Garmin Discontinues SAR Insurance Globally, Leaving Hikers Without Coverage
Hiking and exploring off the beaten path is a passion for many. However, these activities come with inherent risks, prompting some outdoor enthusiasts to rely on devices like the Garmin inReach.
Unfortunately, recent changes in Garmin’s policies have made the inReach less appealing, especially after the company stopped offering Search and Rescue (SAR) Insurance to customers outside of the United States and Canada. Recent discussions on Reddit reveal that many international Garmin users are affected by this sudden decision.
One user, Jeremyze from the UK, shared their frustration about being unable to purchase SAR insurance after trying to activate their inReach. Despite multiple attempts to order the insurance, Jeremyze received repeated cancellations.
Conversations with Garmin representatives confirmed that this change was unexpected and not well-communicated. The discontinuation of SAR Insurance is significant for outdoor enthusiasts.
For those unfamiliar, tools like the Garmin inReach are invaluable for hikers and adventurers, providing essential features such as satellite communication and SOS functionality. In case of emergencies, SAR operations can be prohibitively expensive, sometimes amounting to thousands of dollars.
Having insurance to cover these costs can be a financial lifesaver for many. In the wake of Garmin’s decision, some users are exploring alternative insurance options, such as Overwatch x Rescue, which they suggest might better cater to those living outside North America.
While there is no affiliation with this program, it may be worth researching for those who want coverage while enjoying outdoor pursuits.
