BESTPREP.
ES SOS

Gadgets explained

No signal, no internet, no power

Some devices send messages via satellite, build their own network between neighbors or guide you without mobile data. Here's how each one works, what it's really for and when it isn't worth it.

  1. 01 Texting with no signal

    Satellite messenger

    Send and receive text messages and call for rescue from anywhere on the planet, with no cell network.

    See how it works
  2. 02 Your own network

    Meshtastic

    Small LoRa radios that build their own messaging network between neighbors. No license, no fees, no internet.

    See how it works
  3. 03 Navigate without data

    Offline maps and GPS

    Your phone's GPS works with no signal: you just need maps downloaded in advance. And when a handheld GPS pays off.

    See how it works
  4. 04 SOS with no fees

    Personal locator beacon

    One button that alerts rescue teams from anywhere on the planet. No subscription.

    See how it works
  5. 05 News without internet

    Emergency radio

    The cheapest gadget and the one people relied on most in the Iberian blackout. Which bands matter and which features don't.

    See how it works
  6. 06 Electricity off the grid

    Power station

    A big battery with outlets. When it's worth it, how to calculate capacity and which battery chemistry to choose.

    See how it works

Which one do you need?

Start with what you already have: a phone with downloaded maps covers more than you'd think.

I want to…GadgetSubscriptionRange
Call for rescue from anywhere on EarthPersonal locator beacon (PLB)NoGlobal
Send and receive texts with no signalSatellite messengerYesGlobal
Text family and neighbors if the network goes downMeshtastic (LoRa)NoHundreds of yards to miles
Know where I am and get around without dataOffline maps or GPSNoGlobal
Find out what's happening without internetHand-crank and solar radioNoLocal stations
Keep phones, lights or a medical device poweredPower stationNoAt home

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