August 23, 2026

Activating the Garmin 66i in 2026

Go to main menu -- Setup -- About. This is what some people call the "status" screen. You can fine the IMEI and Auth Code here.
Write it down.

Make sure that the phone has bluetooth on, and that it is not in "don't disturb" mode blocking notifications.

Main Menu has inReach activation right in the center. This takes you along, step by step. It wants me to be logged into explore.garmin.com

I dig up my password and log in. I select plans and devices. Now I go back to my 66i and click Next. It tells me to type my IMEI and auth code into the explore web interface, but it is already showing my IMEI, so I don't do anything.

Now it wants a clear view of the sky. Of course a summer thunderstorm is in progress with light rain and clouds. I leave the 66i on top of my vehicle -- but I expect I will need to try this later, maybe tomorrow morning. They say clouds and rain will not cause trouble with the Iridium link. We shall see.

Maybe I don't even need to do this. The Garmin website knows my device and IMEI/Auth code. It hasn't changed. I should try just sending a message, which would be good practice.

I go fetch the device and dry it off. It says "Activation Complete!" so I guess I am go to go. I still need to try sending a message.

Have any comments? Questions? Drop me a line!

Tom's backpacking pages / tom@mmto.org