Why not just regard the cell phone in the same manner as the whistle, the flashlight and the signal mirror as means of signalling a rescue if required. The whistle is only as good if someone is within range of the sound the whistle makes. The signal mirror and the flashlight is only as good as when someone can see the signal light. Same with the Cell phone - only as good as the radio reception distance to a cell tower. Every piece of survival kit has its advantages and its limitations including GPS's, Sat phones, SPOT devices and PLBs. BTW most Sat phones aren't ruggedised to the same degree as GPSs, SPOT and PBLs.



Couldn't agree more - PPPPPP. Little chance of getting a Cell phone signal where you intend to go a hiking then bring along a Sat Phone. Or forget them both and make the expedition a little more exciting.