How to Activate an inReach Mini 2 on the Garmin Explore Website

Before you can use the messaging and SOS functions on an inReach® satellite communication device, you must create an account and activate a service plan for the device. If you are having issues logging into your inReach account or creating a new account, see Related at the bottom of the page.

With up to date software, the inReach Mini 2 handheld should be activated by using the Garmin Messenger™ app. For more details and instructions, see - How to Activate an inReach Mini 2 in the Garmin Messenger App.

If you do not have access to a compatible smartphone in order to use the Garmin Messenger app, you can use the steps below to activate your device.

NOTE: Credit or debit card information needs to be provided in order to complete activation steps below.

Activating an inReach Device on the Garmin Explore™ Website

If you are activating a brand new device, proceed with the steps below. If you have an inReach device that was acquired second-hand, it may need to be reset before proceeding with these steps. To reset the device, refer to your Owner's Manual.

IMPORTANT: These steps are for users that do not currently have any inReach subscription. If you have an existing inReach account and need to transfer service from your current inReach device to a new inReach device, you will need to follow the steps in Transferring Existing inReach Service to Another inReach Device.

1. Go to explore.garmin.com.

   • If you already have a Garmin account, but do not have any inReach subscriptions, make sure you are signed out before continuing (select the profile image next to your email address in the top right of the page, then Sign Out).

   • If you have an inReach account but do not have an active inReach device:

     1. Select Sign In and log into your account.

     2. Select PLANS & DEVICES.

     3. Select Add inReach Device.

2. Select Satellite Communicators.

3. Select the link to activate without using an app.

   

4. Enter the inReach device's IMEI number and Authorization Code.

   Select your device on the page if you need help finding your IMEI and Authorization Code.

   

5. Select Create One, then enter your name, email, and a password and select Create Account.

   • NOTE: If you do not have any inReach subscriptions, but already have a Garmin account or have previously used other Garmin apps such as Garmin Connect™ or Garmin Explore™ you can select Sign In.

6. Select the country/region for your billing address, then select Next.

7. Select a specific plan.

   • For more information on plans, see - inReach Subscription Plans.

8. SOS step:

   • Read through benefits included with your subscription by Garmin Response, then select Next.

   • If desired, choose Add for one of the Search and Rescue (SAR) insurance plans. This is not required. Once finished, select Next or Skip.

9. Select the box to agree to automatic renewal, then select Next.

10. Review the terms and conditions, then select Accept & Continue.

11. Enter your billing information, then select Next.

12. Enter your emergency information (or select the box for Same as Billing Info), then select Next.

    • Emergency Notes is a good place to add information of any known medical concerns. If you have additional coverage for medical evacuation or search and rescue, you can include that and how to get in contact with the company providing that service. Example:

      

13. Add Emergency contacts information, then select Next.

14. Review all entered information to confirm it is correct, then enter your payment information.

15. Check the box to authorize use of this payment method for future account charges, then select Complete Activation or Complete Purchase.

16. Take the inReach device outside with a clear view of the sky to complete the activation process.

IMPORTANT

• After activating, you need to sync your device. Steps on syncing can be found in article: Syncing the inReach Mini 2 With the Garmin Explore Website and App.

• You can no longer add additional users to Personal Plan inReach accounts. You need a Professional Flex Plan to have multiple users with assigned devices on a single account.
  

• Activation fees are non-refundable. Read and view the following before starting to set up your account - Difference Between inReach Personal and Professional Plans, Pick the plan that is best for your usage.

• If you would like to transfer service from your current inReach device to a new inReach device, you will need to follow the steps in Transferring Existing inReach Service to Another inReach Device.

Registering Your inReach

Your inReach handheld is registered automatically during activation of service to the device, or adding it to your Garmin Explore account. 

The inReach Mini 2 handheld receives software updates through the Garmin Express™ program. Adding these devices to Garmin Express software to update them will also register them. For more information, see - Installing Software Updates to Outdoor/Marine Handhelds