3 Key Reasons to Grab Garmin’s Free InReach Offer: A Pro Hiker’s Guide

Garmin Announces Free SOS Access for InReach Users

Garmin made a game-changing announcement this week that users of its inReach subscriptions will get free SOS access for up to 12 months, even if their subscriptions are suspended.

Garmin InReach and Its Features

Garmin inReach is a groundbreaking innovation that lets you summon emergency services and send two-way messages without mobile service. This feature is available on some of the best Garmin watches like the Fenix 8 Pro, Quatix 8 Pro, or D2 Mach Pro 2. It’s also available on Garmin’s dedicated inReach pocket-sized satellite communicators, such as the inReach Mini 2. The exceptional feature is that only the sender needs the inReach device, as others can receive messages and reply via SMS, email or the Garmin Messenger app. Besides, the service also offers GPS navigation, location tracking, and weather updates.

Garmin InReach in the Wild

An outdoor and travel enthusiast takes the inReach Mini 2 on all backcountry adventures. It’s been to Everest Base Camp, the Swiss Alps, and three long-distance trails through remote UK sections in the past year.

Garmin InReach and Competitive Pressure

Formerly, users had to maintain an active subscription costing anywhere from $7.99 / £7.99 to $49.99 / £49.99 a month to send SOS alerts, which added to the price of Garmin’s already-expensive smartwatches and pocket communicators. With over 10,000 SOS alerts from inReach devices annually, Garmin’s move reflects the growing pressure to remain competitive against brands such as Apple and Google. Notably, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Google Pixel Watch 4 enable device users to contact emergency services via satellite when out of signal. This significant change from Garmin means significant savings for users and makes the dedicated Garmin inReach devices an attractive buy for outdoor enthusiasts. Nevertheless, these devices, starting at $249.99 / £249.99, you may also wonder if your phone couldn’t serve the same purpose.