Why I Ditched Search & Rescue Insurance for This (Overwatch x Rescue)

Video Description

Why I use Overwatch & Rescue instead of Garmin SAR Insurance, and there’s lots of reasons. *Get It Here* https://overwatchxrescue.pxf.io/e1JW3j Code HIKEGUY15 for 15% off FYI - You contact OxR by sending a message as described around 4:30 in the video. The SOS button on a Garmin is hardwired to go to Garmin Response, not OxR (for now at least). *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 When you hit the SOS button in the backcountry, the last thing you want to think about is how much your rescue might cost. In this video, I dive into the real costs behind backcountry rescues—helicopters, air ambulances, and ground transport, and how those expenses can surprise even experienced hikers. I also cover a new service called Overwatch & Rescue, which takes a completely different approach to covering those emergency expenses. Unlike traditional rescue insurance, Overwatch & Rescue is a flat-rate SOS subscription—you pay one annual fee, and if there’s ever a charge for your rescue, they pay it directly. No claims, no deductibles, no waiting for approval. Whether you’re hiking, biking, fishing, or climbing, the plan covers all outdoor activities at any altitude, anywhere in the world. It’s truly a first-payer system designed to remove the financial stress when emergencies happen. One of the most impressive parts of Overwatch & Rescue is that it’s device-agnostic. You can register up to three devices—like a Garmin inReach, iPhone 14 (or newer), or ZOLEO—and they’ll all be tied into your Overwatch account. They’ve partnered directly with Garmin and Apple to ensure the SOS experience is seamless. When you trigger an emergency, the call goes to one of their Crisis Response Centers—staffed by veterans, EMTs, and rescue professionals who coordinate directly with local and international agencies. Overwatch & Rescue doesn’t just hand off your case—they stay with it from start to finish, making sure you’re safe and accounted for. Their team uses advanced software to communicate with global search and rescue agencies and verify details before dispatching responders. That saves time and lives. They even handle post-rescue logistics like getting your car from the trailhead, arranging hospital transfers, or flying in a loved one if you’re overseas. It’s an incredibly thoughtful system built by people who’ve actually done rescues in the field. If you spend any time outdoors, this is one of those services that just makes sense. It’s peace of mind without the hassle of insurance, and I think it’s going to change how people approach backcountry safety. You can sign up at Overwatch & Rescue’s website and use my code HIKEGUY15 for 15% off. 00:00 Real Cost of Rescue 00:32 Not Rescue Insurance 02:47 Devices 03:49 Signup & Demo 05:27 Overwatch x Rescue Network 18:14 More Benefits --- *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.