So this spring I've got some complicated logistics - I'm going to meet another group well into Quetico on day 9 of my trip. I will have an inReach Mini, and so will they.

Since these devices allow texting, it should be straightforward - but as I understand it, the owner of the inReach has to initiate the first text - only then can the person on the other end text back.

However this sounds like a potential catch-22 there if you are trying to text from one inReach to another...

Has anyone done this? Perhaps I'm missing something obvious.

I think you send a message to their Inreach address.
Example:
Name@inreach.garmin.com

You can find it on your explore.garmin.com account page.

I have messaged my buddy in the woods before. We both have InReach units. You need to use their InReach address just like campnfish said. One bonus it is free between the two InReach units as I remember, so message away.

I connect my InReach Mini to my phone via Bluetooth and then use the Earthmate app which allows me to text with anyone in my contacts. Easy.

OK thanks - looks like this is possible.

My InReach is borrowed; the group's will be rented from the outfitter...so we'll need to extract that info (inreach addresses) before we enter.

campnfish: "I think you send a message to their Inreach address.
Example:
Name@inreach.garmin.com

You can find it on your explore.garmin.com account page."

This is correct. Those of us who have been able to accomplish also noted that we had to add the inreach address to our list of contacts on the Inreach account page before we could send and receive messages (especially when we were out in the backcountry). Definitely try all of this set up before heading out. Some of the older models have trouble connecting to the newer inreach models and vice versa.

I have an old inreach, but if you go into the settings >About This Device you will see that devices inreach address.

sns: "OK thanks - looks like this is possible.


My InReach is borrowed; the group's will be rented from the outfitter...so we'll need to extract that info (inreach addresses) before we enter."

When an inReach account is first established, the process includes identifying the owner AND a person to contact in the event the SOS function is activated. If you’re using a borrowed device, you’ll need to follow these instructions:



Borrowing or Lending Out an inReach Handheld