By now, many of you might have heard about this little device by Garmin called the InReach®.  If you haven’t let’s discuss what it is really quick.  This is a handheld GPS communication device that can sync to your phone or be used as a handheld device depending on the model to communicate with friends and loved ones while you’re out of cell phone service.  The device runs off satellites and allows you to send messages just like a text message on your phone and communicate with others on their phones (if they have service) or InReach® devices.

How does the device work… First when you purchase your InReach® you’ll need to select a payment plan with Garmin for monthly service.  The neat part is you can put the service on hold so you don’t have to pay all year for this device.  Maybe you only want it activated during hunting season, pay month-to-month and activate it for the time you need on a 30 day basis.  The different level plans are there for messaging limits, tracking and other features as you might have guessed.  The more messages you want to send, the more expensive the plan you might need.  They can range from $14.95 / month to $64.95 /month for their freedom plans which allow you to put it on hold if need be.

Once you have completed this step now you’ll download their Earthmate app.  This is Garmin’s app for your phone that will sync to your InReach® device via bluetooth.  You can open the app, select a phone number from your phone or an email from another InReach® user ( you must know their Garmin InReach® email ahead of time ) and simple send up to 140 characters at a time.  You can use emoji’s and the whole shot.  You can send your location at the end of each message automatically or turn off that feature if you’d like to do so.  IF USING WHILE ON A HUNT WITH US, we ask that you turn off your location sharing for obvious reasons! : )

They have two main InReach® devices, the main handheld Garmin InReach® which you can actually type out your message on that device with an arrow and keyboard selector. Or, the InReach® mini which is half the size and you use your phone solely and the app to send the message.  The mini is $349 and the regular is $449.  While this might be a little pricey, it’s worth the money for a piece-of-mind that your family knows you’re okay on your expeditions.  If you’re like some of us traveling in remote country, we keep this active and in our car incase we break down.  We can message a family member or friend and get help without walking 150 miles to get cell phone service.

We have found these devices to be extremely handy and it’s a great way to keep in touch and also get help if need be.