Planning a trip outdoor? In the wild? Or in the backcountry! Then, you probably don’t need to get there to know that your regular cellular services are not available there.
Yeah, you need one of the best satellite phones for backpacking and to make your experience completely worriless.
Moreover, if you’re carrying a gadget like a satellite phone while going into the wild, your near ones can relax at home as you’re going to stay in touch with them all the time.
Yeah, it makes the overall experience highly comfortable for you as well as for your family members.
However, it’s not easy to find one of the best satellite phones for backpacking as there are many and each has its own pros and cons attached to them.
Hence, we decided to craft an easy-to-digest and understand listicle for reviews of the best satphone or satellite messengers on the market.
Also, we’ve tried to cover all phones that fulfill our reader’s expectations for a variety of purposes.
So, now, let’s get started with our review for the best satellite phones for outdoor backpacking.
Contents
- Best Satellite Phone for Backpacking in 2022
- #1. Inmarsat IsatPhone Pro 2 Handheld Satellite Phone – Latest Pick
- Pros & Cons of Inmarsat IsatPhone Pro 2 SatPhone for Backpackers
- #2. Thuraya XT-Lite Satellite Phone – All-Time Performer
- Pros & Cons of Thuraya XT-Lite
- #3. Iridium Extreme 9575 Satellite Phone – Editor’s Pick
- Pros & Cons of Iridium Extreme 9575 Satellite phone for backpacking
- #4. Inmarsat Isatphone 2.1 – All Rounder Pick
- Pros & Cons of Inmarsat Isatphone 2.1 Satellite Phone
- #5. Globalstar GSP-1600 – Best by Qualcomm
- Pros & Cons of Globalstar GSP-1600 Satellite Phone
- #6. Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone – Best Budget Pick
- Pros & Cons of Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone
- FAQs – Top Rated Sattelite Phone For Backpacking
- Conclusion
Best Satellite Phone for Backpacking in 2022
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SatPhoneStore Iridium 9575 Extreme Satellite Phone Standard Package with Tough Case, Protective Case... | Buy on Amazon |
#1. Inmarsat IsatPhone Pro 2 Handheld Satellite Phone – Latest Pick
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This is one of the best satellite phones in the market with 4.2 ratings. The popularity of the phone speaks volumes about its performance and reliability. A satellite phone is essential for trips where normal phones go useless because of weak or no signal. In such regions, satellite phones are reliable as they will allow you to stay in touch with your family and friends despite poor signals.
This satellite phone comes in black color with a 2-inch display. You will be provided with a SIM card along with the package for instant use. You should talk with the seller during your purchase about SIM card activation and prepaid plans. You can activate prepaid or monthly plans according to your choice.
You can talk with your loved ones through voice calls, text them through SMS and track your location using the GPS feature equipped in this satellite phone. This includes even the Polar Regions in the world. The satellite phone works with high efficiency across all parts and regions of the world.
We would say your investment in this satellite phone is worth it, as it is backed by a 1-year warranty. The phone package comes with the Inmarsat IsatPhone 2 satellite phone, Lithium-ion battery, international plug kit, DC charger, Holster, Hands-free earpiece, Lanyard, USB cable, user’s guide, and SIM card.
The phone is quite easy to set up and will take only a few minutes for your usage. If you have handled smartphones, then this will just be a piece of cake.
Pros & Cons of Inmarsat IsatPhone Pro 2 SatPhone for Backpackers
Pros
- Good battery life about 8 hours
- Easy to read display
- Comes with a SIM card
- Backed by 1-year manufacturer warranty
- Popular in the market with high ratings
- Tracks location through GPS feature
Cons
- Not waterproof
#2. Thuraya XT-Lite Satellite Phone – All-Time Performer
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All you want is solid battery backup while planning a trip outdoor? Well, we’ve one in our bag. Yeah, Thuraya XT-Lite satphone features 80 hours long battery backup on standby.
Moreover, on a single full charge, you’re free to use this phone for 6 long hours continuously.
Another great feature of this satphone is the dual SIM facility where you can use one prepaid SIM and one Postpaid SIM concurrently. Yeah, you can use this phone as a regular calling device as well. However, for that, you’ll have to opt for Thuraya SIM only.
Also, seamless walk and talk functionality for the call is one of the key points that justify this gadget’s recommendation from most of its users.
Another great advantage of the Thuraya satellite phone is multi-language programming in its software and firmware.
Yeah, it’s compatible with 12 languages and the majority of internationally spoken languages are covered in this list.
Now, if we talk about satellite networks then Thuraya’s satellite network is most prominent and reliable for users of all kinds. Yeah, no matter if you’re a hardcore hiker or sailing in the sea for most of your time, this phone is great for you.
In quantified measure, this satellite phone’s network is available in 160 countries of the world. It means, Thuraya network covers almost two-third part of the globe.
However, their network is not available in the USA and that’s the major drawback for people residing in the USA region.
Also, if we talk about additional functionalities then this satellite phone from Thuraya comes with features like address book, alarms, calendar, conference calling, call log and history, contact group, speed dialing, stopwatch, and many more.
At last, talking about durability, Thuraya is a brand known for its sturdiness and reliable product line. So yeah, this one is not an exception in their credibility. In a nutshell, XT-Lite will last longer than your expectation and deliver beyond your desires for most of its lifetime.
Pros & Cons of Thuraya XT-Lite
Pros
- Long-lasting battery backup with up to 80 hours standby time.
- Signals are available in 10+ countries around the globe.
- Safe for hardcore users as it’s highly durable.
- Works on dual SIM functionality.
- Programmed for 12 heavily spoken international languages.
- Up to date firmware and software installed in it.
- Built-in antenna.
Cons
- Signals are not available in USA.
- Thuraya’s network is compulsory to opt-in.
#3. Iridium Extreme 9575 Satellite Phone – Editor’s Pick
Yeah, our best pick is from a well-known and prominent brand Iridium. They’ve achieved this level of trust and reliance for several reasons and reliability is one among many of them.
Yeah, Iridium Extreme 9575 satellite phone features a solid and highly durable body build. In a nutshell, this beast lasts longer than usual on onetime use phones.
Moreover, the signal strength and reception quality of this satellite phone from iridium are impressive as well. Yeah, no matter how complicated your terrain is or what sort of backcountry you’re traversing, this phone will always back you up when it comes to communication.
Yeah, our verified users have reported that there are very few difficulties in connecting and communicating with people using this satellite phone for backpacking.
Also, if you’re habited to do ruff-use of gadgets and a bit careless in handling this kind of equipment then there’s a piece of good news for you. Yeah, it’s completely water, shock, and dustproof gadget and can handle all sort of accidents that happens during a backpacker’s trip to wild.
And yeah, if we talk about functionalities, then extreme delivers beyond everyone’s expectations. Yeah, it features location awareness, SOS integration with emergency response service enabled, and competition-beating toughness.
Now, if we talk about battery back up then this is the part that we liked the most and the reason behind picking up this beast as our editor’s choice. Yeah, Iridium Extreme 9575 phone features a superb battery and comes up with an AC travel charger with an international power adapter, a DC car charger, and a USB data cable.
Also, a vehicle mount antenna is supplied in the box itself so that you can bring this satellite phone with you without the worry of receiving satellite signals.
Above all, there are plenty of bonus accessories supplied in the box itself to fulfill all your needs.
And yeah, this phone comes with ready activate SIM cards which you can activate as a prepaid or postpaid communication mediator.
All in all, if you’re looking for something cool as well as awesome then this one is made for you. Yeah, it’s one of the best satellite phones for the backpacking of all hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, taking all features and functionality in consideration.
Pros & Cons of Iridium Extreme 9575 Satellite phone for backpacking
Pros
- Editor’s pick for best satellite phone for backpacking not only by news mavens but also by the majority of tech advisors.
- Rock-solid build.
- Highly durable.
- Waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof form factor.
- SOS integration.
- Modern-day technology equipped with this gadget.
- All essential functionalities are included in the device.
Cons
- None.
#4. Inmarsat Isatphone 2.1 – All Rounder Pick
For those who liked our top pick but don’t have a budget to spend, we have an alternative for them as well.
Yeah, Inmarsat Isatphone 2.1 is made for those who’re expecting premium satellite phone features in their mid-range budget.
Firstly, this satellite phone by Inmarsat is compact enough to get accommodated in all types of backpacks. So yeah, for those who’re keeping a firm eye on the size and weight of gadgets they intend to add into their backpacks, this one is the best for them.
As mentioned earlier, this phone is packed with premium range features and delivered at a highly affordable price tag. So yeah, it’s not a cheap choice that you should pick by considering price as the best selling point, it’s the features that it offers.
If we talk about features, then communication works like a breeze with this satellite phone from Inmarsat. Yeah, be it messages or calls, this phone never fails in connecting with others.
Moreover, this satellite phone offers prepaid as well as postpaid billing options without any hidden charges therein.
Now, if we talk about strength and durability then this one is also a completely shockproof, waterproof, and dustproof gadget. Yeah, this is the reason we called it premium range best satellite phone for backpackers.
Also, the battery backup of the Inmarsat satellite phone is nonetheless lower than our previous pick. Yeah, it’s impressive enough to help you in a tough time.
At last, if we talk about accessories then this satphone comes with AC charger adapter, holster with belt clip, USB cable, car charger, SIM card, a detailed user manual, and a headphone.
Moreover, Inmarsat offers an 18-month warranty on this satellite phone. Yeah, they’re always there to back you up in adverse situations if you face any.
Like everyone else, if you’ve got a question that why this phone is offered at a lowball price if all features are similar or better than top pick then we’d like to say only one word – COMPETITION. Everyone wants to thrive and strive in a competitive market.
Pros & Cons of Inmarsat Isatphone 2.1 Satellite Phone
Pros
- Fully portable and lightweight.
- Best satellite phone for hikers and backpackers.
- Wide range of signals around the globe.
- All premium range functionalities available in this satellite phone.
- Affordable for occasional outdoor activists.
- Waterproof, dustproof & shockproof design.
- Fabulous and use extensive accessories supplied in the box.
- 18 months warranty from the manufacturer.
Cons
- Consider reading warranty details before considering it as a selling point.
#5. Globalstar GSP-1600 – Best by Qualcomm
Another well-known and most recommended brand for Satellite phones for backpackers is Qualcomm. Yeah, they have got a large product line in this space and they’ve delivered beyond people’s expectations for a long time now.
Globalstar GSP-1600 is one of the best-selling satellite phones for adventure seekers. Yeah, it’s because of the most prominent and state-of-the-art functionalities that it offers.
In fact, you’ll come across a line any time if you’re looking for a worthwhile recommendation – “None other than Globalstar should be considered as a best budget satellite phone if you’re backpacking.”
Firstly, this is not a SIM accompanied device. So yeah, you need to register yourself with Globalstar to get their services.
And if we talk about things included in their service then they offer SMS, calls, and high-speed internet connectivity for its users.
Another great deal is durability. Yeah, Globalstar GSP-1600 is highly durable and features a long lifespan. So yeah, durability with compact sizing and portable design makes this beast one of the best satellite phones for outdoor backpacking and wild trips.
Now, if we talk about charging and power options then you’ll get everything you need to get it charged for a long usage of around 3.75 hours constantly. Yeah, this phone works on a lithium-ion battery which is rechargeable and lasts long enough to stay in touch with the outer world for most of your time during the trip.
In terms of basic and additional functionalities, Globalstar GSP-1600 features a built-in call log, contact book, etc.
Moreover, on the screen, it displays remaining battery levels, voicemail notifications, recent call history, etc.
Another great deal is the fare of Globalstar. Yeah, they offer monthly as well as annual subscription plans for their network and they’re comparatively cheaper than others.
In the box, you’ll get the main unit, lithium-ion battery, American wall charger, and an easy-to-understand detailed user manual for setting up this device.
In a nutshell, Globalstar GSP-1600 by Qualcomm is one of the best satphones on the market which works as the best satellite messenger as well.
So yeah, buying this device is completely no-brainer in our opinion as it comes at a decent price tag, network fares are affordable and the phone has some of the advanced features packed in it.
Pros & Cons of Globalstar GSP-1600 Satellite Phone
Pros
- Affordable price range.
- Rock-solid build.
- Sleek and compact design.
- Widely available signals.
- Long-lasting battery backup.
- SMS, SOS, Calling all available on a single device.
- One of the best satellite messengers on the market.
Cons
- Few users reported that after 1-2 years battery starts draining in less time.
#6. Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone – Best Budget Pick
Expecting an everywhere available network with a lowball pricing? Then, this is your satellite phone. Yeah, suits for all kinds of outdoor adventures; be it in the wild or in the sea, this one of the best satellite phones will always serve you all the time.
Firstly, as we mentioned in our previous review of another model from Iridium, this brand is known for keeping itself inclined towards customer’s needs. And, this phone justifies our words.
Yeah, as cellular networks are rare in backcountry trips, an extreme requirement for satellite phones arises on the market. However, in earlier days majority of brands sold their phones at an unbelievable price range. And, as people don’t need this kind of device for routine usage, they were not ready to afford it.
To cope up with the situation, brands like Iridium and Inmarsat came up with a bit less durable yet highly affordable units. Yeah, this one is one of such models that are available at highly affordable price tags.
Also, when we say that less durable units, we didn’t mean that a completely useless unit. Yeah, Iridium 9555 is not as rock-solid as a military-grade device but still, it’s useful for outdoor adventures.
Now, if we talk about the design aspect then Iridium 9555 boasts a sleek design profile that’s enough to impress any outdoor enthusiasts at first glance. Moreover, it won’t demand much space in your backpack as it’s pretty compact in size. Yeah, you can even mount it on your belt line using the holster and clip provided in the box.
This satellite phone from Iridium features an internally mounted antenna to keep yourself in touch with the network.
In terms of functionalities, it offers almost everything that’s mentioned in the previous review for iridium 9575 and also comes with an SOS emergency calling service. Yeah, a firm lifeline along with you during your entire trip to the mountains. Yeah, in our opinion, an ideal emergency communication gadget has to fulfill all our needs at first then we should look at other paramters.
In the box, you’ll get the main unit, battery, charger adapter for the wall as well as for car and a headphone. And yeah, this phone comes with a detailed user manual to set it up for first use.
Pros & Cons of Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone
Pros
- Dirt cheap pricing.
- Comes with all required features and functionalities.
- Long-lasting power backup with Lithium-ion battery.
- Affordable network fares.
- Works in all kinds of situations as a critical lifeline.
- Supports headphones.
Cons
- Less durability.
FAQs – Top Rated Sattelite Phone For Backpacking
1. Are satellite phones good for hiking?
If you’re going on a faraway hiking adventure from home. Or the location of your hiking activity is not able to provide you coverage for a cellphone network, then satellite phones are your best bet. Yeah, these devices come in handy during difficult times.
2. Do satellite phones work everywhere?
Yes! But, still, there are few limitations in its usage in random locations. For clarity regarding this question, you should check on available locations for usage from your satellite network provider.
3. How much does a satellite phone cost per month?
4. Does a satellite phone need a plan?
Yes! Satellite phones do need a plan same as your cellphones.
5. Can you text with a satellite phone?
Yes, you can! Usually, text messages are allowed to be sent and received from and to a satellite phone. And also, from and to a cellphone too.
6. Do satellite phones work indoors?
Satphones work almost everywhere, provided your device is receiving satellite signals to establish a connection.
Conclusion
So, that’s all for some of the top-rated satellite phones for backpacking. We’ve given our best to cover all essential information and picked only quality models in our list. Still, if you think that we’ve missed any of your favorite models then mention it in the comment section and we’ll provide our review on the same.
Now, if you’re waiting for our opinion regarding selecting one of the best satcom devices for you then we’ll point out our finger towards Iridium Extreme 9575. Yeah, that’s one of the most recommended satellite phones for a reason. And, we believe that our readers should also give a try to this one without a doubt.
Also, out recently added model of Inmarsat is quite a good choice and a perfect value for the money pick from our editors. Well, we’ve curated this model after a deep examination of its caliber and potential to help backpackers during their adventures. Also, many people who’re currently using this model by Inmarsat has a complete positive feedback for the product and that’s the another reason you may look for that model from our curation.