Gear for Gifts: We Tried the SPOT Trace Satellite Tracker

We can think of numerous reasons why you might want to invest in not just one, but several of these SPOT Trace handheld satellite tracers (only $120, or $100 at certain retailers). [Visit this site for a 50% off code from SPOT! ]

The SPOT Trace is a cool, powerful and small tracking device that lets you track and recover whatever it is attached to. The product does what it says and the GPS technology has evolved to the point that this tracker fits in the palm of your hand. The device will send you a text message alert whenever movement is detected on whatever this device is attached to. You can track its location in real time on Google Maps with tracking intervals that you can select, from 2 1/2 to 5, to 10, 30 or 60 minutes.

It’s great for stashing in a backpack. It is a tad heavy to just carry (it weighs 3.1 ounces without batteries, 88 grams) but it could be sewn in to a jacket liner or attached to a vehicle. It is pretty small already, at 2.69 inches (8.72 cm) by 2.02 inches (5.13 cm) but must be smaller to be more practical for more than putting into a gear case. For instance, it wouldn’t be practical for attaching to a bicycle or a small piece of equipment, because it would be too noticeable.

This would be pretty useful if you had something like a drone that you wanted to keep track of. If you have a boat moored up somewhere that you don’t get to visit all that often, set this thing up in it and get a text message if the boat moves anywhere.

Each device tracks a single item, so if you have a need to track multiple items, that’s going to eat into the cost effectiveness. Still, depending on the value or the risk of your items being taken, it could make sense to invest in several of these. You must pay for the service for each device, which ranges from $10 a month to $100 a year. so not out of the question of affordability is your prime concern.

One key to use for this device to work is that it must be hidden so no one knows it’s there. That’s why its size in relation to what you place it on is the biggest issue. The usability of it is no problem. We found it easy to use, easy to register and to set it up it’s just the push of a couple of buttons. This device succeeds where others fail in that others call for Bluetooth or cell phone service, and you must be close to the device, for it to work. This SPOT Trace is truly a global satellite positioning and tracking device.

The back clip removes so that it can be screwed on to something. Overall, the construction of is seems rugged, although you wouldn’t want to just throw it around. There is a USB port that is accessible by unscrewing a cover for firmware upgrades. Two lights indicate power levels and satellite connections. While it is supposed to be water resistant, we recommend a water proof case for it, which you can find on Amazon. This particular Monster Magnetics waterproof case would be perfect for the SPOT Trace and is only $30. Use this waterproof case and put this under your vehicle, your spouse’s vehicle, or your kid’s vehicle to always know where they are.

We think this is a great device for anyone who has anything worth protecting. Purchase the SPOT Trace from SPOT. Visit this site for a 50% off code from SPOT!

Image courtesy of SPOT.

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