If you want a simpler tracker for single-season adventures, the Spot Gen4 offers reliable one-way communications and location tracking. Functionality here is limited compared to more capable two-way rivals, but there are some nice safety extras and staying power is excellent. This beast lasts a long time.
It’s a one-way messenger, so unlike many of the devices on this list, it can only transmit simple outgoing notes—it can’t receive responses from people back home.
In testing, I used the Spot Gen4 for many different one-day ultra races in European mountain ranges, and it’s great at offering that simple convenience of letting safety teams know where you are at all times.
I love that you can schedule it to turn on tracking when you arrive or leave specific locations, and to turn off while you’re sitting still before turning on when you move, which is great for saving battery.
The SOS features are easy to use and the Spot Gen4 quickly sends out the metaphorical flares. Additionally, there is a Spot Assist button that will notify contacts that you need help but that your problems are not life-threatening; Say, for example, you ran out of gas in the desert.
Outbound messaging capabilities include SMS, email, and certain social media platforms, but this must be scheduled while still in civilization. It can’t be done on the fly sitting on a rock halfway up Kilimanjaro.
Unlike most outdoor gear (headlamp, phone, GPS watch) that now charge via USB, the Spot Gen4 is powered by AAA batteries. This has its pros and cons. Battery life is excellent and it’s easier to swap out batteries for new ones than it is to find a power source, but I found it a bit annoying to carry extra gear.