When you’re working together as a team, whether that’s you and your spouse or whoever you are pursuing survival with, having walkie talkies to communicate is a must. Walkie talkies are essentially two way radios, and the communications is based on radio signals. Walkie talkies do not depend on mobile networks or cell phone coverage or reception in any way.
I’m going to admit something to you. This area of prepping is not my forte or my wheelhouse. I am not an expert on walkie talkies (also known as FRS), GMRS, ham radios, etc. One thing I do know though is that they can be expensive. Very expensive. This is a disappointment because luckily for us, lots of essential prepping gear is affordable and in a lot of cases a great deal for the price.
As far as I can tell, you have 3 basic levels of communication devices. FRS, GMRS, and ham radios. FRS stands for family radio service and GMRS stands for general mobile radio service. You get more features with a GMRS like designated channels within the frequencies that aren’t available for your basic FRS walkie talkies. I don’t know if that’s important to you, but to me it’s not. If you opt to go with a GMRS you will need to obtain a license from the FCC to use your device. The license costs $35. A ham radio is the most powerful option of the three. Ham radios are suited for long range communication and can access multiple bands and frequencies. They are commonly used by truckers and emergency responders.
One thing I do know is that GMRS stands for general mobile radio service. A ham radio is a much more sophisticated and powerful communication system than a GMRS, which is mostly for close range communication and is more widely used for outdoor activities. A ham radio is suited for long range communication and can access multiple bands and frequencies. They are commonly used by truckers and emergency responders. The license for a ham radio is more restrictive than it is for a GMRS though, and you have to take and pass an exam on top of it.
How do you navigate which type of device is the best and at what price when you just want something functional that you can add to your SHTF plan? For me personally, I am only using these when the SHTF and I don’t use them for anything else. I’m looking for the best value for my money.
