Going backpacking is a great way to enjoy nature and it can be a lot of fun. If you and your friends are planning a backpacking trip and it is in a remote location, you will likely not be around any type of electricity. Because of this, you need to ensure you have the proper communication so you can get in touch with someone if there is some kind of accident. You also need to ensure someone can find you if you are hurt and not able to call someone. You cannot rely on your smartphone to work in every location you are in as you can easily drop signals. Keep reading to lean of two ways you can do this. 

Two-Way Radio

To keep lines of communication open, you can use a two-way satellite radio. This not only allows you to get help if you have an emergency, but you can stay in touch with family, get supplies that you may run out of, have GPS tracking capability and have Internet access. What is available to you depends on the two-radio you purchase. For example, one that is less expensive will not have all of these options.

A two-way radio both transmits and receive messages. You can have a conversation with someone that is using a similar two-way radio and both of you are on the same radio channel (frequency). You can find two-way radios that are mobile, hand-held portable or a stationary base. For backpacking, you would want the hand-held portable two-way radio.

Satellite Messenger

A satellite messenger is a handheld device that allows you to communicate with your family members and friends with short text messages. The device has the ability to give you location coordinates if you need to tell someone where you are.

This device works much like a GPS and it relies on commercial satellite networks. You will have to pay a subscription fee with the satellite network you sign up with.

You can also purchase additional services. For example, you can purchase a messenger that has a Help button. When this button is pressed, it will automatically notify professional services of your location using GPS.

The contacts you have set up with the messenger will be sent a text message that includes your coordinates when you press the Help button.

You and your friends can enjoy your backpacking trip much more knowing you can get in touch with someone any time you need to.