Originally Posted by
DropBarFan
Thanks TulsaJohn, I've read many GPS threads but hadn't seen mention of the SPOT/InReach 2-way satellite option. Not super-cheap but nifty to have the guaranteed communication if necessary. Some years ago I found a website that tracks Iridium satellites & tells when to view, was kinda fun to watch them.
DropBar,
I have used the two-way messaging on InReach numerous times. It worked everytime. However, it is not overly cheap at about 50 cents each or less depending on the plan. I use the plan where I sign up only periodically (Adventure???) and then I choose the plan that best meets that tour. For instance, last summer's 6 week solo ID/MT/WY tour in the national forests I used InReach with messaging (about 50 CUSTOM messages a month) since I would be in plenty of non-cell coverage areas. BTW, 3 different "pre-written" ("This is where I am stopping for the night") messages are free. However, for this spring's Texas Coast tour, I didn't use the InReach since I was in a fairly full coverage area plus I was touring with 3 others. Since the plans are not overly cheap, do your research and determine what is best for you (and/or your spouse). For an upcoming Prudhoe Bay, AK to Inuvick tour in a couple of summers, I will have the InReach for sure. Best, John