Garmin InReach Mini2 - How to use

July 14, 2025

full user manual in pdf - here

SOS function

Button

2) Buttons: Left up/down Right OK/return

3) charging port

4) SOS

5) power

Button: Right (OK) → Check-in → Select the preset message → Send.
Sends your preset message with your location to predefined recipients.
✅ Free and unlimited to send. However, if someone replies to your preset message, each reply counts toward your message allowance — the first 10 replies are free, and additional replies cost $0.70 CAD each.
💡 Note: AutoBox will help set up preset messages and contacts in advance

👥 Add Contact for Messaging (Only for Custom Message)

Button: Right (OK) → Contacts → Add Contact.
✅ Free to add contacts (first 10 messages free).

💡 Adjust Backlight

Button: Right (OK) → Settings → Backlight.
Adjust for energy saving or a brighter screen as needed.

FAQ

Two most Common Use Cases for Messaging with the inReach Mini 2:

1. Location Reporting / Check-In
Use this to let others know you're okay.
For example, sending a Check-In message shares your location with the recipient. They can reply with a simple "Got it," but you won’t be able to continue the conversation unless you switch to a custom message—see Case 2 below.

2. Two-Way Chatting
For full conversations, both you and your friend need to install the Garmin Messenger app and register using your mobile phone numbers.
You can then chat even without cell signal, as long as your phone is connected via Bluetooth to the inReach Mini 2.

Includes 30 free messages, with overage charged at $0.70 CAD each.
If your phone has Wi-Fi or cellular, messages sent through the app are free and won’t count toward your satellite message limit.

Tip for Starting the GPS Signal:

Always go to Left Button > Down > Navigation to check if the GPS signal is active.
If you see a question mark (?), it means the GPS signal has not yet been acquired.

Use case:

Setup the waypoint using app
When go, navigate waypoint to waypoint
send check-in message e.g. Start
(if need ) Navigate > Way points or TraceBack
send check-in message e.g. I am OK
when finishing the activities, send check-in message e.g. End

📬 Can someone reply to my check-in messages?

Yes, people can reply to your check-in messages — but please note:

✅ Sending check-in messages is free and unlimited.
⚠️ Replies to your check-ins will count toward your message allowance.
📈 If you go over your included messages (usually 10 per rental), you may be charged $0.70 CAD per message.

💡 To avoid extra charges:
Let your contacts know not to reply to your check-in messages unless it's urgent. If you have cell service or Wi-Fi, ask them to contact you directly via phone, text, or WhatsApp instead.

Experience more by using the app