Hikes and sailings and other activities that gets you out of range of satellite phone receptions can be risky especially when injuries, mechanical failure, sickness and other problems get into the way.
Normal cellphone receptions are not present everywhere especially out in the woods, this is where a satellite phone comes in.
With a satellite phone for emergency use, relatives and emergency workers can be informed of hiker’s location at all times, through an automatic transmission of GPS data, or manual satellite calls and text messages.
Although subscriptions to satellite services may come at a price, it gives you a piece of mind when out in the wild, something to also consider, is the coverage of the satellite company in which you are subscribing to.
This article will cover the best satellite phone(s) for emergency use.
Garmin 010-02602-00 inReach Mini 2, Lightweight and Compact Satellite Communicator, Hiking Handheld, Orange
One of the best satellite emergency device recommended out there on the market, is this Garmin inReach Mini 2 device.
This is the go to device for satellite emergency device (phone). The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is unlike the traditional satellite phone, in the sense that you make calls directly on it, but you use it with your Android phone.
The Garmin inReach Mini 2 pairs with your regular android device and has an apps (on your Android phone).
In times of emergency, satellite calls to other sat phones, txts to other inReach devices, emails and SOS can be sent out to other inReach devices or the rescue authorities.
The Garmin inReach device has a battery life of 336 hours (with clear sky view) all that’s needed is battery juice on your phone (carry a power bank, for longer battery life).
Satellite plans may be needed to be purchased, but it is within reach by the average consumers, so to speak.
$14.95 per month is all that’s needed to be paid inorder to use the satellite service of Garmin, subscriptions can be on and off, meaning, the device can be turned on and off as needed.
The Garmin inReach is a device that’s so convenient and also the best satellite phone (device) for emergencies.
Pros
- Good battery life
- Small and light weight
Cons
- Pricey
Spot X with Bluetooth 2-Way Satellite Messenger | SOS Protection | Handheld Portable 2-Way GPS Messenger for Hiking, Camping, Cars| Globalstar Satellite Network Coverage | Subscription Applicable
The Spot X is another satellite phone (device) for emergency use, it is operated by Globalstar’s satellite network, their network is smaller (lesser satellites in orbit) than Iridium and Inmarsat.
Similar to the Garmin’s inReach, the Spot X pairs with your Android phone through bluetooth so that emergency txts and calls, go through Globalstar’s satellite network from your Android phone.
A dedicated US number will be given to users so that friends and relatives are able to directly contact Spot X’s users from their regular telephones and mobile phones.
Spot X has a dedicated SOS function on it’s device allowing users to call for emergency services with a press of a button and be located through the device’s GPS.
Pros
- Cheaper
- Good battery life
Cons
- Fewer satellites in orbit
Inmarsat IsatPhone Pro2 handheld satellite phone
Inmarsat’s IsatPhone Pro2 runs on Inmarsat’s satellite network, has a 8hrs battery time and has voice, text and GPS capability for emergency use.
Inmarsat has global coverage on their satellite network which only excludes the polar regions, who goes there anyways?
In terms of reception and service, the IsatPhone Pro2 is very reliable, calls rarely drops in average conditions.
Pros
- Good battery life
- Reliable phone
Cons
- Pricey
Iridium 9575 Extreme Satellite Phone with Prepaid and Postpaid SIM Cards
The Iridium 9755 is a more primitive of satellite phones, but it works for emergency use, has 2 way text (SMS) capability, with email, it is IP65 rated which means that it is protected from jets of water from all direction.
It also has GPS, location based service and also a one touch SOS button from instant emergency assistance from rescuers.
Iridium has the most satellites in orbit with 66 in use, which is more than any other company, despite it being an old model satellite phone, it works well for emergencies.
Pros
- Works well for emergency
- Worldwide satellite coverage
Cons
- Primitive user interface
- Weak GPS
Tips for choosing a satellite phone for emergency use
One button SOS
Choosing a satellite phone or device that has a one press SOS button, is the smarter option for emergency satellite devices.
With the Garmin Inreach’s SOS device, the emergency plan is paid with the satellite service subscription, this does not include the insurance which will need to be bought separately which will cover transportation of the user away from danger.
The sheriff, police, SAR, Coast Guard will be involved, should the SOS button be pressed.
Choose a satellite phone (device) with a SOS button.
Choosing satellite plans
Different satellite companies have different plans and charges for making calls, receiving data on their network, much like the cell phone companies, shop around to get the best deal, as not only are you buying a device, but voice plans goes with it as well.
Choosing satellite coverage
As coverage provided by companies, not all satellite companies offer or have global coverage, here is a breakdown of the companies and their coverage.