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Navigation 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.

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.

Episode 87 | Publisher’s Gear Guide

Episode 87 of the Backpacking Light podcast features highlights from our new Publisher's Gear Guide - the gear that I actually own and use on my backcountry adventures.

Episode 84 | Satellite Messaging (ZOLEO)

In this episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast, we interview Morris Shawn, President of Roadpost and Zoleo, about satellite messaging and the evolution of the Zoleo Satellite Communicator.

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)?

How to use the Garmin inReach Mini without a smartphone

Learning how to use the Garmin inReach Mini (or Mini 2) satellite communicator without a smartphone opens up opportunities for overall battery management and more efficient messaging, navigation, and tracking.

Pushing 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."

Discussing 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.

How to Manage Electronics and Batteries in the Backcountry (Member Q&A)

Considerations for managing backcountry electronics including portable battery packs, batteries in cold temperatures, headlamps, cameras, satellite communicators, fitness watches, smartphones, and more.

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.

Garmin inReach Mini Review

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

SPOT Gen3 Insures Rapid Emergency Rescue When Needed

SPOT Gen3 provides location-based messaging and emergency notification technology that allows you to communicate from remote locations around the globe. It offers custom tracking interval options, motion-activated tracking, long-life battery and more. Learn how one hiker used his SPOT Gen3 in a life-saving rescue involving another hiker with a heart condition.

Henry Worsley: Antarctica Solo, Unsupported

Henry Worsley is attempting what could be the first solo, unsupported, and unassisted foot-crossing of Antarctica.

Brooks Range Summer 2015 – fragments: Part 1

Time in the outdoors gives us a chance to question ourselves and find the primary motivation for fear. Oh and there are bears too.

Lightweight Backpacking News: Digest No. 26

In This Month's News: Woman Plans 5-Year Trek Across the Americas; Man and Woman Meet and Marry on the PCT; UL Sleeping Bag and Quilt Comparison Table; Ingredients for Planning an Expedition; Beginner Tenkara Tips; and much more!

Lake Superior Coastal Trail Adventure

The Superior Coastal trail offers stunning views of Lake Superior that for this duo of hikers symbolized a shared spiritual transformation that cannot be erased.

The Unconventional Sleep Systems Manifesto

A Comprehensive Primer and Market Analysis of Top Bags, Quilts, and Wearable Systems

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