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We tend to think of communications as being ubiquitous. Our cell phones have become part of our EDC, and we just expect to be able to get a signal wherever we are, allowing us to check in, see the weather forecast, and the like. You might be surprised, then, if you head off down a trail and find out you don’t have any reception at all. That’s where the Bivy Stick Blue comes in.
At the simplest level, the Bivy Stick Blue is a satellite-connected hotspot that you connect your phone to that allows you to do some basic things, like letting people know where you, get on to check the weather forecast, or even real-time location tracking. That last one can be important, as it’s got a built-in SOS capability that can get you in touch with search-and-rescue services if things go really, really wrong. This video runs down some of the features:
What I particularly like with the Bivy Stick Blue is that, while it can enable your smart phone to work in the wilds, it’s got built-in functions in the device itself that allow you to let folks know where you are right from the device itself, no additional screen required. Also nice is the fact that there’s no annual contract to get the device going – you can just pay for the month that you need it, and then shut it off until the next time.
Whether you’re bombing trails in the backcountry, or just go camping places that have you tossing the phone in the glovebox until you drive into town (as I sometimes do), having the Bivy Stick Blue as a way to stay connected (when you want or need to) is handy. The Bivy Stick Blue is available for $349, or in a bundle with a 15W solar panel array for $380. Check out the details, or order your own, over at bivystick.com.
Details from Bivy
- Weighs 100 grams… about half the weight of your cell phone
- 2-way text satellite communication
- Able to send text messages to phone numbers or email addresses
- Send unlimited preprepared messages for free
- Location sharing and tracking
- SOS communication on the app and device – service by Global Rescue
- Check-in button on device sends preset message and your location without using your phone
- IPX7 ingress protection rating
- Compatible with all GoPro mounts
- 100% global satellite coverage – works anywhere you can see the sky
- Shock proof MIL-STD-810 certified
- Receives a dedicated phone number that will not expire as long as the account is active
- 90 day money back guarantee
- MSRP: $349.00
