Dan, if you can't press the button of your PLB it still matters a lot to your family and friends who may spend days/months looking for you and possibly risking their lives doing so, not to mention the cost of the search. It will also delay insurance payments...
The spot unit itself is almost free as they often give rebates, or you can find used ones on eBay for $50. The monthly subscription is a $13 a month. Is this really beyond your budget?
I know of at least one gliding operation who where involved in two multi days searches which will no longer tow you if you don't have a tracking device.

Ramy