What is the best personal locator beacon for hiking?

The best PLB for hiking often depends on individual needs and preferences, but popular choices include devices like the ACR ResQLink View, Garmin inReach Mini, and SPOT Gen4. These models are well-regarded for their reliable performance, durability, and user-friendly features.

How does a personal locator beacon for hiking work?

A PLB transmits a distress signal, including your precise location, to a network of satellites when activated. These satellites relay the signal to emergency services, allowing them to coordinate a rescue operation. Most PLBs use GPS technology to provide accurate location data.

Do I need a subscription for a personal locator beacon?

While traditional PLBs like the ACR ResQLink do not require a subscription to operate, other PLBs with two-way communication features, such as the Garmin inReach, often require a subscription plan. Subscription plans can offer additional features such as messaging, tracking, and real-time weather updates.

How long does the battery of a personal locator beacon last?

The battery life of a PLB can vary depending on the model and usage. Many PLBs have batteries that last for several years (typically 5-7 years) in standby mode and can transmit signals for 24-48 hours continuously once activated. It's crucial to check and replace the battery according to the manufacturer's guidelines.

Are personal locator beacons waterproof and durable?

Most high-quality PLBs are built to be waterproof and durable to withstand harsh outdoor conditions. For example, the ACR ResQLink View is rated to survive immersion in water up to 5 meters for 1 hour and is designed to endure shocks and impacts, making it a reliable choice for hiking and other outdoor activities.

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Personal Locator Beacon For Hiking

8 Best Personal Locator Beacon For Hiking 2024 in the US

Winner

acr

ACR ResQLink 400 - SOS Personal Locator Beacon with GPS and Global Coverage - Designed to Alert Search and Rescue Efforts for Any Outdoor Emergency - Ideal for Hiking, Hunting, Boating, Fishing

10.0

score

View on Amazon

Key Features

1.
No Subscription Required: No ongoing fees for usage.
2.
406 MHz Emergency Signal: Sends distress and homing signals.
3.
LED and Infrared Strobe: Visible and infrared light for signaling.
4.
Global Coverage: Works with Cospas-Sarsat and MEOSAR systems.
5.
GPS and Galileo GNSS: Utilizes GPS and Galileo for location tracking.

Garmin

Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator, Lightweight Compact Rugged Design, Portable GPS Handheld for Hiking, Two-Way Text Messaging Device Bundle with Accessories (Flame Red)

9.7

score

View on Amazon

Key Features

1.
Global Satellite Coverage: Utilizes Iridium network for connectivity in remote areas.
2.
Interactive SOS Alerts: 24/7 SOS support via Garmin Response coordination center.
3.
Compact and Rugged Design: Small, tough, water-resistant, with up to 30 days battery life.
4.
TracBack Routing: Navigate back to your starting point using the same route.
5.
Flexible Satellite Airtime Plans: Offers annual contracts and month-to-month plans.

acr

ACR ResQLink 410 RLS - SOS Personal Locator Beacon with Return Link Service GPS Global Coverage Designed to Alert Search and Rescue for Any Outdoor Emergency Ideal for Hiking Hunting Boating Fishing

9.4

score

View on Amazon

Key Features

1.
No Subscription Required: No ongoing fees for service usage.
2.
5 Year Battery Life: Long-lasting battery for extended use.
3.
Global Coverage: Works with GPS and Galileo GNSS worldwide.
4.
Built-In Buoyancy: Floats on water for easy retrieval.
5.
Strobe and Infrared Strobe: Enhanced visibility in low light conditions.

acr

ACR ResQLink View - Buoyant Personal Locator Beacon with GPS for Hiking, Boating and All Outdoor Adventures (Model PLB 425) ACR 2922

9.4

score

View on Amazon

Key Features

1.
SOS Distress Signal: Sends GPS position to Search and Rescue forces worldwide.
2.
Rugged and Lightweight: Buoyant design with multiple attachment clips for wearability.
3.
Non-Emergency Messaging: Send test messages via SMS and email with optional subscription.
4.
Global Coverage: Uses COSPAS-SARSAT satellites for worldwide distress messaging.
5.
LED and Infrared Strobe: Provides multiple visual signals for rescuers.

Ocean Signal

RESCUEME PLB1 GPS, SOS Personal Locator Beacon - Global Coverage, Small, Lightweight, Waterproof with High-Intensity Strobe, Mounting Clip, 7-Year Battery Life, Search & Rescue - Outdoor Emergencies

8.8

score

View on Amazon

Key Features

1.
7 Year Battery Life: Long-lasting battery for extended use.
2.
24+ Hour Operational Life: Operates continuously for over 24 hours.
3.
No Subscription Charges: Free to use without any ongoing fees.
4.
High Brightness Strobe Light: Strobe light with brightness over 1 candela.
5.
66 Channel GPS Receiver: Advanced GPS with 66 channels for accuracy.

McMurdo

McMurdo FastFind 220 Personal Locator Beacon - US Programming

8.2

score

View on Amazon

Key Features

1.
US Registration: Pre-programmed with US country code for registration.
2.
Global Functionality: Operates worldwide, contacts US Search and Rescue.
3.
Reprogramming Service: Free reprogramming for non-US registration available.
4.
Easy Activation: Deploy antenna, pull seal, press ON for activation.
5.
Proven Reliability: Tested in remote and extreme conditions for reliability.

acr

ACR ResQLink View RLS - SOS Personal Locator Beacon - Digital Display, Return Link Service, GPS Global Coverage to Alert Search and Rescue - Outdoor Emergency, Ideal for Hiking Hunting Boating Fishing

8.2

score

View on Amazon

Key Features

1.
Return Link Service (RLS): Provides confirmation of distress signal receipt.
2.
Digital Display: Clear and easy-to-read information display.
3.
5 Year Battery Life: Long-lasting power without frequent replacements.
4.
Global Coverage: Works with GPS, Galileo GNSS, and MEOSAR systems.
5.
Built-In Buoyancy: Ensures the device floats for easy retrieval.

SPOT X

Spot Trace Satellite Tracking Device | Handheld Satellite Tracker for Hiking, Camping, Cars, Kids, Outdoor Activities, and Assets with Globalstar Satellite Network Coverage | Subscription Applicable

Available in:

2 Styles

7.0

score

View on Amazon

Available in:

2 Styles

Key Features

1.
Satellite Tracking: Tracks anything using satellite technology.
2.
Preprogrammed Messages: Sends status messages at waypoints.
3.
Globalstar Satellite & GPS: Uses GPS to transmit exact coordinates.
4.
Versatile Use: Track luggage, vehicles, or loved ones.
5.
Complete Package: Includes device, batteries, USB cable, and guide.

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8 Best Personal Locator Beacon For Hiking 2024 in the US

ACR ResQLink 400 - SOS Personal Locator Beacon with GPS and Global Coverage - Designed to Alert Search and Rescue Efforts for Any Outdoor Emergency - Ideal for Hiking, Hunting, Boating, Fishing

Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator, Lightweight Compact Rugged Design, Portable GPS Handheld for Hiking, Two-Way Text Messaging Device Bundle with Accessories (Flame Red)

ACR ResQLink 410 RLS - SOS Personal Locator Beacon with Return Link Service GPS Global Coverage Designed to Alert Search and Rescue for Any Outdoor Emergency Ideal for Hiking Hunting Boating Fishing

ACR ResQLink View - Buoyant Personal Locator Beacon with GPS for Hiking, Boating and All Outdoor Adventures (Model PLB 425) ACR 2922

RESCUEME PLB1 GPS, SOS Personal Locator Beacon - Global Coverage, Small, Lightweight, Waterproof with High-Intensity Strobe, Mounting Clip, 7-Year Battery Life, Search & Rescue - Outdoor Emergencies

Holy Stone FAA Compliant Remote Identification broadcast Module Spare Parts for GPS Drones with Camera for Adults 4K, Remote ID broadcast Module Parts comply with US FAA Regulation; No worry about FAA

GPS Tracker - AutoSky Vehicle Tracker - Asset Tracker - HardWire Kit Included - No Recharging - 4G LTE - Real Time Location Tracking

AutoSky GPS Tracker for Vehicles, OBDII, 4G LTE, Model - AVT-210, Vehicle Location, Trip History, Driving Alerts, GeoFence, USA-Developed, Family or Fleets

AutoSky GPS Tracker - Small Portable, Splashproof Magnet Mount, North and South America Coverage. 4G LTE Real-Time Tracking for Vehicle, Asset, Fleet, Elderly and More. Subscription is Required

Rolling Square Aircard Wallet Tracker - Bluetooth Wallet Finder Find My Network Compatible with Business Card Feature NFC/QR Code - 0.09in Slim

McMurdo FastFind 220 Personal Locator Beacon - US Programming

ACR ResQLink View RLS - SOS Personal Locator Beacon - Digital Display, Return Link Service, GPS Global Coverage to Alert Search and Rescue - Outdoor Emergency, Ideal for Hiking Hunting Boating Fishing

Spot Trace Satellite Tracking Device | Handheld Satellite Tracker for Hiking, Camping, Cars, Kids, Outdoor Activities, and Assets with Globalstar Satellite Network Coverage | Subscription Applicable

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Spytec Mini GPS Smart Tracker for Vehicles, Cars, Trucks, Up to 14 Day Battery Life, Small GPS Tracking Device for Kids, Unlimited Updates, Worldwide Real-Time Tracking, USA Made Tech, Low Cost Plan

Kayo Business Fleet, GPS Tracker for Vehicles, 4G LTE & 5G, Real-Time GPS Tracking, 14-Day Free Trial, Simple Activation, Simple Plug-in Car GPS Tracker

FAQ

What is the best personal locator beacon for hiking?

How does a personal locator beacon for hiking work?

Do I need a subscription for a personal locator beacon?

How long does the battery of a personal locator beacon last?

Are personal locator beacons waterproof and durable?