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Save/ShareWhen you're off the grid, how can you stay in touch with civilization?
We couldn't think of anyone better to ask than Kurt Repanshek, founder and editor in chief, nationalparkstraveler.com, and author of Frommer's National Parks with Kids.*
"I recentlykayaked* rafted Colorado's Yampa River, where cell phone service is erratic. To reassure my wife, I brought the Spot Satellite GPS Messenger (findmespot.com, $150, plus $99 annual subscription). It's a tiny waterproof device that can broadcast pre-set messages from anywhere. Every day, I could use it to e-mail my wife that I was okay and enable her to see my location on a Google Map. The device has a button for calling in emergency workers, too, which thankfully I never had to use."
*Correction: Rafting, not kayaking. I regret the error. (Nov. 2, 2009.)
Cruise vacations: Internet tips from a pro
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Don't let an electronic device lead you to bad decisions. Out here in Nevada, the authorities all too often have to respond to a hiker who bit off more than he could chew, but thought it was okay since they could always call for help. The GPS messenger seems like a really good idea for the adventurous but don't use it as a substitute for brains and common sense. In some areas, you had better have climbing insurance to offset the rescue bills if you have to push the panic button.
Posted By Tom B. on October 27, 2009, 3:04 PM