I don’t spend as much time alone in the no cell zone as I used to, but I still do, and even with another one or two people on a trail crew if we are out of cell range, which is quite often in New York and elsewhere, we “always” have had inReach. inReach uses the iridium satellite network to reach emergency services. Now some phones, Apple in particular, offer an SOS option. It’s hard enough for me to stomach having an iPhone these days given Zuckerberg’s Rump connections, other questionable behaviors, and that Apple uses Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite network. Thankfully similar features are available on some Android phones, and with other satellite networks.
Beyond the conundrum of trying to divest from schmucks, should I still shell out $30 a month for a Garmin inReach? Or a new device to replace the broken one? I can’t seem to justify the Garmin device or bill anymore. However, when I had my own inReach I could also text my partner after work if I was to be without cell service after working hours or overnight, which is still common for me. Thankfully sending text messages is still possible without Garmin.
Another option is the Globestar satellite network used by SPOT, but there is an additional monthly fee like Garmin beyond your cell service fees. And SPOT devices aren’t much cheaper than a Garmin unit. Garmin does have inReach capable watches now which is nice, but you have to pay a monthly inReach fee. I am already tied to more subscription fees than I like to admit, freeing myself from one of them was quite liberating in spite of the slight trepidation I have in regards to the reliability of a cell phone in an emergency situation. Hopefully Garmin will eventually create a one time charge option. I suspect inReach is taking a hit along with SPOT anyway given the new SOS cell phone options.
I am now without an inReach mainly because the unit broke, but I quickly cancelled the service because I couldn’t seem to justify it or getting a new device, though my Garmin watch is capable. For some reason I felt more secure with something like a Garmin or a SPOT. However, I keep telling myself that as long as I have a backup battery, I don’t misplace my phone in the wilderness, or some other thing happens I am hopeful my phone or another will be the needed EMS link. Granted I or someone else might have to hike or crawl out of a hollow to “see” satellites, but that’s not much different than another +/-$30 a month for SPOT or Garmin.
My hopes are that the tech will only get better, but it is still comforting to know that I can still actually escape even satellite connections.
Be safe out there, from pickpockets and all.
Two More
Two other options a reader suggested are: picoarps (more on APRS) and reccoo reflectors (80 meters (1/2 mile) through air, 20 meters (65 ft) through packed snow, 30 meters (100 ft) on avalanche debris). The distance and requirements are a little more restrictive than a SPOT, Garmin, or cell phone assuming it works, but they might meet your specific needs more neatly and cheaply. The picoarps seems to have the most potential and versatility as compared to other devices, and might continue to be developed with more features. There is no monthly fee as far as I know, but a radio license might be required.