Garmin
Gear Guide: Satellite Messaging Devices (“Messengers”)
This gear guide summarizes the category of satellite messaging-centric devices, i.e., devices that focus on satellite messaging as its primary, rather than secondary, function. This is in contrast to navigation-centric devices (which usually offer integrated mapping on the device), such as the Garmin inReach Explorer or Garmin GPSMap.
DetailsEpisode 109 | How Fishnet Works
In episode 109 of the Backpacking Light podcast we’re going to learn how fishnet base layers work.
DetailsEpisode 108 | EI Coyote Quilts and Photo Satellite Messaging
On episode 108 of the Backpacking Light podcast, Nikki Stavile interviews Brian Noakes of El Coyote quilts, and we talk about a new satellite messaging device that can now send photos and voice memos.
DetailsGarmin inReach Messenger Plus Review
The Garmin inReach Messenger Plus can send short text, photo and audio messages, weighs 4.1 ounces and has an MSRP of $500.
DetailsUltralight, Ultra-Performance Backcountry Electronics (Revised and Updated)
In this updated gear guide, I’ll provide some insight into the backcountry electronics I use, discuss their use cases, and explain why I chose those brands and models.
DetailsNavigation and Communication Devices: Strengths, Limitations, and Use Cases
In this video, I will cover various types of navigation and communications devices, their benefits and limitations, and use case scenarios where you might use one or a combination of multiple devices.
DetailsBackpacking Light Staff Picks: Our Favorite Gear
Our staff selects their favorite hiking, backpacking, and other backcountry gear that they’ve used over the past year – the next edition of our infamous Staff Picks!
DetailsEpisode 90 | Alpaca Wool Base Layers
In today’s episode of the Backpacking Light podcast we’re going to talk about four season tents, a new ABC watch that could dethrone the Garmin Fenix, and alpaca wool fabrics used for next-to-skin base layer apparel.
DetailsGarmin Epix Watch
Gear reviews from our staff and members, buy/sell used, shopping tools, and more about the Garmin epix Pro (Gen 2) Sapphire Edition.
DetailsStaff Picks 2022
Updated: Click here for 2023 Staff Picks. Each year, our staff selects their favorite backcountry gear from the past year, and we look forward to you sharing your favorite gear of the year as well in the forum comments below!
Details2022 Backpacking Light Members Choice Awards
First annual Members Choice Awards – what gear do our members use and love as we near the end of 2022?
DetailsHiking and Backpacking Injuries and Other Medical Issues Dominant inReach SOS Incidents
Data from 10,000 inReach SOS incidents show that hikers and backpackers needing emergency assistance for injuries and other medical issues is the predominant inReach use case.
DetailsEpisode 68 | Unpacking the New Garmin inReach Messenger
In today’s gear short episode of the Backpacking Light podcast, we’re going to talk about the brand new Garmin inReach Messenger and how it fits into the broader market of satellite communications devices for backcountry users.
DetailsGarmin inReach Messenger
Gear reviews from our staff and members, buy/sell used, shopping tools, and more about the Garmin inReach Messenger.
DetailsGarmin inReach Messenger (Preview/Updated)
The Garmin inReach Messenger provides seamless messaging across cellular, WiFi, and satellite networks for only 4.0 ounces. It offers some compelling features over its closest competitor, the Zoleo Satellite Communicator, including an on-device display that makes it a viable standalone device when used without a smartphone.
DetailsCan Apple’s New iPhone 14 Replace Your Garmin inReach?
Should/will the iPhone 14 replace my Garmin inReach (or similar satellite messaging devices)?
DetailsPushing the SOS button on the Garmin inReach Mini in Jasper National Park
“I was suddenly seized by an inability to breathe: the world went black and I was bent over gasping for air, then passed out and collapsed, falling into the marsh.”
DetailsDiscussing the Garmin inReach Mini 2 with Garmin Senior Product Manager Chip Noble
In this video interview, Ryan Jordan and Chip Noble (Senior Product Manager at Garmin) discuss the new features of the Garmin inReach Mini 2, including its improved battery life.
DetailsGarmin inReach Mini 2
Gear reviews from our staff and members, buy/sell used, shopping tools, and more about the Garmin inReach Mini 2.
DetailsGarmin Fenix Series Watches
The Garmin Fenix Series is our pick for full-featured outdoor watches with reliable fitness tracking. Most models include GPS navigation and tracking of mileage and elevation, combined with heart rate…
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