Garmin inReach Messenger Review - Surprises After 1 Year

Here's what I learned after using the Garmin inReach Messenger for a year out on the trails.
💥 LOWEST PRICE: amzn.to/3thZoNu
✅ Carriers: amzn.to/3ZMbeLW
🌲 Canopy Test: • Extreme Tree Canopy Te...
👀 LATEST GEAR LIST: hikingguy.com/best-hiking-gear/
When I first got the inReach Messenger I thought it was mainly for car campers. But after having used it for a year, I've realized that it could be the most effective Garmin inReach device out there.
📡 More reviews:
bit.ly/457B9Px
🌎 Bucket List Hikes You Should Try:
bit.ly/bucket-list-hikes
👀Subscribe For New Hike & Guide Videos
/ @hikingguy
👍Monthly Email For New Hike Updates:
hikingguy.com/newsletter/
🎆Instagram For Insider Hike Info:
/ hikingguy_com
#garmin #gps #inreach
#hiking #hike #hikingvlog #hikinggear #hikingtrails #hikingandcamping #hikingandcampingforbeginners #hikingandcampingvlog #hikingandbackpacking #52HikeChallenge #backpacking #healthyliving #trails #outdoors #nature
00:00 Why the Messenger?
00:33 Performance
03:00 Battery
04:48 Messenger App
05:58 ZOLEO
09:29 Navigation
10:07 Recommendations
The Garmin inReach Messenger is an innovative communication tool designed for adventurers who venture off the beaten path. Whether you're hiking through remote trails, embarking on an extended camping trip, or exploring unknown terrains, the Garmin inReach Messenger offers a reliable way to stay connected. This device leverages global Iridium satellite coverage, ensuring that you can send and receive messages, track your journey, and share your location from virtually anywhere in the world.
Equipped with a robust set of safety features, the Garmin inReach Messenger stands out for its SOS functionality, which allows users to alert emergency services in critical situations. This feature is indispensable for outdoor enthusiasts who find themselves in precarious situations far from traditional rescue services. Furthermore, the device supports two-way messaging and location tracking, making it an essential tool for maintaining contact with friends and family during your adventures.
Battery life is a significant advantage of the Garmin inReach Messenger, boasting an 1800 milliamp-hour battery that offers extended usage compared to other devices in the market. This extended battery life is crucial for long expeditions, ensuring that you remain connected and safe without constant recharging. Additionally, the compact and rugged design of the Garmin inReach Messenger makes it easy to carry without adding significant weight to your gear. Whether you're a seasoned explorer or a casual hiker, the Garmin inReach Messenger is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their safety and communication capabilities in the outdoors.

[@pinkystinkey2205]

I hike some rugged areas in TN & KY and have never had satellite service due to the terrain and tree canopy. The inReach has no problem staying connected. I text with the wife like I'm on a Sunday walk in the park. Great piece of mind from a safety standpoint. I am impressed with this device.

[@c.nicholson3536]

I’m considering getting two for me and the wife. In light of the recent AT&T outage I realized that staying in contact is vital! This unit can at least keep the lines of communication and help open if the cell towers ever get attacked.

[@kuang01]

i go offshore weekly, perfect fixture on my boat.

[@dbgfwbe1497]

Amazing performance, amazing piece from Garmin. After 6 months, no regrets, must be honest never used the "SOS" however it's there. I am using quite regularly the "preset" messages, just to check-in. Always with me when I get out for running. Very stable, very smart device, infinte battery. Great compatibility with Fenix 7. Still need to find a nice case.

[@Yowzoe]

Thank you, super-helpful! Garmin sure-as-hell makes things complex, and that doesn’t seem to be changing much.

[@VivianInTheOC]

Great content as always. Thank you Hiking Guy!

[@mars_hikes967]

Switched from the Mini 1 to the Messenger. As a LD-hiker most of the time I don't need to do a lot of navigation and the battery life sold it for me. Thanks for the tipp with the tactical cigarette pack.

[@ta3000]

Another fantastic review and video. Super helpful for a very confusing space and product line.

[@dbm1productions]

I love my Messenger. Been using it for my section hikes on the CT. It has everything I need.

[@Zerdiox]

Can you extract the hike you did from the Messenger? I'm really only interested in logging my hike and getting the SOS possibility.

[@fhulting]

Great review - it helped me understand the technical details of the device. I carry the messenger vertically in a pocket on my backpack strap, and it works well, with long battery life. I used it on Kilimanjaro recently and set up the online tracking for family, and got very fast response for messaging and weather (I used my Garmin Epix for navigation).

[@chesterpophamproductions2879]

I will be riding trails on dirtbikes where cell service is nonexistent so this will be perfect if there is an accident and need help or need to let may family know where i am at. Thank you!

[@user-je9kr6xf1x]

wow, very helpful. 👍

[@GenX_outdoors]

Still love my Zoleo. I think it’s the best deal out there with great functionality!

[@bgoldsm]

Great video! Thx

[@aw7425]

Super helpful and a great recap. Based on your previous advice and this new video I think we will upgrade from our mini ones to a mini 2 and 67i, as always thanks and stay safe

[@bilaltahir9978]

Why would you upgrade to the mini 2 and not the messenger?

[@daveevans7151]

Great video! I think if you have 0 nav, the mini 2 and 67 are good options. If you use something else, I def think the messenger is better. I’m still on the mini 1 and am thinking of the messenger as I use Gaia as my main nav, with Garmin Fenix 7, and with physical maps as my backup.

[@Hikingguy]

I'd only go to the Messenger from the Mini 1 if you really need the battery or unified messaging, otherwise the Mini 1 is still solid

[@cavemandancer]

I just bought the messenger, I already have a Garmin Fenix 6 which will connect directly. Though I have a live track it still does not allow me to do Satellite communication and update messages. So that's worth noting for anyone who has a Garmin Watch that it does allow you to use those features directly from your watch like SOS.

[@JungleJim001]

Great review. One question: does the Messenger support inReach Remote with a GPSMAP 67 (non inReach version)? And if it does, what inReach functions will work via inReach remote?

[@ruukusanla]

The Messenger app sounds complex but I like it. It means only people who you want to message you can and it stops using up message limits in lower tier subscriptions... It operates basically the same as the zoleo just requires others to get the app. Otherwise you'd have to hand out a second set of details which (could) be confusing too.

[@outsidewithmike]

I got SPAM messages when I had the Zoleo so not necessarily a fan of the unique phone number feature ;) I traded it in for the Messenger but I wonder if the Mini 2 would be the better choice. I navigate with paper and the phone but having it on the device might be nice. As I learned recently relying on the phone can be an issue. Also the Messenger screen is small for my aging eyes. I do carry reading glasses in my pack though! The reason I first traded in the Zoleo though was because me and my bro couldn't reliably communicate with each other (he has the Mini). In fact he received zero messages from me on the mountain. That's why I got the Messenger. I realized later that being able to text directly from the device is very important as well. Thanks for the review!

[@outsidewithmike]

Just a follow up - the text isn't easier to read on the Mini 2 like I tought it would be. The longer battery life in the messenger serves my needs better for backpacking so I will stick with that. I don't care about the navigation features.

[@andrecosta9e]

A very important feature if you ride offroad motorbike is the 'Incident Detection' that Garmin has made the Epix capable of, but it seems they did not connect their dots yet.. say you have a Epix and a InReach device, if the Epix on your wirst detects a fall and there's no cellular connection, will it say to Messenger or Mini 2 "hey the guy has fallen, better ask for help via Satellite" ?

[@ychinenov]

Thank you for such a detailed description of Garmin messaging mess. The entire review sounds like what Garmin is not 😅. I will keep my Zoleo, thank you very much

[@outsidewithmike]

Me and my bro rescued some people who had a Zoleo but their phone was dead so they couldn't message search and rescue. Our Garmin literally saved their lives while their Zoleo blinked virtually uselessly on a rock. You need a device you can msg from directly. Previous Zoleo owner here.

[@canelami1285]

I had no problems using the app on my android phone

[@TheDefenderSisu]

Can you please do a review of the tread XL ? I am planning on taking a trip to Alaska next year with my family and camping in off grid areas and there is not much information on it. Thank you.

[@galenacreekranch]

Hi - thanks for the review - quite good. Can I use the Messenger as a BlueTooth GPS without the Plans?

[@Hikingguy]

You can just get the lat/lon but otherwise no functions I think

[@74p]

@@Hikingguy , this IS a bit of a bummer, and makes me in doubt whether to get the Mini 2 or Messenger as a replacement for my older Delorme inReach Explorer which ... is getting worse and worse at both messaging and even getting a GPS fix.

[@Hikingguy]

@@74p I like the Mini 2 since it has the navigation capabilities, which I use as a backup for my other nav - for the best all in one package, the GPSMAP 67i is great

[@djjf45]

This is the only video Ive found rhat discusses sma vs. Messenger app vs. Zoleo. Ive been having a heck of a time deciding. Leaning towards messenger, but on the messenger and/or mini2 with messenger app, can you send to anyone in your contelacts, or do you have to "add" them to a list first? I know this used 2b a benefit of zoleo, i know messenger was supposed to compete with that, and didnt know if it changed for Mini2 when they added mess-app support. Do they all function the same for contacts that were not pre-added? Thanks!

[@IustinPop]

Agree a lot with the conclusion - between iPhone 14 (or later), Fenix and Mini 2, three navigation devices, two of which have satelite capability. It feels like living in the future!

[@sergioc404]

I’m actually confused by this. I have a Garmin watch an iPhone 15 and I’m considering getting a satellite messenger device. Based on the advantages mentioned in the video for the Messenger, I would’ve imagined this would’ve replaced the Mini 2. Unless the goal is to have 3 navigation devices rather than 2.

[@IustinPop]

@@sergioc404 I think the point is that he values more a device with navigation, rather than increased transmit power. IDK.

[@marcrobyn4844]

On the fence between the inreach mini 2 on the messenger for motorcycle travel. Do both basically provide you with the same user options?

[@Hikingguy]

If you're just using it on the bike, the Messenger is prob the move since you don't need nav

[@marcrobyn4844]

@@Hikingguy got it last night

[@BobbyWParkerJr]

Garmin’s echo system sure is a mess. Thanks for the video, always great stuff.

[@Swimdeep]

What is Garmin’s “echo system?”

[@Jonathan906]

@@Swimdeep Probably meant "ecosystem". I agree. It's confusing.

[@Jonathan906]

It sure seems that way. Apparently the Messenger is not for navigation. But isn't navigation precisely the reason I would buy a GPS device to begin with?

[@Swimdeep]

@@Jonathan906 It’s a satt system so the point for me is being able to contact someone-anyone, in an emergency when cell service isn’t available and you can’t get yourself out of whatever you’re in. For Nav, I always bring a paper map and a compass as back-up.

[@Jonathan906]

@@Swimdeep This is the first review I've seen that says clearly that the Messenger device cannot be paired with the Garmin Explore app. That is a significant detail that Garmin should make clear on their website. Until watching this video, I had expected that I would be able to buy the device, pair it with my phone, and monitor my location using Garmin's app on the phone. If that's not easily possible, if the device really is only for messaging, then that makes my purchasing decision much easier and I should buy one of Garmin's other devices instead, like the Mini or the 67i. Because for me, if I buy a GPS device, of course I want to use it for navigation.

[@wmsatic]

I'm currently using a Zoleo and debating switching devices again. Problem with the Zoleo is the GPS receiver is mediocre at best. During two hour wooded trail walks I'll send a CheckIn to my wife only to find it didn't send my location. Normally it takes between 2-6 attempts to successfully send my location. Occasionally failing completely. My phone has no difficulty following my walks.

[@Hikingguy]

This should work a bit better

[@Dani-wn6wh]

Nice voice! You should make sth out of it - like radio or sth.!

[@74p]

Maybe a ... KZbin channel?

[@canelami1285]

Unless you hike R2R in the Gran Canyon. Day 1 I was down to 60 percent. Day 2 I took of tracking yet by nightfall I was down to 37 percent. Thank goodness i brought a small charger as I charged it up to 80 percent then turned it off. Day 3 kept it off unless I sent a check in message to my family tho I found if I was close to the canyon wall no message could be sent at all which happened several times during my 3 days. I'm not mad as I was able to communicate to my family that I was fine, but I was highly shocked and disappointed with the battery life. I just returned so I haven't emailed Garmin yet to inquire, at the moment I'm assuming the Messenger was constantly trying to establish contact with a satellite (even when I turned tracking off) but couldn't so the battery drained super fast. Before I left I had it turned on at home for a week without much battery drain. I do want to use it again in a different area but I will be sure to keep it off at night and have a backup charger for it. This is just my one time experience but I thought I'd share it

[@Hikingguy]

Sorry to hear that - not sure what was going on but I don't think it's typical. The only time I've had it drain down very quickly was when it was inside overnight and I didn't shut it off. I assumed the "seamless messaging" functionality would know that I'm in cell / wifi range and stop checking the satellites. But it doesn't, the device still checks the sats every hour.

[@marcrobyn4844]

Question, if you are in cell service why would you use this and get charged for text messages? I'm thinking you would disable the Bluetooth to use your data.

[@Hikingguy]

If you text through the app It automatically sends via cell or wifi if available.

[@vrva3138]

If you have no cellular connection and you have not bought subscription for Inreach, can you buy a subscription and activate it using inreach?

[@Hikingguy]

you need a data (wifi or cell) to activate

[@bilaltahir9978]

Does the inreach mini 2 work with the messenger app?

[@BobbyWParkerJr]

Yes it does

[@tommyslavic898]

Does it send you location? On the website it says it can plot your progress and put a breadcrumb trail that can be uploaded in real-time to MapShare page with an active inReach subscription.

[@Hikingguy]

You can include your location with a message

[@tommyslavic898]

@@Hikingguy Its a shame subscription fees are so expensive. I'm a weekend warrior who might go bush 5-10 nights a year. It seems exorbitant to pay the fees even if it gives the family peace of mind. I wonder how much potential subscribers Garmin etc are missing out on because of that reason.

[@annjelaamato4141]

Do the family members have to have the app in order for us to message them?

[@DeneyT16]

No, they do not. Having the app may make it more "seamless" for communicating with family members, but they can receive from and send back to, using the normal sms texting pathway as well.

[@ermin3963]

Can this device connect directly to Epix Gen2 watch for exchanging messages without using cell phone?

[@Hikingguy]

Yes you can use a watch as a remote but it's all on sat - no seamless

[@ermin3963]

@@Hikingguy thank you!

[@FedXBL]

would this still work with a phone with no sim card? like let’s say if you had a phone with a text now number or something

[@Hikingguy]

If the phone was connected to Wifi it would work

[@davidplotkin5173]

Just discovered your website Cris 😁Wow, super info. I'd like recommendation for my situation and will describe here. late 60s, in great shape, day hiker only. Looking to upgrade my equipment for mapping, satellite, SOS etc. Have Apple 7+ phone, will get 15+ in a year. Use AllTrails but don't like how it sometimes simply stops recording in the app. I've seen your vids on Garmin Epix, Apple Ultra, and watched some comments on InReach2...If I want reliable navigation, backtracking, satellite for no-cell zones, and SOS system, and maybe(?) want to send a message occasionally - and have only the iPhone and AllTrails now - what would you recommend for me? (and yes I have plenty of small battery backups). THANK YOU!

[@Hikingguy]

If the phone setup works for you, I'd probably go with an iPhone 15 + Gaia GPS + Motorola Defy. Otherwise if you want something for all conditions, the GPSMAP 67i does the trick.

[@davidplotkin5173]

Thank you for the quick reply. Another early bird like I am! In your recommended set up, what would be my back up for navigation in case my phone did die for some reason? I know you recommend a digital as well as a paper back up. And I’m just not sure I can shell out the money for the 67 I. Thank you again.

[@Hikingguy]

@@davidplotkin5173 sorry just assumed you'd have paper - so final answer iPhone 15 + Gaia GPS + Motorola Defy + paper backup

[@davidplotkin5173]

Thanks again! Maybe I'll see you out there sometime; I'm in Ventura County. @@Hikingguy

[@davidplotkin5173]

@@HikingguyI did buy a defy and was able to get Amazon to return it because bullet went under. I think I will buy a messenger now since I do not need navigation on the device. What is the best way to attach the messenger to my backpack so it does not swing around like it might on a carabiner when I walk?

[@yamilmafud2325]

Does the guy receiving the satelite message needs phone reception in order to answer the message?

[@Hikingguy]

If you send it to a phone yes, if you send it to another inReach, no

[@sidlittlegamer]

no way they really called a cigarette holder, 'tactical'

[@outdoorzee919]

Your videos will play on a phone but not on the TV for some reason. All my other subscription videos play perfectly on the TV, but yours just will not play. Just thought you might want to know. Cheers!

[@bilaltahir9978]

How portable is the messenger vs mini 2?

[@Hikingguy]

If you get a case or store it like I talk about in the video, about the same

[@Jdub970]

@@Hikingguydoes storing it in a case worry you that it could come out snagging on brush. Vs it being clipped in with a clip/cord.

[@Hikingguy]

@@Jdub970 I guess it could happen but I haven't had it happen - if you're doing some serious bushwacking I'd prob put it in the brain of my pack.

[@Jdub970]

Thanks! I’m trying to decide between this and the zoleo messenger for backcountry day hikes for fishing. Which would you recommend?

[@no.9516]

slap velcro to it. without it, its is basically a block compared to the inreaches carbiner and loop.

[@rdkuless]

is this garmin's version of a BIVI STICK..?

[@no.9516]

The bivy stick was bivys answer to garmin. So its more like the other way around.

[@rdkuless]

You need to start out these videos, explaining or defining just what it is.. you talked about the antenna.. but not what it's function is.. Not many even have a clue.. please start out with the basics, define what it is because it is not a common item.. If you said it was a GPS locator, we would understand all the information that followed, but you said, "it does not have a GPS". So what the heck is it... ? i feel like i was tricked into an infomercial and still have no idea what it is.

[@Hikingguy]

This video is a review, not a how-to. I think it might make sense to understand the basics of what a satellite communicator is before watching a review of one. There are lots of videos (like this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aWGanGCqh9V-hLM ) that may be helpful. I also have other videos on my channel explaining all the features of inReach, they may be helpful as well.

[@du3223]

You were tricked by your own lack of effort in finding a video suitable to your level of knowledge (or lack thereof).

[@svenschrecker]

I came to get deeper insight into the Messenger. I don’t need to be spoon-fed a bunch of background I already know, and I don’t need to be entertained. I want a concise account specifically on how the InReach Messenger works. Ignore @rdkuless and the self-proclaimed clueless crowd who need an infomercial to substitute for their inability to comprehend the fundamentals of the content being presented.