Do you really need a satellite messenger or will AllTrails work in the mountains when you don’t have cell service. Well, we’re going to find out today in this in depth field test here in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.

Do You Need a Satellite Messenger?

I have had several people in the past tell me there’s no reason to have a satellite messenger as you can use many different apps to track where you’re at without spending a lot of money on expensive messengers.

There have been several arguments so today, I am heading out into the mountains, where there will be no cell service to see how well the AllTrails app will do.

The Bottom Line

Using maps on your phone like AllTrails, in areas with no cell service, does work, but it works better if you download the trails you’re going to before leaving home.

From past experiences, I thought this test wouldn’t be successful, but I have to admit that I was wrong. You can see from the images that AllTrails works outside of cell service.

So, Why do I Need a Satellite Messenger?

This answer is simple. The primary reason to have a satellite messenger is not for maps, but for calling Search and Rescue (SOS). The argument about saving money and not buying a satellite messenger is not well-founded, if someone is making the argument that there is a less expensive way to get maps.

It’s not about maps…it’s about getting help when you need it most.

Final Thoughts

You can find less expensive ways to get maps, and there are satellite messengers on the market that don’t offer maps, but do offer S.O.S. services and 1-way or 2-way messaging. The bottom line is that we all have different priorities and ways we like to explore the outdoors.

I would just like to strongly recommend that you carry a satellite messenger with you, not for maps, but for calling Search and Rescue if you or someone you know ever needs it.

Check out the test in the YouTube video below.

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