Greetings. I'm planning for my AT thru-hike next year, and I'm wondering what others are using for email access. I know about Pocketmail, but the downsides seem to be (1) device is fairly big, (2) technology seems outmoded, (3) based on what I've seen on the internet, it seems like the Pocketmail company may be slowly fading away. As for PDA's, etc., how do they hold up under trail conditions, has anyone used the fancy PDA/cell phone gizmos, what about battery life, etc.
I'd appreciate any experiences and recommendations, especially by folks who've used them on extended hikes and thru-hikes.
I know some purists think these things take away from the wilderness experience, but for those of us with family obligations, other commitments, etc. they are almost a necessity. Thanks in advance.