Initially I wanted to rent my Sat Phone, but to rent it for a few weeks was over half the price of buying one flat out and I am planning on more crazy trips (World Tour, etc) so I thought it would be time to invest in purchasing one. I chose the Iridium 9555 because it is (relatively) small. It reminded me of my first cell phone I got back in 1998, one of those larger brick type cell phones. However, as Sat Phones go, this is one of the smallest around. It works by connection to a series of Satellites. Which means, as long as you have an open sky, you have a connection anywhere in the world. The connection in Haiti was often overloaded (there were probably thousands in the area) which meant my calls were only good for a few minutes- but I cannot tell you how many times this thing came through for me.
Ultimately, my iPhone was more versatile, but the Sat Phone was a must and a close second. It was the best investment I made in terms of equipment and allowed me to relay information in real time with Toby.
Iridium Satellite Phones
Link not working. Curious about the voice plans (does it work similar to a cell carrier in the states?). Going out of country later this summer where this could prove useful and not far from Hati. Thanks!
Yes, similar to a cell phone- pre-paid minutes. Check link now. 🙂