hiking solo in the woods. I applaud the advancement of iPhone satellite technology, but the phone body and hardware itself is too sensitive for me to bet my life on it. An InReach is a very basic hunk of hard plastic with simple hardware that was designed to take abuse and still function as it should afterwards. An iPhone can fall 12” and be destroyed. I will never bet my life on an easily confused and breakable piece of glass.

[@brianbrown-cashdollar1171]

I almost exclusively solo hike. Used it last year to call for help for a lost elderly hiker. I’ve mostly hike in areas with little coverage, so it makes sense for me. It also let’s my kids know I’m not dead (yet)

[@chrisf9156]

Yes, partially for the peace of mind, but also to keep family members at ease. While cell service isn't usually an issue around where I am, in hollows you tend to get no cell service at all. Surprisingly, this has worked in those hollows even under a canopy of trees. The weather data (while very simplistic) can also be super useful when you don't have cell service.

[@timmo971]

I can’t see myself ever not having a paper map and compass but I feel it could be good to get sure fire coordinates on a longer hike if required. Some places are hard to pick out features on the terrain so there’s that. It’d have to be life n death immobility for me to push the sos

[@pitdoctor]

I wouldn't fully trust the sat com capability of iPhones over a dedicated device. The Garmin, and other dedicated devices, have a better satellite antenna and are more rugged and likely to be ready when you totally need it.

[@DpZPr0ductions]

I used a SPOT over on Te Araroa in NZ 18/19 due to the remoteness and unpredictable weather in combination with limited service in the mountains. Got close to using it due to oncoming hypothermia, but did not end up having to. Definitely gave me some peace of mind and ensured I did not make any rash decisions.

[@BullfrogHikes]

Been carrying a zoleo everyday since I started backpacking. It has come in handy many times. Like texting shuttle drivers when there is no service, or texting a buddy who does have service further up on trail, when I'm in a valley.

[@BackcountryTreks]

I really like the hour by hour weather update you can get with it. It’s been pretty accurate too!😄

[@Xeraux]

While I can’t hike anymore (multiple knee surgeries) I do ride motorcycles long distances and there are still a lot of places where there’s no phone service even on the road. Areas in the Smokies, some of the long, straight stretches off the interstate in New Mexico and Texas… If you have a crash or injure yourself in these areas, a phone isn’t going to help you. So, I carry an InReach Mini in my jacket. I carry it almost exclusively for the SOS function.

[@shadowprince4482]

I've only had them on me for work. Personally, I just stick with the let someone know your route before you go system and have backup navigation. I'm pretty experienced in the outdoors and wilderness first aid but even I made a nearly fatal mistake. Got off trail and didn't let anybody know where I was going. Luckily my friend's phone had about 45 seconds of battery left and he had the map of our area on the phone and were able to get back on trail. So don't get complacent.

[@SteveFransen-n3w]

Last year at age 74 I bought an Inreach mini paired with my cell phone. Many of my peers no longer hike, so I go solo. My wife likes that I send a text message each night from camp, plus if I ever need the SOS I'll have it.

[@edanpc]

In México we unfortunately don’t have that well stablished trails in big well maintained national parks with park rangers and all, and also there’s the issue of the insecurity, that increases if you are in the backcountry. I have to plan my routes in google earth and then pass them to my Garmin and Wikiloc, It’s practically go explore in the wild to look for some new amazing places with no trails at all, so here a satelite communicator is a must.

[@sagehiker]

In 2018 I could have adverted a SAR callout on me being 12 hours late coming out of trail wrecked canyon. I was fine but conditions were too bad and unsure to attempt a night hike out. If I had had a messenger, I could have communicated that I was ok, and my contact would not have alerted a SAR response. I had PLB but a PLB is for me immediate threat to life or health, not able to send a check in.

[@TomWalling-v7e]

I use the Garmin mini as a just in case emergency. The other feature I use is for family and friends to follow my progress along the trail I’m hiking.

[@glyndaburton8396]

I use the In-Reach as a solo hiker. Made my parents nervous that I hiked alone. I always use the tracking feature so they can click the link and track my movement. They know as long as I am moving, everything is ok. Brought them lots of peace of mind and allowed me to continue hiking solo which is what I love. Win-Win.

[@brisketchick]

Highly recommend that you leave it unpaired (i.e. blue tooth off) from your phone unless/until you want to send a message. I found the battery on it drains way faster if you don't. I mostly use mine in case of emergency, and so my husband can know where to send people to find me if I disappear. I do check in when I arrive at a trailhead or at camp, and I leave tracking on when I hike. I'm a female and I mostly hike and backpack solo, so I prefer a little bit of connection, as most places I go have no cell service. The Garmin struggles a bit under heavy forest cover, but I usually can get a message to send it I wait long enough. It also came in handy last year on my very first solo backpacking trip. Smoke started rolling in around sundown, and I was able to message my husband and have him check fire conditions so I'd know if I needed to leave (I didn't).

[@davehoblin112]

I bought one last month. I am in North West Montana and have started to do more hiking in Glacier NP. There is almost no cell service in the park. Same thing so far, I have it and bought the most basic subscription plan and have not even turned it on, on my hikes in the park. I do plan on doing some overnight section hikes in the park including the CDT. I will use it to update my significant other of my overnight camp spots and that I will be at my pick up point finishing each section.

[@W8tNbLEed86]

90% of the time I’m a solo day/overnight hiker. I have it mostly for the SOS feature but I do send the free preset messages with my InReach Mini V1. I’ve had it for years and still works great. Only downside is if I take a few months off, I am charged the monthly fee to have it still active, even the SOS requires a subscription. I never leave the house without it tho when I go into the backcountry.

[@headwerkn]

I won’t go bush anywhere without one: solo or with others. They are literally the cheapest form of backcountry insurance you can buy.

[@tc2156]

I carry for the SOS mainly, but often meet up with my husband when I go out a day or so before him. Cell coverage is spotty in CO, so our devices make it easy to find each other. I can send him check-in messages without it counting toward my text total and he can get my coordinates from those check-in messages.

[@yisdisaissue]

There are plenty of "Missing experienced hiker found dead" stories that should at least make you think about carrying one.

[@LeeLee-gy7gp]

Nah not really

[@geneball211]

I’ve had one for several years. I’ve used it to communicate while trekking in Guatemala, Ecuador, Nepal and here in my home range

[@maxwanders]

I know you've been back but, glad to see you back! Thank you for sharing! 😁👍👍

[@dpm6000]

Solely for “I’m ok” messages for my wife. As soon as the iPhone satellite connectivity allows that (assuming reasonable cost) I will drop the InReach service as it’s way too expensive for something used so infrequently. I do just about everything to make sure I’m self sufficient and rescuable on a trail, but it is nice to have the SOS backup in case of true emergencies.

[@amyhastey2651]

I carry one for the SOS, just in case. Also, to send a nightly message to let my family know all is well so they don't worry as much. Finally, I upgraded to a device that lets me check the weather as I'll be doing more hiking above treeline.

[@simonaintothehike]

I got my inReach when I started solo hiking. I’d use the preset messages and share with my loved ones “started the hike” or “finished for today” since I was hiking in remote areas without phone signal. While communication was for peace of mind of my family, the SOS button is for my own peace of mind. I always take inReach on multi-day hikes as they often have some “blind” phone signal spots and you just never know. Maybe if I didn’t have one yet and was about to upgrade my phone, I’d go for a new iPhone instead, but the need is there regardless of the tool - be able to contact someone when you’re in trouble 😊

[@michaelglynn9375]

Here in NZ I use a personal locator beacon. You can’t text anyone on it but the PLB could save your life and has the advantage of a 10 year battery life and no subscription.

[@danielflaherty1661]

A lot has to do with comfort levels. Years ago the big question was how well could you read a map. As technology has improved so has the desire to have an SOS device. I like to compare it to moving from an external frame pack to an internal frame pack or the move from a silcloth to dyneema.

[@milobookout267]

My partner and I got a mini 2 because she and I often end up backpacking on our own, but we have also found it valuable for communicating during long drives. Northern BC can be very remote and has very poor coverage. We can spend hours, and sometimes days, if we're camping, without cell reception.

[@paulcredmond]

I have an InReach Mini 2; I do like it on longer multi-day hikes for navigation as it's very energy efficient compared to a phone. If you have a high capacity battery brick it's not really that much of an issue using your phone though so it depends on your own situation.

[@robynroamsoutdoors]

I got my Inreach as a means to contact emergency services if I needed that. With that being said I am a paramedic. The last three years I've been working as a rural paramedic in an area that doesn't have great cell service or radio communications. I've been carrying it at work with a few cell numbers of co-workers stored so I can have some sort of communication for when we go to those areas. So far (knocks on wood three times) I haven't had to use it for any kind of emergency.

[@TheJoshSeattle]

You don’t need one for typical backpacking. They are critical for live tracking while cross country paragliding so always bring it on trips. Super helpful for coordinating in the backcountry.

[@markusmencke8059]

I was considering getting one for long distance bike touring, but cell phone coverage in the regions I’m interested riding in is near 100%. I may still get one for some tours, though. Good thing you can get coverage plans on a monthly basis or something like that, so cost (other than for the actual unit) can be kept pretty low.

[@Perrier_Hikes]

They are great on remote trails, especially when arranging transportation. I used mine on the CDT to book hotels and arrange supply drops a day or two before arriving in towns.

[@RoughLandings77]

I have been using an InReach Explorer+ (the big orange brick) for about four years now. Here in Washington State where I live and backpack, with very few exceptions, I am always out of cell service. My wife ,who is not a backpacker, greatly appreciates the ability to stay in touch when I am in the backcountry. I haven't had the need to use the SOS features yet, but it gives my family peace of mind that it is available.

[@LoremIpsum1970]

I was going to get a Explorer+ but stocks diminished with it being obsolete, so have an IR2 but saving for a 67i for the better coverage.

[@kenziefromkansas]

As someone who adventures solo often it gives me the peace of mind knowing that if something happens, I have a way to get help!

[@bobertz8251]

The cost of needing it and not having it far outweighs the the cost of needing it and not having it.

[@DanielSantos-wd6ij]

I hit the SOS but twice! But only for calling forest fires when I was on the PCT in 2019. Both times I got a text moments later and saw the plane flying over head with an hour. The SAR team actually took the time to email me afterwards and explained the situation when they arrived at the scene. So yes, I recommend carrying this or at least a plb.

[@gerard7829]

I do bikepacking races and gravel rides that require sending a tracking signal to Trackleaders or Bandock every 10 minutes. Also, in case of emergency I like the peace of mind of getting outside help as I am rarely near any cell towers. As for emergency use, I hope I never need it for myself or anyone else. But, it’s imperative that you know how to use it. My dear friend was attacked by a cougar earlier this year and her riding partners didn’t know how to use it to summon for help in this life and death scenario.

[@fredlevel897]

in 2018 I started to carry a PLB, the ResQlink from ACR, only concerned about the potential need to send a SOS when there is absolutely no GSM coverage (pretty often in some regions like Scottish Highlands). As for messaging, GPS tracking, etc. I solely rely on my iPhone and favorite apps

[@Dakota.Covers]

My family and I are so glad to have it when I go on backcountry adventures with my son. So handy and always ready for possible emergencies. Never navigate with it. Gaia GPS for navigation.

[@rustyboltz5304]

67i is my goto map / SOS device. Solo hiking and my first trip out had no cellphone service in most of Enchanted Rock State Park Texas and did not take it. I have not made that mistake ever again. Plus, it is taking time to learn its functions and tips to get the most out of it. Yes, I also have onx backcountry and alltrails, but I was a good Boy Scout. Be prepared, then add 50 years of age and a big boy. My knees are not as young as my heart is. Solo hiker.

[@hyklyfmatto9714]

I started carrying the Zoleo a couple years ago. To help my wife feel more at ease while I was out on trail. So she would let me go more often for longer periods of time. Now I'm glad to have it but hope I never need it for an emergency.

[@Azoth5876]

Got the Garmin Inreach messenger recently. Used it on one trip so far and it was handy as we were in pretty sketchy mountain terrain. As we didnt have designated camping spots, it was really hard to share an itinerary with friends and family, so the in reach was a great way to location share each night. Also take it with me when i go mountain biking, as the risk of injury is higher and you just know it'll happen in some little gully with no cell service... I view mine like i would an insurance policy.

[@wisenber]

Doing mostly solo and/or less traveled routes, I've been using one for over a decade when one-way SPOT was about all that was out there. Now I use a full-sized InReach. I even used it as my primary navigation when I sailed a small sailboat from NC to Bermuda and back. It's a multi-tool for me. I log my trips, get tide info, get weather info, send "OK" messages to by contact, all without worrying about a cell signal. It just happens to have an SOS feature if I need it. All of that is included in the cheapest subscription, so why not make use features you're already paying for?

[@jeffpeters5347]

I’m Team Zoleo. I have it as an insurance policy. But I also find it very useful to give my wife peace of mind that I’m OK with the checkin message feature.

[@perrykmc]

There is inreach messager, featuring the SOS function, but more budget friendly than a mini/mini2

[@dannydinthemountains]

I’m a solo Colorado Mountaineer, my in-reach is indispensable for my and my family’s piece of mind while I’m out trying to complete all the centennials. I also love my in-reach weather reports so I can get an idea of my morning weather window. Modern tech is great we at outdoorsman should accept it but not rely on it.

[@lynnnorthrup8914]

I carry one for the SOS and also the insurance for rescue. I’m older now and am off grid on adventures on a regular basis so I know that we can get help if we need it. I don’t use it for navigation.

[@oldfatncranky5599]

I just picked mine up from REI (they were on sale), I'm in my 70's and travel alone everywhere mostly by choice. Being physically challenged I have decided that it's now a necessity, it's the one thing that can get me help whether I'm hiking or visiting Europe. Time will tell whether it was a good choice or not.

[@strouze]

I carry it mostly for the peace of mind of my parents. It helps finding your tent, Mark water sources or cell reception. One time I was covered in clouds and was able to find the way back by using this. The navigation is iffy and I am still figuring it out but if you don't have access to power I rather use this instead of my phone.

[@kriswibbenhorstermeister9885]

I bought the Garmin 67i last year when it came out. I like the mapping and peace of mind while out. The only con for me is that the functions are difficult to figure out and there’s not a good user manual.

[@rolandwhitsell2911]

I am now 86 years old and still backpacking. I carry SPOT and have been picked up by Search and Rescue on both the AT and PCT. I punch OK when I arrive at my camp spot and when I leave in the morning. Technology is changing rapidly. I don't know what I will carry on my next hike but I will carry a come-and-get-me device.

[@BrokenBackMountains]

I have been backpacking and mountaineering for almost 50 years and never carried a plb or in reach.All I have had is a whistle😂 However. As a solo walker with injuries I feel I need one now just to give my family peace of mind. Just as a point of reference I am at risk of strokes/TIAs after a motorbike accident. I really started thinking of getting an in reach after I had an appendectomy but put it off. Now it seems a must hqve.

[@jameshiggins-thomas9617]

My spouse got me one when I headed out for my multi-month AT saunter. I think she wanted to be able to find the body, if something happened 😋. But I have continued to carry it whenever I'm "away from civilization" just-in-case.

[@WayawayAdventures]

I carry one because I'm mostly in my F150, way off-road. I purchased the recovery insurance (hopefully will never use it!) so that that expensive tow or a life flight will not hurt so much. It's also a way for my wife to see where I am.

[@chris5115]

I last used my InReach Mini to send a 'Happy Birthday' from a pub in a valley near the Welsh border. In order to get a mobile phone signal, I would have had to climb 400m, in the dark, up onto the ridge overlooking England. Instead I had a pint of beer and some cheesey chips, No broken bones in this story, but a realisation of how tenuous the conection to a mobile network can be.

[@krasht1]

You can also turn tracking on and invite whoever you want to follow you on an online map. They can see that you are moving. Also if you dont have cel service it will send your messages by satellite. When you push the SOS you can text back and forth with the emergency personel.

[@renevdhaar]

I use the garmin 66i also for a backup navigation. My phone my breakdown so I want some sort of way to navigate

[@martij6]

I have one and have it turned on while hiking. I've found it takes a while for it to link with satellites. In an emergency, I don't want to wait longer than necessary to communicate with the SOS center. Having it leave bread crumbs can assist S&R in saving my behind. I do have to monitor battery life but consider it a 'cost' I'm willing to pay.

[@johncheeseman6764]

I. Started carrying a zoleo in 2022, first time using it we had just past Big Sandy lake heading up to jackass pass, I got a text that my mom passed away. Had I not had it my daughter would have to contact the Rangers. I always carry it now.

[@Karen-dq8nw]

As an older hiker, with older hiker friends, carrying an inReach makes so much sense. I can understand why people wouldn't want them, but I will always carry one. I used the SOS feature last fall after getting into a car accident on a snowy remote road where there was no cell service. If we had needed an ambulance (luckily no injuries) it would have been a long long wait without the inReach. There are lots of scenarios where you might need one. But there is no substitute for good preparation, training and no one should think the SOS is a delivery service for whatever they forgot to pack, or for a bailout if they get in over their heads!

[@medicinegone]

I use a Garmin 755t when I go hunting because I hunt in the high mountains of norther CO and it's very remote, but mostly because I'm hunting with my buddies and we need to know what each other is doing. When I hike, I don't bother with it. Best be disconnect.

[@kjellverbeke6058]

I carry one for the peace of mind of loved ones at home. Their worry would weigh heavier on my shoulders than the inReach on my strap.

[@deLeonArt]

Always been holding off because of the price, does the new iPhone replace this with the SOS function would love to hear people thoughts!

[@iamjoshkoop]

When you have family and children who depend on you then you change your perspective to always be found. I don’t want to fall and go missing because I was too cheap or gram weenie to save my own life.

[@kristygarrett7399]

As a woman and mom I do use my Garmin. My husband feels better about me going solo and with my girlfriends when I have this. My kids like to know where I am and mostly when I get to camp for the night I send a goodnight message to them and they can send one back. So they can keep in touch but I'm still free as a mom when I'm out. When I'm out with my kids ages 16 and 10 I take the Garmin for them and show them how to use the SOS incase something happened to me while we are out and I'm the only adult with them. However I do have data on trail at some point and often I don't have satellite at my campsite. I hike in the Appalachians mostly.

[@robertmagill5837]

I use mine to contact my wife at the end of the day or when I change course from my original plan when I am on solo trips. It's easy and keeps her mind at ease. I don't worry about the "piece of mind" for me because I am Backcountry First Aid certified and can self rescue for most issues.

[@andymytys]

iPhone uses a different satellite network than the InReach. It’s not as fast to get a message out due to more limited coverage.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

It's probably not something I would jump on right away. It will take them a bit to really "get it right"

[@katygrayell9227]

I use Zelo just for check in and SOS if needed

[@28636]

Please use and cary one whenever you’re in the back country!

[@rynohart7214]

My iPhone has an SOS function that works without reception. For that reason I have now sold my inreach. Have I made a mistake?

[@vvs3796]

Ok.. but some people mentioned device failed on them..how to find out that it works well? Send a trial sos?

[@LindaRamus]

Been backpacking for 50 years. Always used to say - you hike in, you hike out. But embraced technology as it came on so got a Garmin InReach when they first came out. A bit heavy so didn’t always carry it. 2022 did AZT and forgot it. Kicked myself but said “ won’t need it.” Oh, I’m a solo hiker. But when left for PCT WA, made sure I had it. Fate is a fickle thing. 20 mils from Steven’s Pas, slip, fall back, break my ankle. Without hesitation, well maybe a moment, I punch out. Tell Garmin people what my injury is, 2.5 hours later helicopter arrives, lifts me out. (King County didn’t charge. Lucky right. )Took me 50 years to have a serious injury. I’m lucky I had the technology when I needed itSo I’m a believer. It’s in my pack as head out in 5 days for the CDT. Also use it as communication device cause usually have no cell service