We hire and sell several different models. We are not tied to one supplier, so we can offer impartial advice. We will advise based on where you will use the tracker.
All trackers use satellites to determine their location
- The way they transmit their location data back to you is where they differ
- Some transmit using GSM (mobile – combining power of all mobile networks)
- Others transmit data via satellite
For most of the UK you will get the best performance and most frequent updates from a GSM tracker.
For some parts of Scotland, Brecon, Snowdonia, or Yorkshire Dales, Lakes, where GSM coverage may be patchy, a SPOT trackers may be preferable.
For very remote global use, sometimes SPOT or more often InReach is the answer. Which one depends on where you will be.
Read more about each below
GSM Trackers
Transmit your location via all mobile networks (i.e EE, Vodafone, Three, O2 in the UK).
They combine the network coverage of them all. Able to transmit via 2G (and/or 3G) even in places where your mobile phone will not appear to work
Weigh 60 grams
Have an SOS button which sends SMS to your supporters
Update every 2 mins, or as fast as every 5s if needed
Battery lasts 4-7 days
Cost £19.70 to hire for a weekend
They cost £125.00 to buy outright (ongoing monthly data charges apply)
GSM Tracker
SPOT Trackers
Transmit direct to the Globalstar Satellite network.
They have good global coverage, but not 100%.
Weigh 112 grams
Coverage can be patchy or non-existent in very remote locations; around the equator, far Northern, Southern Hemispheres
Not all ocean areas are covered
Hire charges are from £29
To buy one outright, they cost £120. A yearly/monthly data subscription plan is required (not applicable when hiring from us)
They use 4 x AAA L92 Lithium batteries, lasts 2-3 weeks on average.
Requires line of sight to satellite
SPOT is not reliable indoors, in a cave, or in very dense woods.
SPOT Tracker
Garmin InReach
Transmit direct to satellites of the powerful Iridium Satellite network.
Weigh around 214 grams.
100% global coverage.
If you are going somewhere very remote this is the only choice.
They feature weather, and have navigation features. Colour maps, rollow routes capability
2-way SMS messaging to any mobile phone.
Hire charges are from £45
Outright purchase is £400. Yearly/Monthly data subscription also applie (not applicabe when hiring from us)
They have a rechargeable battery. 2-4 days life is typical.
InReach communicate direct to satellite and so do not function reliably under heavy canopy or in buildings.
Garmin InReach Tracker
