Best Camping Walkie Talkies
When you love spending time outdoors, you need to have the best gear to make your experience great. One of the most important pieces of equipment for any hiker is a good walkie-talkie. A walkie-talkie allows you to communicate with other hikers in your group as well as call for help if needed. There are many different types and brands of walkie-talkies on the market, so finding the right one for you can be difficult.
That's why we've compiled a list of the best camping radios in December 2024 on the market, along with some tips on how to choose the right one for your needs. Whether you're looking for something simple or some with all the bells and whistles, we've got you covered.
If you're short on time, here are our top two walkie talkies for camping.
Walkie Talkies for Camping - Buyer’s Guide
Drawing from our experience when it comes to picking the ideal walkie-talkie for camping, several critical factors should be considered to ensure you find a device that perfectly aligns with your requirements. Having a clear understanding of these aspects is key to selecting a walkie-talkie that will enhance your camping experience and meet your specific needs.
Range
The range is one of, if not the most crucial factor to consider when you're looking at different models of walkie-talkies. Some of the more high-end options have a superior range, 20 miles and more. Depending on what you need it for, get a model with an appropriate range. For example, Midland GXT1000VP4 Walkie Talkie range up to 36 miles or Cobra ACXT1035R FLT Walkie Talkie range up to 37 miles.
Battery
Since battery life is crucial for walkie talkies, you want to make sure you get one that will last long enough for your needs. Some models can last several days while others can barely last a day. Pay attention to their power system, are they powered by a battery or a desktop charger. It all depends on how comfortable you are and how long you use them for your needs. For example, Motorola T600 Walkie Talkie battery life up to 23 hours.
Number of Channels
The importance of having a large number of channels is that it provides more chances for you and your team to find an open one. Too few channels could limit success. Generally, the more channels the better it is.
Water Resistance
IP ratings are typically high for walkie-talkies because they need to be functional in a variety of extreme conditions. If you will be using them during activities such as boating or hiking in various possible weather conditions, be especially careful to choose a model that is rugged enough for these conditions.
Additional Features
What else to look for:
- VOX (Voice Activated Transmit): For hands-free operation;
- GPS Functionality: Benefits of integrated GPS for navigation and location tracking;
- Emergency Features: Such as SOS signals or weather alerts;
- Accessories: Availability and usefulness of accessories like headsets, clips, or charging stations.
Best Camping Walkie Talkies - TOP 7
Within the world of camping walkie-talkies, some models distinguish themselves through their outstanding features. Here are the top seven camping walkie-talkies, chosen for their combination of innovative design, superior performance, and high levels of user satisfaction.
- Range: Up to 35 miles
- Battery: Up to 23 hours
- Channels: 22 with 121 Privacy Codes
- Waterproof: IP67
- Range: Up to 36 miles
- Channels: 50 With 142 Privacy Codes
- Waterproof: JIS4
- Call & Vibrate Alert
- Range: Up to 37 miles
- Channels: 2662 Channel and 121 privacy codes
- Waterproof: IPX7
- LED/S.O.S. flashlight
- Range: Up to max 16 miles
- Channels: 22 Channel and 121 privacy codes
- Waterproof: IPX7
- Variety of colors
- Range: Up to 28 miles
- Channels: 22 Channel and 38 privacy codes
- Good functions
- Comfortable design
- Range: Max 5 miles
- Channels: 22 Channel and 99 privacy codes
- Built-in Speaker & Microphone
- 4 in Pack
- Range: Max 5 miles
- Channels: 22 Channel and 121 privacy codes
- Waterproof: IPX4
- Bluetooth, Built-In Flashlight, Emergency Alert Button
Best Walkie Talkies for Camping: Comparison
Let's take a closer look and choose which one is right for you.
| Walkie Talkies | Range | Channels/Codes | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motorola T600 | Up to 35 miles | 22 Channels / 121 Privacy Codes | Waterproof, Built-in Flashlight |
| Midland GXT1000VP4 | Up to 36 miles | 50 Channels / 142 Privacy Codes | NOAA Weather Alert, JIS4 Waterproof |
| Cobra ACXT1035R FLT | Up to 37 miles | 22 Channels / 2662 Combinations | Floating, NOAA Weather Alert |
| Topsung M880 | Up to 16 miles | 22 Channels / 121 Privacy Codes | Lightweight, VOX Support |
| Midland T51VP3 | Up to 28 miles | 22 Channels / 38 CTCSS Privacy Codes | NOAA Weather Alert, Hands-Free Operation |
| Walkie Talkies RV-7 | Up to 5 miles | 22 FRS Channels / 99 CTCSS Tones | LCD Display, Built-in Flashlight |
| Motorola T800 | Up to 35 miles | 22 Channels / 121 Privacy Codes | Bluetooth Connectivity, Off-Grid Messaging |
Motorola T600 Walkie Talkie for Camping
Author's Choice
The Motorola Talkabout T600 is a two-way waterproof radio that is ideal for use on land or at sea. Thanks to the IP67 standard, the radio can withstand continuous immersion to a depth of 1 meter for 30 minutes and repels the heaviest rain. A built-in flashlight with white and red LEDs makes it easy to light your way in the dark, and NOAA weather channels keep you up to date with real-time weather conditions. (NOAA radio service may not be available in all areas).
With 22 channels and 121 privacy codes, it's easy to find the channel you need. You can safely take the Motorola T600 with you on any adventure, be it skiing, hiking or boating. You will definitely be satisfied with the quality of this model.
Pros:
- Range: Up to 35 miles
- Battery: Up to 23 hours
- Channels: 22 with 121 Privacy Codes
- Waterproof: IP67
- 4 AA batteries required included
- Built-In Flashlight With White And Red Leds
Cons:
- Item Weight: 8.6 ounces
Summary: As indicated by our tests the Motorola Talkabout T600 is a versatile, waterproof two-way radio, perfect for various outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, or boating. It features IP67 waterproofing, a built-in flashlight with both white and red LEDs, NOAA weather channel access, and offers 22 channels with 121 privacy codes, ensuring reliable communication and user satisfaction in diverse environments.
- Range: Up to 35 miles
- Battery: Up to 23 hours
- Channels: 22 with 121 Privacy Codes
- Waterproof: IP67
Midland GXT1000VP4 Camping Walkie Talkie
Best Overall
The Midland 50 Channel Waterproof GMRS Two-Way Radio is a great addition to any household. It has a variety of features that makes it perfect for any family. The radio has 50 Gmrs 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). The 36-mile range allows for longer range communication in open areas with little or no obstruction. The easy voice and sound activation transmission (Evox) with 9 sensitivity levels for hands-free operation makes it perfect for any family. The 142 Ctcss/Dcs privacy codes give you up to 3,124 channel options to block other conversations.
The NOAA weather scan + alert will automatically scan through 10 available weather (Wx) band channels and locks onto the strongest weather channel to alert you of severe weather updates. The NOAA weather alert will sound an alarm indicating that there is a risk of severe weather in your area. This radio is perfect for any family who wants to be prepared for any emergency.
Pros:
- Range: Up to 36 miles
- Channels: 50 With 142 Privacy Codes
- Waterproof: JIS4
- Call & Vibrate Alert
Cons:
- Rechargeable batteries run out fairly quickly
Summary: Our findings show that the Midland Waterproof GMRS Two-Way Radio, with its 36-mile range and JIS4 splash-resistant design, is an ideal communication tool for families, offering 50 GMRS channels, 142 CTCSS/DCS privacy codes, and hands-free operation with EVOX. It also includes NOAA weather scan and alert features, automatically locking onto the strongest weather channel to provide crucial updates and warnings about severe weather conditions, making it a valuable device for emergency preparedness.
- Range: Up to 36 miles
- Channels: 50 With 142 Privacy Codes
- Waterproof: JIS4
- Call & Vibrate Alert
Cobra ACXT1035R FLT Floating Walkie Talkie for Camping
Premium Choice
The Cobra ACXT1035R FLT adult floating radios are designed to provide an enhanced long range signal up to 37 miles. With 21 сhannel (2662 channel combinations) and 121 privacy codes, this radio is ideal for both indoor (building) and outdoor use (outdoors/. The NOAA weather receiver and alert system keeps you prepared for storms or other emergencies, and the VOX voice transmission frees your hands for other tasks.
The radio also has a Rewind-Say-Again feature that automatically records the last 20 seconds of incoming audio, as well as a Vibralert and Call Alert system that alerts you to incoming signals. For added convenience, the built-in LED/SOS flashlight provides enhanced functionality in low light conditions.
Pros:
- Range: Up to 37 miles
- Channels: 21 Channel and 121 privacy codes
- Waterproof: IPX7
- 6 AA batteries required included
- LED/S.O.S. flashlight
Cons:
- Buttons stiff and somewhat difficult to push
Summary: Our research indicates that the Cobra ACXT1035R FLT adult floating radios offer an impressive long-range signal up to 37 miles, equipped with 21 channels, 2662 channel combinations, and 121 privacy codes, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments. These radios also feature a NOAA weather receiver and alert system, VOX voice transmission, a Rewind-Say-Again feature for audio playback, Vibralert and Call Alert systems, and a built-in LED/SOS flashlight for added functionality in various situations.
- Range: Up to 37 miles
- Channels: 2662 Channel and 121 privacy codes
- Waterproof: IPX7
- LED/S.O.S. flashlight
Topsung M880 Walkie Talkies for Camping
Best Budget
Topsung M880 long-range walkie talkies for adults are ideal for indoor and outdoor use, such as home, camping, hiking, cycling, car travel, etc. With 22 main channels and 121 privacy codes, these walkie talkies have a long range in various terrains (up to 1/4/16 miles) powered by 3 AA batteries (not included).They are also lightweight and easy to operate.
Speakerphone function (VOX), keypad lock (channel lock), adjustable power and volume, backlit LCD screen, belt clip with lanyard hole, 2.5mm headphone jack with dustproof plug.
Pros:
- Range: Up to max 16 miles
- Channels: 22 Channel and 121 privacy codes
- Waterproof: IPX7
- 3 AA batteries (not included)
- Variety of colors
- Smart system, many good functions
- Comfortable design
Cons:
- Less quality materials than competitors
Summary: Based on our observations the Topsung M880 walkie-talkies are versatile for both indoor and outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and cycling, offering 22 main channels, 121 privacy codes, and a range of up to 16 miles, powered by 3 AA batteries. They are lightweight, easy to use, and come with features such as VOX speakerphone function, keypad lock, adjustable power and volume, a backlit LCD screen, belt clip with lanyard hole, and a 2.5mm headphone jack with a dustproof plug.
- Range: Up to max 16 miles
- Channels: 22 Channel and 121 privacy codes
- Waterproof: IPX7
- Variety of colors
Midland- T51VP3 Camping Walkie-Talkie
Great Сharging Сapabilities
The Midland T51VP3 is a two-way radio that offers 22 channels and a range of up to 28 miles. It also features 38 CTCSS privacy codes, NOAA weather alert, and hands-free operation. keypad lock (channel lock), adjustable power and volume, backlit LCD screen, belt clip with lanyard hole. Easy Voice and Sound Activation Transmission. This two-way radio is perfect for keeping in touch with family and friends during your next outdoor adventure.
Pros:
- Range: Up to 28 miles
- Channels: 22 Channel and 38 privacy codes
- AAA batteries/Micro USB /Desktop Charger/ Rechargeable Battery Packs
- Good functions, Comfortable design
Cons:
- Not fully waterproof
Summary: The Midland T51VP3 two-way radio provides 22 channels with a range of up to 28 miles, along with 38 CTCSS privacy codes and NOAA weather alerts, making it ideal for staying connected during outdoor adventures.
- Range: Up to 28 miles
- Channels: 22 Channel and 38 privacy codes
- Good functions
- Comfortable design
Walkie Talkies RV-7 Walkie-Talkie for Camping
Walkie Talkies with Flashlight
The Rivins Walkie Talkies RV-7 are designed for use in a variety of settings, including hiking, camping, and road trips. They have a range of up to 5 miles in open fields, and 0.6-1.2 miles in built-up areas or obstructed conditions. The walkie talkies also feature 22 FRS channels plus 99 set of CTCSS tones, an LCD display, a built-in flashlight, and VOX support for hands-free operation. They use both AAA Alkaline batteries and AAA rechargeable batteries.
Pros:
- Range: Max 5 miles
- Channels: 22 Channel and 99 privacy codes
- Built-in Speaker & Microphone
- 4 in Pack
Cons:
- Not waterproof
- Not a long communication range compared to competitors
Summary: The Rivins Walkie Talkies RV-7, suitable for hiking, camping, and road trips, offer a communication range of up to 5 miles in open fields and 0.6-1.2 miles in urban or obstructed areas. They feature 22 FRS channels, 99 CTCSS tones, an LCD display, a built-in flashlight, VOX support for hands-free use.
- Range: Max 5 miles
- Channels: 22 Channel and 99 privacy codes
- Built-in Speaker & Microphone
- 4 in Pack
Motorola T800 Two-Way Radios for Camping
Walkie Talkies with Bluetooth
The Motorola Talkabout T800 is a two-way radio that allows you to communicate with others in your group, even when you're off the grid. With 22 channels and 121 privacy codes, it's easy to find an available channel. The T800 also features Bluetooth connectivity, so you can easily keep in touch with your group.
Plus, the off-grid group messaging or broadcasting feature lets you stay connected even when there is no cell service. And if you need to track someone's location, the T800 can do that too. Plus, with the real-time weather conditions, you can always be prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.
Pros:
- Range: 0.6~2 Miles in the building (Max 5 miles outside)
- Channels: 22 Channel and 121 privacy codes
- Waterproof: IPX4
- USB charging
- Built-In Flashlight, Emergency Alert Button
- Control Radio Settings Through APP
- Connect Your Smartphone Via Bluetooth and Share Current Location
Cons:
- Not float-friendly
Summary: The Motorola Talkabout T800 is a versatile two-way radio with 22 channels and 121 privacy codes, designed for communication in off-grid scenarios. It offers Bluetooth connectivity for easy group communication, off-grid messaging and broadcasting features, location tracking capabilities, and real-time weather updates, ensuring preparedness and connectivity in remote areas without cell service.
- Range: Max 5 miles
- Channels: 22 Channel and 121 privacy codes
- Waterproof: IPX4
- Bluetooth, Built-In Flashlight, Emergency Alert Button
FAQ about Best Camping Walkie Talkie
Your guide to the most common queries regarding walkie talkie for camping.
How do walkie talkies work?
To use walkie-talkies, both handheld devices must tune into the same radio frequency (channel), which allows anyone within range to join in on the conversation. Keep in mind that these units do not need a cellular or Wi-Fi connection like smartphones; they rely solely on radio frequencies. The average distance for communication is just a few miles.
Although walkie-talkies have a few disadvantages, they are still commonly used. A walkie-talkie is a two-way radio which allows anyone on the same frequency to hear what is being said through their speaker. The catch is that only one person can talk at once and you cannot interrupt them.
Although a walkie-talkie doesn't have the same range as a smartphone, it can still be used to communicate with somebody if they're within a few miles of each other. If there are obstructions like mountains, hills or trees, then the range goes down.
How long do walkie talkies last?
The typical walkie-talkie battery lasts 8-10 hours. However, the duration will depend on the make and model of your radio. Some models have batteries that can power the device for up to 25 hours while others need to be charged more frequently.
Will walkie-talkies help in case of emergency?
Walkie-talkies are essential for emergency communication, especially if you are outdoors. Most walkie-talkies have weather warnings and SOS functions that can help you stay safe in an emergency situation.
Best Walkie Talkie for Camping: Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the best camping walkie-talkie depends on a combination of range, durability, battery life, and additional features like weather updates, privacy codes, and hands-free operation. Models like the Motorola Talkabout T600 and T800, Midland GXT1000VP4, Cobra ACXT1035R FLT, Topsung M880, and the Midland T51VP3 each offer unique strengths, catering to different needs and environments.
Whether you're hiking in remote areas, organizing a group camp, or preparing for emergency situations, there's a walkie-talkie designed to meet those specific requirements. Ultimately, the best choice balances functionality, reliability, and value, ensuring seamless communication and safety for all your outdoor adventures.
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