The Florida Everglades: a Unique Wilderness Destination

Have you ever wanted to visit a place that can't be found anywhere else on Earth? Try the Florida Everglades! This unique subtropical wetlands environment is unlike any other, and comprises mangrove forests, sawgrass prairies, hardwood hammocks, cypress forests, marine estuaries, and more. The Everglades extends over one and a half million acres and is the largest wilderness area to be found east of the Mississippi River.

5 Common Myths about Satellite Phones

Despite their usefulness, satellite phones have been relatively slow to catch on with the population at large. This is mostly because people don't understand how they work and why they are worth the money. Obviously, no one is going to see a need for a product they don't know about, or worse: have wrong impressions about.

There are a few persistent myths that usually form the backbone of the popular misinformation about satellite phones. These incorrect assumptions are actually dangerous, because they discourage people from using a product that could save their lives one day. This article will attempt to break down 5 of these myths.

5 Important Tips for Living off the Grid

Off-grid living is becoming more and more attractive to many Americans. Skyrocketing utility bills, a desire for self-sufficiency, and a simple desire for privacy are just some of the reasons people look toward the solution of going off the grid and living entirely by their own means. If you're thinking about going off-grid, here are 5 important tips to smooth your transition.

How to Get Started with Prepping and Survivalism

In today's society of convenience, it becomes very easy to let one's guard down. Unfortunately, in many situations, this can mean the difference between life and death. We're all familiar with people who wait till the very last second to prepare for anything, whether out of procrastination or simple denial. But with the way store shelves empty out just before an impending natural disaster, you can't afford to put things off too long. It's better to be proactive, and more and more people are turning to prepping as a lifestyle to ensure their survival in an uncertain future.

Finding gifts for the adventurer in your life present a unique set of challenges. Perhaps they love to go on long, far away hikes; or they are hunting in a remote wooded area; or they are setting out to sail on the open ocean. With some careful thought and preparation, acquiring the perfect gift for an adventurer is not only possible, but easy. Consider the following items when purchasing for an active traveler.

Outerwear and Footwear

Perhaps the easiest category to begin for the adventurer is outerwear. Consider the list below when choosing outerwear for an active individual:

• Materials: Choose synthetic materials for their ability to wick away moisture rather than trap it like cotton materials
• Pants or Shorts: While shorts are cooler and give mobility, pants offer warmth for changing climates in altitude changes and also provide protection from allergenic plants and low-to-ground vegetation.
• Footwear: Boots provide extra strength to the ankles. Consider leather for its superior moisture wicking properties; also Goretex lining for cold or wet climates to keep feet dry
• Rain Gear: A waterproof and breathable rain jacket is always a good option; also consider a poncho to be kept compactly packed and deployed when needed
• Hats: Reducing glare and facial sunburns is simply by using a wide-rimmed hat made of a breathable material

Kit

• Sunglasses: Eye protection from UV and low hanging vegetation is an important safety consideration but can also add a fun fashion statement
• First Aid Kit: Having necessary supplies for an emergency could be a life-saving addition for any traveler
• Waterproof container: A waterproof bag, especially for matches and or cell phones will keep necessary dry things dry in the event of inclement weather
• Multi-tool: Whether its sawing a small branch or tightening a screw, a multi tool provides a great small addition with multitasking in mind
• Trekking Pole: A quality trekking pole provides stability on rough terrain
• Binoculars: Whether taking in vast mountain landscapes or watching whales from the side of a boat, binoculars bring the far away closer for enjoyment and safety

Technology

• Helmet Cam: Sailors, hikers, and hunter alike can catch the perfect shot with a helmet- or headband-mounted, fish-eye camera like a GoPro
• Multifunction watch: From compass features to timers, a multifunction watch is a compact tool with many uses
• Multipurpose Bio Camp Stove:

• A camp stove would seem like a one-purpose device; however, now multipurpose camp stoves can provide heat for cooking and convert power to charge USB devices

• Satellite Phone: While away from cell towers, a satellite phone can provide an important safety net as well as provide an ability to keep in contact with friends and family through calls, texts, and emails

With the recent fires in East Tennessee, wildfire preparation is always a prudent decision.  Here are some simple things that can be done to maximize safety in a wildfire situation.

People have been hiking and climbing since the beginning of time, adventurously seeking Earth's most remote and stunning landscapes. An age old tradition, backpacking is one of the most adventurous and economical ways to vacation. Whether you're a penniless student, a passionate outdoorsman, or a thrill-seeking daredevil, backpacking is an enchanting way to explore the magical nooks and crannies of our often unappreciated, majestic planet.

Tips & Tricks:  iPad Photo Sharing over the IsatPhone 2

Many of our clients want to use their iPad to share photos.   This blog lets you in on the step by step secrets on how to do this.  Easily and reliably send emails and do iPad photo sharing from extremely remote locations where conventional cellular service is unavailable.  All you need is an IsatPhone 2, a SpeedMail / XGate Email Account and an Optimizer Wi-Fi Hotspot.  All three are available from Outfitter Satellite.