Satellite communicators allow you to stay in touch anywhere on Earth. It doesn’t matter if there’s no cell phone signal or Wi-Fi, as long as you can see the sky, these devices will let you send texts and make calls using a network of satellites. So you can be completely off-grid but still stay in touch, with GPS functionality also pinpointing your location.
In an emergency, a satellite communicator could save your life by sending an SOS to search and rescue services. The rest of the time, they are invaluable for sending texts or making voice calls, usually using the Iridium or Globalstar satellite networks. As with your cell phone, you need to buy a data plan to access this privately owned service. Battery life is a vital consideration when you’re likely to be a long way from a wall socket, and it should be measured in days rather than hours for this kind of device. Here are the satellite communicators we recommend.
Garmin inReach Mini GPS satellite communicator
Rugged, compact messaging device with maps and weather
This small, tough satellite communicator lets you text message using the 100% global Iridium network (subscription required). You can also access downloadable maps and aerial imagery using a free app. An optional inReach weather forecast service will give you detailed updates to the Mini or a paired device. If disaster strikes, trigger an interactive SOS to the search and rescue monitoring center.
ZOLEO satellite communicator
Text and email anywhere on Earth with a dedicated number
This rugged two-way communicator is Iridium satellite-based (subscription required) and links with an app to keep you connected when cell service is non-existent or spotty. The device includes a dedicated US SMS text number and email address to share with contacts. Activate an SOS alert, and your GPS coordinates are sent to an emergency monitoring station. The battery lasts for 200+ hours.
Satellite Phone unlocked IsatPhone 2.1 satellite phone
Satellite phone with prepaid card
This water-resistant, voice, SMS, GPS phone comes with a 500 unit prepaid card. You can then pay as you go or set up a subscription. Coverage is global and the phone battery gives eight hours talk time and 160 hours on standby. It comes with a DC, hands-free earpiece, holster and belt clip, lanyard, and more.
Bottom line
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If you’re planning to adventure off-grid in the wilderness, you need to think about packing a satellite communicator. They could be your only way of getting help in an emergency and are a great device for staying in touch wherever you are on the planet, with no concerns over network coverage or Wi-Fi signals. We recommend the Garmin inReach Mini GPS satellite communicator for most people. This unit does everything you need it to in one compact, rugged unit and has useful weather and mapping functions. It would be reassuring to have one in your pack when you’re in some of the most remote areas on the planet.
For a phone that you can use anywhere on Earth, the Satellite Phone unlocked IsatPhone 2.1 satellite phone is a good choice. It means you can communicate with loved ones or the emergency services whenever you adventure and we like the way it switches to Wi-Fi or cell networks for seamless coverage.
