10 Best Personal Locator Beacons 2025 in the United States

The Garmin inReach Messenger Plus is a compact and durable satellite communicator designed for outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable messaging and SOS capabilities in areas without cell service. It supports two-way text, photo, and short voice messaging through satellite, which is great for keeping in touch when you’re off the grid. The device pairs with your smartphone via Bluetooth, allowing easy message management and GPS navigation through the Garmin Messenger and Explore apps. Its internal rechargeable battery lasts up to 25 days in tracking mode, which is excellent for extended trips. The IPX7 water resistance means it can handle rain or accidental splashes, though it’s not fully waterproof for submersion. Weighing just over 4 ounces and with compact dimensions, it’s lightweight and portable enough to carry comfortably.

The GPS accuracy is dependable, and features like live tracking, TracBack navigation, and SOS to a 24/7 response center add valuable safety and peace of mind. However, to use the satellite services, an active subscription is required, which adds ongoing costs. Some jurisdictions may also restrict satellite device use, so that’s worth checking before purchase. The device’s small screen and button interface are straightforward but might feel limited for those preferring larger displays or touchscreen controls.

This inReach model is well suited for campers, hikers, and outdoor travelers who need a reliable, long-lasting satellite communicator with solid emergency features and easy smartphone integration.

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 ACR RESQLINK AIS Personal Locator Beacon is designed primarily for boating, sailing, and fishing enthusiasts who need reliable emergency signaling. It uses multiple signal frequencies, including a 406 MHz global satellite distress signal and a local VHF AIS alert that notifies nearby vessels within about 5 miles, which can be a big help in coastal or busy water areas. The Return Link Service adds peace of mind by confirming that rescue teams have received your signal.

Its 5-year battery life and over 24 hours of operation after activation provide dependable support in emergencies. The unit is lightweight at 6.8 ounces, but the reported dimensions (20 x 20 x 20 inches) are unusually large for a personal beacon and may reflect packaging size, which could affect portability. The beacon is waterproof and built for outdoor conditions, making it durable for marine use. Easy-to-use features include semi-automatic activation, NFC connectivity for quick status checks via a mobile app, and a multifunction clip system that fits common life jackets. GPS accuracy is supported by GNSS data, ensuring precise location tracking.

Some users might find the need to manage two lithium metal batteries a minor inconvenience. This beacon offers a comprehensive set of features for safe water activities, especially useful for those who want both global satellite coverage and local vessel alerts without subscription fees.