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Why I’m Switching to iPhone & Starlink for Off-Grid Communication
In the world of backcountry travel, having reliable communication is non-negotiable. For years, I’ve relied on the Garmin InReach for peace of mind when venturing off the grid. Its satellite messaging, SOS capability, and tracking features made it the go-to device for remote safety. But recently, with the evolution of iPhone’s Emergency SOS via satellite and the portability of Starlink’s Roam (formerly RV) service, the necessity—and cost—of keeping an InReach subscription active has come into question.
As of this month, I’ve decided to pause my Garmin InReach subscription and instead use my iPhone paired with Starlink. Here's a breakdown of why, and how these tools now offer better flexibility, redundancy, and cost savings.
Why the InReach Is Becoming Redundant
Why the InReach Is Becoming Redundant
When the iPhone 14 introduced Emergency SOS via satellite, it marked a turning point. Apple’s service allows users to send emergency messages directly via satellite without cellular or Wi-Fi coverage. While it's not designed for chatting or tracking, it gives any iPhone user a direct lifeline when things go wrong in the wilderness.
Pair that with Starlink Roam, and the game changes further. With the compact Starlink dish, I can now have full internet access almost anywhere, which enables not just SOS communication, but two-way texting, voice calls, location sharing, map downloading, weather checks, and even video uploads—none of which are possible with the Garmin InReach alone.
So while the InReach still offers dependable ruggedness and precise GPS tools, it’s no longer the only satellite game in town. And in many cases, it’s no longer the best option.
Cost Savings and Flexibility
Cost Savings and Flexibility
Garmin InReach plans start around $15 per month for a safety tier and quickly jump to $65+ for higher message caps or tracking intervals. Over a year, that adds up—especially if you’re not using it constantly. Pausing my InReach plan saves me up to $780 annually, and Garmin doesn’t make it seamless to pause and resume without reactivation fees depending on your plan.
With iPhone SOS included at no cost for two years with eligible models, and Starlink Roam’s service being pause-able month to month, I can now scale my satellite needs more precisely depending on the trip. That flexibility alone makes this new setup worth switching to.
Offline Maps: iPhone Wins
Offline Maps: iPhone Wins
One area where Garmin traditionally had the edge was downloadable mapping. But with apps like Gaia GPS, AllTrails, CalTopo, Avenza, and OnX, the iPhone has now matched—or surpassed—Garmin in this regard. These apps allow offline map downloads with custom layers (topo, satellite, trail routes), waypoint marking, GPX imports, and real-time location tracking—all viewable on a large, high-resolution screen.
This means I can plan my routes in advance, download full areas offline, and still have turn-by-turn location awareness even when I’m far from a signal. Plus, all my data syncs easily with cloud storage and sharing platforms.
Final Thoughts
Final Thoughts
While the Garmin InReach remains a great standalone safety device—especially for ultralight backpackers or thru-hikers looking for minimal tech—I’ve found that the combination of my iPhone’s built-in satellite SOS and the powerful connectivity of Starlink makes it redundant for most of my needs.
By pausing my InReach subscription, I not only eliminate one more monthly expense, but I streamline the gear I carry and tap into more advanced tools. For anyone already carrying a smartphone and considering portable Starlink, it might be time to rethink what “off-grid safety” really looks like in 2025.
Note: This isn’t to say the InReach doesn’t have its place—plenty of people still need a lightweight, always-on satellite communicator. But for those of us already packing a Starlink and smartphone, it’s worth asking: are we paying for more than we need?
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