Traveling to remote destinations offers a unique opportunity to unplug from the everyday hustle and truly immerse yourself in nature. However, there’s a certain peace of mind that comes with having the right communication tools on hand, just in case things go south. At Rugged Destinations, we believe that while all electronics have an “off” button, having these tools available ensures that you’re prepared for any situation. Here are three types of communication devices we always carry when we venture into the wild.
1. Radios
Our primary form of communication on the road is our radios. We have a two-way radio mounted in our Jeep and a few handheld radios. These are indispensable for several reasons:
Convoy Communication: When traveling in a group, radios allow us to stay in touch with other cars in our convoy. This is especially useful when navigating tricky terrains or coordinating stops.
Photography Coordination: Often, one of us needs to get out of the truck to capture the perfect shot while the other person drives. Radios make this process highly efficient, ensuring seamless communication.
Exploration Freedom: Our boys love to explore around our campsite. With radios, they can wander without causing worry, as they can easily check in with us.
We’ve experimented with various brands but have found that Midland Radio stands out. Other brands had issues with battery life or screen failure under our rigorous use, but Midland has maintained its integrity through all our adventures.
2. Cell Booster
Initially, we were skeptical about adding a cell booster to our setup due to some negative feedback. However, we quickly realized that many issues were due to improper installation. With a proper setup, our Weboost cell booster has proven to be invaluable:
Enhanced Signal: It amplifies weak signals, allowing us to stay connected even in areas with poor reception.
Local Use: Surprisingly, it’s also beneficial close to home where we encounter dead zones. The booster prevents dropped calls, making it useful both on and off the trail.
We highly recommend the Weboost cell booster and are happy to answer any questions about it. We also made an installation video to help ensure that you install your booster correctly and maximize its functionality. If you're ready to buy, be sure to use code RUGGED5 to save 5% on your order!
3. Satellite Phone
For the most remote locations, where even a cell booster can’t help, our satellite phone is a lifesaver. We use the Garmin inReach Mini, which we initially purchased for backpacking but quickly saw its value in our overlanding setup:
Compact and Lightweight: Size and weight are crucial when backpacking and overlanding, making the Garmin inReach Mini the perfect solution. It’s small enough to not weigh us down but powerful enough to ensure we stay connected.
No Service? No Problem: When you’re miles away from any cell tower, the satellite phone ensures you can still reach out for help if needed.
Emergency Contact: In case of emergencies, having a satellite phone provides a direct line to emergency services, giving us and our loved ones peace of mind.
Making the Right Choice for Your Adventures
Each of these communication tools holds great value and serves a different purpose. To determine which to invest in first, consider asking yourself a few questions:
Do you travel to no-service locations frequently? If yes, a satellite phone might be your best initial investment.
Do you travel with multiple people often? Radios could be essential for maintaining group communication and safety.
Do you often find yourself in areas with weak cell signals? A cell booster can significantly improve your connectivity.
Remember, it took us time to acquire all these items. Prioritize based on your specific needs and travel habits.
Safe travels and stay connected! If you have any questions about these tools or need advice, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to help ensure your rugged adventures are as enjoyable and safe as possible.
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