Garmin InReach Mini

My Price: 349.95    (plus 11.95 monthly service fee)

Manufacturer: Garmin

Made In: Taiwan

Availability: Online and Major Outdoor Retailers

Weight: 3.5oz

Season use: All

Review: It took me a long time to finally pull the trigger on purchasing a Garmin InReach Mini due to its high price and monthly service charge. And honestly, I do not use it to its full capability but it comes with me on every hike, overnight trip and off-road exploration just in case. The InReach mini has not only an SOS feature, but offers two-way messaging (made easier with their app), track back breadcrumbs, GPS and weather capabilities and multiple monthly subscription options to meet your needs. I occasionally use it to send my wife text messages and used it on my wife’s first backpacking trip to help set up a ride home once we reached the end of our trail. Typically, I keep it strapped to the front of my pack or close at hand in my truck to ensure if things go wrong for me or someone around me, I will have the ability to communicate via satellite with someone who can coordinate the needed help. It is expensive to purchase and the monthly fees are something to take into account but to me the peace of mind knowing if things go wrong, I at least have a button to push and help will quickly be on the way. Because of that I recommend you get one (or some type of satellite device) even if it’s only to give those you love some peace of mind.

My Rating: Buy it and pay the fee anytime you go out!

Rating scale:

-Bypass: This isn’t worth the money.

-Borrow: Handy but may or may not be worth your money.

-Buy: Get one. You’ll love it!

May the miles you hike be filled with wonder and the glasses you raise be filled with whiskey.

Cheers!