Uploaded February 2024 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
When is it okay to hit SOS on your Garmin inReach, according to Garmin data.
*Gear I'm Using Now:*
* inReach: hkgy.co/inreach
* Hiking App: hkgy.co/app
* Watch: hkgy.co/watch
* Shoes: hkgy.co/shoes
* Pack: hkgy.co/backpack
* Rescue Insurance: hkgy.co/insurance
*Full Hiking Gear List (What I Use Now - Tested & Not Sponsored):*
hikingguy.com/gear
*More Hiking Content*
* Website: hikingguy.com
* Patreon: patreon.com/c/hikingguy
* Monthly Hiking News (free): patreon.com/c/hikingguy
* Subscribe: youtube.com/c/Hikingguy
Garmin analyzed real SOS activations and found most users wait too long to press the button. The data shows people hesitate during medical emergencies, navigation problems, and weather events when help is actually needed. I cover when SOS is appropriate based on Garmin's findings: serious injury or illness, being lost without a safe way out, dangerous weather you can't escape, and equipment failure that puts you at risk. The SOS function connects you to a 24/7 rescue coordination center, and there's no penalty for using it in a genuine emergency.
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*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.
When is it okay to hit SOS on your Garmin inReach, according to Garmin data.
*Gear I'm Using Now:*
* inReach: hkgy.co/inreach
* Hiking App: hkgy.co/app
* Watch: hkgy.co/watch
* Shoes: hkgy.co/shoes
* Pack: hkgy.co/backpack
* Rescue Insurance: hkgy.co/insurance
*Full Hiking Gear List (What I Use Now - Tested & Not Sponsored):*
hikingguy.com/gear
*More Hiking Content*
* Website: hikingguy.com
* Patreon: patreon.com/c/hikingguy
* Monthly Hiking News (free): patreon.com/c/hikingguy
* Subscribe: youtube.com/c/Hikingguy
Garmin analyzed real SOS activations and found most users wait too long to press the button. The data shows people hesitate during medical emergencies, navigation problems, and weather events when help is actually needed. I cover when SOS is appropriate based on Garmin's findings: serious injury or illness, being lost without a safe way out, dangerous weather you can't escape, and equipment failure that puts you at risk. The SOS function connects you to a 24/7 rescue coordination center, and there's no penalty for using it in a genuine emergency.
---
*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.
