GPS Unit - What I want it to do for me. Does it Exist?

[Center Punch]

I want a GPS hand-held unit to bring information and capabilities back to my smartphone when it doesn't have cell service.

What information exactly?!?!?!

- Maps that sync with On-X, DeerCast, etc.
- Text Communication
- Phone Conversation

Are the last two only possible with those emergency-type units that require a monthly fee?
Like this one: Garmin GPSMAP 65 Multi-Band GPS Handheld Unit

Is there something out there that does this?

 

[GCTerpfan]

I want a GPS hand-held unit to bring information and capabilities back to my smartphone when it doesn't have cell service.

What information exactly?!?!?!

- Maps that sync with On-X, DeerCast, etc.
- Text Communication
- Phone Conversation

Are the last two only possible with those emergency-type units that require a monthly fee?
Like this one: Garmin GPSMAP 65 Multi-Band GPS Handheld Unit

Is there something out there that does this?

Short of buying a Starlink backpack travel kit (I have no idea how well they actually work) I don’t think you are going to find what your looking for.

The best solutions I think you are going to find are:

- download offline maps

- one of many satellite communication devices (they can be had for pretty cheap)

- satellite phone (more expensive than the communication devices that allow you to just send messages)

 

[Center Punch]

Thanks for the reply. I'm not tech savvy.

 

[BTaylor]

I use my phone and a zoleo. I have onx and spartan forge on there for my mapping. Both let me download maps to use offline and the with the zoleo I can text as needed in areas with no cell coverage. The zoleo is a subscription deal but you can switch it to standby and it's like $4 a month when you dont need it. The majority of places I hunt either have no or very limited cell coverage and I have had no issue with this combo.