How to Choose a Walkie Talkie for the Mountains

Hikers and climbers, choosing the right communication tool for your outdoor adventures is crucial. FRS (Family Radio Service) radios are license-free, low-power devices perfect for short-range communication, such as day hikes or nearby climbing.

They operate on limited power and are best for casual, close-range use.

Wait, two-way radio vs walkie talkie? What’s the difference….

👉 Read my article on the difference between a walkie talkie and two-way radio , but there’s the short version:

• Walkie-talkies are a type of two-way radio primarily used for portable and personal communication.
• Usually, they operate on a limited number of pre-defined frequencies and have a shorter range.
• On the other hand, two-way radios can be either portable or stationary and often enable a broader range of frequencies for business or specialized use.

So from now on we’ll be talking about two-way radios...

For more demanding outdoor activities, GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) radios offer a significant advantage with higher power and longer range.

They do require an FCC license, but this covers your entire immediate family. GMRS radios can also use repeaters to boost signal range, which is ideal for remote areas or long-distance communication in challenging terrain.

In essence, FRS is simple and hassle-free for short distances, while GMRS provides superior range and clarity for serious adventurers.

Ensure you’re using your devices legally and choose the service that best fits your communication needs in the wilderness.

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2. How to get a GMRS License

This process isn’t that difficult but does take some time and money.

👉 Read my article on how to get a GMRS License, but there’s the short version:

Outdoor enthusiasts, if you’re looking to enhance your communication capabilities while adventuring in the great outdoors, obtaining a GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) license is a smart move.

Why bother????

GMRS radios offer improved range and clarity over traditional walkie-talkies, making them ideal for keeping in touch with your group during remote hikes, camping trips, or any outdoor activity where cell service may be unreliable.

• The process of getting a GMRS license is relatively straightforward. You don’t need to pass any exams; instead, you simply apply for the license through the FCC (Federal Communications Commission).

The fee is modest, and once you have your license, it covers you and your immediate family, so everyone can stay connected on the same channel.

• With a GMRS license, you’ll have access to additional frequencies that are reserved for licensed users, which means less interference and more reliable communication.

Moreover, GMRS radios can be equipped with external antennas and repeaters, significantly extending their range. This can be particularly valuable in challenging terrain where communication is crucial for safety and coordination.

• By investing a little time and money to get a GMRS license, you’ll be equipping yourself with a powerful tool that enhances your outdoor adventures, keeping you and your loved ones safe and connected no matter where your journey takes you.

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3. GMRS Radio Frequency Chart

👉 Read my article on the GMRS Radio Frequency Chart, but there’s the short version:

Understanding the GMRS radio frequency chart and channels is essential for maximizing the use of your communication devices in the great outdoors.

GMRS radios provide access to a series of designated channels within the UHF (Ultra High Frequency) spectrum, specifically between 462 and 467 megahertz.

These frequencies are shared with the FRS (Family Radio Service), but GMRS users benefit from higher power allowances, which can lead to greater range and clearer signals.

This made me think…

This is particularly important when you’re navigating through challenging terrain or if you’re separated from your group by considerable distances.

For those of you scaling heights or traversing long trails, knowing which channels to use and how to operate your GMRS radio within the legal requirements is key.

• Channels 1-7 and 15-22 are available for GMRS use, with channels 8-14 being reserved exclusively for FRS.
• It’s also important to note that some channels have power restrictions, and the use of repeaters on channels 15-22 can further extend your communication range.

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Final Verdict – Best 2 way Radios for the Mountains

Thanks for reading this rundown on how to choose a walkie talkie for the mountains and I hope it helps you prepare for your next adventure without the distractions.