Which Garmin inReach is Best for Hiking & the Outdoors?

Video Description

Wondering which Garmin inReach is best for hiking? I'll help you choose between the Mini 2, Messenger, and more. *Lowest Prices I Found:* 💥 inReach Mini 2: https://amzn.to/3COmJeH 💥GPSMAP 67i: https://amzn.to/4gd1L7o Messenger: https://amzn.to/4gcRyYE Messenger Plus: https://amzn.to/3Zcneqj Montana 750i: https://amzn.to/3CNCIJI GPSMAP 86i: https://amzn.to/4gdTDU7 *Gear I'm Using Now:* * inReach: https://hkgy.co/inreach * Hiking App: https://hkgy.co/app * Watch: https://hkgy.co/watch * Shoes: https://hkgy.co/shoes * Pack: https://hkgy.co/backpack * Rescue Insurance: https://hkgy.co/insurance *Full Hiking Gear List (What I Use Now - Tested & Not Sponsored):* https://hikingguy.com/gear *Links:* * Website: https://hikingguy.com * Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/hikingguy * Monthly Hiking News (free): https://www.patreon.com/c/hikingguy/ * Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/c/Hikingguy *Chapters* 00:00 Garmin inReach Mini 2 01:06 GPSMAP 67i 01:33 Garmin Messenger 01:50 Messenger Plus 02:22 Montana 700i/750i 02:38 GPSMAP 86i If you’re trying to figure out which Garmin inReach device is best for hiking and outdoor use, this video covers all the major options. I give you my real-world experience using each one on the trail and explain the pros and cons so you can decide what fits your needs. For most hikers, I recommend the Garmin inReach Mini 2—it’s compact, reliable, and has all the core satellite messaging and SOS functions you’d need in the backcountry. The Mini 2 also includes backup navigation features like TracBack and course loading, which come in handy if your phone dies or if you want a secondary navigation tool. It pairs well with the Garmin Messenger app on your phone for easier message management, but still works fine on its own. Right now it’s often on sale, so it’s a solid value if you're gearing up. If you want more built-in navigation, the GPSMAP 67i is a great option. It comes with preloaded topo and trail maps and a big color screen, which makes message viewing and offline navigation much easier. It’s bulkier than the Mini 2 but makes up for it with robust mapping and better usability if you don’t want to rely on your phone. The Messenger and Messenger Plus are smaller alternatives focused on messaging. They work best with your phone, and while you can use them standalone in a pinch, the small screen and interface make emergency use less ideal. The Plus adds voice notes and image support, which might be useful for some but won’t matter to most hikers. I also touch on models like the Montana 700i series and the GPSMAP 86i for boating. Unless you have very specific needs, I generally suggest sticking with the Mini 2 or the 67i for hiking. If you have questions about which device is right for you, drop a comment—happy to help. --- *Disclaimer:* Some of these links are affiliate links where I’ll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you. I only recommend gear I actually use and trust.