SPOT gen 3 on sale at REI, half price
 

From what I've heard, most people are happier with alternatives, like the Garmin etc. But if you're in the market, half price is better than full.

The worst part of it is, half price at REI = 10¢ cheaper than Amazon everyday.

REI has a much better return policy, gives you 10% back in the spring, and is just a better company on every level though.

REI allows electronics to be returned within 90 days, box opened and used, no questions asked.

I bought a $500 Garmin last year and used it for a month. Battery life was dismal, four hours. I brought it back for a full refund on the spot.

I'm going to try a Wahoo Roam and will purchase it from REI. If I don't like it after a month or two, back it will go. I'm not able to find the Roam on Amazon but if they had it I'd consider it.

If you want the lowest everyday street price then buy from Sigma Sports in England. The 830 is $362. The Bolt is $207. Some products like the 1030 and Roam don't ship to the US though.

REI sometimes has $100 off Garmin products as well.

Back on topic, a SPOT device is something I've been thinking about. Thanks Forrest.

I do try to buy things like this from REI for the return policy. It’s a great place to buy saddles, because if one doesn’t work out, you can return it. But I try to not abuse the policy.

But on the whole, REI has become too much like any other (mostly online) retailer. It’s not at all what it was when I first joined over three decades ago. Back then, they rarely had sales, and they - of course - did not send out two or three emails each week trying to drum up business.

I got my Gen 3 spot for free. I'm a little surprised I have never seen anything better than half off since then. The devices that allow you to send texts are nice, but I'm pretty happy with my Gen 3 Spot. If anyone wants a Gen 2, I will give it to you.

You can get a certified refurbished Garmin Inreach Mini from Amazon for $300 no tax. Mine arrived like new. Unfortunately I had to use the SOS (for others) two weeks after I bought it but I can confirm that it works and that two way communication with the dispatcher is invaluable.