Are Satellite Phones Worth It?
Preparedness is a popular theme here at Rugged Man. Whether we’re discussing everyday carry (EDC) items, vehicle preparedness, or long-term food and water storage, being prepared can only benefit you and those you love.
Today, we are going to discuss a slightly different topic than the usual Rugged Man preparedness articles, the ability to communicate anytime, anywhere, and quite literally, worldwide! We are going to discuss the many pros and a few cons of Satellite Phones.
Almost everybody has a cell phone these days. Unfortunately, a lot of parents are handing over these little zombie boxes to their small children, but perhaps we’re getting a little too opinionated here. The point is, cell phones are EVERYWHERE, yet they cannot FUNCTION everywhere.
As powerful as cell devices are nowadays, if you’re out of range of the right towers they are useless. This is where satellite phones come into play. Satellite phones make perfect sense for those of us who live in remote places, or at least visit them regularly.
But, we’re also going to consider the idea that these powerful gadgets belong in your preps and disaster preparedness plans, whether or not you live out in the wild blue yonder or in a place where there are as many cell towers as there are trees.
If every cell tower in the world went down, satellite phones would suffer no effects, as they rely on satellites that orbit the planet.
So, today we’re going to take a look at some common questions, myths, and other considerations, and hopefully leave you with a solid answer to the question, Are Satellite Phones Worth It?
Let’s get to it!
What is a Satellite Phone?
A satellite phone is a mobile phone that connects to, and communicates with, geosynchronous equatorial orbit (GEO) or low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites that continuously circumnavigate the planet.
Satellite phones provide extraordinary coverage, worldwide, and are perfect for those who live in, or regularly travel to, remote places where cell phones are useless.
Why Would You Buy a Satellite Phone?
Most satellite phones these days will offer coverage over the entire planet! Yes, the entire planet!
Those that don’t are usually only missing the extreme polar regions, but literally cover the rest of the world.
Satellite phones are surprisingly easy to use, reasonably lightweight, very durable/shock resistant, waterproof or water-resistant, reliable, and tuck away nicely into a pack or bag.
Most come equipped with “personal locator beacon”-like technology/SOS buttons and some have INCREDIBLE battery life for extended security.
In an emergency, if the grid goes down, you will still have coverage via satellites orbiting the planet. As long as those satellites are orbiting, it doesn’t matter what happens to the cell towers.
Having a satellite phone can eliminate a lot of uncertainty during uncertain times and disasters of all kinds.
Having the ability to communicate and keep tabs on your family when most of the rest of the world can’t could be all the edge you need to keep your loved ones safe and make it through a major event.
Whether or not you live in, or travel to remote places, having a satellite phone in your preps is a wise idea.
Keeping one in your Bug-Out-Bag or disaster preparedness kit could save your hide, especially if you have to high-tail it out of cell phone coverage areas to get yourself and your family to “higher ground”.
Worried about privacy and security? So are we. Well, supposedly, if you get a fully encrypted satellite phone, you can rely on secure privacy and safe use.
Government agencies rely on this aspect of these devices, so do with that what you will. Perhaps this is why a lot of countries have outlawed them. We’ll cover that shortly, down-page.
What is the Downside to Having a Satellite Phone?
Though the pros to having a satellite phone heavily outweigh the cons, it is worth noting some of the minor disadvantages to having one so that you can have a clear understanding of the investment you are about to make.
Satellite phones do have a heavier price tag. This applies to the initial purchase and the ongoing usage. However, remember that you are not going to use your satellite phone the same way you will use your unlimited minutes on a cell phone.
Satellite phones are intended for emergency use or to communicate an important short message if you are remote and need to do so.
If you don’t live in a remote place, are not looking to purchase one for your preps, and are just a traveler or weekend warrior, you may want to consider renting a satellite phone. Due to the higher cost of satellite phones, there is a demand for them in the rental market.
Satellite phones are a bit bigger and bulkier than your average cell phone. If you are not the type to carry a daily Get-Home-Bag or to be concerned with EDC preps, this may be a problem. Otherwise, for most of us with a preparedness mindset, this is not an inconvenience.
Indoor use of satellite phones can certainly be hampered, as well as thick forests and valleys. This is not guaranteed, but common at times.
This can be mostly avoided by installing an Iridium Antenna Booster to whatever structure you are looking to hunker down in, whether a building or maybe your car while on the move. Again, to most of us, this is not a hinderance and does not negatively impact the usefulness of these devices.
Maintenance, on a macro scale, is a consideration, but only a concern if a geosynchronous or low Earth orbit satellite malfunctions. This is not very common. Repairs for such events will impact the entire network for the affected area and usually take a bit longer than cell phone tower malfunctions.
Are Satellite Phones Expensive?
You can expect to pay anywhere from $400 - $1300 for the initial investment in the device. Then, depending on what company you go with and what plan you choose, you will likely pay for a monthly or annual minute plan.
As we have covered, satellite phones do carry quite a price-tag when compared to how easy it is to buy and maintain a cell phone plan these days. However, a cell phone is incredibly limited in what it can do for you ANYWHERE on the planet.
You are paying for preparedness and piece-of-mind. You just have to look at your priorities and decide whether or not that piece-of-mind is worth it.
Is it Legal to Use a Satellite Phone?
There are a handful of countries where it is illegal to use, or sometimes even possess a satellite phone (we cover this in the next section). The U.S. is not one of them.
However, there are certain areas in the U.S. where their use is prohibited or restricted. This will be up to you to do your research to ensure you don’t get in any hot water with a government or local authority.
In some of these areas where it is either restricted or prohibited, simply having the phone in your possession can get it confiscated and, depending on where you are in the world, bring on problem you’re not likely to want to deal with. So, know the rules and regulations if you’re traveling.
In What Countries are Satellite Phones Illegal?
Having a satellite phone in remote parts of the world is part of the point of owning one in the first place for a lot of folks. But, you must pay attention to where you’re going and how they feel about certain things, like satellite phones.
Knowing where in the world you cannot legally carry or use a satellite phone is a very good idea. Some countries, as we know, are far worse than others when it comes to your personal freedoms and a device like a satellite phone can be seen as a threat.
On top of going through a series of hassles, if you find yourself in the wrong place, not having done your research, you can have your satellite phone confiscated or even risk being arrested.
If there is any question, consider either not going to that country/region, or just face the facts that you will not be carrying your worldwide communication device.
The list below is of the countries we know of at the current time that do not allow satellite phones within their borders or have specific restrictions.
“In this ever changing world in which we live in…”, PAY ATTENTION to current political climates across the globe, as things can evolve rapidly, as we have learned and continue to see.
DO NOT use this article as a conclusive basis for knowing the rules and regulations of these countries. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH ON THE COUNTRY TO WHICH YOU WILL BE TRAVELING!!
Bangladesh - Possession prohibited under penalty of detainment.
Burma/Myanmar - Relaxed restrictions, but with a history of strict prohibition. Use caution and do your research before traveling.
China - Possession prohibited under penalty of detainment.
Cuba - Possession prohibited under penalty of detainment.
India - Only satellite phones on the InmarSat Network are legal. However, even so, you must get permission before your arrival from the Department of Telecommunications. Possession of unapproved phones is prohibited with a potential penalty of arrest and detainment.
Libya - Thuraya satellite phones are prohibited. Their policies altogether are unclear. Contact Embassy.
Nigeria - Former ban, currently unclear. Contact the Consulate General of Nigeria.
North Korea - Completely illegal, of course. Not sure why anyone would try to go there.
Republic of Chad - Possession prohibited under penalty of detainment.
Russia - Allowed, but you must get approval before travel and register your SIM card, which will be active for 6 months.
Sri Lanka - Only “journalists” and media personnel, if cleared before travel. Even so, a license is required.
Sudan - Unclear, but most electronic devices are restricted and may be inspected or confiscated indefinitely.
Now that we have answered some common questions and addressed certain considerations, and hopefully answered the question Are Satellite Phones Worth It?, let’s take a look at The Best Satellite Phones of 2022!
Disclosure: This website uses affiliate links, meaning: at no additional cost to you, we earn a small commission if you click-through and make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate & CJ Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases. We only feature products that we believe in and use ourselves. Your support means the world to us and allows us to host this website. Thank you!
Are Satellite Phones Worth It? A 2022 Buyer’s Guide
Inmarsat Iridium 9575 Extreme Satellite Phone Standard Package
The Inmarsat Iridium 9575 Extreme Satellite Phone is the toughest handset ever from the only company that offers real global, real mobile, real reliable communications.
Engineered with more features and more accessories than any other satellite phone on the market, the Inmarsat Iridium 9575 Extreme Satellite Phone puts more innovative capability and more ways to connect than ever before into the hands of people everywhere.
No other mobile communications company brings you:
Two-way global coverage across oceans, airways and polar regions
Polar Regions Real mobility that keeps you connected while on the move
Reliable, near real-time communications services customizable for virtually every industry
The Inmarsat Iridium 9575 Extreme Satellite Phone utilizes the Truly Global Iridium Satellite Network. With 66 satellites orbiting the globe you will have crystal clear pole to pole coverage.
Iridium’s coverage encompasses 100% of the planet, providing weather resilient services unlike any other satellite provider. No other network matches the reach, coverage, and reliability of Iridium.
Iridium Extreme is engineered with an expansive feature set, including calling, messaging, tracking, and more. Iridium Extreme provides people with more opportunities to connect and keep in contact anytime, anywhere.
Iridium Extreme is built to take a beating. It is ruggedly engineered to support the toughest, highest usage customers of satellite phone communications in harsh conditions, everywhere. Iridium Extreme is built with as much guts and grit as those who use it.
BUILT-IN SOS
Iridium Extreme integrates a GPS-enabled SOS button. Iridium Extreme will alert your programmed contact of your location and will help create a two-way connection to assist in the response. It also includes GPS-enabled SOS with emergency services supported by GEOS.
WHAT’S IN THE BOX?
Iridium Extreme Satellite Phone
Travel Charger with International Adapters
Car Charger
Leather Case
USB Data Cable
Accessory Adapters (2X)
Magnetic Vehicle-mount Antenna with 5’ Cable
Hands-free Earpiece with Microphone
Quick Start Guides in Multiple Languages
FEATURES & SPECS:
Dimensions: 5.5in(L) x 2.3in(W) x 1.06inD)
Weight: 8.7 oz
Duration: 4 hours talk time; 30 hours standby
Durability: Military-Grade Ruggedness (MIL-STD 810F); Ingress Protection (IP65)
Integrated speakerphone
Quick-connect to Iridium voicemail
Two-way SMS and short email
21 supported menu languages
Pre-programmable International Access Code
Mailbox for voice, numeric and text messages
Selectable ring and alert tones
100-entry internal phonebook, with capacity for multiple phone numbers, email addresses and notes
Call history retains received, missed and dialed calls
Display 200-character, daylight-readable display
Integrated backlight for nighttime viewing
Illuminated weather resistant keypad
Pre-Paid and Post-Paid SIM Cards included - Ready to activate!
Iridium is the world's only truly global mobile satellite communications company, with voice and data solutions covering every inch of the earth's surface. Reaching over oceans, through airways and across the Polar Regions
Iridium Extreme combines location awareness, a fully integrated SOS button with included emergency response service, and market leading toughness, letting you take durability, reliability and versatility with you in hand, all over the world.
The Inmarsat IsatPhone 2.1 Satellite Phone offers voice and text messaging, SOS alerting and location tracking, at an affordable price point with near-global coverage.
Featuring a very long battery life and weather-resistant design, the IsatPhone 2 is engineered to withstand extreme environments including temperatures as cold as -20 C, and can tolerate up to 95% humidity. The Inmarsat satellite network offers worldwide coverage (excluding the extreme polar regions).
The IsatPhone 2 requires a clear line of sight to the Inmarsat geostationary equatorial satellites. This means that the antenna needs an open view of the sky along the equator.
Whether for emergency back up or ongoing communication in remote regions of the world, BlueCosmo offers 24/7 expert support and convenient online tools to manage your airtime.
With 3 geostationary satellites up in the air, each covers up to one-third of the Earth’s surface, and coverage extends from latitudes of approximately -82° to 82°, letting you enjoy voice and data communications almost anywhere on the planet.
The SIM will be shipped with your device. With your own online BlueCosmo account, you can activate your SIM anytime you want.
BlueCosmo's easy-to-use online account portal allows you to check and manage your monthly airtime usage anytime you want.
At the end of each monthly airtime usage cycle, you will receive detailed records of calls you placed in that month.
Most plans include some airtime included each month and affordable rates for additional usage. Never run out of airtime with monthly service.
EMERGENCY BUTTON
There are three ways to obtain emergency assistance using the configurable emergency button:
Program it to call a recipient of your choice when pressed
Send an alert to one or more text or email addresses when pressed
Register for the emergency response coordination service provided by GEOS. When the button is pressed, GEOS contacts you to confirm the type of emergency, then notifies the appropriate search and rescue authority.
The GEOS emergency service is offered free with any IsatPhone monthly plan. Users with a prepaid SIM card can also register, however GEOS will charge an annual fee.
WHAT’S IN THE BOX?
IsatPhone 2 satellite phone
Lithium-ion battery
Wall charger with international plug adapters
Auto charger (CLA) 10-30 volts
Micro USB charging cable
Wired hands-free headset
USB data port and charger
Custom holster
FEATURES & SPECS:
Supports Inmarsat voice and text messaging
Programmable emergency assistance button
GPS location tracking button
Durable: Dust, shock, and splash-resistant
Operating temperature range: -4°F to 131°F (-20°C to 55°C)
Battery life: Up to 8 hours talk time, 160-hours standby
Size (L x W x D): 6.7 x 3 x 1.14" (16.9 x 7.65 x 2.9 cm)
Weight: 11.2 oz (318 g)
Ingress protection rating: IP65
Impact protection rating: IK04
Scratch resistant color screen
Micro-USB interface
View/send GPS location as text or email
Bluetooth for hands-free calling
Programmable emergency assistance button
Incoming call alerts when antenna is stowed
Supports text-to-text: 160 characters
Supports text-to-email: 160 characters
1 year manufacturer’s warranty + Free 6-month extended warranty by BlueCosmo
The Garmin InReach Explorer+ is a handheld satellite communicator with GPS navigation, maps, and offers an extra special feature for the ultimate adventurers who want to push their limits while also having the ability to call on help when they need it. Not just, WHENEVER they need it, but WHEREVER they need it.
The InReach Explorer+ is a satellite communicator and GPS navigator that uses 100% global Iridium coverage for 2-way messaging, tracking, and interactive SOS from anywhere in the world!
Going off-grid has never felt quite like this thanks to the Garmin InReach Explorer+. This machine is for the extreme among us who want to give the worriers in our lives peace of mind while simultaneously sailing off the edges of the Earth!
BUILT FOR THE RUGGED BACKCOUNTRY
Tough, durable, impact resistant, and water-rated to IPX7, the InReach Explorer+ handheld is built to keep you up and running, no matter what the elements throw at you.
An internal, rechargeable lithium battery comes standard on this unit so you can count on long battery life in every mode of operation, and even up to 3 YEARS when powered off!!
Using the worldwide coverage of the Iridium satellite network, these go-anywhere portable devices let you exchange text messages with any cell phone number or email address, all the while using GPS to track and share your journey’s progress.
You can also post to social media or even communicate InReach-to-InReach in the field.
In case of an at-risk situation, you can also use InReach to trigger an SOS to the 24/7 monitoring center, text back and forth about the nature of your emergency, and receive confirmation when help is on the way!
Turn on the tracking function of your InReach Explorer+ communicator, and let family and friends follow your progress on their computers or mobile devices, using the web-based MapShare portal.
The device will send waypoints at preselected time intervals, so followers can track your whereabouts online. A little creepy (for other reasons), but could be useful out there.
You can also invite your crew back home to use MapShare to ping your unit and see your GPS location, track your movements, and exchange messages during your trip. You can even embed your MapShare page on a blog, website or social media!
For even more capability and convenience, the free Earthmate app syncs your InReach handheld via Bluetooth with your compatible Apple or Android device so you can access unlimited maps, aerial imagery and U.S. NOAA charts.
Plus, Earthmate allows you to conveniently use all of the InReach features on your paired mobile device. For easier messaging, you can also access your phone’s contact list from the Earthmate app to connect with fewer keystrokes.
The optional InReach weather forecast service provides detailed updates directly to your device, compatible smartphone or tablet paired with the Earthmate app, so you’ll know what conditions to expect.
Basic and premium weather packages are offered. And you can request weather forecasts for your current location or any other waypoint or destination on your itinerary.
WHO WILL ANSWER YOUR SOS?
GEOS is the world leader in emergency response solutions and monitoring. They’ve supported rescues in more than 140 countries, saving many lives in the process. And they’re standing by 24/7/365 to respond to your SOS, track your device and notify the proper contacts and emergency responders in your area.
Then, while help is on the way, GEOS will continue to text back and forth with you, providing updates and critical information until your situation is resolved.
ADDITIONAL AVIATION SERVICES
Your InReach Explorer+ is also a supported device for the Lockheed Martin Flight Services (LMFS) Adverse Condition Alerting Service (ACAS), Surveillance-Enhanced Search and Rescue (SE-SAR) and Enhanced Special Reporting Services (eSRS).
If you register for ACAS information, alerts provided via LMFS prompt you to call for an abbreviated briefing to address any specific adverse condition situation that might affect your flight-planned routing.
Likewise, automatic monitoring provided by the SE-SAR service enables the system to identify potential flight emergency situations and/or signals to promptly initiate search and rescue procedures for your aircraft.
From the backcountry to far off foreign lands, whether on the water or in the air, the InReach Explorer+ keeps you connected! If you are always with InReach, then you are always within reach! Corny, but true!
FEATURES & SPECS:
PHYSICAL DIMENSIONS: 2.7" x 6.5" x 1.5" w/ keypad & SOS door bump
DISPLAY SIZE: 1.4"W x 1.9"H; 2.31" diagonal
DISPLAY RESOLUTION: 200 x 265 pixels
DISPLAY TYPE: transflective color TFT
WEIGHT: 7.5 oz
BATTERY: Rechargeable internal lithium-ion
BATTERY LIFE: Up to 100 hours at 10-minute tracking mode (default)
Up to 75 hours at 10-minute tracking with 1-second logging
Up to 30 days at the 30-minute interval power save mode
Up to 3 years when powered offWATER RATING: IPX7
RECEIVER INTERFACE: micro USB
MEMORY/HISTORY: 2 GB (user space varies based on included mapping)
Compact and lightweight, the Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone Bundle is tough enough to travel anywhere and withstand the world's harshest environments.
The Iridium 9555 operates on the only satellite network with 100% global coverage on land, the waterways and in the skies.
Whether for emergency back up or ongoing communication in remote regions of the world, BlueCosmo offers 24/7 expert support and convenient online tools to manage your airtime.
The prepaid SIM will be shipped with your device. With your own online BlueCosmo account, you can activate your SIM anytime you want.
Exclusively from BlueCosmo, you have the option of setting up automatic refills so that you never run out of airtime.
Receive text or email alerts from BlueCosmo when your prepaid airtime is running low or about to expire so that you are prepared.
The Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone Bundle comes with free 6 month extended coverage. By extending the standard 12 month manufacturer’s coverage period, they will provide you with 18 months total of coverage on your new Iridium 9555.
The latest Iridium network, NEXT, is the highest performance and most sophisticated satellite constellation, consisting of 66 Low Earth Orbit satellites, with 9 in-orbit spares, providing you reliable connection anywhere you go.
WHAT’S IN THE BOX?
Iridium 9555 satellite phone
Rechargeable Li-Ion battery
AC and DC travel charger
International plug kit
5’ auxiliary antenna and adapter
Leather holster
USB data cable
Headset for hands-free use
Quick Start Guide
FEATURES & SPECS:
Supports Iridium voice and text messaging services
Data capable: circuit-switched and short email
Compact and lightweight
Easy to use intuitive user interface
Durable: water, shock and dust resistant
Operating temperature range: 14°F to 131°F (-10°C to 55°C)
Battery life: up to 4 hours talk time, 30 hours standby
Size (L x W x D): 5.63” x 2.17” x 1.18”
Weight: 9.4 oz
Illuminated weather-resistant keypad
Mini USB data port
Integrated speakerphone
Headset for hands-free capability
Internally stowed antenna
Call timers to manage cost
Memory for storage of up to 100 names and numbers
1 year manufacturer’s warranty
“Walking around in very high powered electromagnetic fields produced by cell phone towers and satellites is probably the most unnatural thing that the modern human engages in.”
― Steven Magee
As we’ve said many times before, some advances in technology make us cringe here at Rugged Man because a lot of them are detrimental to our health and longevity.
However, there is nothing we can do about it. Really, nothing. If most of us who pay attention (and that is a small number) were to destroy our cell phones this instant, nothing would change in the world of cell and satellite phones tomorrow.
This is largely in part of the fact that the masses are locked in and LOVE convenience above all else and there just could never be enough of us to impact a change.
There are remote places in the world where you can live and minimize the ill-effects of these technologies, which is what we choose, but it is not for everyone and it can’t be avoided all together.
So, if we are going to be immersed in strong electromagnetic fields no matter what we do or where we go, we may as well use this technology to ensure our preparedness by being able to communicate anywhere in the world, anytime we need.
Are Satellite Phones Worth It? We believe so, and we hope today’s article has been informative and has helped to guide you to understand your options in the world of satellite phones and their usefulness as it applies to you and yours.
Get out there and explore. Equip yourself to do so safely. Stay Rugged!
RELATED ARTICLES:
ESSENTIAL CONTENTS FOR A GET HOME BAG: A COMPLETE 2022 CHECKLIST
THE MOST RELIABLE GPS TRACKER DEVICES FOR HIKING IN 2022
THE BACKPACKING GEAR ESSENTIALS LIST FOR BEGINNERS IN 2022
BUG OUT BAG ESSENTIALS LIST: A 72-HOUR EMERGENCY KIT
THE 5 BEST TACTICAL BOOTS (U.S. MILITARY CERTIFIED) OF 2022
VEHICLE EDC ESSENTIALS LIST FOR 2022
THE ULTIMATE EDC ESSENTIALS LIST FOR 2022
ABOUT
