Last updated at 08/06/2026 22:22:37
Garmin inReach Messenger Plus,Compact SOS Satellite Communicator, Two Way Communication, Interactive SOS Alerts, Location Sharing, 24/7 Emergency
Free delivery
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Garmin inReach Messenger Plus SOS Satellite Communicator with Photo & Voice Messaging, 1.08" GPS, Built-In Bluetooth - Black/Red (010-02887-00)
Delivery $115.90
Garmin inReach Messenger Plus
Delivery between 15–19 June $99.39
Garmin inReach Messenger Plus SOS Satellite Communicator w/ Photo Voice Messaging
Delivery between 19–23 June $96.55
GARMIN InReach Messenger Plus
Delivery $50.89
Garmin Inreach Messenger Plus Communicator Voice And Photo Messages
Delivery $101.49
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Garmin Inreach Messenger Plus Satellite Comm
Free delivery
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Garmin Inreach Messenger Plus Sos Satellite Communicator With Photo &
Free delivery
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Garmin inReach Messenger Plus SOS Satellite Communicator w/Photo & Voice Messaging
Garmin inReach Messenger Plus SOS Satellite Communicator w/Photo & Voice Messaging
originally posted on garmin.com
To me the Messenger design is somewhat like a Chromebook. It requires a cloud data link for track recording functionality. And that data stream means you would want a mid-range or high-end data plan.I've previously owned both the inReach Mini and the inReach Mini 2. I decided to upgrade to the inReach Messenger based on the 2x battery life. Most of my outings are day hikes, but I do an occasional weeklong backpack. A typical comment I've seen is that the Messenger's longer battery life allows you to record a seven-day trek route on a single charge. That is a compelling. I pay for the monthly 'Safety' plan, $12.95/month. That plan has a per track point fee. Fortunately, the inReach Mini 2 has a setting (Send Interval: off) to disable data upload and just save ... MoreTo me the Messenger design is somewhat like a Chromebook. It requires a cloud data link for track recording functionality. And that data stream means you would want a mid-range or high-end data plan.I've previously owned both the inReach Mini and the inReach Mini 2. I decided to upgrade to the inReach Messenger based on the 2x battery life. Most of my outings are day hikes, but I do an occasional weeklong backpack. A typical comment I've seen is that the Messenger's longer battery life allows you to record a seven-day trek route on a single charge. That is a compelling. I pay for the monthly 'Safety' plan, $12.95/month. That plan has a per track point fee. Fortunately, the inReach Mini 2 has a setting (Send Interval: off) to disable data upload and just save recorded track points on the device for later transfer at home. I was very surprised to find out that the Messenger does not have that option. If you record a track point, it uploads. No choice. The 'Recreation' $24.95/month and 'Expedition' $49.95/month plans do not charge for uploading track points. So, if you have one of those plans the Messenger could be a very good match to your needs. But it was not a good match for me.
originally posted on garmin.com
My husband treated me to a two week plus trip out west for our 25th anniversary. We hiked the Grand Canyon rim to rim then camped throughout many national park areas. A majority of those nights were dispersed camping with zero cell service. We needed the Garmin Messenger in the GC for check-ins to the kids/family/friends back home to let them know we were safe as well as when camping for the same purpose. Very thankful to have a reliable way to touch base with our loved ones (and check the weather as well when a storm rolled in while camping along a river). Also thankful for the SARS insurance offered. My husband became pretty sick in the GC and while we didn’t need the search and rescue I was so glad to have the option had we needed it. Works will with their Garmin ... MoreMy husband treated me to a two week plus trip out west for our 25th anniversary. We hiked the Grand Canyon rim to rim then camped throughout many national park areas. A majority of those nights were dispersed camping with zero cell service. We needed the Garmin Messenger in the GC for check-ins to the kids/family/friends back home to let them know we were safe as well as when camping for the same purpose. Very thankful to have a reliable way to touch base with our loved ones (and check the weather as well when a storm rolled in while camping along a river). Also thankful for the SARS insurance offered. My husband became pretty sick in the GC and while we didn’t need the search and rescue I was so glad to have the option had we needed it. Works will with their Garmin Messenger app and with my Garmin Forerunner 965. Didn’t know how much we needed this device…it has brought loads of comfort! Garmin wins again!!
originally posted on REI
it's TRAGIC, TERRIBLE humans rely on digital means to plot a course. What ever happened to good compass and maps skills? This BATTERY dependent (These devices require charging and you remembering to carry the right charger and cables) digital product lulls you into a very false sense of location. It DOES not work that a way! if you want to safely hike, take some good courses, or many; it takes AND they prey on you to actually buy a subscription for the whole thing. Stupid!It takes practice to be a competent map reader. Knowing analogue skills of map and compass reading, using your human logic will save your bacon and those who rely on you; bringing you home to do this again. This type of "technology" is a lie and will result in horrible situations for humans stupid ... Moreit's TRAGIC, TERRIBLE humans rely on digital means to plot a course. What ever happened to good compass and maps skills? This BATTERY dependent (These devices require charging and you remembering to carry the right charger and cables) digital product lulls you into a very false sense of location. It DOES not work that a way! if you want to safely hike, take some good courses, or many; it takes AND they prey on you to actually buy a subscription for the whole thing. Stupid!It takes practice to be a competent map reader. Knowing analogue skills of map and compass reading, using your human logic will save your bacon and those who rely on you; bringing you home to do this again. This type of "technology" is a lie and will result in horrible situations for humans stupid enough to rely strictly on digital means of navigation. So what if you can send a photo? Send one of you lost!
| Lens Material | Chemically strengthened glass |
| Dimension | 7.8 x 6.4 x 2.3 cm (3.1′′ x 2.5′′ x 0.9′′) |
| Water rating | IPX7 |
| Display Resolution | 160 x 68 pixels |
| Battery type | Rechargeable internal lithium-ion |
Garmin inReach Messenger Plus,Compact SOS Satellite Communicator, Two Way Communication, Interactive SOS Alerts, Location Sharing, 24/7 Emergency
Free delivery
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Garmin inReach Messenger Plus SOS Satellite Communicator with Photo & Voice Messaging, 1.08" GPS, Built-In Bluetooth - Black/Red (010-02887-00)
Delivery $115.90
Garmin inReach Messenger Plus
Delivery between 15–19 June $99.39
Garmin inReach Messenger Plus SOS Satellite Communicator w/ Photo Voice Messaging
Delivery between 19–23 June $96.55
GARMIN InReach Messenger Plus
Delivery $50.89
To me the Messenger design is somewhat like a Chromebook. It requires a cloud data link for track recording functionality. And that data stream means you would want a mid-range or high-end data plan.I've previously owned both the inReach Mini and the inReach Mini 2. I decided to upgrade to the inReach Messenger based on the 2x battery life. Most of my outings are day hikes, but I do an occasional weeklong backpack. A typical comment I've seen is that the Messenger's longer battery life allows you to record a seven-day trek route on a single charge. That is a compelling. I pay for the monthly 'Safety' plan, $12.95/month. That plan has a per track point fee. Fortunately, the inReach Mini 2 has a setting (Send Interval: off) to disable data upload and just save ... MoreTo me the Messenger design is somewhat like a Chromebook. It requires a cloud data link for track recording functionality. And that data stream means you would want a mid-range or high-end data plan.I've previously owned both the inReach Mini and the inReach Mini 2. I decided to upgrade to the inReach Messenger based on the 2x battery life. Most of my outings are day hikes, but I do an occasional weeklong backpack. A typical comment I've seen is that the Messenger's longer battery life allows you to record a seven-day trek route on a single charge. That is a compelling. I pay for the monthly 'Safety' plan, $12.95/month. That plan has a per track point fee. Fortunately, the inReach Mini 2 has a setting (Send Interval: off) to disable data upload and just save recorded track points on the device for later transfer at home. I was very surprised to find out that the Messenger does not have that option. If you record a track point, it uploads. No choice. The 'Recreation' $24.95/month and 'Expedition' $49.95/month plans do not charge for uploading track points. So, if you have one of those plans the Messenger could be a very good match to your needs. But it was not a good match for me.
My husband treated me to a two week plus trip out west for our 25th anniversary. We hiked the Grand Canyon rim to rim then camped throughout many national park areas. A majority of those nights were dispersed camping with zero cell service. We needed the Garmin Messenger in the GC for check-ins to the kids/family/friends back home to let them know we were safe as well as when camping for the same purpose. Very thankful to have a reliable way to touch base with our loved ones (and check the weather as well when a storm rolled in while camping along a river). Also thankful for the SARS insurance offered. My husband became pretty sick in the GC and while we didn’t need the search and rescue I was so glad to have the option had we needed it. Works will with their Garmin ... MoreMy husband treated me to a two week plus trip out west for our 25th anniversary. We hiked the Grand Canyon rim to rim then camped throughout many national park areas. A majority of those nights were dispersed camping with zero cell service. We needed the Garmin Messenger in the GC for check-ins to the kids/family/friends back home to let them know we were safe as well as when camping for the same purpose. Very thankful to have a reliable way to touch base with our loved ones (and check the weather as well when a storm rolled in while camping along a river). Also thankful for the SARS insurance offered. My husband became pretty sick in the GC and while we didn’t need the search and rescue I was so glad to have the option had we needed it. Works will with their Garmin Messenger app and with my Garmin Forerunner 965. Didn’t know how much we needed this device…it has brought loads of comfort! Garmin wins again!!
it's TRAGIC, TERRIBLE humans rely on digital means to plot a course. What ever happened to good compass and maps skills? This BATTERY dependent (These devices require charging and you remembering to carry the right charger and cables) digital product lulls you into a very false sense of location. It DOES not work that a way! if you want to safely hike, take some good courses, or many; it takes AND they prey on you to actually buy a subscription for the whole thing. Stupid!It takes practice to be a competent map reader. Knowing analogue skills of map and compass reading, using your human logic will save your bacon and those who rely on you; bringing you home to do this again. This type of "technology" is a lie and will result in horrible situations for humans stupid ... Moreit's TRAGIC, TERRIBLE humans rely on digital means to plot a course. What ever happened to good compass and maps skills? This BATTERY dependent (These devices require charging and you remembering to carry the right charger and cables) digital product lulls you into a very false sense of location. It DOES not work that a way! if you want to safely hike, take some good courses, or many; it takes AND they prey on you to actually buy a subscription for the whole thing. Stupid!It takes practice to be a competent map reader. Knowing analogue skills of map and compass reading, using your human logic will save your bacon and those who rely on you; bringing you home to do this again. This type of "technology" is a lie and will result in horrible situations for humans stupid enough to rely strictly on digital means of navigation. So what if you can send a photo? Send one of you lost!
Too early for meaningful comment, but have used the InReach Messenger on a couple test outings. Day on Bull Island and century ride in spotty cell coverage. Only using it as a basic check-in device. Long term plan is to use phone to text pics to folks when in service, check-in with IRM whenever we take a break whether in cell service or not, between check-in points let them refer the posted route, and of course use the IRM if emergency. The device did great on test outings! Very small and easy to stow in a safe spot. Don’t need to touch it because can operate through phone. Run phone on Airplane Mode to preserve batt until it needs to control the IRM. While on Airplane Mode can also take pics and navigate via RideWithGPS downloaded file. Am looking forward to ... MoreToo early for meaningful comment, but have used the InReach Messenger on a couple test outings. Day on Bull Island and century ride in spotty cell coverage. Only using it as a basic check-in device. Long term plan is to use phone to text pics to folks when in service, check-in with IRM whenever we take a break whether in cell service or not, between check-in points let them refer the posted route, and of course use the IRM if emergency. The device did great on test outings! Very small and easy to stow in a safe spot. Don’t need to touch it because can operate through phone. Run phone on Airplane Mode to preserve batt until it needs to control the IRM. While on Airplane Mode can also take pics and navigate via RideWithGPS downloaded file. Am looking forward to working with the InReach Messenger more!
Cell phones were a game changer for cycling, and now the small, lightweight InReach devices are another game changer. I bought the InReach Messenger for cycling in remote areas. Even though I do mostly road rides some are in very remote areas with no cell reception for dozens of miles. Also for planed MTB rides in remote areas. I got the messenger because it is cheaper than the Mini 2 and seems to have all the features I wanted. The battery is also longer-lasting than the Mini models. I was using it one week after purchase on a remote gravel ride when we were clearly going to much later than planned and I was able to text home thru the Messenger App that we would be a couple hours late. I also set up the tracking so my wife could see where we were every 30 minutes ... MoreCell phones were a game changer for cycling, and now the small, lightweight InReach devices are another game changer. I bought the InReach Messenger for cycling in remote areas. Even though I do mostly road rides some are in very remote areas with no cell reception for dozens of miles. Also for planed MTB rides in remote areas. I got the messenger because it is cheaper than the Mini 2 and seems to have all the features I wanted. The battery is also longer-lasting than the Mini models. I was using it one week after purchase on a remote gravel ride when we were clearly going to much later than planned and I was able to text home thru the Messenger App that we would be a couple hours late. I also set up the tracking so my wife could see where we were every 30 minutes if necessary. It is small enough to fit in my cycling jersey pocket and barely notice it is there.(note that it needs a clear view to the sky for tracking to work well. burying it in a pack will not work). I subscribed to the basic Safety plan since I only plan to use it for rare texts, SOS and minimal tracking at this time. The cost of texts and tracking on the Safety plan is so small that it would take about 300 of them to add up the higher "unlimited" subscription plan. Overall it has worked great and gives me assurance I can reach someone if need be no matter where I am. I plan to carry this on car trips as well, just in case...
There is a one-star review that discusses the inReach as a substitute for mapping skills. This is not what I am using it for. It is a good way to communicate with coworkers and loved ones when one is out of cell range. Examples for me are working out of cell range and the need to inform a coworker of a situation or that I am running late. In my personal life, I sail and may be out of cell range for several days. I can communicate with my spouse to assure her that I am fine and can send her a photo. The content of the one-star review appears to be personal feelings about technology and communication than about the how this product functions. So far, it works well for me.
Very easy to use for messaging and battery life. I had an inreach mini V1, but switched to the messenger for two reasons. #1 in shady countries it is not as suspicious looking. The inreach mini can bring some unwanted questioning or confiscation. #2 I wanted an easier messaging experience that used the same messaging app when using wifi, cell data, or satellite. The inreach mini V1 would only send messages via satellite. I also purchased an inreach messenger for my wife, so she can easily communicate with me if something happens. The inreach mini v1 was too complicated. The inreach messenger connects fast to satellites and the messages have been sent and received with no issues using data, Wi-Fi and satellite. The messenger app is user friendly, simple. I do wish it ... MoreVery easy to use for messaging and battery life. I had an inreach mini V1, but switched to the messenger for two reasons. #1 in shady countries it is not as suspicious looking. The inreach mini can bring some unwanted questioning or confiscation. #2 I wanted an easier messaging experience that used the same messaging app when using wifi, cell data, or satellite. The inreach mini V1 would only send messages via satellite. I also purchased an inreach messenger for my wife, so she can easily communicate with me if something happens. The inreach mini v1 was too complicated. The inreach messenger connects fast to satellites and the messages have been sent and received with no issues using data, Wi-Fi and satellite. The messenger app is user friendly, simple. I do wish it would connect to the Garmin Explore app to at least show your position on the map. Or, it would be great if Garmin would create a page on the Messenger app that showed you your location on a map as well as your location points that you have dropped to share with those tracking you. And in addition to that extra page on the Messenger app, an option to drop and name waypoints along the way. all in all it is an excellent product for messaging, emergencies, and for your people to be able to track you when they need to.
I’ve owned MANY Satellite Communications devices in the last 10 years: Spot sat com products (spot 3, spot x), and a number of INREACH sat comm products- explorer+, 750i, mini 2, messenger, and now the messenger plus.I like it!I gave input years ago to Garmin that I’d be interested in a sat comm device that sends pictures and voice memos. You listened! THANK YOU!I’ve basically been downsizing my devices and just bought my MESSENGER in May. When MESSENGER PLUS was released and I saw the functionality you built in- plus allow longer text messages- I bought it. I may be the first purchaser! It works great. While I do not plan to use it a lot, it’s good to have the functionality when I am off the grid- including SOS use if needed.However- you DO need to Make ... MoreI’ve owned MANY Satellite Communications devices in the last 10 years: Spot sat com products (spot 3, spot x), and a number of INREACH sat comm products- explorer+, 750i, mini 2, messenger, and now the messenger plus.I like it!I gave input years ago to Garmin that I’d be interested in a sat comm device that sends pictures and voice memos. You listened! THANK YOU!I’ve basically been downsizing my devices and just bought my MESSENGER in May. When MESSENGER PLUS was released and I saw the functionality you built in- plus allow longer text messages- I bought it. I may be the first purchaser! It works great. While I do not plan to use it a lot, it’s good to have the functionality when I am off the grid- including SOS use if needed.However- you DO need to Make sure receivers of your pics and voice messages have the Explorer software their phones- which is an annoyance. It would be great if Garmin could update the system so anyone can receive the messages!And, reducing the monthly price of premium service would be great too. In Technology, costs come down over time. Cell service is one example. Why not iridium?Thanks again for a solid device for off the grid tracking and communicating!Vinnie the K
Recently purchased the inReach Messenger and have used it once (so far) on a 7-day rafting/camping trip in a remote area of eastern UT.My initial impressions after one trip are that it's an impressive device with no frills features. I needed a device for two purposes: To receive weather updates when on extended trips in remote areas and to send an SOS in the event of an emergency and I wanted the ability to communicate with loved ones if/when needed. This device is excellent for those purposes. I had no issues receiving detailed and accurate weather updates and sending occasional trip updates via texts using the Messenger App. I decided to purchase the inReach Messenger over the InReach Mini 2 primarily because: (1) The Messenger has a better antenna and faster ... MoreRecently purchased the inReach Messenger and have used it once (so far) on a 7-day rafting/camping trip in a remote area of eastern UT.My initial impressions after one trip are that it's an impressive device with no frills features. I needed a device for two purposes: To receive weather updates when on extended trips in remote areas and to send an SOS in the event of an emergency and I wanted the ability to communicate with loved ones if/when needed. This device is excellent for those purposes. I had no issues receiving detailed and accurate weather updates and sending occasional trip updates via texts using the Messenger App. I decided to purchase the inReach Messenger over the InReach Mini 2 primarily because: (1) The Messenger has a better antenna and faster satellite uplink depending on your location; (2) It has longer battery life, especially when using all of the battery-saving features; (3) It has the option to reverse charge a phone or other small device if needed; and (4) I didn't need a device for navigation. I wanted a simple and robust emergency SOS and communication device.My only complaints are that the Messenger should include a lanyard, the default (free) message options should be expanded with more options (they're okay, but rather vague), and I wish there were more subscription options (e.g., month-to-month is great, but plans where you can pay for an extended period throughout the year would be preferable options too, for example, paying a reduced rate for 3 to 4 months at a time).
Used last week for a trip. Turned it on, and it had 82% battery. Left it on, with 10 minute tracking, and a week later, it was down to 56%. The compact, flat shape makes it easy to set up on your dashboard or similar. Mine is mounted to a panel on the dash of my 4Runner with a velcro strap, so it's easy to remove when needed. The phone app works well for sending and receiving messages (just remember that it also sends over cell data if you have a cell signal). The SOS button is accessible behind a small cover, so no chance of accidentally hitting it while the Messenger is in use or in the top flap of a backpack. Definitely a good piece of kit for an overlander or someone looking for something smaller than the InReach Mini, GPSMap, or older Explorer+
| Lens Material | Chemically strengthened glass |
| Dimension | 7.8 x 6.4 x 2.3 cm (3.1′′ x 2.5′′ x 0.9′′) |
| Water rating | IPX7 |
| Display Resolution | 160 x 68 pixels |
| Battery type | Rechargeable internal lithium-ion |
Garmin inReach Messenger Plus Satellite Communicator
Garmin inReach® Messenger Plus | SOS Satellite Communicator
Garmin inReach® Messenger Plus | SOS Satellite Communicator
Garmin inReach® Messenger Plus | SOS Satellite Communicator
Garmin inReach® Messenger Plus | SOS Satellite Communicator
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The lowest price for Garmin inReach Messenger Plus Satellite Communicator right now is $425.94 at Big Apple Buddy, compared across 25 retailers.
The all-time low was $413.67 on 9 May 2026 — today's price is 3% above the lowest ever. This is at or near its all-time low — a good time to buy.
Prices last updated 8 June 2026.