My Review: Staying Connected Off the Grid with ZOLEO
When I hit the trail where cell service disappears completely, having a way to stay in touch with family and friends is more than a convenience — it’s peace of mind. That’s why I added the ZOLEO Satellite Communicator to my backpacking gear, and after using it on multiple trips, here’s how it’s performed for me.
One of the first things I noticed was the battery life. ZOLEO is rated for 200+ hours of use checking for messages every 12 minutes, and in real-world conditions it easily lasts through multi-day trips without needing a recharge — a huge win when I’m out hiking all day with no access to power.
What really sets ZOLEO apart for me is the connectivity it provides beyond normal cell coverage. Using the Iridium global satellite network, I can send and receive messages via text, email, or the app — basically the same way I’d message at home, even from deep in the backcountry.
I love that I can check in with loved ones just to let them know I’m okay, and they can respond back — something that just isn’t possible with a regular phone alone out on remote trails. It’s been especially reassuring for longer backpacking and multi-day routes where I’m out of service for days at a time.
There’s also an SOS feature with 24/7 alerting, which is something I hope to never need but am glad is there as part of my safety kit.
Of course, ZOLEO isn’t a replacement for a satellite phone or dedicated emergency beacon, and you do need a service plan to send messages or SOS alerts — but for everyday off-grid communication and trail safety, it’s become a staple in my pack.
Bottom Line: If you care about staying in touch when your phone can’t reach the network, and you want a reliable communicator with great battery life on extended trips, ZOLEO is worth considering for your backpacking setup.
The unit itself feels rugged and well-built — shock resistant, dust and water resistant (IP68) — which matters when it’s bouncing around in my pack or clipped to my gear in uncertain weather.
