Personally, I like to hike into my spot, not carry it with me.......
LOL
Keep your spot warm as well, either type of spot. I've had new batteries in a spot that failed to send because of battery power. The were lithiums as well, changed right before trip and first time turned on. Overall though, it has usually been pretty reliable especially if you are in more open country
Speaking of which, I have a spot connect for sale $65.00 via paypal. PM me or I'll put in in classifieds soon
