The 10 Best Hiking Radio Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: Retevis RT22 Two Way Radio
Retevis RT22 is a pocket size and light-weight two-way radio. This ultralight device is a huge advantage since you can carry it anywhere with a thin like a cellphone design. It is easy to use and has simple operation, perfect for commercial occasions or outdoor activities such as hiking, restaurants, schools, concerts, and traveling. Read Review
2. Best For The Price: Midland 50 Channel Waterproof GMRS Two-Way Radio - GXT1000VP4
GXT1000VP4 GMRS Walkie Talkie is a reliable and powerful choice for radio communication. This radio features X-TRA TALK Power, Midland's NOAA Weather Scan + Alert Technology, and will automatically scan for severe weather updates. The GXT1000VP4 will keep you connected, no matter if you're camping, hiking, or Overlanding. Read Review
3. Upgrade pick: Topsung Walkie Talkies Rechargeable
The Topsung Walkie Talkies are designed to be used in all environments, and are compatible with any radio. The long-lasting batteries ensure that they'll always be ready when you need them. They're lightweight, portable and have a long stand-by time. These it's a great partner for traveling, hiking or even at the office. Read Review
4. Best Amazing Power: SAMCOM Walkie Talkies with Earpiece
Whether you're taking a hike in the mountains or are hunting in the forest, these 20 channel walkie talkies with earpiece will keep you connected. The 5 watt strong penetration and long antenna keeps you talking freely with your family and friends. With no setting needed, start your conversation out of the box. With an easy to turn knob and adjustable volume level, these walkie talkies are simple to use. Read Review
It’s not always possible to stay in touch with people while you’re outdoors. Hiking is no different, and the consequences of being isolated in nature are obvious. Having a reliable communication device can help you stay connected with the rest of your team and come back home safely. If you’ve ever been hiking before, then you know how dangerous it can get.
All kinds of things can go wrong, from getting lost to spraining an ankle. To make things worse, most hikers usually come unprepared for such emergencies unless they have a back-up plan. That's where a good communication device comes in handy!
Fortunately, there are many great devices that can help hikers communicate with one another during their outdoor activities. From radio to walkie-talkie and everything in between, here are some of the best hiking radios that will keep you connected while on the trail!
With Retevis RT22 Two Way Radio, you will have no difficulty finding anything to meet your needs! To help you find the best fit for your needs, we've put up a purchasing guide and also show other great options for you to consider.
RELATED: We compiled a list of best tri band handheld ham radio of October 2024 that you can buy on the internet based on 8,702 reviews from former users.
Our Top Picks
- Pocket size and the light weight is a huge advantage; lightweight; thin like a cellphone; easy to carry
- Out of the box; simple operation; RT22 intercom can be used in commercial occasions or outdoor activities; such as restaurants; schools;concerts; traveling etc
- USB charging method; USB plug can provide power to the radio in various ways; Fast charging; automatic power saving function and low battery reminder will extend battery life
- The unique design of the belt clip; it can be quickly removed and installed; it is effortless to use; it can also open the VOX hands-free call on the waist and release both hands
- Quick remove and install belt clip is reliable for long term use; clips the radios to belt for hands free operations
- Portable FRS Two-way Radios; license-free; RT22 walkie talkie is compatible with other Retevis FRS radios with 16 channels on the same channel and CTCSS out of factory; such as Retevis RT68 RT21 H-777 etc
- 36-Mile Range - Longer Range Communication In Open Areas With Little Or No Obstruction. Easy Voice And Sound Activation Transmission (Evox) With 9 Sensitivity Levels For Hands-Free Operation
- Noaa Weather Scan + Alert - Noaa Weather Scan Will Automatically Scan Through 10 Available Weather (Wx) Band Channels And Locks Onto The Strongest Weather Channel To Alert You Of Severe Weather Updates. Noaa Weather Alert Will Sound An Alarm Indicating That There Is A Risk Of Severe Weather In Your Area
- 2-Way Radios - These Walkie-Talkies Feature 50 Gmrs (General Mobile Radio Service) Channels, Along With Channel Scan To Check For Activity. The Jis4 Waterproof Protection Prevents Splashing Water From Having Any Harmful Effect On It (Splash Resistant)
- 142 Ctcss/Dcs Privacy Codes - The Privacy Codes Give You Up To 3,124 Channel Options To Block Other Conversations
- 【NOAA WEATHER ALERT】NOAA Weather Scan will automatically scan through 17 available weather (WX) band channels and locks onto the strongest weather channel to alert you of severe weather updates. NOAA Weather Alert will sound an alarm indicating that there is a risk of severe weather in your area.
- 【Longer stand-by time】 Each radio comes with 3*1000MAh NI-MH AA rechargeable batteries.The larger volume provides longer standby about 55 hours.With the micro-USB cable, you can charge the radio by power bank or vehicle adaptor when you are outdoors.
- 【More features】Push to talk (PTT) button; 8 adjustable volumes; 10 call tone settings; Keypad lock (only PTT button work); Scanning function for busy channel; 22 channel, 38 CTCSS privacy codes and 90 DCS privicy codes; Great customer shopping experience.
- 【Compatible with Any Radio】 You can communicate with other FRS radios regardless of brand by being on the same channel and privacy code. Easy Voice and Sound Activation Transmission (eVOX) with 10 sensitivity levels for hands-free operation
- 【Wide use】This radio provides long range communication and clear sound for hiking, biking, camping trip, road trip, cruise ship and so on. It is also a great communication tool for kids and the elder to talk to others at home.
- 🔶【FCC certificated Handheld Radio】SAMCOM Walkie Talkies FCC ID : 2AIOQ-FPCN30AA. The Package includes : Two-Way Radio x6; 1500mAh Battery x6; Long Antenna (6.7 inches) x6; K-Type Earpiece x6; Dock Charger (US Standard) x6; Belt Clip (already assembled); Suitable for hotel front desk, retail, restaurants, grocery. Security guard, Supermarket, Construction area, Field, School, Church, Policy Office, Wedding.
- 🔶【Two Way Radio Long Range】20 channels with 5W strong penetration and long antenna ensure you can talk freely with your family and friends for hiking, hunting, climbing. Up to 30 miles in open areas &1-5 miles in build-up areas. High Power (5W) provides strong penetrating power between the construction area. Low Power (2W)Mode saves battery life and long use.
- 🔶【SAMCOM 2 Way Radio】Add CDCSS code in each channel to prevent irrelevant signals from interfering with your conversation. 360°Rotate the channel knob easy to switch the channel, adjustable volume level keeps sounds clarity without noise and distortion. The backlit LCD display easily reads the status of the channel and setting. Speaker mic with additional ear-bud attachments. Communicate effortlessly in noisy areas. Anti-drop two-way radio can withstand harsh environments.
- 🔶[ Dual Channles & PTT Buttons ] You can configure the SAMCOM FPCN30A radio to receive and transmit two channels ( Single Channel and GROUP channel ) simultaneously. GROUP channels allows you to stay in touch with all members even they are not on the same single channel and not missing any important information.
- 🔶【Programmable Walkie Talkies】Start your conversation out of the box with no setting needed. The frequency range is UHF 406.1-470MHz; Built-in 1500mAh rechargeable battery. Working Time: 12 hours, Standby Time: 50 hours.Radio :1.8*1.5*11 inch. Customize your own radio with our free programming software ! ( Software only support PC, not Mac)
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- 💪 【Top Rated Feature】：Keypad Lock function can prevent people from accidentally modifying the channel or turning off the device. You can long press the CALL button to lock or unlock the MENU button or the Power button. The function can be very useful for some families
- 💪 【Amazon Partner Recommended】：Reliable communication trusted by millions worldwide. Give you the optimum communication experience at home or on-the-go. Topsung hands-free walkie-talkies amazon prime with FCC certification(2ACVFK-10B) support Amazon FBA service, 30-days money-back and 90-days re-turn for re-placement without reason, so please contact the seller if necessary
- 💪 【Advanced Technology】：With stronger usability, more mature technology and even better portability. The best walkie talkies support many advanced features, such as Auto squelch system, Auto memory function, Auto scan function, Auto power saving, Low battery alert, Voice activated(iVOX), Keypad lock, Adjustable power, Drop-protection(ABS), 22 channel each with 121 privacy codes, Large LCD screen with backlight, Compatible with most brands, NOAA's Weather Emergency Alert and so on
- 💪 【NOAA Weather Scan and Alert】：The super power walkie talkies 2 way radio support NOAA's National Weather Service, it can scan 10 NOAA radio channels transmitting in your area. If you turn on the weather alert function, the work walkie talkies will auto alert you the warnings from designated NOAA broadcast stations
- 💪 【Support Team Communication】：The adult walkie-talkie has superior compatibility, super power and large capacity rechargeable battery(1800mAh), so you can not only make long-distance calls with all teammates at the same time but also keep connected all the time. The portable PTT walkie-talkies are perfect for women or men outdoor adventures, such as camping, hiking, hunting, boating, fishing, skiing and so on
- 💪 【iVOX Hands-free Feature】：The voice monitor function can help you talk without pressing the PTT button, perfect for when your hands are busy. Press the MENU button 4 times, then use up/down button to turn the iVOX function on/off
- 💪 【How to Get Timely Reply from Seller】：Please click the store name “topsung technology”below the "Add to Cart" button, then click “Ask a question” and follow the Messaging Assistant instructions, select “Other” twice, then send message. Seller customer service is different from Amazon customer service, the seller is more knowledgeable about products and can provide more personalized after-sales service
- 💪 【More Than Rechargeable】：The rechargeable two way radios have USB charging cable and original fast charger, they are more economy, eco-friendly and more convenient to charge anytime, anywhere, such as charged by PC, car charger or power bank. The 1800mAh rechargeable batteries of the USB charging walkie talkies have high safety and long life, so you don't need to buy and discard the batteries again and again
- 💪 【Stronger Usability】：As shown in the picture and video, take off the belt clip, use your palm(Not finger) to open the battery cover and insert the batteries, then you can just simply press the PTT button to talk. You can also set your own main channel and privacy code via the MENU button. The CTCSS privacy code can not communicate with the DCS privacy code, for example (07,CTCSS 11) can only talk to (07,CTCSS 11), not (07,DCS 11)
- 【Lifetime Warranty and Package includes】SAMCOM Walkie Talkies subject to FCC classification "Part 15/ Part 90". FCC number is 2AIOQ-FPCN10A. Lifetime Quality Warranty.SAMCOM Radio x3; 3000mAh Battery x3; Long Antenna (6.7 inches) x3; K-Type Earpiece x3; Dock Charger (US Standard) x3; Belt Clip x3; Manual x3.
- 【Programmable Walkie Talkie】Frequency: UHF 406.1MHz-470Mz; With CTCSS/CDCSS codes allow you to create Custom Frequency and provide a safe conversation.Easy Set-up 2 way radio with simple program setting to compatible with other brands' radios;( Software only support PC, not Mac)
- 【Superlong Standby Radio 】Fearless of going out of power with 3000mAh Li-ion rechargeable battery offers 190 hours of standby and 33 hours of working. UN38.3 Transport Safety Certified.Solid shell and stubborn accessories for anti-drop and water-reinstate. Updated antennas, earpieces, and belt clip ensure long term use. Support VOX & SCAN function. Dimension: 1.19x1.18x11 inch
- 【Professional Business Radio】 Excellent speaker and mic help you quickly and clearly communicate to improve operational efficiencies, solve problems rapidly, address unexpected situations. Enhanced voice quality, privacy and reliability. Portable and Easy to Carry with Belt Clip, hands-free to Talk with Earpiece, Build-in large LCD screen offers excellent visibility in darkness or daylights.
- 【Two Communication Methods】Pressing Left Side PTT you can start a talk on the same channel. Pressing "GROUP" button enables you to deliver messages to all the team members even they are not on the same channel. An excellent option for security guard coordination, first responders, event planning or restaurant management that require to keep in touch with a large group immediately.
- 22 Channels Each With 121 Privacy Codes - Totaling 2,662 Combinations, It Is Easy To Find An Available Channel.
- When In Danger, Easily Call For Help. Press The Emergency Alert Button And The Radio Will Transmit An Alert Siren Followed By Spoken Or Incidental Sounds. This Will Allow Others To Know You Are In Impending Danger.
- Keep Updated With Real-Time Weather Conditions By Turning On The Weather Channel Or Initiating Weather Alerts. With These Capabilities, You Will Always Be Prepared For The Unexpected.
- With A Range Of Up To 35 Miles And Freedom To Communicate Wirelessly, The T465 Won'T Slow You Down. The Range In Real-Life Conditions Can Be Reduced From Maximum Range.
- Durable Li-ion Battery - Each walkie talkie radio comes with 1200mAh lithium rechargeable batteries, a recharge cable that allows up to 2 radios to be charged at once, which minimizes the burden, the walkie talkies can be used for 3-4 days with a full charge.
- Long Range Two-Way Radios - NXGKET walkie talkies for adults have pretty clear audio even at long distance, High/Low TX power selectable, just make sure you're on the same channel. 2-way radios walkie talkies support up to 3 miles communication range in open fields, adverse weather, buildings(yard, street), car and voyage will affect the range.
- Lifetime Support: NXGKET 2-WAYS Radio has been tested to comply with FCC standards.(FCC ID: 2AYV7YG-811), The introduction of advanced technology and strict quality process control of walkies give us the courage to offer a 1-year warranty. Please feel free to contact us if any concerns about the item.
- Suitable for Anyone - Carry in backpack or on the belt, NXGKET walkie talkies rechargeable provides long-range communication and clear sound for hiking, biking, camping trip, road trip, scavenger hunts and so on. 4 piece set of radios walk-in talkies are also a great communication tool for men, women, kids, and elders to talk with others at home.
- Compatible with Any Radio - With 22 channels, 121 privacy codes to choose from walkie talkie set. You can communicate with other FRS radios regardless of brand by being on the same channel and privacy codes. With VOX switched on, NXGKET walky talky will auto turns itself on when the user starts talking and shuts off when there is no sound.
- Modernized Design & Function - 4 pack walkie talkies smallish in size, durable and environmentally friendly material, Large LCD screen with backlight, also support many advanced features, such as Auto squelch, Auto memory, Auto scan, Auto power saving, Low battery alert, Keypad lock(Channel-lock), etc.
- 【Up to 30h Standby Time 】With a large-capacity 1500mAh lithium rechargeable battery. Working Time: 12 hours, Standby Time: 50 hours. Less than 5h to be fully charged quickly. Anti-drop two-way radio can withstand harsh environments. Support program to be compatible with other brands' radios. ( Software only support PC, not Mac) The frequency range is UHF 406.1-470MHz;
- 【UHF RADIO with Safer TALK】Add private CDCSS code in 20 channels to prevent irrelevant signals from interfering with your conversation. 360°Rotate the channel knob easy to switch the channel, adjustable volume level keeps sounds clarity without noise and distortion. The backlit LCD display can easily read the status of the channel and setting. A built-in speaker and mic with additional ear-bud attachments. Communicate effortlessly in noisy areas like carnivals parties and concerts.
- 【FCC Certificated 5 Watts Radios】SAMCOM Walkie Talkies FCC ID : 2AIOQ-FPCN30AA. The Package includes Two-Way Radio x2; 1500mAh Battery x2; Long Antenna (6.7 inches) x2; K-Type Earpiece x2; Dock Charger (US Standard) x2; Belt Clip（ Already Assembled）; Radio :1.8*1.5*11 inch
- 【TWO WAY RADIO LONG RANGE】5 Watts strong penetration high power walkie-talkie and long antenna guarantee the stability of the communication process. High mode provides strong penetrating power between the construction area. Low Mode saves battery life and long use.
- 【2 Way Radios with Dual PTTs】Left Side PTT allows you to make "direct calls" to the same channel members. GROUP PTT allows you to talk to other people simultaneously even they are not on the same channel. Ideal for on-site business applications, help work crews connect, coordinate and collaborate to get the job done right. Suitable for hotel front desk, retail, restaurants, grocery. Security guard, Supermarket, Construction area, Field, School, Church, Policy Office, Wedding.
- Mini walkie talkie; small two way radio; lightweight and portable; suitable for outdoor sports and activities
- Walkie-talkie with headset; durable PU cable; 360° rotatable stainless clip with PTT; clip on collar to talk with your teammates hands-free
- Easy to use 2 way radio; talk to each other and RT21 RT22 directly when out of the box; compatible with the H777 radio on the 6 and 7 channels
- Crystal clear sound; built-in loud speaker; and squelch can reduce ambient noise and make sound transmission clearer
- Dual power way; RT46 portable radio come with 1000mAh Li-ion battery; and also supports the use of 3AA batteries(not included)
- Long distance two way radio; RT46 uses a fixed integrated antenna; which is sturdy and durable; can provide long-distance calls and ensure daily basic use
- Package details; 4 x RT46 walkie talkies; 4 x G-type earpiece; 4 x Rechargeable Li-ion Battery; 4 x Belt Clip; 2 x 2 in 1 USB Cable and 2 Adapter; 2 x User Manual
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Which Criteria Do Our Experts Advice To Consider When Purchasing Of best hiking radio?
According to our experts, you should understand some sides of the product to get the finest one. Like others, best hiking radio of 2024 might include many factors for you to take into account. For that, each among best hiking radio will have unique features and challenges as well to consist of.
The focus on the following features of best hiking radio is highly recommended, given they have come together with tech-evaluated certification:
Channels & Privacy Codes
Two-way radios that are license-free have a fixed frequency they can transmit on. PMR446 The majority of two-way radios without a license have 8 to 16 channels. These tune the frequency at which handsets communicate. There are usually privacy codes in addition to channels. These codes do not protect your transmissions, contrary to the title. They allow you to talk freely and without being interrogated by others. This can prove problematic if your use them in an area such as a ski resort, where many other two-way radios are in use.
Battery Type
Many two-way radios can be powered with regular alkaline batteries. Others have rechargeable batteries that include a dock. Two-way radios should not be used for longer than one day without power access. A model that takes both regular and multiple batteries is a better option if you are going on camping trips. We recommend regular 2-way rechargeable radios. This is because used batteries are expensive and can cause damage to the environment.
Maximum Range
When choosing a 2-way radio, the first thing to think about is how far you want them to travel. Consumer 2-way radios with a transmit power of 0.75W and the PMR446 frequency can travel up to 10 km. This could be possible only in the ideal circumstances: high above ground with no obstructions between radios. This range is unlikely to be achieved unless you use your walkie-talkies to connect between mountaintops. The maximum range in a dense urban setting is more likely to be lower. A good radio will provide sufficient range to reach the majority of people. You will require more power and range than that. They are more costly than the license-free model and require a license.
Number Of Handsets
You will need as many handsets as you can afford when purchasing two-way radios. While a twin-set may suffice for camping trips, busy warehouses might need more to ensure everyone is connected. The price per handset drops when you purchase in bulk. To meet every customer's requirements, we offer many two-way radio packages. If you need to add more handsets, we also have single handsets.
Emergency Features
Your two-way radio is a great tool for emergency planning, whether you are camping, hiking or hunting. An Emergency Alert radio sends an alert to all radios within your radio group in case you need immediate help. There are many types of emergency alerts available, and they vary from brand to model. Some alerts combine a beacon flashing S.O.S with international Morse Code, others send a loud alarm to members of the group. These alerts block any activity on radios and get louder until someone responds.
Weight And Size
Both weight and size play a major role in carrying all you need. Two-way radios are small and lightweight, so they can be carried in a bag or attached to your belt. Although smaller units can be more affordable than larger models, they might not offer as many features or provide the same protection. Heavy-duty, impact-resistant two-way units that are heavier and more durable are a better choice for outdoor enthusiasts who want to be tough.
Weatherproofing
You can't keep your two-way hidden in your bag, but there is a good chance it will be exposed to other conditions than the cool, mild, early summer sun when there is a gentle breeze blowing. It is important to consider the weatherproofing of your two-way. If you reside in an area with moderate temperatures and light to predictable rains, some models can withstand splashing water.
An entirely waterproof radio is an option. Many models are waterproof and can withstand severe rain. Some models can be submerged up to 30 minutes without causing any damage. A model that floats will be your best option if your radio is used for fisherman, fishing or crossing open waters. If you drop your model accidentally, it can be easily picked up from the water surface.
An entirely waterproof radio is an option. Many models are waterproof and can withstand severe rain. Some models can be submerged up to 30 minutes without causing any damage. A model that floats will be your best option if your radio is used for fisherman, fishing or crossing open waters. If you drop your model accidentally, it can be easily picked up from the water surface.
RELATED: If you're looking for the best offroad radio, we've got you covered. We've compiled a list of the best products available at the best prices.
FAQs
What Is The Life Expectancy Of A 2 Way Radio?
Two-way radios of commercial grade are made to comply with Military Specifications as well as Intrusion Protection standards. These radios can live for a long time if they are maintained and used in accordance with the specifications. Two-way radios can last up to 10 years. But radio batteries rarely last more than 3 to 4 years.Is VHF Or UHF Better?
The frequency band that a radio can operate within is called VHF (very high frequency), or UHF [ultra high frequency]. VHF operates between 136 and 174 MHz, while UHF operates between 400 and 512 MHz. Wave length is shorter the higher frequency. A signal will travel farther if it has a longer wave length. It is easier for the signal's to penetrate if the wave length is shorter. VHF broadcasts better over open water and from an unobstructed location to another. For broadcasting through buildings or other obstructions, UHF is better than VHF.What Is 2 Way Radio VOX?
Voice activation is VOX. VOX promises hands-free operation. "Speak and the radio will open to broadcast your message." However, voice activation should actually be called sound activation. The VOX function on a 2-way radio can't distinguish between a call to help or the usual grunts, groans and grunts of normal physical activity. VOX may cause more problems than it solves. We do not recommend VOX being used in commercial applications.How Many Radios Can I Use One Location?
You can use as many radios at any location you wish, regardless of the license. To manage communication better, we suggest that the channel's users be limited to ten.Can I Change The Frequencies On My 2 Way Radios?
Many commercial-grade 2 way radios can be programmed from either a computer onboard or via a PC. Although you cannot change VHF to UHF, the radio can be programmed with a PC or on-board programming. However, it can alter the frequencies in the band.How Far Do 2 Way Radios Broadcast?
Broadcast distances of commercial-grade hand-held radios are generally between one and two miles. While VHF radios can broadcast further, they do not penetrate as far. UHF radios transmit a greater distance and have better penetration.Why Do 2 Way Radios Have Multiple Channels?
Every channel can be programed at a different frequency. Most modern 2 way radios can have between 4 and 16 channels, although some radios may have up to 256 channels. Channel one will be the only channel that broadcasts on the frequency being used. It is beneficial for commercial applications to have different communication depending on the work group or whereabouts. Radios can be used by schools to broadcast the news. Teachers and administrators might prefer one channel.READ NEXT: The Walkie Talkie 2 Way Radio For 2024
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