Using GPS to Stay Connected to Home

Douglas Gantenbein, "the Gear Guy," answers gear questions for Outdoor Magazine. The Tacoma, WA News-Tribune carries his column. In its 10 May 2007 issue, under the headline "Three options offer some hope of tracking Appalachian Trail hiker" he answers this question:

"When I turn 40, I’m going to hike the Appalachian Trail. I would like to take a GPS unit, and my wife would like a way to keep track of my progress. Is there anything out there that can meet the need? – Glenn, New York"

Well, good ... until the battery dies, or you drop the unit down the side of a mountain, or leave it at a shelter, or whatever. Then you'd better hotfoot it to a phone to inform your home folks that you're still alive and still moving.