Satelite Phone Recommendation

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loopback1
Posts: 19
Joined: Thu May 20, 2021 4:42 pm

Satelite Phone Recommendation

Post by loopback1 »

Looking for feedback on the best Satellite phone and provider for emergencies and minimal communication when camping in North America.

SMS and data would be nice to haves, but not required.

I'm currently looking between the Iridium (probably 9575) and Blue Cosmo Inmarsat IsatPhone 2.1.

Thanks in advance
DoTheMath
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Location: The Plains

Re: Satelite Phone Recommendation

Post by DoTheMath »

My father uses a Garmin inReach when he camps and hunts in the CO mountains. He's been happy with it. It allows for two-way texting via satellite and pairs with a smartphone as well.

I realize this is the opposite of what you're asking for, but others might find it useful.
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livesoft
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Re: Satelite Phone Recommendation

Post by livesoft »

I have a Garmin inReach Mini. It is NOT a phone, but does allow satellite text messages. It is arguably the best / lightest device out there though there are new devices coming on the market all the time. It has an SOS button, too.

Furthermore, one can turn on tracking, so that folks back at home can see where the device is located and one has a memory of where they went. Of course, this can eat up the battery, but Garmin devices are rechargeable easily from a lightweight portable power bank. But if one forgets to turn on tracking or perhaps keeps it off on purpose, then no tracking for the home folks.

I have rented satellite phones for something like $15 a day plus talktime if used.

And of course, satellite communicators do not work in caves nor narrow canyons with steep sides.
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thinair
Posts: 34
Joined: Mon Dec 31, 2018 7:45 am

Re: Satelite Phone Recommendation

Post by thinair »

Another vote for Garmin Inreach. Both the phone app (Earthmate) and bluetooth connection to my iPhone seemed to have improved stability while I was in Alaska last month. It uses the Iridium satellite network and will function world-wide. I can suspend and restart my data plan as needed (I assume that feature is generally available; I've had mine for several years).
thedane
Posts: 63
Joined: Mon Jun 11, 2018 7:25 pm

Re: Satelite Phone Recommendation

Post by thedane »

Get a Garmin InReach. I've used mine from Canada to Antarctica. It is an amazing device.
It utilizes the Iridium satellite network, so you have true global coverage.

Texting only, no voice. Which has never been a problem for me. The tracking feature is a nice optional feature as well.
It also includes a emergency SOS button https://support.garmin.com/en-US/?faq=d ... b0Zh8L4El6 on the side that establishes communications with GEOS for emergency response. I strongly recommend to get the associated search and rescue (SAR) insurance to go along with it.

If you want actual voice, get a device that uses the Iridium network. Be ready for latency, clear line of sight to the sky, bulky devices, etc.
teCh0010
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Joined: Mon Oct 31, 2011 11:20 am

Re: Satelite Phone Recommendation

Post by teCh0010 »

+1 for inreach.
rockstar
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Re: Satelite Phone Recommendation

Post by rockstar »

I use an inreach mini. The safety plan isn't expensive. REI just had these on sale too.
livesoft
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Re: Satelite Phone Recommendation

Post by livesoft »

I wanted to add one more note about these devices: It can take a while to "lock in" on the constellation of satellites that the device uses for text messages. Do not expect to turn it on and be able to send a message that will be received seconds later. The device can find satellites faster if it has not moved far in position or it has been a short time since it last was used. I will not explain the details of why, but I fully expect someone else to jump in and do so.
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Topic Author
loopback1
Posts: 19
Joined: Thu May 20, 2021 4:42 pm

Re: Satelite Phone Recommendation

Post by loopback1 »

It was not what I planned, but given the feedback I think I'm going to try the inReach. Thanks everyone!
cyclist
Posts: 321
Joined: Fri Jun 21, 2013 9:04 am

Re: Satelite Phone Recommendation

Post by cyclist »

Good choice.

The InReach mini is 4 ounces you’ll be happy to carry.

Sure, texting that way is a little slower than usual on your phone - but you still use your phone to do it, and it works anywhere.

I sold mine a couple of years ago because I had no near-term need for it and because I was betting that some other satellite network would emerge to make it obsolete.

That hasn’t happened yet and doesn’t appear to be happening any time soon. You should get good use from your purchase.

Cyclist
certifiedfordtec
Posts: 13
Joined: Mon Apr 10, 2017 7:31 pm

Re: Satelite Phone Recommendation

Post by certifiedfordtec »

I have the Zoleo communicator. Has similar functions as the Garmin. Works well when I use it. No phone at my cabin so it's nice to be able to tell the wife that I am ok.
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Taz
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Re: Satelite Phone Recommendation

Post by Taz »

Several Garmin handheld GPS units have the inReach function as well. I have the 66i (wait until Black Friday or closer to Christmas). You can use preset text messages, the "pick-a-letter" keyboard, or your smartphone. Of course if I had money to burn I'd get a SAT-Phone as well. :D :D
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