Garmin in reach gps /sos unit for Dempster highway
 

Hi everyone
Look to get either garmin mini2 or explorer for a trip up the Dempster highway this summer.
Good idea ? Views, thoughts,comments
Thanks

I have the pre-Garmin InReach model and I find it a lot of reassurance when I travel solo.

It genuinely does work anywhere with clear view of the sky.

Oh - one thing I would say is consider why you would use this rather than your phone in an emergency - and that there are multiple reasons you might not be able to make that call in your phone.

If your phone is smashed up, then you can use it to write messages on your InReach. Consider buying one that has a display and input method other than a connected phone.

Do you need communication when out of cell range, which I'm sure is the case for most of the Dempster? That said, the Dempster does have traffic on it, so it's not absolutely necessary.

I like having the phone app, which allows use of the InReach map on my phone, an electronic map backup.

I will be on the Dempster in mid-June and will carry my InReach. I have one because I make use of it as a safety for work, where I'm regularly out of cell coverage and sometimes need backup communication of some sort. Unless you're going to explore more remote areas that are seldom traveled, I wouldn't buy one just for that trip.

https://blogger.googleusercontent.co...rgency-sos.JPG

The Garmin Mini 2 has an extended battery time (up to 14 days with tracking) and a display who is useful enough to use it even without your smartphone in an emergency situation.

I did also reactivate my satellite two way messenger (Inreach Explorer) for my 3 days swiss alpine hike & tent trip last weekend. Remote, we did meet 2 Persons during our 3 days trip.

I did carry this too at my transafrica and my south american journey. Because I did leave the well known paths often, because my mother did worry less, while watching my progress.

Just for a track with "highway" in the name, guess you will find other travellers regulary on the same track. As long as you dont plan to leave that highway (dirttrack in this case), it isnt necessary. If you do plan to do remote wildcamp, leaving the track - I suggest to carry one..

There are additional services around, like "dead man switch", for cases where you arent able to trigger the sos at yourself, probably helpful as biker in case of an accident.

Surfy