Check out the new ACR Bivy Stick Review. ACR recently bought out Bivy Stick and the Bivy Stick Blue became the ACR Bivy Stick.
ACR Bivy Stick Features
- Topo Maps when Synced with Your Smartphone
- Waypoints
- Tracking
- Share Location
- 2-Way Messaging
- Weather Forecasts
- Global, Pole to Pole Satellite Coverage
- S.O.S. Function
- No Contract or Annual Fees
- Bivy App
Topo Maps
I have been really impressed with the maps on the ACR Bivy Stick as several things are available that are not available with the Garmin inReach satellite messengers, such as, campgrounds, bike trails, hiking trails and jeep trails are displayed, plus you can filter to choose what kind of outdoor activity you are interested.
Here is another map that shows the filter options in your map.
You can see where you can filter by Hiking, Mountain Biking, Camping, Waterfalls, Lakes, and many other filter options. There is also some great detailed information as in this hiking trail shown below.
2-Way Messaging
The 2-way messaging works great. I tested it several times and it worked perfectly. This first screen shot is to Mike’s cell phone.
This next screen shot shows the messaging working to an email.
Weather Forecasts
The weather forecasts cost two credits each time you request weather but you have credits available to you, depending on what subscription you choose. Here is a screenshot of what the weather forecast will look like.
Global Satellite Coverage
ACR Bivy uses the Iridium satellite network that has Global, Pole to Pole coverage.
There are a few other satellite messengers that do not over global coverage so make sure you know what you’re getting, especially if you’re a world traveler.
SOS Function
One of the most important functions of a satellite messenger is how it performs in an emergency. I did not test it, as I didn’t want to end up in trouble, so I could show you how well it works, but I’m sure it works well, after you press and hold the SOS button for at least three seconds.
Subscription Plans
ACR offers three subscription plans.
The subscription plans range from $17.99 to $49.99 per month. You do get unlimited credits when you select the Unlimited subscription plan, however, there are no activation fees for any of the plans and you can suspend the ACR Bivy Stick when you’re not using it.
Bivy App
I really like the Bivy app. It has a lot of helpful information that easy to navigate through.
You can see there are several options available to you, including Map, Offline Maps, Adventures, Waypoints, Community, Weather, Tracking, Share Location, Messages, SOS and more. ACR has made it really easy to navigate around the menu.
Final Thoughts
The ACR Bivy Stick really surprised me and I was shocked at how much I liked it and how high on the list it was over many other satellite messengers. My favorite things about it are:
- Maps
- Messaging
- Weather
- Global Coverage
The only downside to the ACR Bivy Stick is that you need to sync it with your smartphone to get most of the features, but that’s not a problem for me as I like having the convenience of my smartphone and I also carry a portable charger in case I lose power on either my ACR Bivy Stick or my smartphone.
See the YouTube video of the ACR Bivy Stick review.
- 🌐 GLOBAL SATELLITE COMMUNICATOR & SATELLITE PHONE ALTERNATIVE - 100% global Iridium satellite coverage for two-way SMS text messaging + Email, GPS tracking, maps & navigation, emergency SOS, weather reports, and location sharing. Compatible with iOS & Android apps. Subscription required. Monthly: (Basic $19.99 | Plus $34.99 | Unlimited SALE $39.99). Annual: (Basic $14.99 | Plus $29.99 | Unlimited SALE $38.99). One time 3-month commitment per device, then month-to-month. Plans available globally.
- 🚨 SOS EMERGENCY RESCUE - Feel safe with Global Rescue's round-the-clock SOS monitoring. Activate SOS with the dedicated button or through the app, communicate with emergency services, and share your GPS location when you need it most. Get rescued anywhere in the world.
- 💬 UNLIMITED CHECK-IN MESSAGES & GPS LOCATION SHARING - Effortlessly send unlimited & customizable check-in messages that include your GPS location with this advanced outdoor communication device. Use the dedicated check-in button on the device or through the app to keep your loved ones updated on your whereabouts. A shareable webpage displays a map with your GPS coordinates and a check-in breadcrumb trail, allowing others to follow your journey.
- 👥 GROUP MESSAGING & TRACKING - Keep your crew connected with GroupTrack, featuring group messaging and location sharing for up to 12 people. Monitor your team off-grid using the Bivy Stick and app or in-network via a web browser. Ideal for search & rescue, guiding services, remote workers, outfitters, adventure racing, overlanding groups, and more.
- 🗺️ OFFLINE MAPS & NAVIGATION - Download detailed maps from around the world to ensure you're never lost, even without cellular service. Easily navigate and track your location off the grid using device-based GPS with this satellite messenger. The Bivy app offers over 50,000 adventures to explore, with 20 different adventure types available. Monitor your pace, mileage, altitude, and more on your journey.
- 📡 TRI-NETWORK COVERAGE & APP-TO-APP MESSAGING - Benefit from least-cost routing with priority given to Wi-Fi, followed by cellular, and then satellite. Effortlessly connect with others using app-to-app messaging, your dedicated phone number, or email. Choose ACR Bivy Stick, the leading alternative to satellite phones for unrestricted two-way communication, and the freedom to initiate and receive messages confidently.
This product was presentation was made with AAWP plugin.
You can learn more about other satellite messengers at HikingEmergencyBeacon.com.
Please Like, Subscribe, Share, Turn on Notifications and Leave a Comment below.
Return to Home Page
ACR Bivy Stick
Pros
- Global Satellite Network
- 2-Way Messaging
- SOS Distress Call
- Maps
- Weather Forecasts
Cons
- Must be Synced with Smartphone
- Initial Purchase Price