Originally Posted by
gpsblake
I guess the battery life on a cellphone would be the killer in not using those apps. Recharging portable battery bricks as I found out with last years tour can be an annoying process, especially when one is stealth camping 90% of the time. If Spot didn't lock you into a year long contract, that would be a very good option.
I guess the old fashioned way of just updating facebook via location check-ins (did I just say old fashioned??) will have to suffice.
If satellite is an option, you should consider a Delorme Inreach - they have freedom plans where you can turn the service on/off, or upgrade/downgrade service, for whatever months you want. It also has the huge advantage over the SPOT of being a 2-way text messenger so you can be reached anytime/anywhere in case of an emergency at home, and you can make calls for help that are of lesser urgency (ie, not life threatening S&R situations... "honey, please send me a taxi"). Most of the adventure motorcycling community I follow (Advrider) is converting over. I've had one for almost a year... it's great.
Note: I primarily got mine for off-grid solo backpacking and motorcycling (where an accident can send you off unseen and unconscious into the woods).