Thread: PLB and GPS or just an inReach?

Originally Posted by Ned

I use NZTopo on my phone for gps location. Also have an inreach mini. And a plb.
If I had to leave one of these behind, I'd take the plb first, then my cellphone and leave the inreach behind.
If you need lifted out, then you need lifted out.
Inreach is for sure handy for keeping in touch with home.
The only exception I could see for an emergency evacuation might be when something bad has happened at home and somebody needs to contact you.

Just to be a bit more sitting on the fence, the inreach mini is small and weighs hardly anything. And I already have a phone and NZTopo is a handful of dollars for IMO as good a gps tool as any dedicated gps unit I've ever had. And the plb is non-negotiable anyway. The only thing with the inreach (and other similar tools), is an annual subscription fee whether you use it or not. I guess for very low usage, renting a unit would be the answer if you need back country comms.

They now have a yearly plan for low users but its still $300 a year.