That $400 Garmin InReach Mini was a waste on the JMT

Bought it before my JMT thru hike last summer. Paid $400 after taxes. Thing sat in my pack the whole time. Never once needed SOS. Cell service was fine at most passes and lakes. My buddy had a $30 Spot tracker that did the same thing but cheaper. Guess I fell for the marketing hype. Anyone else regret a big gear purchase?

3 comments

3 Comments

margaret5517d ago

Wait, @abbyf79, you paid $400 too? Spot trackers are under $100 now.

finleym375d ago

Ever think the real insurance is your phone and common sense?

abbyf797d ago

I spent $400 on the Garmin InReach Mini for my JMT hike last summer, and I feel your pain (or maybe I just feel stupid, haha). I clipped it to my shoulder strap and it just sat there like a tiny plastic paperweight the whole time. My phone actually had enough service at most passes to text my mom "I'm alive, stop worrying," so the thing felt completely pointless. Honestly, I think I just wanted to look like a serious hiker with all the fancy gear, you know? My friend brought a $25 whistle and a $10 compass from Walmart, and he never got lost once. I'm still bitter about it, but at least I have a very expensive conversation starter for gear shame sessions!

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