Unfortunately I wasnt really thinking this year and I will be over the middle of the Atlantic when permits drop. I likely will not be in front of a computer until mid afternoon. Might have a wifi option in flight but might now.

Would that likely be an issue for getting specific entry point I want or should I just get an outfitter to get the permit for me? I dont need any gear so seems weird to use an outfitter for just the permit.

If you are trying to get a specific date that is not flexible and it’s for an entry that is popular then use an outfitter.

You might not need equipment but you might need other last minute stuff that an outfitter can supply.

I also have a dilemma with the opening permit time - it is right at boarding time for our flight (leaving for our son’s wedding, so I can’t miss the flight!).
We also have all our own gear, so I never thought of using an outfitter.

I've always used an outfitter for securing my permit. For the minimal fee they charge it's worth it for me to have them deal with the process. I give them in advance a couple of my ranked choices for dates. at my preferred entry and they'll confirm for me when the permit is reserved.

I don't need much for gear, but agree with Mocha that I'll usually need some item or another that I can then get addressed when I pick up the permit.

You could have a friend or family member do it.

If you use an outfitter make sure they are near your EP because you will have to pick your permit up there the day before or the day of.

As mentioned in an earlier post, I've always had an outfitter secure my reservation for me and have willingly paid their fee for doing so. However, this year, when contacting one (new to me--have not used them before), I was told that they don't do that and that I'd have to create an account with Recreation.Gov and secure my own permit, even though information on this outfitter's website stated they performed this service. Is this service something that's going away? That the glitches and "hassle" (the reason I like an outfitter doing it for me in the first place) is driving outfitters away from providing this to clients? If so the Forest Service REALLY needs to improve the system!