garmin

Episode 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.

Garmin 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.

Ultralight, 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.

How to Plan a Backpacking Trip: Skills, Tools, and Resources

A curated guide to Backpacking Light resources on how to plan a backpacking trip - gear, skills, podcasts, forums, research, education, and more.

Hiking 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.

Episode 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.

Garmin 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.

Can Apple’s New iPhone 14 Replace Your Garmin inReach?

Should/will the iPhone 14 replace my Garmin inReach (or similar satellite messaging devices)?

Followed in Plain Sight

Shilletha Curtis recounts a harrowing encouter and invites the reader to see the world through her eyes.

GPS: The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly

BPL author Rex Sanders tackles the pros and cons of navigating by GPS in a short blog post that includes links for further info.

Spot X Review

The Spot X ( 7 oz / 198 g, $199.99) is a rechargeable two-way satellite messenger with a QWERTY Keyboard among other features.

2019 Staff Picks

The Backpacking Light staff offer their ultralight and other gear recommendations for lightweight backpacking, hiking, and camping.

Episode 14 | Training for Backpacking

It’s no secret: the more physically prepared you are for a backpacking trip, the more you are going to enjoy yourself. But what are the most effective ways to reach optimal backpacking condition? That’s the topic of today’s BPL SKILLS SHORT: training.

Staff Picks 2018: Our Favorite Backpacking Gear of the Year

Backpacking Light's editorial team, guides, contributors provide their favorite gear choices in BPL's Staff Picks gear guide for 2018.

Publisher’s Gear Guide (2019)

My personal recommendations for ultralight and lightweight backpacking gear for 2018-2019 - gear that I've used all year in 2018 that includes the good stuff that's staying in my kit for 2019!

Garmin inReach Mini Review

The Garmin inReach Mini is the smallest, lightest, and most powerful satellite messaging device on the market.

Lightweight Backpacking for Couples