Regarding PLB/communication devices, I'd echo what has already been posted. ?The Garmin inReach Mini seems like the way to go. ?I got a Garmin inReach SE as I wanted more of the GPS features on the device. ?The granularity and accuracy of the track hasn't met expectations, so I've ended up using a separate GPS device. ?The app provides a very good interface, so the Mini provides great features with light weight.
One note regarding the data plans. ?I believe all the plans include free SOS communication with some of the less expensive plans having few (or no) texts included. ?I had to use the SOS feature two years ago for a member of our party while in the backcountry in Sequoia NP. ?The service was great, but the call center ended up passing us off to communicate directly with SEKI staff. ?Those communications weren't under the SOS umbrella. ?I had a plan with a high data cap so it wasn't a big bill, but something to consider when picking a plan.
