The Best Hiking Walkie Talkie For 2024

Piers Anthony By, Piers Anthony
Updated
Midland 50 Channel Waterproof GMRS Two-Way Radio - Long Range Walkie Talkie with 142 Privacy Codes
Image credit: Amazon.com

The hiking walkie-talkies are the best way to stay in touch with your group and friends while on a hike. This is especially true if you’re going on a longer trail and want to be able to call for help if you get separated from the rest of your party. 

In this article, we’ll tell you everything about these devices so that you can make an informed decision when it comes time to purchase one. And yes, we know they seem like something silly that only people who like gadgets would use. But trust us – once you go out on a hike with one of these things, it will change your view of the outdoors forever and bring more quiet into your life than you ever thought possible! Here's everything you need to know before buying a hiking walkie-talkie.

Following extensive study and analysis, we've come up with the Midland 50 Channel Waterproof GMRS Two-Way Radio - Long Range Walkie Talkie with 142 Privacy Codes, which we hope will meet your demands. However, it is not the only thing on our list. We also show a complete buyer's guide, and several options are available to help you find the most suitable.

Our Top Picks

  • 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
  • 【Lightweight, Wide use】Small size and light weight, hard and durable shell, drop-proof. easy voice and sound activation transmission (VOX) with 3 sensitivity levels for hands-free operation.this walkie talkies 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.
  • 【After-Sales Service Assurance】MOICO provide a money back within 30 days and lifetime customer service.If you have any questions, please send email to us through the Amazon platform, we have professional engineers can solve your problem as soon as possible.
  • 【 Long Rang Walkie Talkies】Walkie talkies can reach 3 miles communication range in open areas such as rural areas, suburbs or seaside, etc. where there is no shelter. If in cities or towns, walkie talkies can reach 0.6-1.2 miles. The actual distance depends on the obstruction of the current environment.
  • 【More Features and User-Friendly Design】Push to talk (PTT) button; 6 adjustable volumes; 10 call tone settings; Built-in LED torch; Keypad lock. This walkie talkie has bold green back-lit LCD screen provides high visibility in night.It can be used by inserting the battery (the package does not contain the battery), and avoid the situation where it cannot be recharged in outdoor.
  • 【Compatible with Any the Same Channel Radio】FCC ID ; 2ASV6-T5A. MOICO walkie talkies for adults have 22 FRS channels plus 99 sets of CTCSS tones ( privacy codes), The continuous tone-coded squelch system gives you up to 2178 combinations, you can communicate with other FRS radios regardless of brand by being on the same channel and privacy code.
  • HANDS FREE - VOX function eable you to use it by hands free. (May need to programming) with 3 sensitivity levels for hands-free operation. It is a license free FRS walkie talkies meets with the part 95 rule and FCC ID is 2AZSA-R260, So you don't need to worry about the illegal issue
  • NOAA WEATHER ALERT- NOAA Weather Scan will automatically scan through 11 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, and you will always be prepared for the unexpected. NOAA radio service may not be available in all areas
  • IP67 & FLOATING- IP67 waterproof & Dustproof design, R260 Walkie Talkies for Adults features fully waterproof (Throw it under water 1 meter for 30 miutes), submersible and floating, when the talkies drop into the water, the Led will be activated automatically and it will float in the water.
  • 22 FRS CHANNELS-These walkie talkies with 22 (Family Radio Service) channels and 121 privacy codes, along with channel scan to check for activity. The big PTT button on the left side of radio easy to push and talk. It is rechargeable with desktop charger and support the USB charging. That will be big benefit for you using the smartphone charge, or easy to charge it by power bank, car cigarette lighter
  • LONG RANGE- More than 10 MILES in open air without obstruction, 4-5 MILES in Woods, 2-3 MILES in Town or city. The distance may vary in different environment or building. It comes with SOS Emergency Lamp & Build-in LED Flashlight with red and white LED option. Low battery alert function to remind you the batteries power.
  • 2-WAY RADIOS - These license-free walkie-talkies feature 36 FRS (Family Radio Service) channels, along with channel scan to check for activity.
  • 38-MILE RANGE - Longer range communication in open areas with little or no obstruction.
  • 121 CTCSS PRIVACY CODES - The Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System gives you up to 2,662 channel options to help block other conversations. Use silent operation to turn off all tones.
  • 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.
  • HANDS-FREE - Easy Voice and Sound Activated Transmission (eVOX) for hands free operation. Also included: Belt clips (x2), 1000mAh rechargeable battery packs (x2), desktop charger, AC wall adapter, micro USB charging cable and an owner’s manual.
  • Flashlight and LCD display is easy to read settings day or night;dual watch can check two channels meanwhile and never miss any call;you can clearly see the two channels on the screen
  • Retevis RT16 walkie talkies license free with 22 channels; no license and frequency usage fees;can talk to other Retevis models;out of box;easy to operate and use
  • Crystal sound ensures clear calls; long-distance; can be heard clearly even in noisy environments; great Christmas gift and suitable for outdoor use
  • 1000 mAh rechargeable lithium battery meets your daily needs; USB dual charging cable allows you to charge 2 walkie-talkies at the same time anytime, anywhere; save your time
  • Palm size;light and portable; can be easily placed in your pocket; convenient lanyard for easy carrying; suitable for adults and children
  • 0-9 squelch options can help you block other conversations for smooth and clear calls;0-5 levels for vox function enables hands-free operation by voice
  • 11 NOAA weather alert channel allow you get all hazard alert and latest weather updates; remind you of the weather before you and your friends go out
  • 10 MILES RANGE - Longe range communication in open areas with little or no obstruction. 10 MILES at Sea, 5 MILES in Woods, 2 MILES in Town. The distance may vary in different environment.
  • 121 CTCSS PRIVACY CODES - The Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System gives you up to 2,662 channel options to help block other conversations. Use silent operation to turn off all tones.
  • HANDS FREE - Easy Voice and Sound Activation Transmission (eVOX) with 3 sensitivity levels for hands-free operation. This walkie talkies provides long range communication and clear sound for camping, hiking, biking and so on.
  • GIFTS FOR TEENAGERS - A perfect gift idea for teens indoor/outdoor activities. Please contact us via official web or e-mail if you have any issue.
  • 2-WAY RADIO - These walkie-talkies feature 22 (Family Radio Service) channels, along with channel scan to check for activity. The bold yellow faceplate provides high visibility. It is rechargeable two way radio can support the USB charging. That will be big benefit for you using the smartphone charge.
  • Easy to operate and use; 22 channels; compatible with any radio; allows communication with other FRS radios on the same channel and CTCSS DCS code, regardless of brand
  • Built-in high-quality audio to ensure calls clearly; long distance; VOX hands-free walkie-talkie; easy voice and sound activation transmission (VOX) with 5 sensitivity levels for hands-free operation
  • USB dual charger port adapter; 2 in 1 charger cable can charge two walkie-talkies at the same time; convenient power supply
  • Bright flashlight and LCD screen is easy to read settings day or night; fully meet your outdoor and indoor use; use out of the box
  • NOAA weather alert; 11 NOAA alert channel help you get the latest weather and a alarm of severe weather;always help be prepared for the unexpected
  • 8-12 hours standby time; each 2 way radios are equipped with 3*1000 mAh NIMH AA rechargeable batteries; compatible with retevis BL45 lithium batteries and AA ordinary batteries (not included)
  • Portable size; suitable for adults and children; perfect way to keep in touch with friends and family; suitable for your family and outdoor travel and as a gift for children
  • 【100% SATISFACTION GARANTIE】24-month quality assurance, if you have any problems and not satisfied with the product, we will provide a money back and return. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me send email to us in time,and we will do our best to make you satisfied.
  • 【Portable and Compact Design】Portable,lightweight ,rainproof ,drop-protection,this hand-held parent-child radios walkie talkies is not only a must have accessories for adults camping, hiking,car trip, road trip,cruise ship but also an ideal toys gift for 3-12 years old boys girls .
  • 【NOAA Weather Alert and Back-lit LCD Display】 Walkie talkie NOAA give you an alert ahead of abnormal weather when you're outside and allows you to easily get the latest weather conditions and forecasts.With a back-lit LCD display for the night work improve visibility in the dark.
  • 【Walkie Talkies for Adults Long Range】Range up to 0.5 miles in the neighborhood and different floors, up to 3 miles in the open area, such as rural areas, suburbs  , or seaside.Our walkie-talkie set has a clear call alert function, crisp and smooth sound quality with an adjustable volume level.
  • 【Safety and Privacy】2 way radios long range with preset 22 channels, 121 Privacy Codes (38 CTCSS codes/83 DCS codes), provides an extensive frequency usage (up to 2178 combinations to help block other conversations), compatible with any radio.With this two-way radios,you can contact with more than one friend or families at the same time only if they were on the same channel.
  • 【Rechargeable Walkie-Talkies】Powered by 3 AA 1000mah batteries, low battery alert to avoid mid-communication drop-offs and static noise, automatic power-saving to extend battery life and entertainment time. (2 x 3 AA 1000mah batteries, 1 x micro USB charging cable, 1 wall plug are included ). Support prime FBA service, 30-days money-back and 90-days re-turn for re-placement without reason.
  • 【Easy to Use】: Simple push-to-talk operation and hands-free communication(voice activation(VOX)talking )to relax your hands, send your voice without pressing any button.The lock Keypad function keeps your kids from pressing keys randomly, to enhance the fun of parent-child interaction. It is helpful in outside adventures, hiking, camping, road trip, cruise ship, riding and other different activities
  • 【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 89 DCS privicy codes; Great customer shopping experience.
  • 【NOAA WEATHER ALERT】NOAA Weather Scan will automatically scan through 16 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.
  • 【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 9 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.
  • 【Longer stand-by time】 Each radio comes with 3*1000MAh NI-MH AA rechargeable batteries.The larger volume provides longer standby about 54 hours.With the micro-USB cable, you can charge the radio by power bank or vehicle adaptor when you are outdoors.
  • 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
  • Pocket size and the light weight is a huge advantage; lightweight; thin like a cellphone; easy to carry
  • Quick remove and install belt clip is reliable for long term use; clips the radios to belt for hands free operations
  • 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
  • Out of the box; simple operation; RT22 intercom can be used in commercial occasions or outdoor activities; such as restaurants; schools;concerts; traveling etc
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What to Look For in a best hiking walkie talkie?

The best hiking walkie talkie is based upon a number of factors. Studying a product differs depending on the product type. So, we're on here to help, counsel, and provide solutions to these problems.

Please keep in mind the following points for selecting best hiking walkie talkie:

Bluetooth Compatible

Bluetooth is an essential feature for two-way radios that allows you to communicate with your friends and family without having to use a lot of cables. Two-way radios that are Bluetooth compatible can provide longer distance group communications for motorcyclists, campers and hunters. Bluetooth pairing allows you to cut the cable that connects your headset to two-way radios. This makes it a cost-effective option for those who want to have group adventures with bikers, hunters, and other long range communication.

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.

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.

VOX & Hands-Free

This can prove to be a very useful function. The radio's microphone will remain on all times when this mode is activated. It will start transmitting when it hears your voice and then switch off when it stops. The socket will allow you to plug in a microphone or a headset. Some two-way radios don't come with VOX. Make sure you check out the specifications to see if it is available.

Weather Alerts

Mother Nature can be a notorious force. Regardless of how much we love her, Mother Nature can be brutal. You can stay up to date with the most recent alerts by choosing a dual-purpose radio. These radios automatically scan NOAA channels to transmit any alerts that are received. You can also tune in to a weather channel and receive alerts, as well.

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.

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.

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.

FAQs

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.

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.

How Is Scanning Used In Commercial Applications?

2 channel scan is the most widely used scanning program. A two channel scan is when an enterprise uses radios with specific work groups. Channel one can be assigned to production, while channel two goes to maintenance. Channel three is for shipping. Although it is impossible to hear all the departments conversing, it is possible to communicate with everyone on occasion. Every radio sets up to check for activity on the channel it is assigned and another channel (known collectively as the all-call channel). Here, the radios of production workers are looking for activity on both channel 1 and all channel 1. Radios used by maintenance workers scan for activity on channels three and all call.

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.

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.

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.

Do Radios Of One Brand Communicate With Other Radio Brands?

Multiple radios from one radio brand can be used to communicate with each other. These things need to be communicated together:
- Radios should be in the same frequency band as each other (VHF,UHF, etc.).
+ VHF and UHF radios cannot communicate with one another. These radios use different frequency bands or ranges. VHF operates at frequencies between 30 and 300 MHz. MHz is the mega hertz. UHF uses frequency ranges between 300 MHz - 3 GHz (GHz stands for giga hertz).
- Radios should be set to use the same frequency and tone codes for each channel.
- Digital radios that transmit in digital must use the same protocol. These are the two-way radio digital protocols.
+ DMR
+ MOTOTRBO / DMR
+ IDAS
+ NXDN
To ensure that the radios work in conjunction, make sure to check with your dealer.

Do Stubby Antennas Work As Well As The Regular Length 2 Way Radio Antennas?

An antenna with a stubby shape has the same antenna length as an antenna of regular length, but the antenna's actual wire is wrapped around a mast to create a shorter or stubby profile. Although they may appear to have the same coverage, this is rarely true. A low-profile antenna is better if you get good reception with a slim antenna.

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.

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.

As we are product consulting experts with a wide range of experience, we determine correct information. Apart from that, we keep the best hiking walkie talkie current. You may rest confident that the data is accurate and up to date.

Besides best hiking walkie talkie, we can advise you with anything. Please do not hesitate to contact us whenever you need guidance.


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About Piers Anthony

Piers Anthony

Piers Anthony is a freelance writer and computer expert who enjoys helping others get the most out of their technology. He has written extensively about laptops, soundbars, and other computer-related topics, and he currently serves as the editor of The Audio Insights website. When he's not writing or tinkering with his gadgets, Piers can be found spending time with his wife and family.