Does What3Words work without phone signal?

No, you need signal to look up your three words in the first place, and even if you've checked them beforehand, you still need signal to communicate them to emergency services. It's entirely dependent on your phone working, which is a real problem in remote areas.

Which is better for emergencies - What3Words or grid references?

It depends on your situation. What3Words is faster and easier if your phone is working and you have signal, which is why rescue teams like it. But grid references work without any technology at all - you just need a paper map and the ability to read it, so they're more reliable as a backup.

Do I need to carry a paper map if I have What3Words on my phone?

Yes, you should. Phone batteries die quickly in cold weather, and you might lose signal in remote areas. A paper map with grid references works regardless of technology failures, which makes it essential for anyone going beyond mobile signal range.

If Things Go Wrong

What3Words vs Grid References

What3Words gives rescue teams a precise location using three words instead of complicated grid coordinates, but it requires signal, drains batteries and occasionally delivers you to the wrong country. Grid references work anywhere, never change and don't need connectivity, but most people can't read them.

27 July 202610 min read