If you want a simpler tracker for one-off adventures, the Spot Gen4 offers one-way communication and reliable location tracking. The functionality here is limited compared to more capable two-way competitors, but there are some neat extra safety features and great battery life. This beast can go the distance.
This is a one-way communication tool, unlike many other devices on this list, you can only send simple notes, cannot receive a response from relatives at home.
During testing, I used the Spot Gen4 for various one-day ultra-long runs in the mountain ranges of Europe, and it was great for providing the simple comfort of the safety team knowing you Where are you all the time?
I like that you can program the tracking to activate when you arrive or leave specific locations, and power it off when you’re sitting still before turning it back on when you move, great for saving battery life.
The SOS functions are easy to use, and the Spot Gen4 is quick to send out metaphorical light beams. There’s also a Spot Assist button that will alert contacts that you need help but your difficulties aren’t life-threatening — say, say you run out of gas in the desert.
Outgoing messaging capabilities include SMS, email, and certain social media platforms, but this feature needs to be programmed while you’re still in civilization. You can’t do that quickly while sitting on a rock halfway up Kilimanjaro.
Unlike most of your outdoor gear—headlamps, phones, GPS watches—which use USB charging these days, the Spot Gen4 runs on AAA batteries. That has its pros and cons. Battery life is great, and swapping out new batteries is easier than finding a power source, but I find it a bit annoying to have to carry around an extra piece of kit.
