I used a spot for many years before switching to InReach in 2016. I did so to have two way communication with family. My entire reason for carrying a device is to be in touch with my family since it makes them feel better about my trips. And in recent years, I feel better about being on the trail knowing that if an emergency arises at home, I can be notified and that way I could exit as soon as possible. I use the cheapest InReach freedom plan and don’t use tracking. Unless there’s a reason to text (emergency only), I use unlimited preset messages only.?
If I did not have a reason to keep in touch with family, I would not carry a PLB on heavily trafficked trails in peak months, such as the JMT. Or if I did see a need, like off trail or off season, I’d use one of the PLB devices with no monthly fee that has no texting capability.?
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