If you've been considering a SPOT satellite tracker, now might not be a bad time to buy.  (You need to Login or Register to view media files and links) currently has a sale running for the Spot 2 (Silver).  Priced at $49.99 with free shipping to a local store, the price is right. 

BTW:  I've been using a SPOT (1) for about 5 years now and it has worked well for me.  The SPOT 2 units are about 1/3rd smaller.

I've used SPOT 1 for a couple years...never had any problems and my wife/kids/friends like it...basic service is $99...they have some added features you can buy like tracking that add a bit more to the cost....

zski wrote on Mar 15^th, 2012 at 9:49pm:

~ $100 for basic service is what I've been paying plus a few $$'s extra to get the 911 extraction cost insurance.

I guess I'm too cheap to spring for the Spot Connect (smartphone to Spot via bluetooth).  I say that, yet I spent more than that on a paddle at 'copia.  The ability to compose and send messages is appealing though.

dd

I'm just curious, but what is the attraction to this technology? 

Same question goes for weather radios, GPS, etc...  To me, part of the thrill of wilderness travel is going to a place where I am cut off from the modern world.  A little risk to me adds a bit of excitement to the trip.  I'm as inconsistent and hypocritical as hell, cuz I like to have a map, and I enjoy all the creature comforts of modern canoe camping.

I suppose solo canoeing is another matter, or is it?

prouboy

Jimbo wrote on Mar 16^th, 2012 at 2:23pm:

From my experience, if you get a working unit, you are good to go for an extended period (unless you abuse the device).

However, if the unit doesn't function normally you should seek a replacement post-haste.  That means you're going to plunk down another wad of cash to get "findmespot" enrolled.  So, I'd highly recommend testing the unit as soon as practical after receipt.  You might also remember that you've gotten "pre-trip" test messages from me in the past.  I always do that as well to make sure my distribution list of recipients is still functional.  Lastly, I always start a trip with a new set of batts.  Previously used batts get "recycled" into other, less critical devices (e.g., flashlight), where they can serve as a backup in an emergency.

On an informational note, I seem to remember that this sale ends on March 17th.

One final consideration.  The SPOT 1 unit floats (if you use the recommended lithium batteries).  The SPOT 2 does not (the size reduction eliminated air pockets) and is only waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes or so ... make sure you teather it to something that will float.

dd