PSA: That $300 satellite messenger was a total game changer for me

I was doing the Wonderland Trail a few years back and got turned around in a fog bank near Indian Bar. Pulled out my old map, totally soaked, and realized I was an hour off course. Used the SOS button on the messenger I'd just bought, and a ranger talked me through a safe route down. Felt like a huge waste of money until that exact moment. Anyone have a favorite piece of gear that seemed silly but saved your butt?

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3 Comments

grant_ross275mo ago

My buddy spent $400 on one of those and it failed right when he needed it most near Lake Serene. Battery died in cold weather and the screen froze up. Sometimes old school map skills and a whistle are more reliable than another gadget that needs charging.

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jamieh765mo ago

That "screen froze up" part is exactly why I don't trust them either.

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ivan5224mo ago

Bet your buddy wishes he had a soggy paper map and a loud whistle too, right? Guess high tech gear just means high tech problems.

2