When IC and her crew went to the Bushwhackers Jamboree, she included me on her Spot Messenger. She sent a test signal from her house and I confirmed I got the message.

For what ever reason, I never heard from her again.
So cost's aside, if peace of mind and reliability is key,, I'd go with the Sat phone.

Every Spec Ops unit as well as the terrorists use them, so if you need to call out or get message in, I'd say go with the best.

IF your wife has a problem with the cost, tell her she's worth it  ;)
Might get you a little Badda Boom Badda Bing before and after your trip ;D