Do I Need a Satellite Phone for Backpacking?

By Alice Nichols

When travelling, having a reliable form of communication is vital for staying in touch with family and friends, especially in the event of an emergency. While cell phones are now commonplace, many backpackers wonder if they need to invest in a satellite phone for their travels.

Satellite phones are ideal for travellers because they use satellites to transmit data rather than relying on traditional cell towers. This means that they can be used practically anywhere on the planet without worrying about signal strength or roaming fees. Although they are more expensive than regular cell phones upfront, they can save money in the long run if you plan to travel regularly.

When it comes to safety, satellite phones are the way to go. Not only do they provide access to emergency services such as 911, but they also allow you to call out for help no matter where you are in the world. They also have tracking capabilities so that your exact location can be determined if necessary.

However, there are some drawbacks to using a satellite phone while backpacking. The most obvious one is cost – not only do you need to purchase the phone itself but you will also need a subscription plan which can be quite expensive depending on your usage needs. Additionally, satellite phones tend to be bulky and heavy compared to cell phones so it may not be practical if you’re trying to keep your load light.

Overall, whether or not you should invest in a satellite phone comes down to personal preference and how much money and weight allowance you have available for your trip. If cost is an issue, then opting for an international roaming plan on your regular cell phone might be a better option as this usually costs less than investing in a full-scale satellite phone package.

Conclusion: Ultimately, whether or not you need a satellite phone for backpacking depends largely on your budget and how much weight allowance you have available during your trip. Satellite phones offer unparalleled safety and reliability while travelling but may not be practical due to their cost and bulkiness when compared with regular cell phones.