Text Messaging

[Footslogger]

There was a time when I tought I'd NEVER send a text message. Now I even have a data package on my cell phone that covers sending of data (text) and photos, since my phone has a built in camera.

Anyway ...not too long ago I was totally out of coverage range for a cell phone call but I happened to notice that I was able to send/receive text messages. I asked around a bit and found out that it is quite common to have the ability to send text messages even when you can't get a cell signal.

Bottom line is that I have gone from thinking that I wouod NEVER send a text message to a frequent text messenger. In fact my next phone will have the larger QWERTY keyboard. Reason for posting this is that with all the negative feedback sometimes generated with regard to hikers making calls on their cell phones I was wondering how folks feel about text messaging on the trail. No noise (if you have your audible keyboard feature deactivated) plus the ability to send receive messages when cell coverage otherwise might not be available. For a quick "I'm OK and in the following location" to a friend or loved one it seems pretty hard to beat.

What does everyone else think ??

'Slogger

[lonehiker]

I'm ok with it. But then again, I am not opposed to the use of them to make calls either.

[Yukon]

What is this garbage I keep hearing about not being able to use a cell phone on the AT or people giving you a hassle about it?? If you need to use your phone then you need to use your phone, try and stop me from doing it LOL..

In response to your thread now, I don't see any problem with text messaging, it's very handy to have.

[Cuffs]

I had that very same instance this past week. Signal was not strong enough for a call, but text was working. I didnt need it, but another hiker (not from our group) needed to make contact with a family member, and text was the only way to do it...

[Lone Wolf]

there was a time that i thought i would NEVER own a cell phone. i don't

[taildragger]

seems like at that point it might be better just to use your phone for email. At least thats what I would do on a long distance hike. This would minimize my time in town, or allow me to focus on a more relaxing beer in town, I could take care of the updates just before I go to sleep, or while taking a break on the trail.

Personally, I kinda like and hate text messages. I hate getting them when someone could have called, but I like using them when hunting (its nice to hear what other people in different states are seeing in their stands, then lie to them about that 16 point buck thats 2 ft out of range )

[Footslogger]

[quote=WalterP;432145]What is this garbage I keep hearing about not being able to use a cell phone on the AT or people giving you a hassle about it??

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Didn't say you were not able to use a cell phone on the AT. The flack is typically aimed at those who engage in loud conversations out in the middle of the woods.

Guess my point is that text messaging is quiet and efficient. I was just wondering what other people's experience has been with it as a means of on-trail communication.

'Slogger

[Footslogger]

[quote=taildragger;432150]seems like at that point it might be better just to use your phone for email. At least thats what I would do on a long distance hike.
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Actually that's where I'm headed with my next phone. Plan to carry it on my PCT thru and either message via text or e-mail when signal is available. You can use the "draft" mode and create messages/journal entries and then send them out when you're ready or have a signal.

'Slogger

[budforester]

I like the capability, but take care not to be obtrusive. I play outdoors in "fringe" areas, and also notice that text seems more reliable than voice. I use my phone more for email... my contacts prefer it over cell phone text. I even post via email to my blog, occasionally.

[budforester]

[quote=Footslogger;432155]

seems like at that point it might be better just to use your phone for email. At least thats what I would do on a long distance hike.
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Actually that's where I'm headed with my next phone. Plan to carry it on my PCT thru and either message via text or e-mail when signal is available. You can use the "draft" mode and create messages/journal entries and then send them out when you're ready or have a signal.

'Slogger

Your current phone will probably send and receive email... you just need the code to mail to. Create a text message beginning with the address you are sending to. Skip a space and type the message. Then send it to the carrier's email access number.

[Just a Hiker]

I think phones come in handy. I never use mine in the woods, but I use it in town to order pizza and call my daughter and sister. I admit I do use it at Partnership and 501 lean-to's to order pizza as well.

[Footslogger]

[quote=budforester;432164]

Your current phone will probably send and receive email... you just need the code to mail to. Create a text message beginning with the address you are sending to. Skip a space and type the message. Then send it to the carrier's email access number.

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Hmmm ...thought you had to have an internet equipped phone. Never tried that before. Just sent a text to my wife's e-mail addy from my cell phone. Will see if it went.

Thanks for that ...

'Slogger

[SGT Rock]

Well I have found since the pay phone is becoming extinct that a cell phone for making calls to home when I would have used a pay phone back in the day is an OK idea. Especially since you can turn one off when you are not in town AND the batteries with LiIon last much longer than the old NiCads used to. What I have noticed though is that same thing - my cell phone does not always get coverage everywhere. But if I send my wife a text message it can still get out. That is as long as it is just text. My cell can take 2.2MP photos, sending one of those takes a really good signal.

[Footslogger]

[quote=budforester;432164]

Your current phone will probably send and receive email... you just need the code to mail to. Create a text message beginning with the address you are sending to. Skip a space and type the message. Then send it to the carrier's email access number.

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Wonder if there is a difference in cost between sending a text message to someone's e-mail address from your cell phone versus to their cell phone ??

'Slogger

[SGT Rock]

I only send messages to my wife's E=Mail.

[Footslogger]

I only send messages to my wife's E=Mail.

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That's probably all I would use if for too Rock. Just hadn't experimented with sending e-mails from my cell phone. Always just sent her a standard phone to phone text message.

'Slogger

[budforester]

[quote=Footslogger;432196]

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Wonder if there is a difference in cost between sending a text message to someone's e-mail address from your cell phone versus to their cell phone ??

'Slogger

I think that will depend on your carrier; some of them may stick it to ya, whereas others charge same as for text. Check your contract or call customer service might be the best.

[SGT Rock]

It took me a while to figure it out. I use Cigular, which is now AT&T

[Ewker]

my son uses text messages for 95% of his conversations..unlimited text messages cost about $ 5 to $ 10 a month depending on the service. I think the most he has done in a month is 5000. By using text messages he can get the cheapest cell service out there

[Sly]

Wonder if there is a difference in cost between sending a text message to someone's e-mail address from your cell phone versus to their cell phone ??

'Slogger

It cost me to receive text on my cell phone.