Beginner Guides

Footwear & Apparel

Packs, Poles & Hydration

The inReach Mini 2 is the gold-standard pocket communicator and our top pick. At about 100 g it's tiny enough to clip to a pack strap and forget, yet it does everything that matters: two-way texting over the 100% global Iridium network, interactive SOS to Garmin's 24/7 Response center, TracBack routing to retrace your steps, and a battery that lasts up to two weeks in tracking mode. Pair it with the Garmin Messenger app to type quickly on your phone. (Subscription required.)

Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator

Garmin inReach Mini 2

ZOLEO is the value pick, with some of the most affordable monthly plans and a clever trick: it sends messages over the cheapest available network—cellular, Wi-Fi, or Iridium satellite—so you save on airtime when you're back in coverage. You get a dedicated SMS number and email, unlimited check-ins, IP68 durability, and 200+ hours of battery. SOS routes to a 24/7 emergency monitoring center. (Subscription required.)

ZOLEO Satellite Communicator – Two-Way Global Messenger with SOS

ZOLEO Satellite Communicator

If you want a standalone navigator and not just a messenger, the GPSMAP 66i combines a full handheld GPS with inReach satellite technology. A large 3-inch sunlight-readable screen shows preloaded TopoActive maps and BirdsEye satellite imagery, so you can navigate without a phone, while inReach handles two-way messaging and SOS over Iridium. Battery runs up to 35 hours in standard tracking and 200 hours in expedition mode. (Subscription required for satellite features.)

Garmin GPSMAP 66i GPS Handheld and Satellite Communicator

Garmin GPSMAP 66i

How to hike safely with an emergency satellite communicator

Our overall pick for hikers. The Surviveware kit packs 98 quality supplies into clearly labeled, injury-specific compartments, so you can find what you need fast. The 600D polyester bag is water-resistant and tear-resistant, it includes a removable CPR pouch and a first aid guide, and MOLLE-compatible straps let you clip it to a pack. Well-organized, durable, and easy to restock.

Surviveware Comprehensive Premium First Aid Kit (98 Pieces)

Surviveware Comprehensive Kit

The best pick for day hikes and weekends. Built by Adventure Medical Kits and rated for up to 2 people for up to 2 days, the Hiker uses AMK's Easy Care system—supplies grouped by injury type in clearly labeled pockets inside a water-resistant bag. It includes a trauma pad, an elastic bandage for sprains, and a wilderness first aid guide. Light, focused, and trail-proven.

Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Hiker Medical Kit (2 People / 2 Days)

AMK Mountain Series Hiker

The choice when weight and weather matter most. This AMK kit seals supplies in a waterproof inner DryFlex bag housed in a water-resistant outer, so everything stays usable after rain or a creek crossing. Rated for up to 3 people for up to 3 days, it covers bleeding, blisters, sprains, and common meds while staying light enough for fast-and-light hikers, bikers, and climbers.

Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7 (3 People / 3 Days)

AMK Ultralight/Watertight .7

The pick for groups and longer expeditions. Rated for up to 4 people for up to 7 days, the Explorer scales up AMK's Easy Care system with comprehensive wound care, a trauma pad, a CPR face shield, splinting and sprain support, and a detailed wilderness first aid guide—all in a water-resistant, organized bag. The most complete kit on this list.

Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Explorer Medical Kit (4 People / 7 Days)

AMK Mountain Series Explorer

Part first aid kit, part survival kit. The EVERLIT packs 250 pieces—first aid supplies plus survival tools like a mylar blanket, tactical flashlight, paracord bracelet with compass and whistle, fire starter, and emergency poncho—into a rugged 1000D water-resistant MOLLE pouch. A great pick for hunters, preppers, and hikers who want emergency gear and first aid in one bag.

Safety & Navigation

How to hike safely with an emergency satellite communicator

The 5 Best Hiking First Aid Kits for Any Outdoor Adventure