Satellite communicators

Fortunately, satellite messengers work without local towers, and as long as you’re under an open sky, they can send and receive messages from almost anywhere.

While they don’t offer voice calls like a satellite phone, satellite messengers come with an SOS button that sends your location to rescue teams, and many allow two-way texting or emailing so you can stay in touch with friends and family and share your whereabouts along the way. They aren’t cheap, and all need a monthly satellite plan, but if the time comes when you need one, it’s worth every penny.

Why a satellite communicator matters

Satellite communicators aren’t just cool tech—they can actually save lives.

These devices provide:

• Emergency SOS capabilities
• Two-way messaging
• Location sharing
• Weather updates
• Peace of mind for both adventurers and their loved ones

Choosing your satellite communicator

Consider your adventure style

• Frequency of Use: Occasional hikers might prefer flexible subscriptions
• Communication Needs: Two-way messaging vs. emergency-only
• Tech Comfort: Some devices require smartphone connectivity
• Geographic Range: Check satellite network coverage

Key purchasing considerations

• Battery life
• Message character limits
• Subscription costs
• Additional features (GPS, weather, etc.)
• Weight and portability

Tips for satellite communicator users

• Always carry extra batteries or a portable charger
• Familiarize yourself with the device before your trip
• Test messaging capabilities in different environments
• Keep the device easily accessible in emergencies
• Update device firmware regularly

How does a satellite messenger work?

Unlike mobile phones that send and receive signals through nearby cell towers, satellite messengers connect directly to low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites about 485 miles above the planet. While commercial satellites are much higher than land-based towers—though still far below government satellites—they offer much better visibility, even in remote spots. Using a constellation of these satellites, their overlapping orbits create a blanket of global—or nearly global, depending on the provider—coverage.

While satellite connections are a lifesaver when traveling off the grid, they’re not as simple as tapping a button on your phone. Satellite messengers usually need to be used outdoors or at least through a window, with the antenna pointed at the sky for proper transmission and reception. Even a bit of interference between the antenna and satellite can impact the connection.

Different satellite messenger brands often rely on different satellite constellations, with the most common being Iridium (used by Garmin) and Globalstar (used by Spot and the iPhone’s SOS feature). Garmin’s Iridium network uses 66 satellites, offering complete global coverage, even at the poles. In contrast, Globalstar’s 24 satellites leave some gaps, particularly in parts of Asia and Africa.

When you activate the SOS feature on a satellite communicator—usually a clearly marked button with a cover to prevent accidental use—the signal goes from the satellite straight to that brand’s response center. A dispatcher there uses your location to notify the right authorities, who then launch the appropriate search-and-rescue efforts. Depending on your device’s features, the dispatcher might confirm your SOS, gather more details about your situation, and connect you with rescuers for two-way communication. Still, factors like your location, weather, and other conditions can mean it takes time for help to arrive.

What to look for in a satellite messenger

Along with the SOS feature included in all models, satellite messengers can come with a variety of other functions and capabilities. To get the best option without wasting money on extras you won’t use, take a moment to consider which features will be most helpful for you and your trip.

If you want to keep in touch with friends or family back home for nonemergency updates, look for features like check-ins (a simple “I’m OK” sent with one button), text and email messaging, and location sharing. Most devices automatically include your location with every message, but some also offer dedicated map portals so others can track your route almost in real time.

Many devices come with some level of navigation, from basic compass directions pointing to specific coordinates to full map-based systems like those on smartphones. While these features can raise the initial price and shorten battery life, they’re worth considering if you’re heading into unfamiliar areas or just want peace of mind. By keeping you from getting lost or disoriented, they might even save you from having to use the SOS function altogether.

Being able to check the weather forecast is a handy feature to have. Most satellite messengers with display screens offer some type of forecast option, helping you avoid accidentally travelling into a surprise storm, cold front, or heat wave.

When planning your trip, keep in mind that not all satellite messengers work everywhere. For instance, the Iridium network offers full global coverage, but GlobalStar has gaps in parts of Asia, Africa, and the polar regions. Plus, some countries don’t permit satellite messengers at all, so it’s best to check the rules before you go to avoid any trouble.

Do I need a satellite messenger if I have an iPhone 14 (or above)?

If you don’t want to buy a satellite messenger, you might already have one in your pocket. The iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 15, and iPhone 15 Pro come with an emergency SOS satellite messaging feature. If you try to call the emergency services without mobile phone service, your phone will prompt you to send a text via its satellite connection (free for the first two years) and guide you through contacting emergency services. You can then exchange texts with responders, who can also see your location, your phone’s battery level, and your emergency contacts.

The downside of using an iPhone 14 as a satellite communicator instead of a dedicated device is that it only supports SOS contact, so you can’t use it for regular texting or navigation. It also relies on the Globalstar satellite network, which doesn’t offer as much coverage as Garmin’s worldwide Iridium network. Plus, iPhones are far less rugged than satellite messengers and are highly prone to water damage.

Is a satellite messenger worth the price?

They’re not exactly cheap, but if you’re heading into remote areas without mobile phone coverage, a satellite messenger is definitely worth it. If you or someone in your group gets injured, sick, or lost far from service, having a reliable way to contact authorities could make all the difference between life and death.

Besides the upfront cost of the device, satellite messengers also need a subscription to activate and keep satellite contact. Subscription prices vary since different models offer various pricing tiers, letting you pick the one that fits your budget. Keep in mind that the lower-cost tiers only limit features like messaging, tracking, and weather forecasts—they don’t affect the SOS function at all.

I’d never want to discourage anyone from using an SOS beacon out of concern for the cost, but it’s important to remember that any rescue expenses are ultimately your responsibility. Depending on where you are, the type of emergency, and the resources needed to find and evacuate you, the bill could be hefty. The rules aren’t always straightforward—some places, like national parks, might cover a helicopter evacuation, but the ambulance ride afterward could still be on you. That said, the navigation and weather tools on a pricey satellite messenger might save you from ever needing a rescue, making it a worthwhile investment in my view.

Last thoughts

It is important to recognize that a satellite communicator represents a valuable investment in personal safety, providing reliable communication capabilities in remote or emergency situations where traditional networks may be unavailable.

Although no device can provide absolute protection, the utilization of these tools can greatly enhance the likelihood of receiving assistance during critical moments when it is needed most.

Always pair technology with thorough preparation.

• Take wilderness survival and first aid courses
• Carry appropriate safety gear
• Inform others of your travel plans
• Understand the limitations of your communication device

Stay safe, stay prepared, and enjoy your travels!

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