The 149.4 gram Spot Messenger (3.7″ X 2.6″) is a new, lightweight alternative to bulky and heavy satellite phones. It costs $169 plus a $10/month service fee (which can be turned on or off depending on your needs) which is far less expensive than Sat phones. The Messenger only works one-way, meaning you can send messages but not receive them
The Messenger was originally used to track package deliveries where cell phones did not work. The receiver of the package would use their Messenger to send an email-type message to a single or pre-built list of people letting them know they got it.
The Spot GPS Messenger today is used for people traveling in remote parts of the world — but not above 6,500 meters since it doesn’t work that high — for emergency rescue, to alert friends and family members of your whereabouts, to receive assistance, or to simply check-in.
To use, plug the Messenger into your computer and upload your contact list. Findmespot.com states “With a perfect view of the entire sky, the SPOT Messenger is designed to transmit virtually every message.”
For my next expedition, whenever that might be, I’ll likely carry the Spot Messenger.
findmespot.com
