Looking/Learning on GPS/Satellite tracking devices of today

B

Byrdman

New member
I had a SPOT satellite tracking device years ago and liked it. After a stroke and still hard headed about traveling about the country I had to find a solution to allow folks in my family and friends circle keep up with my movements without having to take the time for emails/text/groups text FB post or whatever.
About to head out on the 4 Corners of America Motorcycle ride and same issue but many new gadgets and gizmos now days.
I dont like phone app stuff so Im not using that.
I did like the SPOT as put it in a baggie, wire tie it where it could see the sky.. and folks could log onto a web site when they were awake or just wanted to check. A lot of America on this journey ....and plan to use it on my boat when headed out solo too. Yalls thoughts please
 
I dont like phone app stuff so Im not using that.
Click to expand...

Garmin Inreach is the front runner and devise I use and would suggest to anyone. They offer 4 models with different features. It is possible to use the Explorer, Explorer+, Mini and the GPSMAP 66i to message without a phone app, but its slow and painful. Think T9 or old Nokia cell phone texting. The app stuff really isn't that bad with this product if you're willing to give it a go. The only other down side is it's batteries are internal, so no switching out AA's like other models in the past, but my Explorer will last for most of my 10 day hunting trips, usage depending.

Best of luck,

John
Scallywag
 
Patrick,
You have to look at the cost of the subscription plans, the fee to "activate" and full time vs limited time, as well as the cost of the device.

I feel that for communication the Garmin InReach is easiest to use. The spot trace is a very basic unit-but no messages. The Trace Gen 4 has simple basic tracing and simple pre-planed messages which are "free"--at about $12 a month. Plus about $150 for the unit.

The InReach is going to cost $350 to $400, but basic plan cost about the same $12 to #15 a month (Flex plan).
 
Agree that the Garmin In-reach is a good tool for you to consider. Even if you do not use the convenience of typing on a smartphone, just using the user devised messages may meet your needs. Ours gets a lot of use.
 
I’m another vote for the Garmin InReach. We use it any time we are traveling to let family know where we are, and to let them contact us if there is an emergency at home. As I often bird hunt alone, it’s always in my vest to summon help if I am injured or need assistance.
 
I'll vote for the Garmin InReach. I carry this on all of my outdoor ventures and I am happy with it. I used to carry a SPOT, but upgraded to the Garmin. I do like the standby plan for times when I am not using it which is about $3 a month. Having a device like this makes a huge difference in SAR. I have been rescued in the past while mountaineering and it required a day just to get someone out to the road to find a pay phone. SAR here in Canada can be on the way in less than a hour now in most cases with these things.
 
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