What is the Best Satellite Communicator for Me?
Jerry, from [Me and Her After Kids] met up this last weekend to talk about why satellite communicators are important, then we grouped each of these satellite messengers for what they are best at.
Check out Jerry’s YouTube Channel. Jerry and Candy are out camping and hiking all around Colorado, plus they have a new Truck Pop-up Camper and they have a lot of great advice, and Tips & Tricks they have learned over the years to make your outdoor adventures more comfortable and enjoyable.
Why Satellite Communicators are Important
Within the last month, there have been three critical injuries in the Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), from falls off cliffs, with two of these resulting in helicopter hoists rescues from the Air National Guard. Check out one of the articles by clicking on the image below.
I could go on and on with examples of why it’s important to always carry a satellite communicator or satellite messenger with you, but I think you understand the point I am trying to get across.
Best Camping Communicators
Here are the best Satellite Communicators, and they are perfect for camping if you’re outside cell service.
Best Hiking Communicators
Check out these Satellite Messengers that I rank the highest for hiking.
Best 4-wheel & ATV Communicators
These are some of the best Satellite Communicators for ATV’s or Off-roading.
Best All-in-one Communicators
Garmin GPSMAP 67i- Garmin Explorer Plus (Discontinued)
Most Simple Communicators
Most High Tech Communicators
Best All Around Communicators
Final Thoughts
I have been testing these satellite communicators for 4 years now, and there are things I found along the way that I liked and didn’t like in satellite messengers. My opinions are based on four years of owning and field testing all of these devices, except for the Garmin Tread Series devices.
I would be more than happy to answer any questions you might have or help direct you towards the best satellite communicator for you. Please leave a comment below and I will get back to you within 24 hours, unless I am on one of my outdoor adventures, then it may take a little longer.
Check out this YouTube video below where Jerry and I have a great question and answer session about what satellite messenger may be to best in each category.
Garmin GPSMAP 67i Rugged GPS Handheld with inReach® Satellite Technology, Two-Way Messaging, Interactive SOS, Mapping
- Large 3” sunlight-readable color display for easy viewing
- Enable two-way messaging and location tracking via the 100% global Iridium satellite network, and trigger an interactive SOS to Garmin Response℠, a 24/7 staffed emergency response coordination center (active subscription required; some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communications devices)
- Access preloaded TopoActive mapping from Garmin, view satellite imagery, and navigate with multi-band GNSS support and sensors
- When paired with your compatible smartphone, you can access active weather forecasts and Geocaching Live
- Use with the Garmin Explore website or app on your compatible smartphone to help you plan trips and more
- Get access to a wide variety of premium mapping content delivered directly to your device via Wi-Fi technology with an Outdoor Maps+ subscription
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Sale 
Garmin inReach Mini 2, Lightweight and Compact Satellite Communicator, Hiking Handheld, Orange - 010-02602-00
- Compact, lightweight satellite communicator enables two-way messaging and interactive SOS globally (Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices.).Special Feature:Bluetooth.Water Resistant: Yes
- Navigate back to where you started by using TracBack routing
- Share your location with loved ones back home at any time (active satellite subscription required) by using your MapShare page or with your coordinates embedded in your messages
- Get accurate heading information using the digital compass — even when you’re not moving
- Sync with the Garmin Explore app and website on your compatible smartphone for trip planning and topographical mapping, and create waypoints, courses, activities and collections you can sync to your device
- Pair with Garmin devices, such as wearables and handhelds, and use them to send and receive messages and trigger an SOS (active satellite subscription required)
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Sale 
Garmin Montana 750i, Rugged GPS Handheld with Built-in inReach Satellite Technology and 8-megapixel Camera,Glove-Friendly 5"" Color Touchsreen" (010-02347-00)
- Features rugged military-grade construction and a 5” touchscreen display that’s 50% larger than the previous model; 8-megapixel camera lets you capture images anywhere you go
- Trigger an interactive SOS to the GEOS 24/7 monitoring center — two-way messaging via the 100% global Iridium satellite network (active satellite subscription required; some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communications devices).
- Multi-GNSS (GPS and Galileo) support — plus preloaded TopoActive and City Navigator maps; navigation sensors include 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter
- Pro-connected with ANT+ technology, Wi-Fi connectivity and BLUETOOTH wireless networking, giving you direct-to-device access to BirdsEye Satellite Imagery downloads, location sharing, Connect IQ app support and more
- Compatible with the Garmin Explore website and app to help you manage waypoints, routes, activities and collections, use tracks and review trip data from the field
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Sale 
Garmin inReach® Messenger Handheld Satellite Communicator, Global Two-Way Messaging
- Small, rugged, lightweight satellite communicator enables two-way text messaging even in areas with no cell coverage (Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices)
- Send two-way messages globally; easily text back and forth directly with friends via the Garmin Messenger app, even when you’re out of cellular coverage. (Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices.)
- Group messaging via the Garmin Messenger smartphone app lets you share your adventures with multiple contacts simultaneously — and have group text chats with friends and family
- Check in with contacts directly by using preset messages that do not count toward your allotted text messages (Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices)
- Share your GPS location (Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices)
- Trigger an interactive SOS to the Garmin IERCC 24/7-staffed monitoring and coordination center for help in an emergency (Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices)
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Garmin Alpha 300i Handheld, Advanced Tracking and Training Handheld with inReach® Technology
- Features a vivid sunlight-readable 3.5” capacitive touchscreen display and a button-operated, dog-focused design for quick, minor adjustments
- Easily set up and monitor up to 20 dogs with your compatible dog collars from up to 9 miles away (depending on your dog collar) with up to a 2.5-second update rate
- With an Outdoor Maps+ subscription, you have access to a wide variety of premium mapping content that is regularly updated and wirelessly delivered directly to your Alpha 300i handheld when connected to a wireless network
- Dog list and group management let you keep non-paired dog information in the handheld for easier setup
- Send interactive SOS alerts and two-way messaging via the 100% global Iridium satellite network with inReach satellite technology (active subscription required; some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices; it is the responsibility of the user to know and follow all applicable laws in the jurisdictions where the device is intended to be used)
- Communicate directly with Garmin ResponseSM [global search and rescue coordination center] when there’s an emergency
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Garmin Tread Overland, All-Terrain 8" GPS Navigator with Built in Mapping and Signature Series Cloth
- This Bundle Contains: 1 Garmin Tread Overland, All-Terrain Navigator, Rugged, Built-In Mapping, iOverlander, Ultrabright Display + 1 Signature Series Microfiber Cloth
- Rugged, weather-resistant - IP67 - Withstands incidental exposure to water of up to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes.) All-terrain navigator with an 8â ultrabright display, includes locking magnet-assisted mount for securing in your rig.
- Turn-by-turn trail navigation for unpaved roads and trails using adventure roads and trails map content (Limitations may exist in map data for some road and trail route suggestions. Always defer to all posted road signs and conditions during vehicle operation. The Garmin OpenStreetMap products are intended to be used only as a supplementary travel aid and must not be used for any purpose requiring precise measurement of direction, distance, location or topography.)
- Comprised of OSM, and USFS Motor Vehicle Use Maps. City Navigator road maps for custom street routing takes into account the size and weight of your rig. (Not available in all areas. Entering your vehicleâs profile characteristics does not guarantee your vehicleâs characteristics will be accounted for in all route suggestions. Always defer to all posted road signs and road conditions.)
- Preloaded topographic maps with 3D terrain of North and South America, U.S. public and private landowner information and subscription-free BirdsEye Satellite Imagery via direct-to-device download. Built-in inReach technology offers global satellite communication, two-way text messaging, location sharing and interactive SOS.
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Sale 
Garmin 010-01735-10 inReach Explorer+, Handheld Satellite Communicator with Topo Maps and GPS Navigation
- 100 percent global Iridium satellite coverage enables two way text messaging from anywhere (satellite subscription required)
- Trigger an interactive SOS to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center
- Track and share your location with family and friends. Water rating : IPX7. Battery : Rechargeable internal lithium ion
- Pair with mobile devices using the free earthmate app for access to downloadable maps, U.S. NOAA charts, color aerial imagery and more
- In reach explorerplus device adds preloaded Delorme topo maps with onscreen GPS routing plus built in digital compass, barometric altimeter and accelerometer
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Sale 
ACR Bivy Stick Satellite Communicator - Two-Way Global SMS, GPS Tracker for Hiking Safety, Off-Grid Communication, SOS Emergency Beacon, Satellite Messenger & Location Sharing - iOS/Android App
- GLOBAL SATELLITE COMMUNICATOR & SATELLITE PHONE ALTERNATIVE - 100% global Iridium satellite coverage for two-way SMS text messaging + Email, GPS tracking, maps & navigation, emergency SOS, weather reports, and location sharing. Compatible with iOS & Android apps. Subscription required. Monthly: (Basic $19.99 | Plus $34.99 | Unlimited SALE $39.99). Annual: (Basic $14.99 | Plus $29.99 | Unlimited SALE $38.99). One time 3-month commitment per device, then month-to-month. Plans available globally.
- SOS EMERGENCY RESCUE - Feel safe with Global Rescue's round-the-clock SOS monitoring. Activate SOS with the dedicated button or through the app, communicate with emergency services, and share your GPS location when you need it most. Get rescued anywhere in the world.
- UNLIMITED CHECK-IN MESSAGES & GPS LOCATION SHARING - Effortlessly send unlimited & customizable check-in messages that include your GPS location with this advanced outdoor communication device. Use the dedicated check-in button on the device or through the app to keep your loved ones updated on your whereabouts. A shareable webpage displays a map with your GPS coordinates and a check-in breadcrumb trail, allowing others to follow your journey.
- GROUP MESSAGING & TRACKING - Keep your crew connected with GroupTrack, featuring group messaging and location sharing for up to 12 people. Monitor your team off-grid using the Bivy Stick and app or in-network via a web browser. Ideal for search & rescue, guiding services, remote workers, outfitters, adventure racing, overlanding groups, and more.
- OFFLINE MAPS & NAVIGATION - Download detailed maps from around the world to ensure you're never lost, even without cellular service. Easily navigate and track your location off the grid using device-based GPS with this satellite messenger. The Bivy app offers over 50,000 adventures to explore, with 20 different adventure types available. Monitor your pace, mileage, altitude, and more on your journey.
- TRI-NETWORK COVERAGE & APP-TO-APP MESSAGING - Benefit from least-cost routing with priority given to Wi-Fi, followed by cellular, and then satellite. Effortlessly connect with others using app-to-app messaging, your dedicated phone number, or email. Choose ACR Bivy Stick, the leading alternative to satellite phones for unrestricted two-way communication, and the freedom to initiate and receive messages confidently.
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Sale 
ZOLEO Satellite Communicator – Two-Way Global SMS Text Messenger & Email, Emergency SOS Alerting, Check-in & GPS Location – Android iOS Smartphone Accessory
- Global satellite messaging: Stay connected beyond cell coverage, use ZOLEO with your smartphone to transmit text messages and e-mails over the Iridium satellite network, cellular or Wi-Fi using the lowest-cost network available (service plan required)
- Emergency SOS: Send an SOS alert with your GPS location to 24/7 emergency monitoring center if something goes wrong, or access Medical Assist for non-emergency help
- Dedicated SMS number: An assigned ZOLEO SMS number and email enables contacts to reach out directly when you're off the grid
- Check-in: Send unlimited check-ins via the ZOLEO device or app, included in your plan
- Location sharing: Include GPS coordinates in a message or check-in, or share waypoints at regular intervals (optional add-on)
- Rugged with long battery life: IP68-rated for superior durability; over 200 hours of battery life
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Sale 
SPOT X with Bluetooth 2-Way GPS Satellite Messenger | SOS Protection | Handheld Portable 2-Way | for Hiking, Camping, Cars | 2.7in Display | Globalstar Network Coverage | Subscription Required
- SYNC WITH BLUETOOTH: Connect to SpotX to cellphone so you can communicate with family or even search and rescue; Use as a standalone communication device with it's own dedicated US mobile number to receive messages
- PEACE OF MIND: Send S.O.S. to 24/7 Search & Rescue service, message back and forth about the nature of your emergency, receive confirmation when help is on the way; Message any cell number or email address virtually anywhere
- GLOBALSTAR SATELLITE & SPOT products use GPS to determine location and transmit GPS coordinates to others; SPOT users can notify friends, family or emergency rescue their exact GPS coordinates
- WHAT'S IN THE BOX: SpotX Device, strap and carabiner, micro usb data/power cable, quick start guide, SOS mirrored sticker, warranty card and kickstand
- PURCHASE, ACTIVATE, EXPLORE: Grab a Spot X 2-way Satellite Messenger; Activate by selecting your service plan; Get out there and explore the world with peace of mind
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Sale 
Spot Gen 4 Satellite GPS Messenger | Handheld Portable GPS Messenger for Hiking, Camping, Outdoor Activities | Globalstar Satellite Network Coverage | Subscription Applicable
- MEANT FOR ADVENTURE: Spot Gen4 provides critical, life-saving line of communication when you travel beyond cell towers; Let family know you're ok or push the SOS button to send your GPS to emergency responders if you need help
- NO CELL PHONE OR SERVICE-NO PROBLEM: With the Tracking feature Gen4 can transmit location updates when you are moving and when you stop; Keep one in your child's backpack for the walk home
- GLOBALSTAR SATELLITE & SPOT products use GPS to determine location and transmit GPS coordinates to others; SPOT users can notify friends, family or emergency rescue their exact GPS coordinates
- WHAT'S IN THE BOX: SPOT Gen4 device, Strap and Carabiner, USB Cable, Batteries and quick start guide; Subscription required; Two service plans available
- PURCHASE, ACTIVATE, EXPLORE: Grab a Spot Gen4; Activate by selecting your service plan; Get out there and explore the world with peace of mind
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Sale 
Motorola Defy Satellite Link - Rugged Handheld GPS Communicator, Two-Way Global SMS Text Messenger, Emergency SOS Alerting - Android iOS Compatible, Black
- Service plans required - as low as $4.99 per month for SOS satellite assist
- Provides advanced 2-way satellite-enabled messaging. Compatible with iOS 14 and Android 10 and later smartphones
- Stay in contact wherever you go—reliable satellite coverage keeps you firmly on the grid even if you're off the edge of the map, ensuring you're in touch with those who matter
- Simply press the check-in button and send your coordinates or a message to your loved ones, giving them peace of mind whilst you do your thing
- SOS assist allows you to check in and trigger SOS without a connection; unlimited SOS included with every service plan
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Sale
Garmin 010-01735-10 inReach Explorer+, Handheld Satellite Communicator with Topo Maps and GPS Navigation
- 100 percent global Iridium satellite coverage enables two way text messaging from anywhere (satellite subscription required)
- Trigger an interactive SOS to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center
- Track and share your location with family and friends. Water rating : IPX7. Battery : Rechargeable internal lithium ion
- Pair with mobile devices using the free earthmate app for access to downloadable maps, U.S. NOAA charts, color aerial imagery and more
- In reach explorerplus device adds preloaded Delorme topo maps with onscreen GPS routing plus built in digital compass, barometric altimeter and accelerometer
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