I have used the Bubbler GPS phone app with good results, I have suspended or cancelled my actual Spot plan when I don't actually require it mine, I usually have it just for the IBR. I understand I am giving up the help function when there is no cell service. FWIW a text will frequently go through even if a call won't. If I spent a large amount of time in isolated areas without cell coverage I may come to a different conclusion.
I called them when my renewal was up and said I was going to cancel due to the rate. They lowered the rate to 150/year. It is nice to have especially when you are traveling where there is no cell signal.
When you call to cancel, they will refer you to a "retention specialist" that will offer you a better deal. If you say no thanks, sometimes they offer you an even better deal. Or just tell them I'm not sure it's a good enough value for me to keep it right now, and see what they say.
Option B is to move to a monthly plan and only activate it for the bigger trips, but we like having it all the time so just try and get the best deal each renewal.
Seems pretty steep for IBA rides. When I was looking into it, the cost seemed prohibitive to me. Not helpful for your question, just wanted to give an opinion for others who may be considering options.
Seems pretty steep for IBA rides. When I was looking into it, the cost seemed prohibitive to me. Not helpful for your question, just wanted to give an opinion for others who may be considering options.
Hate the price, can only use it roughly half the year, and the monthly program is not for me either. Wife loves me having it, some rides require it, so I have it, unless something way better comes along.
Also note that Spotwalla ≠ SPOT service. For certificate rides, any device that feeds position data to Spotwalla is acceptable. It is when you start participating in rallys that require an actual close-to-real-time satellite tracker that you start talking about needing the higher priced services.