10 Best Personal Locator Beacons 2026 in the United States

The Garmin GPSMAP 67i is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable personal locator beacon, especially for outdoor adventures. It uses the global Iridium satellite network, ensuring you can send two-way messages and share your location almost anywhere in the world, which is a big plus for safety. The interactive SOS feature connects you to a 24/7 emergency response center, providing peace of mind in case of trouble.

Battery life is impressive, lasting up to 165 hours with regular tracking and even longer in low-power expedition mode, so you won’t have to worry about frequent recharging during long trips. The device is fairly compact and lightweight at just over 8 ounces, making it easy to carry. The 3-inch sunlight-readable color display is clear and easy to navigate, even outdoors.

GPS accuracy benefits from multi-band GNSS support, improving your location tracking in challenging environments like dense forests or deep canyons. It also comes with preloaded TopoActive maps for North America and the option to download more via Wi-Fi, which helps with detailed navigation. The device relies on button controls rather than a touchscreen, which can be less intuitive for some users but tends to work well in rugged conditions. This device is well suited for hikers, backpackers, and anyone venturing off-grid who needs dependable satellite communication, good battery life, and strong GPS performance in a rugged, portable package.

The ACR ResQLink View RLS is a personal locator beacon suited for outdoor activities like hiking, hunting, boating, and fishing. One of its standout features is the Return Link Service (RLS), which provides confirmation that your SOS signal has been received, adding a level of reassurance during emergencies.

It also boasts a digital display and dual strobe lights (including infrared), which can be very useful in low-visibility conditions. The device offers global coverage with GPS and Galileo GNSS, ensuring accurate location tracking no matter where you are. The built-in buoyancy is a crucial feature for water-based activities, ensuring the beacon floats if dropped in water.

Additionally, the product is compact and lightweight at just 5.3 ounces, making it easy to carry on any adventure. The battery life is impressive, with a 5-year shelf life and 28 hours of operational life once activated, which means it can be relied upon for extended periods. It also requires no subscription, adding convenience for users. However, the device does rely on infrared connectivity, which might not be as widely supported or understood by all users. Some might also find the interface, which relies on buttons, a bit less intuitive compared to touchscreen options available in other modern gadgets.

The Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator is a robust and compact GPS device designed for those who venture into remote areas. Utilizing the Iridium satellite network, it offers global coverage, ensuring you can send and receive messages even without cell service. This is particularly useful for hikers, trekkers, and other outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable communication in isolated locations. The interactive SOS feature provides added security, allowing you to reach the Garmin Response coordination center in emergencies, which is staffed 24/7 for immediate assistance.

The device boasts a durable and water-resistant design (IPX7 rating), making it suitable for harsh environments. Its small size (4” x 2”) and lightweight build (3.5 oz) make it easy to carry without adding significant weight to your gear. Battery life is impressive, lasting up to 14 days in the default 10-minute tracking mode and up to 30 days with a 30-minute tracking interval, making it ideal for long adventures. GPS accuracy and the included TracBack routing feature enhance navigation, helping you return to your start point if needed. The built-in digital compass further supports navigation.

However, the 0.9-inch display might be considered small for some users, and using the device's buttons might take some getting used to. The package includes several useful accessories, such as USB charging adapters and a portable battery charger, adding convenience. While the monthly subscription plans for satellite services add an extra cost, they offer flexibility depending on your usage needs. Users who prioritize staying connected and safe during extended outdoor trips will find the Garmin inReach Mini 2 a reliable and practical tool.