Do You Need a Satellite Phone for Backpacking?

By Anna Duncan

Backpacking is an exciting way to explore the world and experience different cultures, but it’s also a great way to get off the beaten path and away from civilization. As such, it’s important for backpackers to be aware of the potential dangers that come with straying too far from help. One of the most important pieces of equipment for any backpacking trip is a reliable means of communication.

For many backpackers, this means taking a satellite phone. A satellite phone is a small handheld device that can be used to make calls anywhere in the world, even in areas where there is no cell service or land-based phone lines.

This makes them ideal for trekkers who may find themselves in remote regions without access to traditional forms of communication. Satellite phones are also more reliable than cell phones because they don’t rely on local cellular networks, which can be unreliable in some areas.

The benefits of having a satellite phone while backpacking are clear, but they can also be expensive and inconvenient to carry around. They are typically quite bulky and heavy, making them difficult to fit into a backpacker’s already packed gear. The cost of purchasing and maintaining a satellite phone can also be prohibitive for some travelers.

If you’re planning an extended backpacking trip through remote areas with no access to traditional forms of communication, then investing in a satellite phone might be worth considering. However, if you’re sticking close to civilization or plan on always having access to other forms of communication like Wi-Fi or landlines, then you may not need one.

Do You Need a Satellite Phone for Backpacking?
The answer depends on where you plan on traveling and how long your trips will be. If you plan on going off the beaten path or staying away from civilization for extended periods of time, then investing in a satellite phone may be necessary for your safety and peace of mind. Otherwise, it may not be necessary unless you decide that its convenience outweighs its cost and bulkiness.