SPOT X can get you out of a pickle when off the grid and when your cell signal is non-existent

As a backcountry enthusiast, it is important that we have a way to communicate with the outside world, especially in an emergency. Despite the improvements in cellular service over the last 20 years in the United States, there are still large backcountry areas throughout the country where there is no service. In a world where we must stay “connected” this can be an issue for some people. Thankfully, there are technological solutions to being in areas where there is no cell service. These solutions are not as reliable and responsive as traditional cell service but can still provide a means to communicate with the outside world in the event of an emergency…. or just to have a casual conversation. In my backcountry adventures all over the western part of our country, I have used a variety of devices and methods for communication where there is no cell service. The main reason is for the safety aspect: Having the ability to communicate with emergency services in case of injury, getting lost, or some other unforeseen emergency.

The SPOT X 2-Way Satellite Messenger is one of the best devices I have used over the years to communicate with the outside world during my backcountry adventures. Using a global satellite system, SPOT X has the ability for 2-way text or email communication in areas where there is zero cellular coverage. In addition, SPOT X has a “tracking” feature that allows people at home to track your progress during an adventure. The SPOT X is also a stand-alone unit with a Qwerty keypad, which means it does not require a phone or an app to send or receive messages (although there is a phone app available if so desired). SPOT X also features an SOS button to immediately alert rescue services in case of emergency. Every SPOT X unit has a dedicated phone number so the text messaging feature is seamless.

During a recent trip to the San Juan Mountains in Colorado, I had the opportunity to use and test the SPOT X device in all types of conditions, in all types of terrain, and in the extreme backcountry where there is zero cell service. The San Juan Mountains in southwest Colorado are the perfect testing grounds for a satellite communications device. It is extremely remote and features some of the most rugged terrain in the United States. During my San Juans adventure, the SPOT X performed flawlessly. All my sent messages were received in less than two minutes, and I received responses in less than two minutes. The tracking feature was very accurate and provided my family at home with the ability to watch my adventure progress in real time.

There are some concerns and issues that I have with SPOT X.  During testing in a city environment, the unit would not receive messages whatsoever. It would send messages and the recipient would receive the message quickly, but I could never get SPOT X to receive any responses. After a lengthy conversation with Spot Technical Support, they informed me that the SPOT X did not perform well if it was near a 5G tower. This appears to be true, because once I was away from 5G towers in the wilderness, the unit performed flawlessly. Ironically, I guess I would not require the services of a satellite messaging device if I was near a 5G cellular tower, but this is an issue that needs to be fixed. The device should be able to send or receive messages anywhere.

The other thing Spot needs to address is the lack of a means to securely attach the unit to a pack or pack strap. For the tracking feature to work properly, SPOT X must have a clear view of the sky. The SPOT X has a somewhat flimsy carabiner loop and comes with its own carabiner, but that means it will be flopping and banging on the outside of a hiking pack or a strap. Not only is this annoying, but it could bang against a rock or tree and possibly damage the unit.  The solution is to provide a specifically designed case for the SPOT X so users can securely attach it outside of their pack and protect it from being knocked around.  Since Spot does not offer a case for the unit, I found a few walkie-talkie cases on Amazon that somewhat fit the bill.

Despite those concerns I’m a big fan of SPOT X and I highly recommend it. The device allows me to communicate with the outside world while in a remote location, gives me peace of mind in case I have an emergency, and allows friends to follow my adventures.  The SPOT X device does require an inexpensive monthly subscription but can be suspended if you’re not using it for an extended period. Monthly subscriptions start at $11.95/month.

The Good and The Bad
What we like: Stand-alone capability without reliance on an app or smartphone, reliability in the backcountry, two-way seamless messaging, real time tracking, and SOS feature.

What we don’t like: Not reliable in city environments. No protective case to attach to a backpack or pack strap.

MSRP: $249.99
Learn more and pick one up by visiting www.findmespot.com

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