Garmin InReach can be a lifesaver in an emergency; that’s out of the question. Nowadays, even the iPhone (iPhone 14 or newer) offers a satellite-based SOS function. Still, I decided to upgrade my equipment with a Garmin GPSMAP 67I, and there are good reasons for it. Check it out in my article. Solo travelers, in particular, should be aware of the potential dangers they could face in an emergency situation. Even a seemingly harmless situation can become life-threatening if you can not request assistance.
Table of contents
Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
What is an Emergency on an Expedition-Similar Journey?
Imagine traveling with a kayak, only 20 km away from a village, and breaking your arm. Imagine hiking only 10 km from a mountain shelter and breaking your ankle. What about a broken car on an unpaved road in the forest 50 km away from a main road?
These few examples of seemingly simple scenarios can become very serious if you are on your own. The phone net availability is excellent, but it is not guaranteed, and it becomes very patchy as you travel further into the wild. You will experience the same following the less traveled paths into the mountains.
I did not mention a severe accident in which you could lose your consciousness or be unable to take action—you would get lost in the wild! These are the scenarios where the InReach technology kicks in.
Dolve into my article: Photographer Solo Road Trip – Journey Without Destination
Main Advantages of Garmin InReach
Robustness
First, these devices are built for rugged environments, are impact-resistant, and are waterproof. You can efficiently operate them in heavy rain or with thick gloves, which doesn’t work with a smartphone.
Reliability
The built-in batteries have enough power for days or weeks, depending on usage, while a smartphone battery, especially in a cold environment, will not survive a single day.
Navigation
Garmin InReach GPSMAP offers many extra features besides excellent outdoor navigation tools with detailed topographic maps.
Communication
In contrast to a regular mobile phone, it works with the Iridium Satellites network, which is available worldwide 24/7, ensuring two-way communication with loved ones at all times. Your loved ones will appreciate it a lot.
Location Tracking
You can share your location with your family or friends in almost real time by sending them a link to a web-based map that tracks your position. Ergo, you can’t get lost in the wild.
Weather Forcast
Another fantastic, extremely relevant feature is the option to download weather forecasts related to your location. I really don’t want to be surprised by a heavy snowstorm in the mountains.
Check out my Article: “Outdoor Photographers: Pioneers of Adventure or Master of Masochism?”
Garmin InReach SOS: The Key Feature
Still, the dedicated, secured SOS button primarily influenced my purchase decision. Pressing it for five seconds triggers an emergency signal and prompts contact with the Garmin Emergency Response Coordination Center. They aim to connect with your region’s most appropriate emergency response unit and organize the required assistance (search and rescue teams, law enforcement, medical professionals, or military support).
Read more about it here: https://www.garmin.com/en-US/satellite-communicators/interactive-sos-and-garmin-response/
Peace of Mind in Remote Places: The Garmin InReach GPSMAP 67i
My Garmin InReach GPSMAP 67i is a fantastic device with many valuable features. It is incredibly beneficial, and in an emergency, it can be a lifesaver. When visiting remote places, I feel safer having it in my pocket, and it helps my worried family sleep better when I’m in the field.
