Delorme Inreach SE

The Delorme Inreach SE is a satellite texting communicator that also tracks your movements. I've used my for about 20 trips. On a 5 day hiking trip to Canana from Harts Pass it was the only communication available as there was no cell service. It's nice to know that if things go sideways, you can press a button and search and rescue will be enroute (in theory anyway, haven't tried the SOS button yet...hopefully never will).

A service plan is required with the Inreach. I opted for the middle of the road plan which cost around $25. a month. I get 40 texts a month (send and receive), unlimited pre-defined texts (these are short texts that are added to your delorme account at the time you set up the account), and unlimited tracking points.

You have to initiate a conversation with someone before they can either text or email you. People that I have sent a "I'm starting my hike here-follow me" text (which initiates communication), have said that they only get my location on a map, but can't track me. The way to fix this is to have them go to a URL similar to: SHARE.DELORME.COM/ROBINROBERTS...this will show them a tracking map.  If you go here you'll need a password to access the map.

The inreach can also be paired with an Iphone. This is very nice to help you find your location. Using the Iphone to send messages is much easier than trying to type on the clumsy Inreach key pad.

There is a new Inreach model that has gps mapping capabilities. I bought mine about 9 months before the new one came on the market. I'd probably get the newer Inreach if I were to buy one now.

The rechargeable battery last a really long time. I didn't have to recharge mine for almost 5 days while using it 7-8 hours each day.

The GPS signal is sometimes difficult to find, but seldom did 30 minutes go by without making a connection.

Its also waterproof and can take abuse.