Garmin 010-01879-00 InReach Mini, Lightweight and Compact Satellite Communicator, Orange

Had one for a month before I unfortunately, lost it and I replaced it with the InReach Explorer+.

A friend and I did a recent backpacking trip in a remote part of Alaska. We were never going to be within 100 miles of a road, and our primary recovery by float-plane would be dependent on our proximity to a sizeable lake. We wanted to keep our families informed of our status, we wanted the DarkSky weather reports, we wanted comms with our pilots, and we thought the InReach SOS service was a nice back-up in case things truly got ugly.

The test messages I sent myself would bounce back 2-4 hours later or Id get an unable to send message 2-4 hours later. Mine device was defective. I hear they work great but I spent over 4 hours setting this up, downloading and setting up the mandatory app (which costs a monthly fee), entering emergency contact information, and waiting for the GPS to connect. This was a huge waste of time. Im glad I tried so many tests before actually using it on the trail.

Muy útil aunque el software es muy básico.

I got 5 InReach Minis as an alternative to satellite phones for emergency packs.

While the device itself and the Garmin interface works great, I received a used vs new unit from Backcountry.com. The item box was bulging when received, the charging cord was out of its packaging and loosely stuffed in the box with the packaging wadded up in the box, the screen cover appeared to be a scrap piece of plastic (not closely fitted as on new items) and there were scuffing/scratches on the back of the unit. I will be ordering another unit, but from a reputable dealer this time; either on Amazon or elsewhere. I didnt expect to pay for a new unit and receive a used item, so this particular sample is going back.

This product is seriously good. It saved my life on more than one occasion. It never gave me trouble

If you plan on mostly using your phone while on a hike or long trip away from cell service, this device provides simple access to satellite communication for standard phone users.

I love this little device. We love hiking off the grid, and needed something to keep in touch as well as call someone in an emergency. This device fit the bill. I feel so much safer.

I would rather be stuck in a cave during a flash flood with no light than to subscribe to Garmin’s freedom plan.