[pct-l] To SPOT or not to SPOT [AND] Money along the

[ambery-80243 at mypacks.net]

I agree with reminding people back home about possible issues with the Spot.  I think it's best to let them know that you may use it every few days, not every day.  There have been numerous rescues started because someone expected a loved one to check in daily, and they panicked when it didn't happen.

As for the GPS, you never truly "need" it.  You should strive to be confidant in you map, compass and terrain navigation skills.  It doesn't mean you may not bring a GPS, but it should never be the navigation tool you rely on.  

-----Original Message-----
>From: Devon Taig <devon.taig at gmail.com>
>Sent: Oct 13, 2012 2:01 PM
>To: Ed Jarrett <edjarrett at msn.com>
>Cc: PCT List <pct-l at backcountry.net>
>Subject: Re: [pct-l] To SPOT or not to SPOT [AND] Money along the
>
>I would, however, make sure that spouses and significant others understand
>that a SPOT can break, get lost, or run out of batteries.  When your loved
>ones don't hear from you via your SPOT transmission, will they still rest
>easy?
>I am a firm believer that everyone should hike their own hike, but I also
>think we should all give serious thought to how technologies like a SPOT
>transmitter affect our individual experiences in the wilderness. As you
>said Ed, we should give just thought to how our decisions affect others
>too, but every hiker should ask themselves whether a SPOT takes at least
>some of the WILD out of wilderness.
>
>River
>
>On Sat, Oct 13, 2012 at 2:35 PM, Ed Jarrett <edjarrett at msn.com> wrote:
>
>>
>> > With just a map phone and a SPOT it’s too easy to think, “No problem. If
>> I
>> > get lost, confused, or scared I’ll just punch the panic button then start
>> > scanning the horizon for the helicopter that’s coming to pick me up.”
>> >
>> > Steel-Eye
>> On the other hand, being able to push the button every night can greatly
>> improve the peace of mind for a spouse not traveling with you, making it
>> easier to get away for an extended period.  It would be selfish for me to
>> not take them along just to lose a few ounces.
>>
>> Ed Jarret
>>
>