Personal Locator Beacons & SOS Devices

Personal Locator Beacons & SOS Devices from The Outdoor Warehouse help you stay safe and connected far beyond cellular range. Whether you’re backpacking deep in the wilderness, camping off-grid, or hiking remote trails, these satellite communicators and emergency beacons deliver reliable GPS tracking and SOS signaling when it matters most.

Featuring top brands like Garmin inReach®, ACR®, SPOT™, and ZOLEO®, our two-way satellite communicators and personal locator beacons (PLBs) combine precision technology, rugged design, and global Iridium® coverage for outdoor safety you can depend on.

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Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs)Satellite CommunicatorsSOS & Emergency DevicesTwo-Way GPS Messengers

Compare Outdoor SOS & Locator Devices

Device Type Best For Key Features
Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) Hikers & backpackers One-touch SOS signal via Cospas-Sarsat network, no subscription
Satellite Communicators Expeditions & solo travelers Two-way text messaging, tracking, and global SOS via Iridium®
GPS Messengers Adventure travel & family tracking Compact size, app-based mapping, customizable check-ins
SOS Emergency Devices General outdoor safety Lightweight, waterproof, long battery life for any trip

Pro Tip

Combine a personal locator beacon with a two-way satellite communicator for complete off-grid coverage. Use your PLB for emergency SOS activation and your communicator for messaging, GPS tracking, and weather updates.

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How Personal Locator Beacons Work

PLBs transmit your GPS coordinates to global rescue satellites, ensuring emergency responders can locate you anywhere in the world.

Choosing Between a PLB and a Satellite Communicator

PLBs offer one-way SOS signaling without a subscription. Satellite communicators provide two-way messaging, location sharing, and live weather data.

Stay Connected Beyond Cell Range

Devices like the Garmin inReach Mini® and ZOLEO® Satellite Messenger let you text, track, and send SOS alerts over global Iridium® networks.

Need a Marine-Rated Beacon?

For boating, offshore, or coastal adventures, explore our Marine Personal Locator Beacons (EPIRBs) collection. These devices are SOLAS-compliant, waterproof, and designed for open-water rescue and maritime safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do PLBs require a subscription?
No. PLBs like the ACR ResQLink™ operate on international distress frequencies with no monthly fees. Two-way communicators like Garmin inReach® require active plans for messaging and tracking.
What’s the difference between a PLB and an EPIRB?
PLBs are personal, portable beacons designed for land or air use, while EPIRBs are marine-rated and built for vessels operating offshore.
Are personal locator beacons waterproof?
Yes. Most modern PLBs and satellite communicators feature IP67 or higher ratings for water and dust resistance.
How long do PLB batteries last?
Batteries typically last 5–7 years in standby mode and up to 24 hours of continuous operation once activated.

Why Buy Personal Locator Beacons & SOS Devices from The Outdoor Warehouse?

  • Trusted selection of PLBs, satellite communicators, and GPS SOS devices for outdoor and backcountry safety.
  • Top brands including Garmin®, ACR®, SPOT™, and ZOLEO®.
  • Expert-tested gear used by hikers, explorers, and rescue professionals.
  • Fast U.S. shipping and dedicated outdoor support team.

Shop Personal Locator Beacons & SOS Devices at The Outdoor Warehouse — trusted outdoor communication gear built to keep you connected, protected, and safe wherever your next adventure leads.