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.

[@leomullen3]

Taking my boys out for their first backpacking trip and want the peace of mind that the messenger gives me. Doesn’t weigh enough to deter me from taking it.

[@wr1120]

If you can afford the bucks it's always a good idea to carry one just in case.

[@DrJohn493]

As an older hiker, backpacker and fly fisherman, my InReach is peace of mind. I also keep it handy during tornado season and when I'm travelling backcountry 4WD roads. Looking forward to comparing capabilities with my 15 Pro Max when ios 18 is released.

[@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.

[@pyronymph-868]

My Cardiologist recommended a satellite messenger; not for emergencies, but to get help from friends if I got overwhelmed/hurt but not seriously injured/medical emergency.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Good Call!

[@vetonthepath7693]

Widowmaker survivor.. exact same reason Medicine man

[@janisstewart2217]

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

[@KarlGottshalk]

Yup.

[@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.

[@lmuscat]

I've carried my inReach Mini all over just for the SOS button. Last year, it saved someone's life in remote Patagonia. Made the cost and minor inconvenience which I had previously often complained about seem completely inconsequential.

[@LoremIpsum1970]

They're not 100% reliable, but local SAR capabilities seem to be the deciding factor if or when someone's going to get to you. HikingGuy's got some great vids on all that.

[@gjcoop5625]

Many people's rationale: I don't need to carry one because someone else will come along, and I can use theirs. I suddenly realised their usefulness when I ended up headfirst down a 5 m bank and thought being on a solo trip in mid-winter on a remote island in the south of New Zealand that has maybe 6 parties a year going through, that my body may never be found. I don't carry it on my pack because I've seen my pack floating down a raging river in full flood. It's in my hip belt. I've never used it in more than 50 solo trips, all more than a week long, subsequently, but when I do need it, I have it.

[@silverdale3207]

Yep, is easy to get lost in NZ, there are a few people we've never found in the bush, the In-reach is a game changer.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@Gambeli02]

I had an agreement with my brother's family to check in everyday I'm out solo backpacking. I use a Garmin Mini. One evening, although my Garmin and the tethered Earthmate claimed my signal went out -- it failed to send my message to all my contacts. Next morning, I was happily hiking along and got notice that a county deputy had been dispatched to do a welfare check on me. I was able to get a signal through and stop him before he got a couple miles from his station. Now, I do morning AND evening check ins, AND a "current location" so they know which trail I'm on. It's a pain in arse to have to remember to always send a signal, but it keeps the family happy.

[@silverdale3207]

I just share my track with family so they always know where I am.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@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 😅

[@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.

[@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.

[@Eric12358]

Watching that SOS tv show scared the hell out of me. So i got one. every one of those tragic true stories wouldn't have happened if they just had an SOS device.

[@eda715]

Years of backpacking I never had one. Bought one and my first trip with it, I needed it. Would have been in a really tight spot without it.

[@Shraps]

My best friend went missing hiking solo a few years ago. The incident made me nervous to go outdoors solo. I recently picked up an inreach which has given me the confidence to get back out there. 400 is worth the piece of mind. I wish my homie had one.

[@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.

[@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.

[@bobertz8251]

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

[@christinevinnie2157]

As a solo, female, Aussie hiker I carry a plb. I hike on trails that have a high population of venomous snakes ( 2 in the top 5 deadliest). If bitten first aid is to stay still/stop moving. I’ve been on hikes where I haven’t seen another person for days. So PLB is my rescue if needed (oh, and it’s free here in Australia).

[@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.

[@CJoy076]

I was section hiking and mine was great to arrange transport when there is no service. Also once when the temperature was unexpectedly hot and I couldn't make a pick up point in time, saved a lot of worry.

[@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...

[@lindseyadams8627]

I take it with me hiking/camping and use it to update my husband when I'm staying in an area out of service. Also, used it for communicating when my sister-in-law and I drove to AK since we were in pretty remote areas most of the trip.

[@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

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@sherrierifenberg2199]

I started carrying one in 2012 on my canoe trips to northern Canada. I have had to use it once in 2020…way way worth its weight in gold! I now carry it on my hiking trips for piece of mind for me and family. But then again, I am 67…

[@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!

[@chemistryflavored]

The only reason my husband and I got one was for my family because they needed peace of mind. It is nice to check the weather which I do use but I’ve never used to navigate. Also my husband has started having back spasm problems so it is really nice to know I have it if I need it. But to be honest, sometimes it’s a chore since they now want us to check in with them when we break camp, stop for lunch, and set up camp. There are days I forget or when the GPS signal is poor it doesn’t send and I get a message from my in laws and it makes me feel like I have a cell phone which I hate since I like to disconnect completely and go places without service. So if you do use one, set boundaries because some family members (especially the older ones) may treat it like a cell phone number for texting.

[@David-e1b3t]

Muscle cramps are sometimes fixed with Potassium, Magnesium and Calcium pills (one of each, all at once).

[@chemistryflavored]

@@David-e1b3t thanks, his are actually tied to a bulging disc so while he takes supplements to help, physical therapy has been more helpful but eventually he’ll need surgery.

[@LiseWrigley]

EXCELLENT advice. I might not even tell them I have one unless an emergency comes up. Then I'll have to convince them I'm not a scammer I guess, but it would be worth the hassle. I just drove 60 km to visit them and back. Regular highway, done it many times. My mother called twice while I was driving and my sister once plus a text " mom is worried. Please call." Geez. I explained to them how dangerous it is to phone someone in transit. They still called me as I drove home again. Next visit I will either surprise them or turn my phone fully off and keep in trunk. By the way, I'm in my 60s, have been driving since I was 17 and never had an accident. I'm a Big Girl now. Jeez. Boundaries. Yes.

[@chemistryflavored]

@@LiseWrigley Haha yup sounds like my in laws. If we don’t check in within an hour of when they expect I swear they think we’ve died or something despite us backpacking for years without an SOS. One reason I didn’t mention why we got the SOS was for wildfires after a really bad season and one started close to where we were backpacking, honestly if it weren’t for fires and my husband I would have held off getting one.

[@LiseWrigley]

@@chemistryflavored Wild fires are a concern here too. And we often camp up-island where there is no cell service. Which is kind of nice really.

[@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.

[@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)

[@lolobeans]

Keeps the family happy and as a solo hiker i do like the peace of mind that if i do need help I'll be able to request it. I use the messeging function more than i anticipated i would, it's nice to be able to chat a bit sometimes!

[@44NorthWyo]

I’ve been using a Spot since 2014. I mostly got it to send a message to my husband when I got to camp each night. Most of where I go doesn’t have cell service and that’s originally why I got it. A pilot friend of mine has been using a Spot for many years. I think 2008-ish is when he started with it. He would have me watch it for him when he flew into backcountry airstrips. My dad has been using the Garmin InReach for a long time also. Again, in Montana wilderness and backcountry with no cell service. Now I use mine when I go ride my horse (usually alone) in the case I have a horse wreck.

[@44NorthWyo]

I should add that I don’t use the tracking feature on my Spot. It is purely for sending a message to my family or an SOS in an emergency. For navigation, I always have a paper map of where I’m at. I also have a Garmin gps and iPhone. I rarely pack the gps device.

[@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.

[@stephenmasciocchi1411]

I got my InReach Mini when I started doing solo hikes and backpacking trips. It gave my wife peace of mind that I could send a message to her (I mostly use the preset ones) as well as have the SOS button just in case. Now that I have it I even bring it on trips with my wife, and those preset messages go out to our Moms. I even bring it kayaking and trail running, just in case.

[@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.

[@sirsir108]

I wasn't going to get one but a few years back I twisted my ankle and pulled my calf muscle and while I was crawling to get ice I thought of some of the remote places I hike alone so the next day I crutched into the store and got one

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

YIKES! Glad you are ok!

[@boathemian7694]

I used to carry ham radio for emergency comms. Never needed it for that, but it made my people feel better. My awesome wife got me a Spot in 2012 and it was fun to post my adventures on Facebook.

[@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.

[@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.

[@klammi85]

NEVER needed one!!...until last summer when i was resqued with a helicopter due to injury😂😅 without the inreach, oh boy..

[@HeatherRochè-e3s]

I was on the AT last year, fell and got injured, had to get off trail, my friend had the in-reach and was able to communicate when our phones had no signal. After that trip, I bought my own, strictly for the SOS, but side benefit being able to communicate back home when there is no phone signal

[@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.

[@bobbyboombeck]

Solo hiker here. I use the Zoleo and love it. I use it to stay in touch with my wife and daughter when I’m the back country or overseas hiking. They like to know I’m alright. I typically text in the morning and evening and otherwise forget that it’s there. It’s nice to receive a text from them from time to time. It helps feel like they are near. SOS I’ve never had to use, but I like that it has that feature. Peace of mind, mostly for my wife, but for me too.

[@leestamm3187]

It's insurance. You don't need it until you need it, but when you do, you're damn glad you have it. They're still better than a phone at this point, and most are more durable, too.

[@JulesKM]

Chances are that you won’t need it, but there are so many people who’ve lost their lives in heartbreaking situations because they didn’t have a satellite communicator. All it takes is an ankle roll to end up hurt and off the trail in a non visual place. If you fall in a crevice or down a hill, it doesn’t matter how close you are to civilization, no one can see you. There are people who have been literally RIGHT by the trail and died slowly over days while people desperately searched for them because they were too injured to move or call out. I hate how expensive these devices and subscriptions are, but I absolutely do not want to go out that way. I got a good deal on an inreach mini in a sale, and I keep it with me on the trail just for emergencies. I don’t use it for regular communication. For that I use my phone when I have service. I have used it for navigation on occasion. It is also nice to know that my family can always reach me in the case of an emergency at home.

[@LeeLee-gy7gp]

Nah

[@BackcountryTreks]

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

[@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.

[@RogerMassicotte]

I had a Delorme In Reach device in pack while doing the Grand Canyon R2R in October 2012. I did use it to help a woman who had heat exhaustion. The monitoring center contacted the Park Rangers who gave me instructions. The unit I carried was the first iteration of the InReach and it was almost the size of a brick 😅.

[@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.

[@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.

[@ayurgal]

I was backpacking with some friends a couple of years ago. On the second day out, I saw multiple messages on my InReach from wife which was very unusual. She was asking if I was ok and if the forest fire was any where near us. I told her what fire. Apparently, the day we started out the Creek Fire started. We got trapped for three days behind the fire and needed to get helicopter rides home. I am never going backpacking without one again.

[@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

[@jtperez657]

"Better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it." Great video Darwin

[@Lightning613]

Very true for a variety of tools . . .

[@SophisticatedDogCat]

By that logic carry a shotgun for bears.

[@Lightning613]

@@SophisticatedDogCat it’s a tool.

[@SophisticatedDogCat]

@@Lightning613 That has absolutely no substance to what I said. Try again, Junior.

[@jtperez657]

@@SophisticatedDogCat 👍

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@mezmerya5130]

I've participated in too many volunteer search efforts to consider ever going without one solo.

[@noyopacific]

I have an InReach Mini. I had been only carrying it as an SOS device. I thought I might send occasional messages but never did. Rather than paying for the required subscription to use the InReach I got a Personal Locator Beacon (a PLB, model: ResQLink.) The initial cost of a PLB is higher but it doesn't require a subscription. PLB's are supposed to transmit more reliably with a 3X stronger signal and it uses the larger SARSAT satellite network. It is supposed to work better in marginal conditions like deep canyons, heavy tree cover and bad weather.

[@kerrir1955]

This is the one piece of kit I don’t have that I’ve been holding off on popping on because of the subscription costs but as I get older and I’m always hiking alone it’s making more sense.

[@wohlhabendermanager]

I have one, and almost needed one the first time I brought it on a trip. It was a pretty steep mountain that I needed to traverse (the slope was from north to south, and I needed to go from west to east) and I just leaned forward a tiny little bit to see where I can place my foot next. Next thing I know is I am slipping down the slope. Luckily I immediatly found a foot hold and overall I think I slipped like 5cm at maximum, but this little octosecond, where I noticed I was slipping without knowing where to place my foot yet was a really shocking experience. If I had slipped further down I definitely would've broken one leg, if not both. Things I learned: DON'T LEAN FORWARD WITH YOUR BACKPACK ON! At least not if you are sitting on a mountain slope. As for navigation: If I can, I preload the trail data onto the device. It's good to check if I am still on the right track. I wouldn't use it as my only device, though.

[@SasSaga]

I’m 58 and live in Texas. I don’t leave home without mine , even when just driving across Texas. There are many places with no cell service, and I keep mine with me in my vehicle. Of course, when backpacking, I don’t go out without mine. If I don’t need it for me, I may need it for someone else….

[@maxwanders]

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

[@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.

[@PaulaRichy]

Solely carried for SOS emergency. I have had my Inreach since 2019, got one after twisting my ankle whilst out walking solo in the hills and struggled to find assistance. Gives me peace of mind I can now reach out for assistance if needed

[@AndrewWisler]

I’ve used the InReach Mini for years, on all my backpacking trips, but it is especially handy for group youth trips I am leading. The Mapshare feature is great reassurance for families to track our progress, and we’ve used the satellite texting several times to coordinate transportation when we’ve had a group member that needed to get picked up. Cell coverage has been improving in recent years, but even in NW Pa where we travel it can’t be counted on consistently. Haven’t used the SOS feature, but it’s a real comfort to my family and the families of the kids we’re leading on our trips.

[@darchgirladventures4417]

It was a requirement from my children’s father to carry one when I started backpacking with them. I had the bulky delorme version originally. Have never hit the SOS but have message for rescue twice - once for a person who had a seizure, the second time when my kid spilt a lot of boiling water on her leg and we were at least 3 days from getting to an exit point. Mostly I use it to message my mom who worries about me and children’s dad who worries about them.

[@neemancallender9092]

A vital piece of safety equipment This is the safety margin that might save your life Don’t leave home without it 15 minutes from my house has no cell phone reception All I need to twist my ankle and I can be in serious trouble Also when in the backcountry to let my loved ones I am fine at the end of day Hiked 50 years without one because they did not exist

[@JasonLumactod23]

I only have it to appease my wife’s fear of me getting eaten by a bear or some other emergency. I do use it to tell time though 😂

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

It's a fancy clock most times 😂

[@iviewthetube]

In Banff NP, at least they were able to find their half eaten bodies because they had the Garmin.

[@silverdale3207]

Sorry to tell you, but she knows they have to find the body before they'll pay the life insurance.😁

[@Suz_place]

I hike on my own at age 63. I send message to husband because he worries about my safety. Northern Michigan has many gaps in cell service. So this is helpful. Also SOS feature is a comfort to me.

[@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.

[@rnmcginnis]

One thing to remember. All SOS and messaging devices need a good view of the sky to connect with the satellites. They may not connect in canyons, deep valleys, or under heavy treecover.

[@LoremIpsum1970]

get the 67i.

[@VenturingValerie]

​@LoremIpsum1970 Does the 67i have a different connection to the satellites that other versions? And are there any other brands that compare to that connection as well?

[@LoremIpsum1970]

@@VenturingValerie Apart from SOS and messaging, it's the same as the 67 [ GPS / Galileo / Beidou / QZSS / IRNSS, Multi-band, 6' reliable accuracy] Hikingguy has three videos on this.

[@sagehiker]

I found in practice, if set a messenger out in the most open spot you can find in heavy cover or canyon bottom, leave it be with good orientation, signals do get thru in 16-20 minutes. Less with Spot, more with ones that use the Iridium satellite network. If you are moving constantly in canyons or cover, the less likely to have connection.

[@LoremIpsum1970]

@@sagehiker Though that assumes you're in a condition to move to that 'best' place or someone else is. Even so, finding out local SAR capabilities beforehand might be a good idea --> "inReach SOS: What REALLY Happens (And What Might Not)"

[@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.

[@drfiehlgood]

Good to keep challenging yourself on the sketchy stuff. Stay safe man.

[@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.

[@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).

[@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!

[@ronaldmcdonald3965]

I would carry one in the 21st century. 1986 in Arctic, I left letters with route and timing with the Ranger on how to search for us if we don't come out in time. In that trip, no phone, no GPS, no trail, map and compass, 1:250,000 paper map.

[@kaishinbrough7639]

For what it's worth, I carry the Garmin messenger, which is I think about $100 cheaper than the inreach mini, works on the same Satellite Network, has the same SAR insurance plan, etc.

[@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.

[@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.

[@johneason6540]

I have carried one since 2019. I'm a 72yo solo backpacker. On the insistence of my daughter. To date I have not needed to semmon help. Does have a great 7 day weather forcast feature. If I need it, I will use it.❤

[@trevor.richmond]

My inreach saved my bacon this weekend. My dogs paws got covered in tree sap, we had not seen anyone in a day. 31km back, and no help around as in Banff National park. No cell services. Used it to reach out to get help to solve the sap problem and come up with non emergency rescue plan. My backup exit plan was a no go. (Lip balm for Pine sap) We got it sorted out and my partner and Banff Dispatch had options if my dog was unable to move after we reached camp. The other reason lots of my running friends have them is body recovery. We had a number of people go missing never to be recovered on long runs in BC. So I turn on tracking do in case I do meet an untimely demise my family will be able to find my body. It up to everyone to make a risk assessment, for me the communication part and recovery come before the SOS. Great video as always, talking about this stuff is import.

[@jonmorgan5725]

Got one for the sos and so my wife would have peace of mind of being able to communicate with me and knowing where I was on trail.

[@jimmeek8621]

I’m an older guy (past retirement age) and I appreciate the backup when hiking alone, even on day hikes. Since I live alone no one would notice if I didn’t make it home. The tracking feature would let my emergency contact (in another state) know where they should look for me if I fail to report that I have returned. Another thought: the monthly Garmin subscription is half the cost (or less) than those emergency communicators (“I fell and I can’t get up!”) marketed to seniors!