Best Walkie Talkies for Survival

If you plan on going out on an adventure, you will need tools that will help you fare better while you are outdoors. When outdoors, you need a handy talkie that can withstand any environment and works well in an area with obstructions.

There are various walkie talkies available on the market but in this piece, we will be examining the products well suited for outdoor activity. We know that there are a plethora of options available for purchase and it may be difficult picking a product to suit your need.

We have picked the best survival walkie talkie that you can buy and written an easy summary so you can make a decision based on the available specs. Commonly known as a two way radio, walkie talkies are an important accessory for any survivalist. In the next section of this article, we will discuss the reasons or factors our readers should consider before buying a walkie talkie.

Best Walkie Talkies for Survival

In this section, we will introduce you to our picks for the best survival two way radios. We ave compiled these 20 items based on the recommendations from top experts and research we have conducted based on various chosen criteria. If you have been a bit confused about the products to choose, we have streamlined these gadgets to make it easier for you to make a suitable choice. Here are the best walkie talkies for survival:

Topsung M920

This is a suitable walkie for guys who want to have a nice time with ease. This walkie talkie is a good combination for an outdoor couple who want to have a gadget with functionality and awesome capabilities. It is durable and can withstand the elements and outdoor hassle. It comes equipped with emergency signals, weather warnings, CTCSS, 10 call tones, and FRS/GMRS. The gadget is good for use in areas with interference or obstacles.

pros

• 22 Channel
• DCS Privacy codes
• PTT
• Keypad lock

Cons

• Small-sized build.
• Small earphone port

GOCOM Walkies

This is a well-crafted walkie talkie that will serve you. It is designed for adventurers who want a radio they can use without licensing restrictions. This product is durable and it is an option if you plan to leave home for an extended period and be out in the wild. It is the best walkie talkie for people who live an active life. Some of its operations include speakers, LCD display, hands free, LED light, weather scan, and laptop charge.

Pros

• 121 privacy codes
• NOAA Weather scan
• Dual-Channel
• 16 miles

Cons

• Average battery life
• Slow Charge

Topsung M880

This is the second walkie by this manufacturer on this list. The Topsung brand is known for its fancy but functional casing and its popping colors that make it findable in dark or dimly lit areas. The gadget was designed to work over long distances and it comes with the following accessories: 22 main channels, earpiece jack, antenna, hands free, and AAA batteries. This gadget is decent if you need something lightweight for a brief camping trip.

Pros

• Keypad lock
• Auto squelch
• LCD enabled
• Hands free

Cons

• Range varies significantly
• Difficult to set up

Retevis RT22

If you are in the market for a good walkie talkie with decent audio quality, transmission range, sensitivity levels, functionality, and the latest technologies that will serve you while you’re on an adventure, the Retevis RT22 is a great bet. It is well suited for outdoor terrain and it features auto squelch, hands free, lithium batteries, noise reduction, and maximum range and fluid call sign. The walkie talkie will help improve outdoor activities with your pals.

Pros

• Squelch
• Emergency Notifications
• Rechargeable batteries

Cons

• Unstable eVox feature
• Weak belt clip

Arcshell AR-6

This is a decent compact walkie talkie for adventurous activities. It has a decent mile range reception and the transmission power is top of the line. It has a set frequency range of 400-470MHz and some of its specs include CTCSS, headphones, keypad lock, CDCSS tones, and a charging station(for battery charge). If you are looking for offers on walkie talkies that will perform regardless of obstructions such as trees on the field, this walkie talkie is your answer.

Pros

• Dual-Band.
• 16 Channel.
• Headset.
• FCC

Cons

• Stiff PTT button
• A bit on the heavy side

Motorola T200

This is a masterpiece by the Motorola brand. It delivers on quality and functionality as it is a well-rated gadget among adventurers. If you are shopping for a device that will serve you while you are outdoors, this will help you communicate seamlessly among you and your friends and relatives. Some of the features include channel scan, customized tones, battery alert, and 22 channels with over 2000 possible combinations.

Pros

• Belt clips
• Cable adaptor
• User manual
• Recharge cells

Cons

• Over 30 minutes charge
• Spotty distance

Midland GXT

This two way radio is a good substitute for a ham radio. The walkie talkie is good for outdoor lovers who want a reliable gadget. It is water resistant and suitable for most terrain and areas. The radio is equipped with some of the latest tech which includes evox, boom microphones, LCD backlit display, CTCSS, headsets, and buyers guide which makes it perfect for unforeseen circumstances. These specs put it above most two way radios you can find and it delivers in battery life, mile range, and frequency alert. This gadget will help boost your outdoor transmission and it is a good choice as it has a high rating.

Pros

• Weather Radio.
• 22 Channels.
• 142 Privacy codes.
• Vibrate Alerts.

Cons

• Average battery life
• Spotty group calling

MOICO Two way Radio

This is a solid walkie talkie that serves as a communication device for adventurers in the wild. the functions help you navigate communications between fellow adventurers. The functions include CTCSS tones, hands free function, long range two way frequency, volume buttons, flashlight, and alarm light.

Pros

• 99 CTCSS
• FRS/GMRS
• Earpiece jack

Cons

• Long charge time.
• Hard Buttons.

Rivins RV-7

This portable walkie talkie brings simplicity to the world of outdoor survival. Activities such as camping, hiking, and fishing can occur seamlessly because you can now communicate in real-time. Some of the gadget functions include replaceable batteries, speaker, LCD screen, microphone, privacy codes, and UHF.

Pros

• User guide
• Ring tones
• Channel scan
• Keypad lock

Cons

• Weak straps
• Complicated setup.

Ansoko Walkie Talkie

This radio is super portable with great functions that will help adventurers while they are outdoors. your camping trips can now be more diverse as you can move far away from the camping site without losing touch with base. The functions and design of this gadget include LED flashlight, 16 memory channel, CTCSS tones, DCS codes, and rechargeable batteries

Pros

• CTCSS
• Li-ion battery
• Charging dock
• UHF waves

Cons

• Weak cord
• Poor earpieces

SOCOTRAN

If you’re a fan of the outdoors or love keeping track of where your loved ones are around the house, this brand of walkie talkie is perfect for you. These walkie talkies are smooth and have a unique shape which gives you the perfect grip. It is also legal to use, so you don’t need a license on over twenty two channels. It comes with a USB charger that supports power banks, laptops, cars, and USB port charging; so you can be assured that if the battery runs out, you have other options. It even has a built-in flashlight that can be used for sending light signals or for your general flashlight needs.

Pros

• Keypad lock.
• Backlit LCD.
• Strong antenna

Cons

• Has possibly flammable features.
• Could pick up other radio waves.

LUITON Outdoor Radio

This would make a perfect gift for anyone who likes camping, hiking, hunting, or general outdoor activities. With over sixteen channels and a scan ability, it can be used indoors too. It’s good for any situation. With its unique camouflage color, it blends in with nature and its surroundings when needed. The package includes two radios, two charging adapters, two batteries, and two belt clips. It is made with a strong anti-interference and dustproof; military quality high-quality precision circuit design. It is made with light materials, an extreme ultra-thin compact, and this makes it very easy to carry; while running, walking, or in your backpack or belt clip.

Pros

• 16 Channels.
• Dust and weather-proof.
• Channel scan.

Cons

• No Headsets.
• Radio license needed

CRAFTSMAN Walkie Talkies

These are one of the few walkie talkies with five selectable tones distinguishes between different parties on incoming calls, isn’t that fascinating? It also comes with a weather-resistant feature, which means it is absolutely resistant to moisture. It is awesome for family outdoor trips because it has a maximum range extender; this feature overrides auto squelch to provide extended range reception(and this helps in locating lost persons). With this walkie talkie, you are prepared for storms and emergencies because it has a built-in NOAA radio receiver. The voice-activated transmission detects the user’s voice and transmits without pressing any buttons, therefore, allowing your hands to be free for other tasks during emergencies.

Pros

• Weather-resistant feature locks out moisture.
• 25-mile distance.
• 2, 662 channel combinations.
• VOX (voice-activated transmission).
• It has an audible ringtone that alerts you to incoming radio transmissions.

Cons

• Spotty frequency, doesn’t do well with blockages.
• Average sound quality

Motorola T100

This walkie talkie is easy to use, simple and compact. The T100 is a convenient tool that helps you stay in touch with your close pals when you’re out and about. It can be used for outdoor trips like camping or simply at the playground while enjoying a picnic or hiking in the park. The keyboard lock feature prevents your settings from being unintentionally or intentionally changed. You can communicate with other FRS/GMRS radios regardless of their brands as long as you’re on the same channel; the radio is that versatile. It has twenty two privacy codes so you can be sure that your channel is secure.

Pros

• FRS/GMRS enabled.
• Keypad lock.
• Channel scan.

Cons

• External disposable batteries.
• Batteries drain fairly quickly

Midland LXT

Compatible with all midland Walkie talkies FRS/GMRS radios, this walkie talkie is perfect for family trips and excursions. The tal comes with two radios, two rechargeable battery packs, a desktop charger, AC wall adapter, two belt clips, and an owner’s manual. You can rest assured that you have other options because of the rechargeable battery. If the battery dies, you don’t need to rush to the store to get new ones, you can just plug it in and let it charge. It has a twenty four mile range which gives you guaranteed communication in open areas with little to no obstruction.

Pros

• Portable.
• Rechargeable battery packs.
• Portable and light.

Cons

• Only connect to other Midland walkie talkies on the same frequency

BoaFeng BF-888S

This talkie can be used in construction areas to communicate with your team members efficiently. It is also useful for security guards, it is a great tool for work and communication in real-time. It has a rechargeable battery which makes it easy to use for communication when traveling by car with a group of friends or family. It has over 16 channels, a 1500mAh Li-ion battery, 50 CTCSS/105 CDCSS, a VOX Function, PC programming, an emergency alarm for emergency situations, NOAA Radio, a battery saver, a low voltage alert, a time-out timer, and an inbuilt flashLight. It has a communication range of about two to four kilometers. This two way radio guarantees smooth communication wherever you are.

Pros

• Rechargeable battery.
• Built-in flashlight.
• 16 channels.

Cons

• Non-programmable.
• It is prone to occasional defects

Uniden SX507

These two-way radios are good, potable outdoor companions. They are perfect for transmission in large events, road trips, hiking, camping, hunting, and workplaces like warehouses, school campuses and several outdoor gatherings or events. It has rechargeable NiMH batteries, around 14 hours working time, and built-in encryption codes. It supports communication in your safety team, construction site, warehouses, factories, restaurants, hotels and supermarkets, and so on. Distance is not a problem with these walkie talkies.

Pros

• Water-resistant.
• Portable.
• 142 call codes.
• 14 hours of standby.

Cons

• Plastic body

SAMCOM FPCM

This SAMCOM long distance walkie talkie comes in a pack of six and is reasonably cost-effective due to its high quality and ergonomic design. It provides a simple and pleasant operating experience and that’s why it can be used for security teams, events communications, road trips, family camping and hunting, and so on. You can add as many sets as you want and they work great together since they have identical pre-programmed frequency channels. It comes with a USB charger so it can be connected to your PC(no MAC support) or your power bank when the battery runs out.

Pros

• Autoscan.
• PTT.
• 8 days stand by.

Cons

• Absent inbuilt voice scramblers

Retevis RT66

This two way radio enhances your communication experience by bringing convenience to you. The RT66 radio is license-free so you are not required of any costs to communicate from one walkie talkie to another. This means it can be used anywhere. It does not take time to set up. The radios that come with the package have been preset to the same frequency, as well as the same channel, which means that you and your family will be able to have instant communication right out of the box. You don’t need to waste your time programming or tweaking it, it is ready for deployment. It is also useful in various weather conditions.

Pros

• It filters out unwanted interference and enhances audio clarity, then you can transmit and receive clear and crisp sound.
• It comes with two Lithium-ion batteries.
• It is rechargeable.

Cons

• Can only be used in the US

COBRA ACX

These Cobra Floating Walkie Talkies are the perfect radio for your next outdoor adventure. The radios’ rubberized grip makes it easy to carry in wet and dusty environments. They come pre-charged and ready to use out of the box and have a max performance range of 37 miles. The Cobra Floating Walkie Talkies also features the patented Rewind-Say-Again technology that allows you to replay the last 20 seconds on any missed transmission. These radios come with a dual-port charger, but can also be powered up with regular alkaline batteries should you need some additional power on your outing.

Pros

• It has dual power options.
• Provides extended signal range with 2662 channel combinations.
• The floating design and orange core make retrieving the radio easy if dropped in water.
• It has enhanced vibrating feedback to notify you of incoming transmissions.
• The rubberized grip makes it easy to hold even in harsh weather conditions.

Cons

• It does not come with headsets.

Overall Best Buy

Our overall best buy for this list is the Radioditty GA-2S as it gives you value for your money. Its functions and design are top of the line and they give an overall experience suitable for survival purposes. This radio will work well even when obstructed by buildings or trees.

Best Budget Buy

The Cobra ACX is the budget buy for this article. At its price point it gives you the comfort of affordability backed by amazing performance. This is a solid gadget that you will enjoy using without any hassles. The Cobra ACXT345 comes with channels that are stronger than most radios with 22 channels.

Considerations Choosing the Best Survival Walkie Talkies

When purchasing a walkie talkie, it is always good to choose a radio with features that suit your needs. There are some general factors you need to consider before you buy any gadget because different models are suitable for different conditions. For example, some walkie talkies work better in outdoor conditions while others work better indoors. Here are some general things to consider before purchasing any two way radio.

Size

Size and portability are important depending on the situation or area the gadget will be used. for survival situations, it is better to buy a radio that is easy to carry. The size must also not affect key functions that would be needed while outdoors and it must deliver seamless experiences similar to using a cell phone. Survivalists prioritize this feature because these devices have to fit snugly into their bags and work appropriately.

Durability

This is a key feature for all walkies irrespective of how they are used. Walkie talkies are frequently used gadgets that require frequent usage and when devices are used frequently, they tend to be at risk of damage resulting from falls or similar accidents. Always check to ensure that the manufacturers of the device you purchase have certified it falls and damage resistant. Way radios serve you better when they can endure harsh conditions and can be used in various areas both outdoor and indoor.

Range

The distance way radios can cover is important if you are using them for survival purposes. You need a general mobile radio that can cover long distances. This will ensure that you can communicate with one or two others in times of emergencies. With a decent mile range, these walkies may be the difference when you are in a tight spot. Always compare the range on a device before making a purchase.

Other Features

Although the features listed above are important, there are other important things you need to consider before you make a purchase.

Price

The price of the walkie is important if you have a budget you are working with. This article tends to focus on the functionality of these devices but it is important to note that you should consider your pocket before buying a walkie talkie. Do not feel pressured to buy the first item you see if it doesn’t fit into your price range. Ensure that you make comparisons between products before settling on a walkie talkie.

FAQs

How to Connect Walkie Talkies

Walkie talkies can be connected via the setup menu. If you do not understand how to do this, you are free to use the user manual that comes attached to your product. Before you start using these for camping or other activities, ensure that you go through the listed dos and don’ts.

How to Care for Your Radios?

Ensure that they are kept in a clean and well-protected place. Avoid falls or unnecessary circumstances that may lead to damages. Also, ensure that they are properly cleaned and charged after every use and charge them after every use.

What is the best 2 way radio for long range?

It is usually not a straightforward process when trying to decide what walkie is better than the other. For the benefit of this question, the best way to decide is to visit some good websites such as Amazon and compare the service and uses of the tools.

Where to Buy Survival Walkie Talkies?

Amazon.com remains one of the most trusted websites to get walkie talkies. There are many different walkies available for purchase on the platform. You can get any accessories you need to make your gadget more effective.