Garmin inReach Messenger Satellite Communicator

2024-06-15T20:00:00

I plan on doing some serious hiking/backpacking this fall and the InReach Messenger really puts my family at ease and makes communication easy in remote locations. I think it a reasonable investment if you plan on being off grid.

Cody18

Originally posted at

2024-06-09T20:00:00

For the inial test, I put the device in a suitcase and put the suitcase inside my camper during a weekend trip. The device transmitted with no problems through the case and the surrounding vehicle. I expect it will work flawlessly out in the woods.

Gerrit R.

Originally posted at

2024-06-07T20:00:00

Recently purchased the inReach Messenger and have used it once (so far) on a 7-day rafting/camping trip in a remote area of eastern UT. My initial impressions after one trip are that it's an impressive device with no frills features. I needed a device for two purposes: To receive weather updates when on extended trips in remote areas and to send an SOS in the event of an emergency and I wanted the ability to communicate with loved ones if/when needed. This device is excellent for those purposes. I had no issues receiving detailed and accurate weather updates and sending occasional trip updates via texts using the Messenger App. I decided to purchase the inReach Messenger over the InReach Mini 2 primarily because: (1) The Messenger has a better antenna and faster satellite uplink depending on your location; (2) It has longer battery life, especially when using all of the battery-saving features; (3) It has the option to reverse charge a phone or other small device if needed; and (4) I didn't need a device for navigation. I wanted a simple and robust emergency SOS and communication device. My only complaints are that the Messenger should include a lanyard, the default (free) message options should be expanded with more options (they're okay, but rather vague), and I wish there were more subscription options (e.g., month-to-month is great, but plans where you can pay for an extended period throughout the year would be preferable options too, for example, paying a reduced rate for 3 to 4 months at a time).

Outdoor E.

Originally posted at

2024-06-03T20:00:00

I purchased this after being in an area without cell service for a week and not being able to communicate with family. This is no Starlink, but provides acceptable communication at a (currently) reasonable subscription rate. (Hopefully rates will not rise.) I especially like the tracking capability, available on Garmin's website, and the ability to receive weather forecasts.

Himitsu Y.

Originally posted at

2024-06-02T20:00:00

I wanted to move from the inReach Mini to the Messenger mainly due to battery life. So far it has worked well and the battery life is as advertised and is working well. The main disappointment is case/mounting options. I wish I had spent more time looking into this lack of options but I just assumed since Garmin has done so well this would have it as well.

rkp2k

Originally posted at

2024-05-30T20:00:00

As a dedicated backpacker often exploring remote areas with our scout troop, the InReach Messenger has proven to be an exceptional upgrade from my previous InReach Mini version 1. The features of the Messenger offer significant advantages, making it a preferred choice for anyone who pairs their device with a smartphone. For those seeking a stand-alone unit, the InReach Mini might be a better fit. Pros: *Superior Battery Life: One of the standout improvements is the significantly better battery life of the InReach Messenger. This enhancement has allowed me to leave my external battery at home, reducing my pack weight slightly. *Faster Messaging: The speed at which messages send and receive on the Messenger is noticeably faster than on the Mini v1. This improvement was a pleasant surprise, and I attribute it to the better antenna on the Messenger. This could be particularly important when hiking in canyons or thick tree cover. *Better App Integration: The new Messenger app is a substantial improvement over the old Earthmate app required for the Mini v1. The ease of use and enhanced functionality of the Messenger app make communication more straightforward. *SOS Feature: Although I have thankfully never had to use it, the SOS feature offers immense peace of mind for both me and the parents of the scouts. Knowing that help is just a button press away in an emergency is reassuring. Cons: Screen Size: My only minor gripe with the InReach Messenger is the screen size. It's quite small and difficult for me to read without glasses (which I prefer to leave at home on backpacking trips). While this isn't an issue when my phone is operational, it could pose an inconvenience if my phone were to fail. Overall: Despite the small screen size, the benefits of the InReach Messenger far outweigh this minor inconvenience. The enhanced battery life, faster message transmission, and improved app integration make it an excellent choice for backpackers who use their devices in conjunction with a smartphone. For those who prioritize a stand-alone device, the InReach Mini remains a solid option. However, for my needs, the InReach Messenger is the superior choice.

DHudson

Originally posted at

2024-04-30T20:00:00

I hike alone sometimes there is no cell service I'm able to keep in touch with my family now. I notice a lot of hikers are Also using the garmin devices. Simple easy to use.

Raycer88

Originally posted at

2024-04-25T20:00:00

me encanto!! es rápido y efectivo, un poco difícil la programación pero una vez hecha es una bala.. funciona perfecto

Koala

Originally posted at

2024-04-18T20:00:00

Everything works as advertised. The only strange bit (unless I just missed something) was setting up contacts I wanted to include in my check-ins and tracking. I was the default recipient which didn't make much sense. Once I figured that out, everything went fine. Definitely check everything with a friend BEFORE you head out.

Lonestarjeepin

Originally posted at

2024-04-11T20:00:00

I purchased this for a 10 day motorcycle trip around Arizona, and I was very happy with it. I had tried other devices in the past, and this has been the only one that met my expectations. Loved that my family to "follow" me during the trip, and knowing that I was protected in the remote areas without a cell signal was a great piece of mind. I'd highly recommend this if you travel knowing cell signals will be dicey.

Jtclark133

Originally posted at

2024-04-07T20:00:00

I bought this device for my trip to Arizona. I luckily didn't need to use the SOS features, but I loved the security it gave me. My family was able to follow me throughout the day via the tracking features. I had used the Spot in the past and never got it to work properly, but the Messager work as expected. I'm very satisfied with my purchase!

Jtclark13

Originally posted at

2024-03-27T20:00:00

Great for remote travel to let loved ones track and communicate. Wishing for inreach to be an option in bike computers!

DurtGurl

Originally posted at

2024-03-22T20:00:00

Received our inreach messengers. Got it in 2 days. Charged it, set up and bought a faraday bag for them. Incase of a "solar flare".

Chuck F.

Originally posted at

2024-03-17T20:00:00

Used last week for a trip. Turned it on, and it had 82% battery. Left it on, with 10 minute tracking, and a week later, it was down to 56%. The compact, flat shape makes it easy to set up on your dashboard or similar. Mine is mounted to a panel on the dash of my 4Runner with a velcro strap, so it's easy to remove when needed. The phone app works well for sending and receiving messages (just remember that it also sends over cell data if you have a cell signal). The SOS button is accessible behind a small cover, so no chance of accidentally hitting it while the Messenger is in use or in the top flap of a backpack. Definitely a good piece of kit for an overlander or someone looking for something smaller than the InReach Mini, GPSMap, or older Explorer+

Titanxovrlnd

Originally posted at

2024-03-17T20:00:00

Loved ones can track your location. You can push the SOS button to pop smoke in an emergency. And - if you feel the need to text while out in the trail - you can messages if you're homesick.

Backroads B.

Originally posted at

2024-03-07T19:00:00

As a cancer patient with diabetes I like that if I ever loose all cell service and need help the messenger will do the job. We lost cell couple years ago in Tx so it does happen. It goes everywhere with me. Takes up no room and has long battery life.

Marty61

Originally posted at

2024-03-03T19:00:00

Had to use while camping. Messages to family were received and it's easy to use! Provided me comfort knowing I could communicate to my loved ones b

407@FL

Originally posted at

2024-02-25T19:00:00

I really like the inReach Messenger. It is easy to use. I travel a lot outside of cell phone range, especially driving, hiking and bicycling. This allows me to call for help if I need it, and to check in with my wife to let her know everything is okay. She can follow my location throughout my trip. If something were to happen to me, like an injury or crash, I can call for help. Otherwise, it might take a long time for me to be found. The battery lasts for a very long time on a charge.

TheDoctor

Originally posted at

2024-02-20T19:00:00

When it works, it works well. I have found that there are times when I'm in a plane and it can't seem to maintain a lock on satellites. I don't know if that's due to speed and/or altitude driving the loss. It has plenty of a view of the sky and should be locked on fine. Also, I wish the phone number that it uses to send was fixed and assigned, like it is with their competitors (Zoleo and SpotX). It's irritating that recipients can't put that number into their contacts.

Baroncadonk

Originally posted at

2024-02-13T19:00:00

I used it twice, and it worked fine. However now it won't charge fully, so I'm returning it for a new one. We'll see if it works better.

Runner 2.

Originally posted at

2024-02-10T19:00:00

The messenger sent my wife check-in texts even when it was cloudy and snowing. Great for reducing worrying. I don't consider myself as hiking solo anymore.

Evaluk

Originally posted at

2024-01-16T19:00:00

I'm very happy with my inReach Messenger. Performs well. The Messenger app is easy to download, but not easy to get functioning. I had to download it, uninstall it, and install it again, 7 or 8 times. At setup, it just kept saying it needed an Update. The update wouldn't work, and kept telling me to Try Again. And again. And again. And again. I even had a Garmin representative helping me for almost 30 minutes, and it still wouldn't work. I've read a lot of reviews that state they also had this problem. I own several Garmin products. So, I finally decided to try using Garmin Express on my laptop to get it going. It worked. A direct USB connection to my computer fixed it. That's an awful lot to have to go through just to get everything working. But, if this helps someone else, we're good. Now that everything is working, I'm completely happy with it.

Uncle O.

Originally posted at

2024-01-16T19:00:00

Helpful, tough device that creates peace of mind. Best part is easy to access phone support I needed to understand Mapshare

broughtonchris55

Originally posted at

2024-01-09T19:00:00

Too early for meaningful comment, but have used the InReach Messenger on a couple test outings. Day on Bull Island and century ride in spotty cell coverage. Only using it as a basic check-in device. Long term plan is to use phone to text pics to folks when in service, check-in with IRM whenever we take a break whether in cell service or not, between check-in points let them refer the posted route, and of course use the IRM if emergency. The device did great on test outings! Very small and easy to stow in a safe spot. Don't need to touch it because can operate through phone. Run phone on Airplane Mode to preserve batt until it needs to control the IRM. While on Airplane Mode can also take pics and navigate via RideWithGPS downloaded file. Am looking forward to working with the InReach Messenger more!

Dave W.

Originally posted at

2024-01-07T19:00:00

Got this for my husband because he goes out of cell phone service often and he is not very tech-savvy. He loves the app & finds it very easy to use. Love it!

NShepard

Originally posted at

2024-01-06T19:00:00

Seems to be working fine. However had to give everyone that follows a password to access location. Not as simple as I expected.

Wicked W.

Originally posted at

2023-12-29T19:00:00

I just purchased and activated. I haven't had opportunities to actually use it yet. I am however having trouble with Messenger app not synching with my contacts on Samsung phone. Messenger app says I need to do upgrade to recieve all features but won't let me do an upgrade. The device indicates that all updates are up to date

Psmart2

Originally posted at

2023-12-12T19:00:00

Short battery life , last only about a day. Poor satellite signal.

Hinbe

Originally posted at

2023-12-10T19:00:00

I have tried but this will not connect to my phone. I am going to call Garmin and see if they can help me fix the problem. So far, I am not impressed with it.

KK1111

Originally posted at

2023-12-10T19:00:00

The size is great. Perfect for just throwing in a bag or pocket for the possible need. The app is user friendly.

LC5280

Originally posted at