DeLorme InReach Explorer (Hiking GPS) Review

Updated: March 31, 2023
DeLorme InReach Explorer

Garmin recently replaced DeLorme InReach Explorer with the InReach Explorer, which is a satellite communication device with a built in navigational system. It can navigate, download maps and charts, create waypoints, log trips, help you find your way back, as well as send and receive text messages. 

This GPS has full global coverage so even if you travel to the most remote places in the world, you will be able to use the GPS to navigate your way around and communicate with other people.

With the DeLorme InReach Explorer, you can plan and track your trips, share your journeys and have peace of mind if something bad should happen as it features an interactive SOS function.

It's the best multifunctional GPS system and has numerous useful features to help you out on your hiking trips.

It is the best GPS for people who like to travel to far and remote places as it allows for two-way communication when other devices may not be able to find a connection.

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DeLorme InReach Explorer

Manufacturer: DeLorme

Pros

  • 100% coverage with the Iridium network of satellites 
  • SOS functions
  • Two-way communication feature
  • Reasonably priced subscription plans

Cons

  • Virtual keyboard is quite laborious to use
  • 160 character limit on text messages

Conclusion

The DeLorme InReach Explorer is both a GPS navigational device and a satellite communicator.

This means that you will always be able to contact, and communicate with, your friends and family through short text messages to cellphone numbers or email addresses. 

The InReach Explorer is great for keeping in touch when you are out exploring the far reaches and remote areas of the world.

This is the perfect GPS device for people who travel frequently to places with no or little cellular signal, as it allows you to send updates on where you are and how you're doing.

It also features an SOS emergency function that will send out an alert and show you that it was received so that you know when help is on the way.

The DeLorme InReach Explorer helps you to plan multiple routes, create waypoints, log the details of your trip, and help you find your way back to the start with a breadcrumbs trail.

You will never have to worry about getting lost along unfamiliar hiking trails as the DeLorme InReach Explorer has excellent navigational features.

You can also set a tracking feature to transmit your location details in regular intervals that range from 10 minutes to 4 hours.

You can download free topographical maps onto your smartphone or tablet with the Earthmate app.

The DeLorme InReach Explorer gives you free access to the app so that you can pair your smartphone with the GPS and use all of its features from your phone.

This is useful as you will be able to see maps in more detail on the bigger screen of your smartphone or tablet.

It also enables you to review your trip distances and speed, moving average and other interesting stats.

Key Takeaway

Along with its numerous navigational features, the DeLorme InReach Explorer also has an altimeter, barometer, and compass, which are extremely useful features for hiking.

Key Features 

Battery

The DeLorme InReach Explorer has a very impressive battery life which can last up to 100 hours.

Most other GPS devices can run off their battery for a significantly lower amount of time.

The DeLorme InReach Explorer has a rechargeable internal Lithium battery, so unfortunately you cannot take spare batteries with you and swap them out. 

The device can run for 100 hours of tracking at 10 minute intervals, but using any of the other features will use up more battery.

If you are worried about running out of battery through long trips through the wilderness, you can use an external battery pack with a USB connection or a solar panel to charge the DeLorme InReach Explorer. 

Screen Size

The DeLorme InReach Explorer has a 1.37" x 1.85" display screen, which is on the smaller side for GPS devices.

However, it does allow you to pair the device with your smartphone or tablet through the Earthmate app so that you can see maps and any data on a larger screen. 

Memory

The DeLorme InReach Explorer has an internal memory of 2GB. You can download maps with the Earthmate app and store them and other data on your smartphone so you only have to keep the map you need in the moment on the DeLorme InReach Explorer itself. 

Weight

The InReach Explorer weighs 190 g, which is an average weight for a handheld GPS device.

The device is quite small in size so you can easily carry it around with you and pack it away into your bag when you are not using it. 

It is easy to handle and has a removable hand strap so that you do not have to worry about it slipping out of your hand or accidentally dropping it.

It also has a removable belt clip so that you can attach it easily and conveniently to your belt. 

About the author 

Mark Whitman

Mark has trekked extensively in Asia, Europe, South America and Africa. He founded Mountain IQ in 2014 with the sole aim to be the best online information portal to some of the most popular mountain destinations around the world. When not writing for Mountain IQ, Mark is out exploring the outdoors with his wife!

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