Score up to 40% off Garmin’s compact satellite communicators!

Garmin is kicking off early discounts ahead of REI’s annual Anniversary Sale, which officially starts on March 15th. Right now, you can snag the InReach Mini 2 for $249.99, a solid $150 off, or the Mini 3 for $399.99, saving you $50. These deals are available at various retailers, and the Mini 3’s price is the lowest we’ve seen since its launch in late December.

Having used both the Mini 2 and Mini 3 in the wild, I can confidently say that dedicated satellite communicators are a better choice than smartphones, even those with satellite SOS and messaging features. Both models are built to withstand tough conditions and offer multi-day battery life, unlike the latest iPhone 17 series or Google’s Pixel phones. They also function well in high temperatures and provide weather updates, which is crucial when you’re off the grid and facing unpredictable weather.

While the core features of the Mini 2 and Mini 3 are similar, the Mini 3 stands out with its color touchscreen, making it easier to navigate menus and send messages. The Mini 3 Plus even adds support for photos and voice messages.

Keep in mind that you’ll need to subscribe to one of Garmin’s InReach Consumer Plans, starting at $7.99 per month for the basic option. Each plan has a $39.99 activation fee and includes a set number of messages per month, with additional fees for extra messages (live tracking incurs extra costs as well). Personally, I find the messaging limits manageable since my goal in the backcountry is to minimize human interaction, but it’s something to consider if you’re planning a longer adventure or need to stay in touch with someone back home.

Here are some additional deals worth checking out:

* If you’re in the market for a wireless outdoor camera, Blink’s Outdoor 4 Floodlight Camera is on sale for $54.99, a $45 discount, just $5 shy of its best price. This battery-powered camera offers up to two years of battery life, Alexa support, and two-way audio, but keep in mind that advanced features require a premium subscription.
* Lego’s 2,660-piece Hogwarts Castle replica is down to $136.99, a $33 savings, nearly matching its all-time low. While it may not rival Lego’s new LOTR-inspired Minas Tirith set, it’s a great option for Harry Potter fans eagerly awaiting the new HBO series launching on December 25th.
* L’Oréal’s Colorsonic Hair Color Device is available for $87.49, about $28 off, one of its lowest prices yet. This handy gadget simplifies at-home hair dyeing, and while it has some limitations regarding gray coverage and cartridge longevity, it’s user-friendly and much quicker than traditional box dye or salon visits.