Walkie-talkies can be a useful tool for family camping trips, as they can help you stay in communication with each other while you are out and about. These handheld devices use radio waves to transmit and receive signals, allowing you to communicate with others who are within range.
They are typically small and portable, making them easy to carry around with you on your trip. Some features to consider when looking for a walkie-talkie for family camping include range, battery life, and durability. You may also want to look for models that have additional features such as weather alerts or the ability to send and receive text messages.
The Best walkie talkies for family camping in 2023：Our choice
| Best for Overall | Motorola T800 Talkabout Two-Way Radios |
| Best Overall Walkie-Talkie | Midland 50 Channel Waterproof GMRS |
| Best Long-Range Walkie-Talkie | Cobra ACXT645 Waterproof Walkie Talkies |
| Best Mountain Walkie-Talkie | Retevis RT628 Walkie Talkies for Kids |
| Best Walkie-Talkie for Beginners | Garmin 010-01879-00 InReach Mini |
| Best Camping Walkie-Talkie | Retevis H-777 2 Way Radios |
| Best Waterproof Walkie-Talkie | Huaker Kids Walkie Talkies |
| Best Budget Walkie-Talkie | Backcountry Access BC Link 2.0 Radio |
The best walkie-talkies incorporate extensive battery life, range, clarity, and durability. Apart from letting you fulfill your wildest big rig fantasies, the best walkie-talkies are a fantastic way to keep small teams in touch with one another. There are tons of things to consider when looking for a set that meets your needs. Any two-way radio is a fantastic gadget to have on hand where closed-loop communication is required, or where cell service is spotty or would otherwise be impeded.
1.Best for Overall：Motorola T800 Talkabout Two-Way Radios
What We Like
- Long battery life
- NOAA weather alerts
- Includes four radios with belt clips and USB chargers
What We Don’t Like
- No drop protection
- Not float-friendly
The Motorola T800 Talkabout Two-Way Radios are durable and waterproof, making them ideal for use during outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and hunting. They have a range of up to 35 miles, allowing you to communicate with your family or friends even when they are far away.
They also have a variety of features, such as a built-in flashlight, emergency alert button, and NOAA weather alert. The radios are small and lightweight, making them easy to carry on camping trips. They are also compatible with other Motorola Talkabout radios, allowing you to communicate with other users who have compatible devices.
2.Best Overall Walkie-Talkie：Midland 50 Channel Waterproof GMRS
What we like
- Impressive range
- Scans through a broad spectrum of weather channels for alerts
What we don’t like
- Waterproofing could be better
- Technically requires a license to use
The Midland 50 Channel Waterproof GMRS is a two-way radio designed for use in outdoor environments. It is durable and waterproof, making it suitable for use during camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. The radio has a range of up to 36 miles, allowing you to communicate with your family or friends even when they are far away.
It also has a variety of features, such as NOAA weather alert, hands-free operation, and a built-in flashlight. The radio is small and lightweight, making it easy to carry on camping trips. It is also compatible with other Midland GMRS radios, allowing you to communicate with other users who have compatible devices.
Also read：6 Best Remote Walkie Talkies for 2023
3.Best Long-Range Walkie-Talkie：Cobra ACXT645 Waterproof Walkie Talkies
What We Like
- Durable and waterproof
- Access to NOAA weather channels
- SOS function and LED light
What We Don’t Like
- Doesn’t float
- More expensive than other models
The Cobra ACXT645 Waterproof Walkie Talkies are durable and waterproof, making them suitable for use in outdoor environments. They have a range of up to 37 miles, allowing you to communicate with your family or friends even when they are far away.
The walkie talkies also have a variety of features, such as a built-in flashlight, NOAA weather alert, and hands-free operation. They are small and lightweight, making them easy to carry on camping trips. The Cobra ACXT645 Waterproof Walkie Talkies are compatible with other Cobra walkie talkies, allowing you to communicate with other users who have compatible devices.
4.Best Mountain Walkie-Talkie：Retevis RT628 Walkie Talkies for Kids
What we like
- Multiple channels
- Great for small hands
- Lengthy battery life
What we don’t like
- Limited range
The Retevis RT628 Walkie Talkies for Kids are small and lightweight, making them easy for children to use. They have a range of up to 3.5 miles, allowing children to communicate with each other even when they are not within close proximity.
The walkie talkies have a durable, waterproof construction and a user-friendly design. They also have a variety of features, such as a built-in flashlight and channel scan. The Retevis RT628 Walkie Talkies for Kids are compatible with other Retevis walkie talkies, allowing children to communicate with other users who have compatible devices.
5.Best Walkie-Talkie for Beginners：Garmin 010-01879-00 InReach Mini
What We Like
- 50 hours of battery life
- Access to maps, aerial imagery, and NOAA charts
- Lightweight and durable
What We Don’t Like
- Only works if you have a satellite subscription
- No 2-way radio function
The Garmin 010-01879-00 InReach Mini is a compact and lightweight satellite communicator that allows you to stay connected even when you are off the grid. It allows you to send and receive messages, track your location, and access weather forecasts, even when you are in remote areas where there is no cell phone coverage.
The InReach Mini has a range of up to 100 miles, allowing you to communicate with friends and family members even when you are far away. It also has a variety of features, such as a built-in navigation system and a SOS button that allows you to call for emergency assistance.
6.Best Camping Walkie-Talkie：Retevis H-777 2 Way Radios
What we like
- Built-in flashlight
- Affordable
- Easy to program
What we don’t like
- Range could be better
- Not very durable
The Retevis H-777 2 Way Radios are compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry and use. They have a range of up to 3.5 miles, allowing you to communicate with your family or friends even when they are not within close proximity.
The radios have a durable, waterproof construction and a user-friendly design. They also have a variety of features, such as a built-in flashlight and channel scan. The Retevis H-777 2 Way Radios are compatible with other Retevis radios, allowing you to communicate with other users who have compatible devices.
7.Best Waterproof Walkie-Talkie：Huaker Kids Walkie Talkies
What We Like
- Voice activated with clear sound
- Built-in flashlight
- Decent range for a toy
What We Don’t Like
- Batteries aren’t rechargeable
- Batteries aren’t included
Huaker Kids Walkie Talkies are small and lightweight, making them easy for children to use. They have a range of up to 3.5 miles, allowing children to communicate with each other even when they are not within close proximity. The walkie talkies have a durable, waterproof construction and a user-friendly design.
They also have a variety of features, such as a built-in flashlight and channel scan. The Huaker Kids Walkie Talkies are compatible with other Huaker walkie talkies, allowing children to communicate with other users who have compatible devices.
Also read：7 Best Walkie Talkies for Kids
8.Best Budget Walkie-Talkie：Backcountry Access BC Link 2.0 Radio
What We Like
- Long communication range
- Plenty of channels to use
- Lightweight
What We Don’t Like
- No drop protection
- Not waterproof
If you’re an avid camper, Backcountry Access is an impressive choice for staying in touch with other campers. The system includes 143 channels and 121 sub-channels, so you can be sure to find a clear channel no matter where you are. This walkie-talkie has a maximum range of 40 miles, which will help you stay connected even if you’re far from civilization. And with up to 400 hours of battery life in standby mode, you won’t have to worry about running out of juice when you’re out in the middle of nowhere. The long-range and incredible battery life make this walkie-talkie the best walkie-talkie for camping.
Glossary of walkie talkie termsFRS
Family Radio Service is an FCC defined set of channels – 22 + 8 for repeaters – shared with GMRS, however FRS does not require a license as it is limited to lower power. These channels are 462-467 MHz UHF..
GMRS
Using the same frequencies as FRS (see above) the GMRS system allows for operation at over 2 watts of power; up to 50 watts on some channels. The down-side is that you need a license which costs $70 for ten years and – unusually for a government outfit – applies to all immediate family members of the owner. GMRS is often described as offering over 30 miles of service and, realistically, can manage around 5 (which isn’t that bad – remember what we said about the planet’s shape earlier).
MURS
Stands for Multi-Use Radio Service, and is a different group of frequencies (151-155 MHz VHF) which the FCC allocate for non-licenced use in a similar manner to CB radio.
FCC
Federal Communications Commission license radio frequencies in the USA; there is a similar body in most countries as the bandwidth must be shared, though believe it or not government agencies do try and cooperate across borders – to some extent, the FRS channel group is acceptable in Canada, Mexico and – at least some channels – in South America too; handy for trips abroad.
Channels
Frequencies on the electromagnetic spectrum are divided into broad categories (visible light is one of these) and the subcategories are known as channels. For convenience, these are named with simple numbers within GMRS/FRS For example, Channel 1 is 462.5625 MHz.
Privacy codes
Despite the name, these offer no protection from eavesdropping; when you broadcast with a walkie talkie it is not encrypted. Instead you can agree on a tone (which you won’t be able to hear yourself) which will tell your handset which is the preferred signal.
PMR446
The European equivalent of FRS, PMR stands for Private Mobile Radio and covers 16 channels around 446MHz. The frequencies aren’t exactly the same, which is why you’ll rarely find the same model numbers for Europe and America from big-name manufacturers like Motorola.
Squelch
This is another term for using sub-audible tones to filter out unwanted chatter from other users on the same frequency – see Privacy Codes.
Triangulation
This is a method of determining the location of a walkie talkie, which isn’t easy, making them relatively private in this regard. Triangulation can only be done when the talkie is turned on because it is broadcasting radio waves. This is unlike, say, a mobile phone which is always broadcasting a pulse so that the network knows where to find you, plus probably sends a GPS location via an app which, again, a walkie talkie doesn’t do.
VHF v UHF
Frequency spectra are somewhat arbitrary groups selected to some extent for the benefit of regulators, but VHF is 136-174 MHz and immediately above it is UHF at 400 to 512 MHz. This makes them better able to penetrate structure, so people sometimes think of UHF as ‘more powerful.’
What to Look for in a Walkie-Talkie
When shopping for a walkie-talkie, you need to consider the range you need. If you’re just looking for a way to stay in touch with family and friends while hiking or camping, a radio with a range of up to 20 miles should suffice. However, if you’re looking for a radio to use on a construction site or other large work area, you’ll have different needs.
Next, consider the features you need. Some walkie-talkies come with built-in flashlights, while others include weather alert functions. You’ll also want to make sure the radio you choose is compatible with any other two-way radios you might already own.
Finally, consider the price. Walkie-talkies can range in price from less than $20 to more than $400. The most important thing is to find a radio that meets your needs and fits your budget.
Range
The most essential feature to consider when purchasing a walkie-talkie is the device’s range of communication. While some models can communicate over 24 miles, others are only able to make it to the other side of a family house. Make sure when selecting your device to choose a model that can support the range you need.
Battery Life
Nothing could be more dangerous than having a walkie-talkie’s battery die in the middle of an emergency operation. Depending on your needs, be sure to check what type of batteries your device requires and how long they are rated to last. Rechargeable lithium batteries might sound great, but in the middle of the woods, a pack of AA batteries might be the best bet.
Durability
When purchasing a walkie-talkie. be sure to consider its overall durability. Some options might be designed with children in mind (with thin plastic exteriors), while others will be covered in thicker materials (even rubber) to ensure that they keep working even after a nasty fall.
Advantages and disadvantages of family camping intercom
The main advantage of a family camping intercom is that it allows family members to communicate with each other while they are in different parts of the campsite. This can be especially useful if you are camping with young children, as it can help you keep track of their whereabouts and ensure that they are safe. Additionally, a family camping intercom can be a convenient way to communicate without having to shout or use hand signals, which can be especially useful if you are in a noisy or crowded campsite.
One disadvantage of a family camping intercom is that it can be expensive to purchase and maintain. Additionally, it may not be practical to use a family camping intercom in all situations, such as if you are camping in a remote area without access to electricity or if you are camping in an area where radios are not allowed. Finally, a family camping intercom can be bulky and heavy to carry, which can be a drawback if you are planning to go backpacking or hiking. Overall, whether or not a family camping intercom is a good option for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Are walkie-talkies worth it?
Walkie-talkies can be a useful communication tool in certain situations, such as during outdoor activities or in emergency situations when phone service is not available. They can be especially useful for keeping in touch with a group of people over a short distance, without the need for a cell phone signal. Whether or not they are worth it ultimately depends on your specific needs and how you plan to use them.
How long do walkie-talkies last?
The lifespan of a walkie-talkie can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the brand and model of the device, how it is used and cared for, and the environment in which it is used.
In general, however, most walkie-talkies are designed to last for several years with regular use. With proper care and maintenance, it is not uncommon for a walkie-talkie to last for 5-10 years or more. Some high-quality models may even last for longer periods of time.
Can walkie-talkies pick up police traffic?
It depends on the specific frequency or frequencies that the police are using for their communications. Most walkie-talkies are designed to operate on a limited number of frequencies, and if the police are using a frequency that is not within the range of the walkie-talkie, then it will not be able to pick up their traffic.
However, if the police are using a frequency that is within the range of the walkie-talkie, and the device is properly configured and programmed to receive that frequency, then it should be able to pick up their traffic. It is important to note that in most cases, it is illegal to listen in on police communications without a proper license.
Should I have a walkie-talkie for emergencies?
Having a walkie-talkie can be a useful tool in emergency situations, as it can provide a means of communication when other forms of communication are not available. For example, if you are in a remote area without cell phone service, or if the power is out and you cannot use your phone or landline, a walkie-talkie can allow you to contact others and get the help you need.
Additionally, if you are in a large group of people and need to keep in touch with each other, a walkie-talkie can be a convenient way to communicate without having to shout or use hand signals. Overall, it can be a good idea to have a walkie-talkie for emergencies, but it is also important to have a plan in place and to know how to use the device properly.
Can I pick up police radio traffic on a walkie-talkie?
It depends on the specific frequency or frequencies that the police are using for their communications. Most walkie-talkies are designed to operate on a limited number of frequencies, and if the police are using a frequency that is not within the range of the walkie-talkie, then it will not be able to pick up their traffic.
However, if the police are using a frequency that is within the range of the walkie-talkie, and the device is properly configured and programmed to receive that frequency, then it should be able to pick up their traffic. It is important to note that in most cases, it is illegal to listen in on police communications without a proper license.
Can someone else eavesdrop on your conversations with a walkie-talkie?
Yes, it is possible for someone else to eavesdrop on your conversations with a walkie-talkie if they have a device that is capable of receiving the same frequency that you are using. Most walkie-talkies have a feature known as “privacy codes” or “privacy tones” that can be used to reduce the likelihood of this happening.
Privacy codes are a series of sub-frequencies that can be used to narrow the range of the walkie-talkie’s signal, making it less likely that someone else will be able to receive and eavesdrop on your conversations. However, it is still possible for someone with a high-quality receiver and the right equipment to pick up your conversations, even if you are using privacy codes. To help protect your privacy, it is important to use privacy codes when available, and to avoid discussing sensitive or personal information over a walkie-talkie.
Why would I use a walkie-talkie if my entire team has phones?
There are a few reasons why you might choose to use a walkie-talkie instead of a phone, even if all members of your team have phones. One reason is that walkie-talkies can be more convenient and easier to use than phones in certain situations.
For example, if you are engaging in an outdoor activity such as hiking or camping, a walkie-talkie can be a more practical option than a phone, as it does not require a cell phone signal to operate. Additionally, walkie-talkies can be more durable and reliable than phones, which can be prone to damage or loss.
Another reason to use a walkie-talkie is that it can allow for group communication without the need for each member of the group to have their own phone. This can be especially useful if you are working in a large team or if some members of your team do not have access to a phone. Overall, while phones can be a useful communication tool, there are situations where a walkie-talkie can be a better option.