Hiking
Trail guides, dangerous-hike lists, hot-weather and winter preparation, and the recurring question of whether you need a satellite communicator at all. Hikers are the people most likely to be alone and out of coverage when something goes wrong, so the communication advice here is direct.
Our position is simple: on any hike where a twisted ankle would leave you stranded, carry a satellite messenger with an SOS button. It weighs a few ounces and it is the difference between a bad day and a search party. The posts explain which device fits day hikes, thru-hikes and international trekking.
Messengers and personal locator beacons are at Satellite Trackers; for a phone on an expedition, see Satellite Phones or rent one.
Hiking questions, answered
Is a satellite messenger enough for hiking?
For most hikers, yes. Two-way texting, location sharing and an SOS button that reaches a 24/7 response centre cover the realistic emergencies. A satellite phone is for when you need voice.
Will my smartphone's satellite SOS do the job?
It sends a short emergency message in the countries and conditions where it is supported, with no ordinary two-way messaging and no coverage guarantee. Treat it as a backup, not the plan.
Do satellite devices work in canyons and forest?
They need a view of the sky. Dense canopy and deep canyons slow or block the signal, so move to a clearing or a ridge before you try to send.
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March 19, 2023
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January 08, 2023
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June 14, 2022
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April 05, 2022
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April 04, 2022
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November 14, 2019
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June 16, 2019
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May 08, 2019